A young Sword Master

[Four Years Later]

Wosh… Wosh… Slash…

A young boy with long black hair was practicing swordsmanship with a black-bladed sword. His upper body was bare, revealing a muscular frame sculpted through rigorous training. Sweat dripped like rain from his body, yet his movements remained steady and precise, exuding unshakable confidence.

As he released his aura into the blade, the sword glowed a fiery red. Suddenly, he leapt into the air, spinning horizontally.

Slash…

In a single, seamless motion, all the wooden dummies arranged in a circle were sliced cleanly in half.

From a distance, Leone and Maria watched with pride.

"Even Sir Solomon predicted that Ashan would master swordsmanship quickly. But I never imagined it would happen this fast," Maria said, her voice filled with admiration.

Leone nodded with a satisfied smile. "Of course he did. He's my son, after all—just as skilled as I was."

Maria smirked playfully. "Really? I don't recall you being this impressive at his age."

"Why not? I was excellent with the sword at his age too," Leone retorted.

Maria chuckled. "As I remember, when we first met, you were getting punished by your father for skipping sword practice."

Leone opened his mouth to respond but faltered. "…Well, I might've been a bit carefree back then. Anyway, what baffles me is how he developed such a physique in such a short time. It took him just over a year to awaken his aura circle at an average pace, yet look at him now."

Maria smiled warmly at Ashan, who continued his practice. "Whatever the reason, his build doesn't change the fact that he's as cute as ever."

Leone chuckled, pride shining in his eyes as he watched his son.

Ashan finished his training and sat on the ground, examining the polished black blade in his hand.

This sword is perfect. Despite my intense training, it remains intact. If I'd used ordinary swords, I'd have broken dozens by now. This blade is crafted from Mithrillium—the strongest, rarest metal in this world. Only a truly skilled blacksmith could have forged it.

Glancing toward the corner of his eye, Ashan noticed his parents watching him. Their expressions radiated happiness, and he smiled in quiet satisfaction.

I've finally mastered our family's secret sword art. Though, to be honest, it's not particularly unique. It's similar to basic sword techniques but slightly amplifies aura for stronger attacks. Mastering it only took a day, but I had to delay progress to avoid suspicion and build my body the way I wanted. The hardest part has been pretending it was challenging. What a boring four years.

He sighed, closing his eyes momentarily. (Weapons and martial arts have never been my preference. They only lead to violence. I'd rather pursue something peaceful, like blacksmithing or music. Unfortunately, this world lacks a refined aesthetic sense. Instruments are scarce, with only rudimentary drums and an underdeveloped version of the piano. Maybe I'll craft something new. That shouldn't cause too much trouble.)

"Son!" Leone called from a distance. "If you're done, come here for a moment."

Ashan wiped his sweat with a towel, slipped on his white shirt, and approached his father.

"Do you know what an auction is?" Leone asked.

"Yes, Father. It's an event where rare items are showcased, and participants bid on them."

"Exactly. There's an auction tomorrow in Eryndralis—the largest city in our territory. I thought it would be a good experience for you. Who knows? You might find something you want."

"I'd like that, Father. When does it start?"

"Tomorrow. After the auction, we can also purchase if there is anything you need."

"Thank you, Father. I've been planning a project and will need some ingredients."

"Let's see about that after the auction. If needed, we can hire a blacksmith to help."

"That might not be necessary. I can handle it," Ashan replied.

"Alright. Just remind me to buy a saddle for Noah. That troublemaker could use one."

Ashan laughed. "I doubt he'll wear it, Father. It might be a waste."

"It'll come in handy eventually," Leone insisted.

Maria chimed in, "Speaking of Noah, where is he? I haven't seen him for days, and I bought him a cream bun."

Ashan smiled. "He's probably in the jungle nearby. Let me call him."

He whistled sharply.

Neigh…

A powerful sound echoed from the forest. Moments later, Noah emerged and galloped toward Ashan, stopping by his side.

"Mother has something for you," Ashan began, but before he could finish, Noah had already approached Maria, his large eyes brimming with anticipation.

Maria laughed and handed him the cream bun. "Here you go, you rascal."

Noah devoured the bun in seconds and affectionately nuzzled Maria with his neck.

"Alright, alright. I love you too," Maria said, hugging him back.

Leone shook his head, smiling at the scene. "Cream buns equal love and respect, huh? What an unbelievable horse."

Noah turned his back to Leone in response.

Pfft.. 

Ashan stifled a laugh, but Maria couldn't hold back and burst out laughing.

"Son," Leone said, turning to Ashan with mock seriousness, "teach your friend some manners. His shamelessness will embarrass you one day."

"I'll try," Ashan replied with a grin.

To be continued…