Currently, I’m in the Holy Sword Region’s dojo.

From what I heard, it is called [The Current Room].

 

On my right is Alek.

With a smile on his face and not a hint of bloodlust.

On his waist is the two handed longsword forged by the Ore God using the black rocks I created.

Though it has no special power, as expected of a blade forged by a being with the title of God, its quality is excellent.

Alek took a liking to this sword which was close to two meters long, and began to use it.

 

Orsted is on my left.

Wearing a black helmet and not uttering a single word.

Without a hint of movement, he is standing still like a static image.

Though it seems like a fly would stick to him, due to his intimidating aura, not even a mosquito comes near him.

 

But the other people weren’t paying attention to me, Alek or Orsted.

Everyone was paying attention to the person standing in front of me.

 

It’s Eris.

She was standing with a wooden sword in her grasp.

Though her face was tense, she wasn’t particularly releasing any bloodlust.

However, it was clear that the wooden sword she held tightly in her hand was filled with strength.

 

Eris was standing in the center of the Current Room with a wooden sword in her hand.

And in front of her, was a Sword Saint with a broken wrist tumbling on the floor.

 

[… I give up]

 

Saying such words as if he was frustrated, he stood up and bowed.

Without waiting for Eris’ reply, he moved back to the side of the dojo.

 

On the side of the dojo.

There was a row of Sword God Style swordsmen standing side by side.

There seems to be close to 20 of them.

To say that each of them is a Sword Saint, the world is a small place. That small world is being crowded into a small place.

 

And across from Eris.

There was a seated man and woman.

Though I don’t know their age, they must be around mine.

I don’t know if I could call them young with that kind of mindset, but seeing how many of the Sword Saints were in their 30s and 40s, it is probably safe to say so.

 

The man sat the woman beside him and held her shoulder.

Compared to the other Sword Saints, he seems to be relaxed.

Even in front of Orsted.

Though Orsted had his helmet on to suppress the curse, he is being relaxed in front of that Orsted.

 

Jino Britts.

As expected of the Sword God.

Holding a woman with such an imposing figure, I can’t think that we are around the same age.

At the very least, I can’t sit my wife beside me and hold her shoulder or touch her waist in front of Orsted.

If I did, I would be beaten. Primarily by Eris.

But I did get a favorable impression when the woman began to hit the man’s hand away when he sometimes stretched it towards her chest.

 

The woman’s name is Nina.

She is Eris’ friend and is said to be a Sword King in terms of rank.

But I can’t feel even a slightest Sword King-ish aura from her.

Leaving her body to the seemingly happy Jino, she is ocassionaly hitting away her husband’s hand that would stretch towards her chest.

They are not taking any notice of us at all.

Stupid couple, people might even call them as such.

 

[……]

 

Well, let’s explain why we are in such a tense state of affairs.

---

 

The summary until now!

 

Hello to all you good children!

My name is Rudeus Greyrat!

I’ve come to visit the hottest and coolest tourist spot, the [Holy Sword Region].

Thinking about the future, I had no choice but to talk to the Sword God Style and Eris had a connection with the Sword God as well.

Also, thinking of this as a sort of an obligation, I came to give my greetings as well.

 

Members of course include both Eris and I!

As far as I know, there seems to be ton of people in the Sword God Style that like to let swing their swords before opening their mouths, so I didn’t bring people affiliated with magic.

Of course, though these guys probably have morals as fellow human beings, we killed the Sword God’s father in law during the battle in the Biheril Kingdom.

From that point of view, do you think saying [Please lend us your strength] won’t cause problems?

Well depending on the mood, we might just come back without speaking a single word.

Anyways, since we don’t exactly know what will happen, this is a two man trip including me and Eris, who knows the Holy Sword Region quite well.

 

… that was the plan but there was a surprise.

When I was talking about going to the Holy Sword Region, Orsted acting unusually, said he was going to go too, as if he was hiding something.

He was probably concerned that I was going to say something carelessly and make the Sword God angry.

In other words, he was going to escort us.

Anyways, there was no reason to refuse his offer. Orsted is definitely reliable too.

And since Orsted was going, Alek said [Well then, me too].

Alek. Yep, the guy who has a bit of a strong desire for becoming a hero.

There’s also the fact that he has a reputation like Cliff back in the day for not knowing how to read the atmosphere!

I wanted to say that [Well, the person who looks like he would cause problems is probably NG].

Though he takes care of Sieg quite well, there’s a difference between that and this.

But Orsted sama said [… do as you wish].

As a result, it was decided that the four of us including me, Eris, Orsted and Alek would go to the Holy Sword Region.

 

And so we arrived at the Holy Sword Region.

There was a tranquil scenery giving off vibes of a snow covered country village spreading out.

And the place we arrived to while I said alone in a lonley voice, [It’s a pretty good scenery] [For the countryside, they do have a good arrange of wooden swords] [Ah, villager found] was the Sword God Style’s main dojo.

