Chapter 34

The training ground of the Revelio Knights is always bustling with a steady number of people, regardless of the time of day. There are no set training hours, like from this time to that, so each knight comes according to their own schedule and motivation. Still, as the evening approaches, the number of people naturally decreases. Knights start their day early, so they also end it early.

I don't have a rigidly scheduled teaching plan, so my appearances here are rather sporadic. I generally aim to show up in the morning or early afternoon.

I think it was Alyssia who mentioned that the number of trainees during the day increased since I started coming. Everyone is serious and honest, as befits knights. Putting aside the matter of talent, the one who swings their sword diligently will naturally become better. As a teacher, this is very encouraging.

As for me, I give advice on the knights' sword techniques and engage in mock battles, essentially taking on the role of a sword instructor. This isn't a dojo, so we don't gather everyone to repeat forms. Their sword techniques, while not rough, are focused on practical strength, which is why the training often leans towards mock battles and other aspects close to real combat.

Still, it's refreshing. They listen well, and so far, I haven't encountered any major issues.

"Alright! Teacher, let's go!"

"Sure, sure, after I change."

Kuruni, drenched in sweat after finishing today's training, comes over to talk to me. She's always drenched in sweat. Being energetic is good, though.

As we discussed this morning, I plan to visit the blacksmith where Kuruni is apprenticed after the training. Normally, it wouldn't be something to get excited about, but when I heard the owner's name is Balder, my interest piqued.

"Teacher, can I come along?"

"Alyssia... well, sure, there's no reason to say no."

Alyssia, who had been sweating alongside me as a guide for the knights, joins the conversation. It's not that I mind her coming, but does it make sense? I don't think it does, but I won't say that outright.

"Since it's about choosing a sword for the teacher, it's only natural to have the best swords forged and to thoroughly check the blacksmith's skills."

"Got it, got it. Let's calm down, okay?"

Oh, the overenthusiastic side of Alyssia is showing. I need to calm her down.

Alyssia has been using the sword I gave her as a parting gift. There are certainly better swords out there, but she stubbornly refuses to switch to a new one. She's not uninterested, but as the leader of the knights, I think it would be better for her to carry a sword of higher quality and appearance. Maybe it's just me being overly concerned.

This is a good opportunity to get Alyssia a new sword, even though it might be a lot of trouble.

"Let's meet in front of the hall after we change."

"Understood."

"Sure thing!"

So, Kuruni, Alyssia, and I will head to the blacksmith Kuruni recommends. It's just to get a new sword for me, but the group is still a bit restless.

I guess I need to get used to the attention. Ugh, I don't want to.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

"Sorry to keep you waiting!"

As expected, men finish getting ready faster than women. I was waiting in front of the hall when Alyssia and Kuruni, who had finished changing, arrived a bit later. Kuruni, as always, is dressed in something easy to move in, while Alyssia, though not flashy, is in a form-fitting outfit. She already draws a lot of attention; isn't she embarrassed? But if she's okay with it, it's not my place to say anything.

Kuruni is carrying a short sword, which suits her petite frame. She'll probably have it sharpened.

"Let's go. I'll leave the directions to you."

"Sure thing! Balder's place is in the central district."

We set off for the blacksmith. Since I don't know the location, Kuruni will lead the way.

"Are you still sticking with the longsword, Teacher?"

"Yeah, that's the plan."

While walking, I answer Alyssia's question. I've gotten used to the length and weight of the longsword, so I don't plan to switch to another weapon. It would be tough to get used to a new weapon at my age.

During the battle with Zeno Graybull, the lack of firepower was evident, but I'm not in a position to fight such enemies. That was an irregular situation. Hopefully, I won't be thrown into such a chaotic situation again. As a guide for the knights, it's unlikely to happen.

We walk through the central district, which has a different kind of bustle from the western district. It seems to have more people in formal attire. This area houses several organizations that form the core of the country, like the Adventurers' Guild and the Knights, so there are many people related to these organizations. Technically, the guilds are not under the government's jurisdiction, but they are deeply involved in maintaining order worldwide.

By the way, where is the Magic Academy located? I don't have any particular business there, but I want to complain to Lucy again, so maybe I'll look up the location and visit when I have time.

"We're here. This is it."

"Hmm."

After a short walk, we arrived at a place that looked like a house converted into a blacksmith. A large sign with the shop's name was hung above the door. Balder's Blacksmith. Simple and straightforward.

"Balder!"

The three of us entered, and Kuruni loudly called out to the owner, Balder.

"Hey! Welcome... Oh, it's Kuruni."

"Hey! That's rude! I'm a customer too!"

"Hahaha! Sorry, sorry!"

The man who responded to the call and came from the back of the shop was a middle-aged man with a fit build. His gruff voice, short silver hair, and well-groomed beard added to his dashing appearance. His muscular arms and chest, visible even through his shirt, showed that he was in excellent physical condition for his age.

He's older than me but younger than the old man. With a hearty laugh, he greeted Kuruni.

"Oh, Lady Citrus is here too. And... Oh!?"

After looking at Kuruni and Alyssia, his gaze stopped on me.

"Is that you, Beryl? It's been a while!"

His voice and expression clearly showed surprise and joy. It's Christmas and the end of the year.

Regarding this work, I'll try to take it easy and progress steadily. I plan to share more updates after the new year, so I hope you'll continue to follow along. Thank you.