An Old Man from the Countryside Becomes a Swords Saint: I Was Just a Rural Sword Teacher, But My Successful Students Won't Leave Me Alone! Chapter 13

Published at 9th of August 2022 07:04:43 AM

–In the end, Master is amazing.

It was a mock duel suddenly brought about by Henblitz's suspicions but it turned out to be for the better. Through this, I was able to display my Master's strength to everyone.

“Excellent show, Master,” I said, approaching Master with a towel after he finished that long exchange.

“Oh, thank you, Alexia,” Master said.

Although he was sweating profusely, he wasn't breathing hard. It makes me feel that he could still move, physically.

Henblitz, on the other hand, is breathing so hard his shoulders are heaving.

The match was almost one-sided.

That I say it was “almost” is because Henblitz didn't even get a single hit in, because Master was thoroughly prepared to predict his actions.

Given Master's strengths, it wasn't a strange style.

First the torso, then an angled cut, then a crossing of swords.

All of them, Master saw coming and handled with precision and grace.

This man's reaction speed and hand-to-eye coordination is not of a normal man.

His other skills are high enough but these two were clearly out of the ordinary.

It's impossible for me to stay ahead of the curse against such perfection.

He's a genius who does it all with a cool, calm face.

This was the masterpiece, named Beryl Gardenant.

“But I'm glad there's still something I can teach you all,” Master said.

“Again with the modesty,” I said immediately. “We still have much to learn from you, Master.”

However, there is a catch where the man himself was humble or not even aware of his strength.

It's even more ridiculous for someone who's reached this level to think of himself as an “average” swordsman, but I dare not push the subject.

No snide comments about strength, no condescension.

It's because I think that being able to come to terms with your strength while maintaining natural movements and appearance is also good.

I still have so much to learn from Master.

It was a feeling that hadn't changed since I received that sword as a parting gift.

“Alexia,” Master said, “I want to give this to you.”

“This is…?” I said.

–How many years ago was that?

It seems like it should have been a long time ago, and it also seems like it was only yesterday.

It's been 4 years since I learned swordsmanship under Master.

Surprisingly, I found myself getting stronger by the day.

But I still haven't made it. I haven't reached that peak just yet.

The swordsman that sees everything.

Movements that cut down wasted energy to the maximum.

A stance that embodies the ultimate in naturalness.

It's still not enough, I can't even reach Master's feet.

I had thought that.

What was given to me that day was a sword that meant I was a proper swordsman now.

“You're strong enough,” Master said. “I can't teach you anything anymore.”

“That's what you say, Master!” I countered. “I'm still…!”

I was genuinely happy to have been recognized like this.

However, when he asked if I was satisfied with my current ability, I was certainly not. I hadn't even reached Master's feet yet. Why kind of graduation is this?

“Of course, you can decide if you want to leave the dojo. But, there's honestly little more I can teach you,” Master said. “I want you to understand that.”

“………”

From Master's voice and expression, the apology and sincerity were completely true. At the same time, I noticed it.

Oh, I'm certain this man doesn't know his power.

He's the most humble of the humble, he's made up his mind about being at the bottom.

I'm sorry to say it but Master's skill isn't something that could be accommodated as a Swordsmanship Dojo Master in the countryside. Hence, in this limited place, he could not even get the chance to notice it.

“… I understand,” I said. “I'm humbled to receive this.”

""

Then, I left the dojo at the village of Bidden.

I was going to get him a better place.

After that, I naturally headed to the Knights of Revelio.

A place where I could blaze a path for the best swordsman in this country.

That was the best thing I could think of.

“Starting now, the Knight's Selection Test and Practical Exam will begin!”

The harsh voice of the knight serving as instructor echoes in the grounds.

First, there will be mock battles between candidates. From there, the ones with good evaluations will be selected, then the mock battles with the instructor. After that, the practical exam will be completed.

Joining the Knights was stunning for me.

Everyone and even the instructor's sword hands were too slow. Master is 3 times faster than me. Even the instructors, who I had called my new masters, Master could react 2 times as fast.

I had become accustomed to his speed and recognized him as the peak, so this was just passing a distance marker on the roadside. There was no way I was going to struggle.

As a result:

I passed both the combat and practical exams with perfect scores, and as soon as I left Bidden Village, I became a member of the Knights of Revelio.

From there I climbed the ranks to the position of Knight Captain, there were various challenges on the way.

After all, when you were directly under the control of the state, it wasn't enough to rise solely by the power of your swordsmanship.

Fortunately, my parents were merchants, so I was somewhat immune to such tricks.

“… Hehe, he's the same as ever, isn't he?” I said.

I was indulging myself alone, after reading his reply letter.

Even after I left Bidden Village, I regularly wrote to master. This was mainly because I wanted him to know about my current situation and my personal desire to stay in touch with him.

He always sends me replies. The only thing I'm worried of is whether he thinks I'm a shallow or attention-demanding woman.

From the way he writes, he doesn't treat me so harshly, but I can't be sure until I ask. I don't have the guts to, though.

Master's modesty hadn't seemed to have changed since I graduated.

But on the contrary, I think that's what makes Master, Master.

What comes to my mind when I close my eyes is Master holding a sword with a cheerful smile.

""

My fingers naturally reached for the scabbard that held my sword.

“Finally, approval has been granted, Master,” I said to myself.

Please wait a little longer.

Now, I'll ready a proper stage for your talents.

Chapter end