The place that we were led to by smiling Sword Saints, was the Current Room.

A gentle mood full of smiles.

But for some reason, my muscles are twitching.

 

It’s probably nothing!

Rather than talking about that, it’s time for greetings, greetings.

… while I was thinking such thoughts, a Sword Saint said the following.

 

[First of all, I want to see the Mad Sword King Eris’ sword that was said to have defeated the previous generation]

 

You want to do that first!? But before I could turn around to see what was going on after saying such words, the Sword God shrugged his shoulders and said [Do as you wish] without a care.

And so began the slaughter.

 

The smiling Sword Saints with their smiling faces began to seethe bloodlust from their entire bodies and challenged Eris.

Despite their smiles and use of wooden swords, it was obvious that they were going for the kill.

Using the sparring match as their excuse, they were going to beat her to death. It was easy to see that they were not going to hold back.

 

Nevertheless, Eris is more or less a Sword King.

She wouldn’t fall behind to those Sword Saints.

With ease, she turned the tables against the Sword Saints.

As Eris started to beat each person one by one, the smiles on the Sword Saints’ faces began to fade and showed signs of hatred. As of right now, they aren’t even bothering to hide their bloodlust.

 

However, in the middle of that, there was one person with a carefree expression.

It was Jino.

Even Nina, who was bothered by the bloodlust of the Sword Saints, showed a little troubled expression, but Jino seemed like he couldn’t care less.

 

And so, this tense space was created!

---

 

So, I tried to explain it with the utmost enthusiasm…

Ha.

My stomach hurts.

 

Why did it turn out like this…

I feel like I suddenly failed. It’s impossible to have a discussion with this atmosphere.

But I want to at least explain myself.

There wasn’t even time to stop them.

It honestly happend too fast.

When Jino finished saying [Do as you wish], Eris picked up her wooden sword as if it was the natural thing to do and the Sword Saints waited for her in the center of the dojo.

By the time I sat down in my current position, Eris already striked down one of them.

And so, without any time to stop them, the Sword Saints came one by one saying [I’ll go next], [Me next!].

 

However, I think the time to stop these fights has come near.

There’s roughly around 20 Sword Saints, and Eris has defeated close to 20 of them.

The one she is fighting right now is the final Sword Saint.

 

In that case, he will most likely come out.

Sword God Jino Britts.

Even though he is whistling without a care, he will most likely have no choice but to come out if everyone below him is defeated.

The Sword Saints are probably waiting for that moment as well.

The moment when the Sword God comes out and beats the red hair Mad Sword King to death.

Taking revenge towards those who killed the previous Sword God.

They came forward with such a proposal solely for this reason.

 

I am regretting it.

I shouldn’t have come.

If Eris fights with the Sword God, she won’t get out unscathed.

Even I don’t think I can fight the Sword God at this distance.

 

And I’m also thankful.

Even if I can’t react in time, Orsted and Alek should be able to block the Sword God’s blade.

Though Eris may not be able to get out of it unscathed, as long as she doesn’t die, it’ll be alright.

Eris should have at least that much of a resolution.

Nevertheless, I’m thankful towards those two for coming here with us.

 

However, if I interfere with the fight between the Sword God and Eris, all negotiations will probably be over.

Nevertheless, I can’t predict what will exactly happen.

Well it definitely won’t be good.

 

Anyways, let’s stop it.

Let’s try to talk it out.

That’s my job.

Sounds good Rudeus. These people may be hot blooded, but if you try hard, they’ll probably listen.

Hang in there okay?

Let’s Fight! (TL Note: This is a translation of レッツファイトだ !, the word is used as an encouraging/motivational word than literally “Let’s Fight!”)

 

[Ugh… I give up]

 

And just now, the final Sword Saint has been defeated.

He is tightly clenching his wrist like the previous Sword Saint before him.

Actually, all the Sword Saints are clenching their wrists.

Whether they were right handed or left handed, Eris beat them with the same techinque.

This only angered the Sword Saints even more.

 

Next up should be Nina?

No, Nina doesn’t seem to have any intention of moving.

The Sword God will probably move first.

 

If the Sword God makes his move, it’s my turn.

Time to look for when he moves.

When the Sword God begins to stand up, it’s time to switch to full on flatter mode.

It was an impressive match, but my throat is parched after the watching the match. How about we take a break and drink some tea?… Let’s say some lines like these.

Hm? Is it okay to say such lines?

Doesn’t it sound like it’s just going to make the situation worse?

Maybe I should go more in the lines of praising the Sword Saints who lost.

Haha, well, the gentlemen of the Holy Sword Region are truly dedicated to sword practice. …. Let’s go with this.

With this, even they will say [Well, these were only practice matches so it can’t be helped that we lost] and come out with such a conclusion.

