Chapter 33

"Hmm, I still can't seem to relax..."

A few days have passed since the training for the new adventurers and the battle with the specially designated target, Xeno Graybull.

After finishing breakfast as usual at the usual inn, I stepped out, and my hand naturally reached for my waist.

"Well, what should I do?"

No, I do plan to continue guiding at the knights' guild, and it seems that the adventurer's guild's request for assistance has calmed down for now after the other day's incident. This means I can return to my regular duties... duties?

However, I could sense from the guild master Nidas, though not overtly, a desire to somehow keep me around.

It's not just Porta's team that has new members, and if Srena's words are true, it makes sense that they want to allocate more people to the new adventurers' training.

But, you know, having an old guy like me supervise dungeon attacks...

I was quite anxious during the battle with Xeno Graybull the other day. Without Srena, it would have definitely failed. While it's unlikely that another special target will appear so soon, I'd rather avoid such situations if possible.

As an old guy, I just want a more peaceful life.

In that sense, the role of a guide at the knights' guild wasn't entirely off the mark.

"...No good, my thoughts are wandering."

I shook my head lightly to clear my mind, which was preoccupied with various thoughts related to the adventurer's guild.

Right now, I just want to get a replacement for the sword that snapped as soon as possible.

I can train with a wooden sword, but as a swordsman, there's something about carrying a sword that feels right. Having lived with a sword for so long, it's unsettling to have an empty waist.

"Well, if it's a standard one... maybe the blacksmith?"

The last time I went with Alyssia, there were some good swords at the blacksmith's. My weapon of choice is a longsword, a rather orthodox type that can be found even in a small town.

I'm not planning to wander around as an adventurer, so I don't need the highest quality. Still, I can't help but think about getting something better than the last one, but my wallet isn't exactly overflowing.

Srena, of course, knows that my sword broke, and there was talk of the adventurer's guild providing a replacement.

However, I declined that offer.

It's hard to explain, but I don't want to owe the adventurer's guild anything. It's not that I have any ill feelings towards them; I don't think Nidas or Maigen are bad people.

It's just that the act of owing something feels... off.

They aren't bad people, but the adventurer's guild has a clear business stance. They look at things in terms of profit and loss. Being noticed by such a world is something I'd rather avoid.

"I wonder if the blacksmith is open at this hour."

I muttered as I walked through the streets of Valtrain.

Previously, I would have run into Lucy at this time, but today there were no such incidents. I could walk calmly and enjoy the quiet early morning streets of the capital.

"...Hey? Isn't that you, teacher?"

"Huh? Kurni?"

After walking for a while, I saw a small woman running towards me.

When we were close enough to recognize each other, she—Kurni—smiled and called out.

"What are you doing out so early in the morning?"

"Running! A knight's body is their capital!"

Kurni, who was laughing, was sweating quite a bit despite the early hour.

...Could she have run all the way from the eastern district? Normally, people would use a carriage for that distance.

"...You ran from the eastern district?"

"Yep, that's right."

"Haha... You're energetic."

I can't even begin to imagine doing that. Being young is amazing.

"What are you doing out so early, teacher?"

She asked, her bright blue eyes wide open.

Despite her youthful air, Kurni has a well-defined face. Considering the age difference, I can't have any inappropriate thoughts, but her lack of guard is a bit worrying. It makes me feel like a parent, even though I don't have kids.

"I'm just taking an early morning walk. And I thought I'd check out the blacksmith."

"Blacksmith... huh?"

As I spoke, I patted my waist.

This is where I would normally have my longsword sheathed.

"...Oh, right, you're not carrying a sword, are you?"

Kurni seemed to realize this from my gesture.

"It broke. I need to find a new one."

"I see! Got it!"

She nodded enthusiastically, but I'm not sure if it warranted such enthusiasm.

Still, for a swordsman, choosing a new sword is indeed a significant event. I can understand why she's excited, even though I'm used to it.

"Still, for someone of your caliber, wouldn't a custom-made sword be better?"

"No, no, I haven't thought that far."

It seems her run has come to a natural end.

We walked together, chatting leisurely.

A custom-made sword is exactly what it sounds like: you order a sword with specific materials, blade length, balance, and handle material, tailored to your needs.

Of course, everyone is different in size, hand size, arm length, and waist position.

Naturally, the best weapon for each person varies. While personal preference plays a big role, it's not uncommon for a swordsman to have a custom-made sword.

However, as you might expect, custom-made swords are incredibly expensive. The process involves multiple consultations and detailed discussions with the blacksmith, requiring a significant amount of time and money.

"That's a waste, isn't it?"

"Well, I don't have that kind of money."

Since being kicked out of the dojo in Bident Village, I've been paying the innkeeper daily.

While I get a slight discount for staying long-term, I don't have much extra money for frivolous spending.

Not that buying a sword is frivolous, but...

"Still, I plan to visit a few shops."

"Got it. I hope you find a sword you like! ...Oh!"

Kurni, who had been chatting happily, suddenly remembered something.

"Huh? What's wrong?"

She had forgotten to sharpen her sword.

"Haha, Kurni is still the same."

She was always forgetful and prone to rushing when I was at the dojo.

It's heartwarming to see that her core personality hasn't changed, even though she should be more composed as a knight.

"Hey, why don't you come with me after today's training?"

"Hmm? Do you have a recommendation?"

There's the blacksmith Alyssia introduced me to, but are there others?

"It's Valder's place!"

"...Valder, the Valder?"

"Yep!"

Hmm.

What a nostalgic name.

Thank you for waiting.

I plan to post about once or twice a week.

It will be a very leisurely pace, but if you're willing, I hope you'll continue to follow along. _(`ω、」∠)_