Chp 25 The struggles

It has been a year since I came to this world. I never thought I would become someone who would save it. It feels almost like a dream.

After training with Commander Arthur, I have been practicing every chance I get, especially in the forest. It has been more effective for my training—I can stay in aura mode longer, sense enemies nearby, and even detect hidden threats. It's pretty handy when navigating the wilds.

Knock knock

"Come in," Arthur's voice was followed by a harsh cough.

I opened the door to find him on his knees, blood dripping from his mouth.

"Commander! Are you alright? Should I call the doctor?"

Arthur waved me off. "No, don't. It's normal."

"But—"

Arthur forced a smile. "What do you expect from a 74-year-old man? I can't be healthy forever."

I hesitated. "But Commander…"

"There's nothing more I can teach you. Go to Althar and learn about Spirit Swordsman techniques."

I shook my head. "I'm still weak. Learning other techniques will only make me weaker. I want to master aura first. Besides, all I have is a common spirit, and it's hardly useful in combat. It's just for daily chores—making water or lighting a small fire."

Arthur's expression hardened. "There are only two years left before the invasion. You need to get stronger. Aura isn't just for swords—it can be used with any weapon."

"Any weapon? Even bows and daggers?" I asked, curiosity sparking within me.

"Yeah, you can use it with those too."

"Then I'll start practicing with a bow," I decided.

Arthur's demeanor softened. "Before you go back to training, visit the castle. It's been a month since you left. I still remember when you were so scrawny… now you almost look like a knight in his mid-twenties. How old are you now?"

"I'll be seventeen next month."

Arthur's eyes softened. "Alright, go take a break. Enjoy your time at the castle."

I nodded. "I'll be back soon, Commander."

After packing some essentials, I set off on the journey to the castle. I arrived late at night and went straight to sleep. The next morning, after some light training, I wandered around the castle and ran into Lira.

"Lira! Where is everyone?"

She sighed. "Aria went to the United of Magicians with Elizabeth. She might be there for years. What a talent, mastering spirit arts in just one year. It's lonely without her… Oh, and about Anthony and Amy—Anthony returned from the border, but Amy didn't."

"Where is Anthony?"

Lira hesitated. "You can't meet him yet. He's been at the World Tree for over three months now. I think he'll come out soon."

"What happened to him?"

"I don't know. After returning from the border, he requested an audience with the king and went straight to the World Tree."

I sighed. "Coming here was a waste… I'm all alone."

Lira smirked. "I'm lonely too. Want to explore the town together?"

"Sure, let's go."

We spent the day roaming the town until nightfall. Back in my quarters, I found myself restless. "Maybe a walk in the garden will help," I murmured.

After wandering for a while, I paused. "Bad luck… I don't see her—"

A voice came from behind. "Are you looking for me, Grey?"

I turned to see Wistoria. "Yes, Wistoria."

"I don't remember giving you my name," she said, raising an eyebrow.

"We learned about you in Ms. Elizabeth's lesson."

She sighed. "So, my secret's out. You've grown taller and more muscular since last time. You also seem… different. Did something happen?"

"Many things," I admitted.

She didn't pry further. "How's the Fortress of Sun? I heard the sunrise is beautiful there."

I blinked. "Sunrise? I… never noticed."

Wistoria's shoulders slumped. "Next time, watch it and tell me about it." She sat down. "Tell me some stories. I'm bored."

I recounted my adventures, excluding the more violent parts. Her expression softened, and for a moment, she looked like an innocent child, hanging onto every word.

I found myself smiling. "You can smile, huh?"

Wistoria's face flushed. "What do you mean? I'm human. Of course, I can smile!"

"Alright, alright," I laughed.

She stood up abruptly. "I have to go now."

I hesitated. "Wistoria… someday, let's watch the sunset together."

Her voice was barely above a whisper. "If that day ever comes, I'd like that… But will it?" She looked away, her face clouded with sadness.

I murmured to myself, "She didn't say yes… Did I just get rejected?" I sighed. "I should get some sleep. I'm heading back tomorrow."

Meanwhile, inside the World Tree…

Anthony's voice echoed. "I will get stronger. I won't let it happen again… Never again."

A distant voice responded. "You're still lacking. Train more if you want to be recognized by me and form a contract."

Anthony's resolve hardened. "I will get stronger."

At the Swo Border…

"Iris, shouldn't you take a break? Have some fun for once," asked one of her comrades.

Amy responded without pausing her sword swings. "Resting is enough for me. I can't slack off while my friends are training."

Her friend shook her head. "You never listen… How do you feel after that accident?"

Amy's grip on her sword tightened. After a moment of silence, she answered, "I'm fine. It's been three months already. Don't worry about it."

Her friend smiled. "Alright. Let's spar. I won't hold back, so keep up."

Amy's eyes burned with determination. "I wouldn't want it any other way."