Alright let’s go, Let’s go now, Let’s go.

 

[……]

 

However, there is no change to the Sword God.

Nina also seems to have no intention of moving either.

 

[Are you done?]

 

Said Sword God Jino Britts whose voice gave off a light feeling in the midst of this tense situation.

It was in a very nonchalant voice.

 

[And? What did you come here for again?]

 

Huh?

It sounds like he will listen before fighting.

It isn’t like the Sword God Style… but it is convinient.

I came forward and raised my voice without hesitation.

 

[… First of all, my apologies]

[An apology?]

[In regards to the previous Sword God]

 

As soon as I said that, the atmosphere around the Sword Saints began to change as if they were waiting for this moment.

The other side gave us the cue!

The time is now! Let’s get out revenge!

If they were dogs, they would have been wagging their tails and barking.

I thought about talking about it in a more roundabout way, but it’s all the same.

There was no running away from this.

 

[……]

 

However, the Sword God began to make an awkward face.

If you make a face like that, it’ll put me at a loss too.

I felt like I said something weird and wanted to look around.

Nevertheless, he began to nod his head as if he understood it.

 

[Ah, about that, I’ve heard about it from Nina a while back. Nina said she would cooperate with you all. That being said, I guess there is a need to apologize for killing the father of your cooperator]

 

He said it as if it was none of his business.

To the point where it left the Sword Saints more speechless than myself.

 

[But master… the previous Sword God Gal Farion, tried to challenge you on his own will no?

Then isn’t it more appropriate that we apologize to you?

If this pertains to the entirety of the Sword God Style, it is us who broke the agreement after all.

So what happens now?

I don’t really know much about these kind of things]

 

The ones that want to know what will happen is us.

Am I really talking to the top authority of the Sword God Style?

I came here thinking that he would be at least as hard headed as Atofe…

It’s a strange feeling.

 

[Umm…]

 

Calm down, first comes answering his questions.

I’m pretty sure Eris talked to Nina during Ariel’s coronation ceremony.

That we were planning to make the Holy Sword Region, the Sword God, into our ally.

But before such talks were finished, the fight at the Biheril Kingdom occurred and Gal Farion became our enemy.

 

[Eris and Nina only talked and there had yet to be a formal agreement to the talks. Did Nina tell the Sword God about our talks?]

[She did tell him, but that was all there was to it]

 

Nina who was vaguely nodded her head.

To those words, Jino also nodded his head.

 

[To say the least, we didn’t hear anything about [Opposing the Dragon God Orsted and his allies]. But if he did fight…]

 

Jino frowned with his eyes.

 

[That means that the previous generation decided to become your enemy huh?]

 

The Sword Saints’ spirits began to rise.

Alright, well said.

Let’s grab our swords and fight, hurry, hurry!

I felt like I could hear such thoughts.

 

[… Wait. Please calm down]

 

After hearing those words, Jino shrugged his shoulders.

 

[Do I look like I’m flustered?]

 

[No you look really calm. It’s just that, look, we came all the way here to apologize and get rid of any hostilities between us. It’s not good for us to fight with your Sword God Style who have a strong combat strength either. We want to be close to those who are strong. We also have things to keep you interested as well. A trade of swords and food, maintenance of infrastructure and even cooperation in regards to construction. In other words, if you become our enemies,
we will have to stop such activities. Isn’t that bad for you as well?]

[Haa…]

 

Jino sighed in response to my words.

My explanation may have been a bit too long. I probably would have kept it shorter if I was talking to Atofe. But then again, he doesn’t seem like her who would simply agree and say [Alright, you are our comrade!]

Jino looked at me and said with a trouble expression.

 

[Do I have to say every little thing? The previous generation did not say anything to us. In other words, he chose to fight you as an individual. We have nothing to do with it. Therefore, we have no intention of fighting you. Besides, there’s something more important than something like that anyways]

 

After saying such words, Jino pulled Nina to his side and buried his face onto her head.

Even though Nina is blushing, she is letting him do it.

It looks like they are passionate for each other, but wouldn’t it be better to show a little restraint in front of others?

Look at that. Eris’ face is blushing red. Her eyes are open wide. She is crossing her arms and standing with her legs wide in a stance to be ready for a fight.

 

However, is the person I’m talking to really the Sword God?

His response is so logical that is scares me.

It feels weird.

Aren’t the Sword God Style’s higher ups more like [Shut up! Stop saying things that we can’t understand! You’re the boss’ enemy! We’re gonna kill you!]

Ah no, that’s more like Atofe isn’t it.

But isn’t it pretty much the same thing?

 

Ah, maybe the person infront of me is a body double. Or it may be a staff member who is in charge of public relations.

 

[……]

 

But I’m thankful for the way this conversation is headed.

Though it is a bit weird seeing how calm he is knowing that we killed his master.

