"I too harbor the same intention. It is known that the beast will soon emerge, and we may indeed require the aid of Lady Darlkion," Zhang Fan stated gravely. The beast's strength was a mystery, but from what he had gleaned from the animation, it was no easy foe, especially the ominous blade it wielded. Alone with Helo, Zhang Fan wasn't entirely confident of their success.
"Lady Darlkion would gladly accept such a duty," she replied, her life's mission being the eradication of monsters.
After further discussing the beast, Zhang Fan took his leave. On the way back to Filianore City, Helo expressed her doubts about Zhang Fan's knowledge of the mission's details, given the vague instructions provided.
"Hehe, let's just say I have my ways," Zhang Fan replied slyly, not intending to reveal his foreknowledge of the plot.
Irritated by his evasiveness, Helo turned away in a huff.
"Don't worry, I'll tell you someday... just not now," Zhang Fan shrugged, considering whether or not to share more with Helo in the future.
Admittedly, Zhang Fan was fond of Helo and recognized her abilities, but he wasn't about to recklessly disclose everything due to his affections. Whether their relationship would deepen depended on Helo's attitude.
Upon returning to the castle, Zhang Fan was stunned by a carriage full of apples at the entrance – a clear indication of Helo's shopping spree.
"Wow, here they are!" Helo exclaimed joyfully upon seeing the apples and darted towards the pile. It seemed these were her purchases.
"Apologies, this is the pre-ordered wine. Please sign for it," a new delivery arrived, adding to Zhang Fan's surprise.
Taking advantage of Helo's preoccupation with the apples and wine, Zhang Fan visited the knight order. Despite the war's end, the knights were rigorously training, a testament to the order's status as Biscode's ace.
Zhang Fan observed their intense training, which included obstacle courses, solo combat, and even Runecraft training. Intrigued, he felt an itch to join.
"Lord Hero!" Roland, in his coffee-colored knight uniform, approached Zhang Fan, expressing admiration for his prowess.
"Are you here to observe, Lord Hero?" Roland asked, smiling.
"Yes, I'm quite interested in the training methods of this world," Zhang Fan responded.
"Feel free to ask me any questions," Roland offered, eager to assist someone keen on learning.
As Zhang Fan watched, a young knight in silver armor approached, challenging him to a sparring match. Flattered by the knight's admiration, Zhang Fan accepted.
Roland seized this opportunity, halting the training and encouraging everyone to watch the duel. Roland's speech was a morale booster, typical of a great leader.
Zhang Fan chose a wooden polearm for the spar, recalling his brief experience with such weapons in his previous world.
The young knight lunged at Zhang Fan with precision and ferocity. Zhang Fan, impressed by the attack, effortlessly deflected it, leaving a slight mark on the knight's shoulder – a display of his superior skill.