Chapter 13

The atmosphere at last night’s welcome party was, to put it mildly, far from pleasant.

After all, one of the participants didn’t really want to be there in the first place.

Even when scolded, they only became more standoffish, and despite the delicious food, the mood at the table grew increasingly heavy.

I do feel bad about making Kamui’s daughter uncomfortable, but I have no idea when I’ll get another chance to learn body strengthening if I pass up this one.

So, even if it means biting the bullet, I’m determined to learn from Kamui.

No matter what Alisa might think of me, I’ll bear it.

…Of course, if we could get along, that would be ideal.

“Alright, first, let’s see what you’re capable of.”

“Is the backyard okay for that?”

“You won’t be able to go all out there. Let’s head out of town and into the forest.”

For the record, Kamui’s tone hasn’t changed one bit.

I thought it’d be better to speak respectfully now that he’s my teacher, but…

“Cut it out; it’s gross.”

…He shut me down flatly.

We headed east of the provincial capital, Beglatia, into the Forest of Uncertainty, a place frequented by veteran adventurers looking to earn a living.

“Hmm hmm, hmm hmm…”

“Hah… hah…”

While Kamui was humming along effortlessly, I was already out of breath by the time we entered the forest.

It’s partly because my body isn’t fully developed, and my stride is shorter, but honestly, our basic fitness levels are just worlds apart.

Plus, there’s the body-strengthening magic.

I might’ve focused too much on magic practice so far.

“For the record, I’m not using body strengthening. This is just pure, natural strength.”

Kamui’s words hit me like a ton of bricks.

He wasn’t using body strengthening…?

Starting tomorrow, I’m adding running to my routine.

In this second life, I don’t want any regrets.

“Alright, this spot should do.”

After following Kamui, we arrived at a clearing in the forest, like a bald patch amid the trees.

“A mage probably tested a spell here; it happens often around these parts. High-powered magic isn’t exactly easy to test within the city.”

“Isn’t deforestation an issue here?”

I guess that concept might not even exist in a medieval fantasy world.

“No problem. Everything’s back to normal in about a week.”

Apparently, there are creatures in the forest that accelerate plant growth, so the trees grow back at an astonishing speed.

Thanks to this, lumber production thrives in the capital, and there are always requests for woodcutting.

“That’s why, even if you use fire magic that could start a forest fire, it’s fine. Now then… let’s get started.”

Kamui gripped the hilt of the sword at his waist, narrowing his eyes.

Just that small gesture completely shifted his air from playful to something intense.

Some sort of pressure emanating from Kamui’s entire being clung to my body.

My skin started to burn, and before I knew it, sweat was pouring down my face.

“――!”

Without realizing it, I backed away, retreating all the way into the forest.

Kamui let out a small laugh as he watched.

“As a mage, retreating to gain distance isn’t a bad call. But we’re here for a spar, aren’t we? You can’t be that timid.”

“…”

Saying nothing, I stepped back into the clearing.

Kamui was right.

I think fighting in the Demon Forest has left me with the instinct to run whenever I feel I can’t win.

It’s a bad habit I need to fix immediately.

Gripping the straight sword I’d bought along the way, I took a deep breath.

He’s an opponent I can’t beat as I am now.

But I’ll face him with everything I have.

“I’m coming!”

“Bring it on!”

And so, Kamui and I clashed head-on.