Well, I can understand if he is acting that way because he decided to put the future ahead of his emotions after thinking about the current situation.

He probably thought a lot about it before and came to such a decision.

 

[If it’s like that, then please once again…]

[Please wait!]

 

The person who shouted such words and stood up was a Sword Saint.

With his face flustered, he pointed at us… no rather, at Orsted.

 

[We admired the previous Sword God, we saw his sword, learned and practiced and became strong! Such a person was killed! By them! They killed the previous Sword God who we are indebted to and yet, why are you just silently sitting there!? Is it okay for our Sword God Style to be looked down upon?]

[Then you go do it. Bring a real sword, I’ll be watching]

 

Jino said that immediately.

The Sword Saint’s movement came to a halt.

 

[Huh… ?]

[Those guys probably came here expecting the same thing. Mad Sword King Eris, Dragon God Orsted, North God Kalman III. And behind them, Rudeus Greyrat will provide them with magic support. Even if you guys all fight them at once, you won’t even get a single sword strike in and be annihilated.]

[That’s…]

[Now, go do it. We’ll clean up your corpses and make sure to give you a funeral as well. I don’t know if you guys can defend your honor with your deaths but I’m sure you will be satisfied]

[…]

 

After hearing such words, the Sword Saint sat down.

Clenching his fists in frustration.

And so, he said with a shaking voice.

 

[Do we… have no choice but to let these guys go? Without fighting them when they are the enemies of the previous generation?]

[Then you why don’t you just do it. I have no intention of holding you guys back. You are free to do as you please, just like my father did as well]

 

Jino seems to be troubled.

In my case, rather than worsening the resentment, I want it to be settled down as well.

Though trying to settle it with a life or death situation is a bit too much.

 

[Now that I think about it, the Sword Emperor isn’t around huh]

 

Eris muttered.

Jino turned to face Eris.

 

[My father and his companions have left the Holy Sword Region. They weren’t willing to accept my position as the Sword God]

 

It doesn’t seem like the Sword Emperor they are talking about has anything to do with Nina.

From what Jino is saying, the Sword Emperor in question seems to be one of the two disciples under the previous Sword God.

Looking around, the person in question doesn’t seem to be here.

 

[By now they probably have opened a dojo in Asura, Millis or even the Dragon King Kingdom. Well, I wouldn’t have minded if they wanted me to be the one that had to leave…]

 

Jino said as he shrugged his shoulders.

 

[So is the apology the only conversation we will be having? In my case all I can really say is “thank you very much” at this point]

 

As I expected, he is a little weird.

I don’t intend to talk bad about someone else, but this man named Jino seems to be too cold, or maybe too concerned about the future…. He sure is weird.

 

[No, the conversation is going to get a little long. We are currently in a war against an existence named Hitogami]

 

With those thoughts in mind, I decide to go in detail about our fight against Hitogami.

Nevertheless, it seems like Jino is understanding my words.

If this conversation can be settled without a fight, it will be a win win situation for us.

 

Though it feels like I’ve been let down, it isn’t bad.

If I look at him without my expectations of what a Sword God should be like, he is an agreeable young man.

Once I get him to agree to cooperate with us, we can get along while drinking lots of tea afterwards.

If I do that, the weird feeling he is giving off will surely disappear as well.

 

[— With that being said, we wish to ask for the cooperation of the Sword God Style for the future]

[I decline]

 

… Mmm?

Huh?

 

[We will not cooperate]

 

Despite the Sword Saints shouting [Yes! Yes!], even they are feeling astonished.

 

[… Does this mean that you will be siding with Hitogami?]

[No we will not oppose you either]

 

Mmm?

 

[Then… are you planning to stay neutral? Can we hear the reason?]

[I wish to defend my master’s teachings]

[Teachings?]

[My master said this at every opportunity: [Be strong for your own sake]. To be honest, I didn’t know what he meant. Even now, I don’t think there is a person here who understands it as well. Even my father and his companions didn’t understand. But I finally understood when I thought about making Nina mine. The sword should be swung for one’s own sake. For the pure purpose of achieving your goals]

 

There was a conviction in Jino’s voice that said such words.

A conviction that didn’t allow a single doubt in the words that he spoke.

 

[Therefore, I won’t cooperate. I will swing my sword for my sake. All for myself]

[… So for instance, if your family is about to be in danger, you won’t swing your sword?]

[No, at that moment if I love my family, I will swing my sword]

 

At that moment, for the first time, Jino looked directly at me.

A strong and imposing gaze.

That gaze was something far from what Eris told me about him.

 

[Or are you saying that you will kill my family if we don’t cooperate?]

 

Everyone inside the dojo froze.

Jino’s statement simultaneously gave off both chills and bloodlust.

Cold sweat is covering my entire body. If I was alone, I may have even wet myself.

He is the Sword God.

The Sword God that defeated the previous Sword God Gal Farion in an instant.

