Sincere Talk with Jinra

Running and climbing were excellent ways to utilize the benefits of Swiftfoot, but Jinra had more in mind. He challenged William to a sparring session—with wooden swords, of course.

From the first clash, William realized Jinra was incredibly skilled, far surpassing even Gorn, who was already a formidable warrior.

"Forgive my curiosity," William asked, panting between parries, "were you part of the army or something similar?"

Although the kingdom was much smaller back then, it still had a standing army.

"Indeed, you are correct," Jinra replied, a grin flashing across his face as he effortlessly deflected a blow. "I was the commander of the army, though I am now retired."

"That explains a lot! You're incredibly strong. I don't stand a chance against you," William admitted, breathless from the exertion.

"Relax, William," Jinra said with a chuckle, his movements still fluid despite his age. "I reckon the number of people who could best me in combat is quite small, even in my old age. You are a bit behind others your age, but you possess greater potential."

Once again, the differences between eras were stark. William knew he was decent in combat—not exceptional, but better than most mages and battle mages his age who focused solely on research while studying at the magic academies. Yet, he was still far behind the mages and battle mages of the past.

"What do I need to reach their level?" William asked, gritting his teeth as he parried a swift strike.

"Experience," Jinra replied, his wooden sword a blur of motion. "It's common for Acolytes to embark on practical missions, hunting beasts and the like. With time, you'll improve as well."

From time to time, William's Swiftfoot spell would wear off, and he'd need to recast it. Even with his passive skill enhancing the duration of his body-enhancement magic, it didn't last forever.

Furthermore, he was still learning, so the duration was even shorter. But Jinra patiently waited for him, seemingly content with the breaks. In fact, he appeared genuinely happy to have the company.

"It's wonderful to have someone to talk to and practice with," Jinra admitted, leaning against a weathered oak tree. "Despite enjoying the solitude here, I've been feeling a bit lonely lately. It's been two years since I moved here."

"Why did you move?" William asked, curious. The two were sitting on the grass, taking a break from their sparring session.

"My son is in the army, so I don't have much time to see him," Jinra explained, a hint of sadness in his voice. "And my grandson is studying at a magic school. I came here to have some time alone after my wife passed away, but I think I'll return to the city soon to be closer to them."

An idea sparked in William's mind. He could travel to the city with Jinra! That would make his journey far easier and safer.

Jinra seemed to read his thoughts, or perhaps he anticipated them after William's earlier inquiries about the nearest city. "Soon for me means at least a year," Jinra said, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "And I imagine you won't be staying here that long. After all, if you want to enroll in a magic school, you need to be in the city in six months."

A magic school in this era... The prospect intrigued William. He had already considered enrolling in one back in present-day Aethel. If he could attend one in the past as well, he could gain an even deeper understanding of magic!

"But wouldn't it be dangerous for me to travel alone?" William asked, a hint of worry in his voice.

"Not particularly," Jinra reassured him. "The journey to the city takes two months, so we have roughly three months to train. Considering your progress, I'm confident I can make you capable enough to survive on your own in that time."

"And there's more," Jinra added, his eyes twinkling. "You can travel with others who are also seeking entry into the school. I believe a caravan departs from a village not too far from here. I can guide you there when the time comes."

Things seemed to be falling into place for William. He had found a powerful mentor—who, unfortunately, could only teach him for three months—but he already had a plan to enroll in a magic school and further his magical education!

"I understand," William said, a renewed determination burning in his eyes. "Well then, let's get back to training. I can't afford to relax just yet." He rose and retrieved his wooden sword.

Jinra smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Eager to take another beating from me, are you?"

They resumed their sparring, training for hours. The constant use of Swiftfoot drained William's mana, and he eventually needed to rest. Sustaining the spell for hours on end was impossible for him at this stage. In fact, Jinra was surprised he had lasted as long as he did.

"Unfortunately, you'll have to sleep in the barn again," Jinra said as the sun began to dip below the horizon. "And it's not because I'm suspicious of you. It's just that I only have the one bedroom. Is that alright with you?"

Of all the challenges William faced, sleeping in a less-than-comfortable bed was hardly a concern.

"No problem at all," William replied gratefully. "Thank you for the training."

"Think nothing of it. I appreciate the company. I'm going to make us some dinner, so go take a bath. You reek," Jinra said, wrinkling his nose in mock disgust. He headed back to the house and tossed William a towel.

While William had been pushed to his limits during the training, Jinra seemed as fresh as a daisy. It was truly remarkable.

William made his way to the river to bathe. Perhaps it was Jinra's presence in the area, but no creatures dared to disturb him as he washed off the sweat and grime.

By the time he returned, dinner was almost ready. Jinra had prepared a venison stew from a deer he had hunted and some potatoes he had grown near his house. The aroma was intoxicating, and William's stomach rumbled in anticipation.

He checked his System; it indicated he still had two hours remaining in this dimension. Plenty of time to eat and settle down for the night before returning.