Chapter 44

Chapter 44: To the Academy - Part 3

The rules of the mock battle remained the same as the other day, except for the restriction on using swords. We agreed not to go all out and fight with moderate strength.

In this controlled battle, I couldn't help but feel conscious when facing Julius. It's a bit frustrating that it's better than training alone.

"Jin, I'll increase my speed a little."

"Yes, that's fine. I'm still holding back even within the limits."

While concentrating on the fight, I responded to Julius's words and thought about something.

The sword technique I'm currently using is based on the swordsmanship Jin originally trained in, with a little knowledge of kendo from my past life. I combined it with the sword techniques used by swordsmen characters in the anime I enjoyed as a hobby.

Though it sounds good to call it my own style, my sword technique has no established form, which puts me at a disadvantage against opponents skilled in swordsmanship. In fact, my sword technique that worked against monsters was completely useless against Julius.

"Jin, what's wrong?"

Having reached that point, I requested a pause in the mock battle, and Julius, looking concerned, asked me.

"Julius-san, please answer me honestly. What do you think of my sword technique?"

"At first sight, considering your appearance as well, it's effective even against human opponents, but as time goes on, they will get used to it. Then, your swordsmanship won't work as effectively."

He stated it accurately, and I felt a slump in my spirits.

Honestly, I would be fine as I am against monsters, but if I have to fight more human opponents in the future, I'll have to change my current sword technique.

"This is just my opinion, but your current sword technique is still incomplete. So, if you continue to study and train your current swordsmanship in your own way, I believe it will evolve into a unique sword technique."

"Is that true?"

"To be honest, when I first saw your swordsmanship, I thought it was 'a waste.' I thought it could become an even more excellent sword technique with a little more progress. So, if you ever hesitate about the sword, feel free to consult with me. Let's spend more time with the sword."

After being told that by Julius, I replied with a "yes" and resumed the interrupted mock battle.

After that, until the sun set, I received instruction from Julius about various types of sword techniques and spent a meaningful time.

"Jin, I saw you at the training grounds. Did you become Julius's disciple?"

"It may have seemed that way from the outside, but that's not the case. I'm not his disciple; we were just two swordsmen talking about swords."

In reality, I was told that it's better to forge ahead on my own rather than being apprenticed to someone. They said they wouldn't treat me as a disciple, but as a fellow swordsman, they would always be available for advice and consultation.

"Well, I've been struggling alone all this time, so it's nice to have someone I can talk to."

Chloe smiled as she replied, "I see, that's good for you."

After having a meal in the dining hall where the servants ate, I entered the room I had rented to take a shower and wash off the sweat.

"It's really spacious, huh..."

I sat on the bed, amazed at the unnecessarily large room.

The furniture was neatly arranged, and it truly felt like a "castle" with this much space.

"Now, let's do what needs to be done before going to sleep."

Before I fell asleep, I forcibly lifted myself up and sat on the sofa to begin meditating.

While my swordsmanship had plenty of challenges, meditating helped resolve some of the worries related to magic.

During meditation, I strongly sensed the flow of magical power, naturally improving my control over it.

It also cleared my mind, allowing me to come up with new training ideas.

With those thoughts in mind, I meditated and then lay down on the bed two hours later, falling asleep.

"Hmm~ Thanks to meditating before sleeping, my mind feels clear. Acquiring this skill was definitely the right choice."

Recovery skills are very useful, so maybe I should acquire some other ones?

If I were to choose the next one, it wouldn't be a constant recovery skill but rather a normal healing magic... Did Jin have talent in that area?

"I have the impression that Jin didn't use healing magic..."

During the game, Jin was known for using incredibly powerful magic, but I don't recall him ever using "healing magic."

Perhaps he did use it, but my memory is missing that part.

"Well, I'll find out if I can use it or not once I train."

After a brief hesitation, I headed to the dining hall and had breakfast, saying those words.

After eating, I changed into the attire for the guards and had the maids do my disguise makeup. Then, I made my way to the princess's room.

Chloe was already waiting in front of the princess's room, so I waited outside with her until the princess finished her preparations.

Once the princess was ready, we left the room together and headed towards the carriage to go to the academy.

"Princess, you mentioned there would be a test today, but is it alright for us to be with you?"

"Yes, those who act as guards while attending school also take the test, but Jun and the others are different, so it's fine. However, whisper if you sense any danger."

"I see, understood."

Oh, so it's allowed for the guards to be with the princess even during the test. I guess it's natural since they're guards?

With that in mind, Chloe decided to wait while I, trying not to disturb the princess who was reading her textbook, did some final preparations before the test.