Though he is weird, he may even be one of the top five powerhouses in the world.

I understood that.

 

[No. I also love my family as well]

[Is that so? I’m relieved]

 

The bloodlust dissipated.

 

[You are just like the rumors say, Rudeus san]

[What are you talking about?]

[That you became the subordinate of the Dragon God for your family and even blew up a country]

[Well that’s roughly the truth. Though I didn’t blow up a country]

[And you are even calmer than I thought you would be]

 

Jino turned his gaze elsewhere.

His gaze laid upon my sides. Eris and Alek, as well as the Sword Saints.

All the Sword Saints had their hands hovering over their sword handles.

Some of them even have their swords unsheathed.

Looking behind me, Orsted didn’t even move an inch. As expected.

I didn’t move as well, but that’s because I was shivering at all the bloodlust.

 

[In other words, you are a trustworthy man]

 

What do you mean by [In other words]?

 

[Because you are such a person, I can be relieved. We won’t cooperate. Because my sword is a sword that will only be swung for me and the ones I love.]

[… Ah. I see]

 

I slowly understood Jino Britts.

To put it simply, he wants to protect the ones he love with his own hands.

He isn’t so different from me.

 

I clung to Orsted in tears because I wasn’t able to do that.

But he thinks he can do it, and also has the ability to do so as well.

He has no plans to do anything outside of that.

Of course he is the Sword God. Even if he declares his neutrailty, the enemy will still come.

But he probably doesn’t want to increase the amount of enemies with his own actions.

Though I don’t understand why the previous Sword God is not a part of [the ones he love].

No… That’s not it.

The previous Sword God [lived and died for himself].

As a result, they probably think that blaming us for his death is barking up the wrong tree.

 

[…. Umm]

 

At this rate, persuading him may be hard.

Jino is already set with his answer.

His mind won’t change until we decide to give up our fight against Hitogami or he thinks that he can’t protect his loved ones by himself.

I won’t be able to pursuade him at all.

Because he already made his decision.

To never look back after making a decision, as expected of the Sword God Style’s top authority.

 

[Is that so… Then please be careful when Hitogami approaches you sincerely in your dreams. Don’t fall for his lies when he tells you that it is for your family’s sake and lose everything]

[Alright]

 

It’s disappointing, but let’s withdraw for now.

I understand that they have no interest in opposing us for now.

They won’t be our allies, but they won’t become our enemies either.

He realized what kind of person I was and told me he [wanted to be neutral] in good faith. He probably isn’t planning anything.

Then let’s be satisfied with this for now.

 

[If I ever die and my position is taken over, please come again. In the end, this is my personal decision after all]

[I will do so]

 

I turned around and faced Orsted.

I don’t know what he is thinking about underneath that helmet.

 

[That being said, are you okay with that Orsted sama?]

[… Alright]

 

As I asked while turning around, Orsted slowly nodded his head in agreement.

---

 

After that, after tending to the wounded Sword Saints, the situation began to flow to where Alek joined the training.

 

Right now, I’m sitting at the inner part of the dojo watching Alek spar with the Sword Saints.

The Sword Saints are holding wooden swords, but they were definitely filled with bloodlust.

They are probably thinking that it would be no problem if they “accidentally” killed Alek during their training.

 

Alek is handling it lightly.

Nevertheless, whether it is as expected of Sword Saints or Alek is simply holding back, occasionally one of them would land a hit on Alek.

It is the Longsword of Light.

Well they are still using wooden swords after all. The wooden swords broke the moment it hit Alek, giving him no damage. Touki really is a cheap technique isn’t it.

 

However, the wooden swords of the Holy Sword Region sure are strange.

It seems like there is a metal like substance embedded in the wooden swords.

I guess it’s to imitate a weight similar to that of a real sword.

Someone without Touki could be killed if they are hit in the wrong spot huh…

 

Ah, so is that why there are only Sword Saints in here.

Because if you’re not at least at the Advanced rank or higher, you can’t handle Touki?

 

[Now that I think about it, why did you accompany us this time Orsted sama?]

 

I suddenly asked Orsted who was sitting beside me in a quiet voice.

 

[I wanted to make sure I saw Jino Britts]

[Is that because you wanted to see if he was different from how he usually was?]

[Indeed]

 

Jino, with Nina by his side, is watching over the training.

Eris is sitting beside Nina.

She seems to be talking about something with Nina.

Seeing as how I can occasionally hear them saying words like Gal Farion, she seems to be telling her about the previous Sword God’s final moments.

 

[So how is it?]

[He hasn’t changed. He is still simple minded and stubbornly lives only for his own sake]

[Hmm]

[Jino in his youth was insecure. With that, he could have been easily swayed by Hitogami. But seeing him now, it won’t be a problem to let him go]

[I see]

 

Staying neutral while not becoming an enemy.

Thinking about it, we can also call him our ally in a way.

It would be hard for him to become an apostle as well.

Though they are not moving in concern for the future, it’s not like the other countries are moving vigorously as well.

It’s more important that they do not become Hitogami’s apostles.

Though there will be instances where some will become our enemies whether we like it or not.

If we start talking about that, there will be no end to it.

 

[I give up…]

 

One of the Sword Saints began to fall down with a large thump.

Immediately, the next Sword Saint shouts [I will be next!] and walks to the center of the dojo.

… But after becoming aware of it, all the Sword Saints were either sitting down or defeated.

The annihilation of the Sword Saints (2nd time today).

As expected of the North God Kalman III.

 

[……]

 

Silence fell upon the dojo.

 

[— So I said in the end. [It’s good to see a guy who lives freely be so strong]]

 

In such a situation, Eris’ voice echoed out abruptly.

She raised her head in surprise when she realized her voice was louder than she thought.

Immediately closing her mouth, she intimidatingly dispersed all of the Sword Saints’ gazes that gathered around her.

 

The Sword Saints lowered their heads and began to let out their voices in frustration.

Those gazes began to slowly head towards Jino’s direction.

Leaving his pupils to do all the fighting, not caring for the honor of the Sword God Style, such complaints could be heard.

 

Jino is ignoring them with a carefree face.

It may just be that he hears such words on a daily basis.

 

[Is Sword God sama not going to join us in training as well?]

 

A Sword Saint asked after seeing the responseless Jino.

The man was the first to challenge Alek and had a huge bruise on his face after being defeated numerous times.

It was the same man that asked him to wait some time ago.

 

[I’m good]

[Why?!]

[It’s not a matter of why. I requested them to train with you guys because you guys wanted it. If you guys are done, the training should be finished as well]

 

The Sword Saint’s face distorted.

He began to shout while trembling, unable to bear the current situation.

 

[It was good back in the days of the previous Sword God! That man diligently protected the honor of the Sword God Style! When guys like these came, he didn’t allow them to be so arrogant! I can understand why the Sword Emperor and his companions left as well!
Even though you are the Sword God, you refuse to show us a single demonstration! You do all the training by yourself, always flirting with that woman everyday! It’s also the same when our enemies have come and asked us to be their subordinates! It’s fine letting go of
our past grievances and forming an allegiance with our enemies! But you just want to vaguely declare neutrality! Is that because you don’t want to make them your enemies? What kind of person are you! What’s the point of being a Sword God!]

 

The dojo became deadly silent.

Jino’s facial expression didn’t change.

He is as carefree as ever.

He is making a face that seems to ask [What is this guy going on about?]

However, the man’s face turned pale as he seemed to realize that he said a little too much.

 

[The sword is an individual’s property. Even if I win, it won’t be your guys’ victory and I won’t be able to protect your guys’ honor]

 

Jino said so briefly.

 

[I defeated the Sword God because I wanted to be with Nina. It’s also the reason why I am here. I didn’t have any intention of defending my honor or taking care of you guys either.
If you have any complaints, you can leave as well. I don’t mind losing my position as the Sword God, but if I give it to you guys, you will chase me out won’t you? I don’t mind leaving but right now is not a good time. My kids are too young]

 

The Sword Saints lowered their heads while saying [Ahh].

That’s not it, why don’t you understand, such voices could be heard.

 

Either way, the atmosphere is turning for the worse.

The Sword God and his disciples.

Looks like the situation won’t be easily resolved.

I guess it means Jino is still too young.

If he doesn’t resolve this situation well, he may create enemies within the Sword God Style.

 

[How about you just show them a demonstration?]

 

The person who broke the silence was Nina.

She began to separate her body that was leaning towards Jino and sat up straight.

 

[I want to see you fight as well]

[I get it. If that’s what Nina wants]

 

Jino suddenly stood up.

As if his heavy like hips from before was a lie.

 

Was he perhaps sitting on it with his butt?

Either way, can we really say the situation is stable with this?

To me it seems to be unstable.

Will it really be okay?

 

[How about you as well Eris? Jino has gotten strong you know]

[… I got it]

 

Eris also got up after hearing Nina’s words.

She is throwing something towards my direction.

After receiving it, I realized that it was her sword.

Demon Sword [Nodobue]

It was the previous Sword God’s favourite sword.

 

Jino and Eris began to walk towards the center of the dojo.

Alek was there and shrugged his shoulders.

 

[So who is going to do it?]

[Of course, the weakest one is first]

 

Eris said so and pushed Alek aside.

Alek nodded his head in agreement and headed back towards where we were.

He didn’t break off a single sweat.

I’ve never seen him sweat…

No, I’ve seen him do it in the Biheril Kingdom.

He was drenched in sweat.

 

[… The people here are no good]

 

Sitting next to me, he said so in a small voice.

 

[Despite trading blows with stronger people, they have no interest in learning]

[Even I could see that as well]

[Right? My grandmother’s people are better than them]

 

Atofe’s royal guards are a bit of a different story.

As I thought while looking, Eris held a stance with her wooden sword.

An upper stance as usual.

It’s an attack stance.

 

On the other side, Sword God Jino held a sword drawing stance with his hips.

Talking about sword drawing, it reminded me of Ghyslaine.

But compared to Ghyslaine, he is much quieter.

Ghyslaine used to swing her tail while in her sword drawing stance as if she was timing her attack with ferocitiy.

Jino’s stance had no such thing.

Similar to Orsted not too long ago, he is standing still in his stance as if time has stopped.

There is no opening.

 

[……]

 

Eris began to close the distance.

 

The opponent is the Sword God.

If there weren’t talks before this, this situation would have had my heart jump out.

Even if she gets beaten, she probably won’t die?

It’s okay right?

I should use my foresight eye just in case.

Well even if I use it, I probably won’t be able to see his sword.

If it seems like she will be hit in a vital spot, will Orsted stop it before it happens?…

 

[If it’s Eris san, you won’t need a start signal right?]

[Mmm]

 

Eris nodded her head.

When I thought about that, the fight had already ended.

 

((Eris got hit on her dominant arm and fell down to one knee))

((Eris’ wooden sword flew in mid air and became stuck on the dojo’s wall, ending the fight))

 

That’s all I saw with my foresight eye.

And a mere second later, that became a reality.

 

[……]

 

In my eyes, it seemed like Eris made the first move.

Before I could even confirm it, the tip of her sword already became an afterimage.

 

But in the end she still lost.

She lost in terms of speed and got hit on her dominant arm.

 

No, it isn’t only her dominant arm.

Looking closely, her leg that was in the front had it’s toe bent in a weird direction.

Two sword hits.

Was it two attacks in a row?…

 

She broke both her arms and legs.

But Eris didn’t stop moving.

This much wasn’t enough to stop her.

Making a ferocious smile, she begins to charge with her other leg.

 

… That’s what I thought would happen but she let go of her strength.

She gave up.

 

[Let’s end it there]

 

The echo throughout the dojo belonged to Orsted’s voice.

Inside the dojo, voices such as [Ahh] and [Splendid] could be heard.

However, that was only the minority.

The voices sounded somewhat bewildered.

 

[What happened? Did she dodge the first blow…?]

[The first blow was aimed at her ankle. That’s why her toe…]

[Then how about the second blow?]

 

Such whispers could be heard among the Sword Saints.

Did the match finish? Did it not?

It was probably too fast for them to even come down to a conclusion.

However the result is clear.

Eris sat down drenched in sweat while the Sword God was standing with his wooden sword held loosely.

 

He said he will show them a demonstration, but the people that watched it didn’t even know what happened?

There’s no point of a demonstration at this rate.

The Sword Saints’ facial expressions were stiff as if they were frustrated at themselves.

However, simultaneously, a feeling of relief began to circulate.

They probably think that with this, the Sword God Style’s honor has been protected.

If the anger has settled down, it’s a win win for me as well.

 

[As expected of the Sword God! The first blow was aimed at the front leg’s ankle.
However, that first blow traveled the shortest possible distance from the ankle to the wrist. Hitting the ankle is okay, so is his opponent dodging the blow. Either way, his opponent’s first attack would be delayed and allow him to land a counter to their wrist.
It is a feat that is impossible to achieve without the absolute confidence in regards to the speed of one’s sword]

 

Alek said so in quite a loud voice.

So that the Sword Saints could hear him.

Hearing those words, the Sword Saints nodded their heads saying [I see].

Thank you very much for explaining, Alek san.

Though Alek sat down as if it was something obvious, he gave a little criticizing gaze towards Jino.

His face looked as if it was saying, [Tell them of such things if you are their master].

 

[If it was the old Eris san, she would have charged despite being in that situation]

[If this was the time to be stubborn, I would have done so]

[I see. As expected of Eris san]

 

Jino smiled a little and slowly nodded his head.

Eris suddenly laughed as well.

However, her brow is dripping with cold sweat.

She’s not the type of woman to whine over a broken wrist and ankle, but it should still be painful.

I got up and rushed to Eris.

 

[Are you alright?]

[… I’m fine. Hurry up and use your healing magic. Don’t try anything funny got it?]

[Yes ma’am]

 

I immediately chanted my healing magic and healed her bones.

I’ve already been warned beforehand, so I’ll refrain from touching her chest or butt.

Despite being a mock battle, a strike strong enough to break the bones.

I tremble at the thought of such a strike hitting the head or the neck.

Well, Orsted is here as well, so as long as the head doesn’t go flying off, I think it should be fine.

 

Nevertheless, the Sword God.

The previous Sword God was the same, but I just can’t see his sword.

He’s someone I don’t want to turn into an enemy.

 

[How is it?]

[… He is amazing. It’s frustrating, but I don’t think I can beat him]

 

I asked her about her injuries, but all she talked about was the battle.

She is tightening her mouth as if she is really frustrated.

Though Eris gave birth to two children, she was diligent when it came to swordsmanship.

When thinking about that… No, she’s just frustrated that she lost. She was always like that. She hates losing.

 

[Then, I shall]

 

When I brought Eris back, Alek got up with a cheery face.

But, he suddenly turned his head towards Orsted.

 

[Will it be okay Orsted sama?]

[I don’t mind. Do as you wish]

 

Did Orsted possibly give Alek the permission to beat up Jino?

If Jino can’t beat Alek, the Seven Great World Power rankings may change as well.

The man who declared neutrality, Jino Britts.

By defeating Eris just now, he settled down the frustration of the Sword Saints.

The Holy Sword Region will be able to protect its neutrality.

 

However, if the Sword God loses, everything changes.

Ignoring Jino as an individual, it wouldn’t be surprising if the majority of the Holy Sword Region become our enemies.

 

What should I do? Do I have no choice but to stop them?

…

No, let’s not say anything, since Orsted gave his approval.

I just have to think of a way to deal with the result.

 

[Very well]

 

Alek came to the front.

A spar using wooden swords.

Nevertheless, the North God and the Sword God.

It is no exaggeration to say that this is a battle between fellow memebers of the Seven Great World Powers

The current seventh rank right now is nothing more than a decoration after all.

 

Who will win?

Alek most likely has the advantage by having more experience.

Despite beating the previous Sword God, the Sword God is young and lacks experience.

In addition, Alek probably has a lot of pride as the North God Kalman III.

There’s also the fact that he saw the Sword God’s attack not too long ago.

 

[……]

 

Alek, who took a center focused stance and Jino, who is in his sword drawing stance.

Who is going to start first?

Normally, the Sword God Style’s Jino would strike first and the North God Style would counter that blow.

However, it feels like the opposite may happen as well.

 

[… Hmp!]

 

The first one to move was Alek.

 

I saw it this time.

A no motion thrust from the center.

However, Jino swung his sword in a speed that exceeded that thrust.

He unsheathed his sword as if he was matching the timing of the thrusted sword’s tip and deflected it a little… That’s all I was able to see.

The next moment, Jino’s sword vanished.

 

The next thing that was reflected in my eyes was the moment when Alek’s left hand broke.

At the same time, Alek took a step back and there was a black line on the dojo floor.

He probably did the same move he used on Eris but this time attacking the wrist first and then the leg.

 

Alek grabs the wooden sword with his broken hand.

However, the hand that seemed to be broken repaired itself right away.

It’s probably due to his Immortal Demon Blood.

Furthermore, his eyes burned with fighting spirit as if it was trying to say that the true North God Style starts now.

 

However, Jino stepped to the front despite the situation.

A terrifying fierce attack had begun.

 

Each time Jino swung his sword, Alek broke his arm and leg.

The broken bones immediately healed and didn’t put Alek out of the fight.

 

However, that’s all that happened.

Jino didn’t allow Alek to go on the offensive.

 

Alek probably tried many different things.

However, it was clear to anyone that his attacks didn’t reach.

 

[… I give up]

 

Before long, Alek dropped his sword.

There was no injury.

However, his clothes were tattered and the tip of his wooden sword was split.

On the other side, Jino was uninjured as well.

Though he was drenched in sweat, he was overwhelming.

I didn’t think there would be this much of a gap.

To beat Alek who was so strong to that extent…

 

Wouldn’t Jino right now be on par with the Great Powers? No, I mean he already is one of the Great Powers.

 

[Man, you are strong. It made me realize that there are always people stronger than yourself]

[You only have one hand and if this was a real battle, there’s no telling who would have won]

[If we fought with real swords, I would be in pieces by now]

 

Alek easily admitted his defeat.

Jino used his sword drawing stance with a wooden sword that had no scabbard.

If it was a real sword drawing stance, it would have been even faster.

Therefore, there is the possibility that the gap would have been even wider if they used real swords.

 

[Now then…]

 

Alek held his wooden sword and came back to us.

Despite losing, he has an easy going expression.

Though he seemed to be a little frustrated… He didn’t scream like he did during the time in the Biheril Kingdom.

He probably changed as well.

 

[… Hmm?]

 

When I casually looked around, I realized that everyone was looking at me.

Even Jino stood in the center of the dojo despite the fact that the spar was over.

Facing my direction.

 

[The seventh rank of the Great World Powers…]

[We can see the fight between two Great World Power rankers]

[Though I don’t think Sword God sama will lose…]

[We might even be able to see the Dragon God Orsted’s techniques]

 

I could hear the Sword Saints talking.

Eh?

Hmm? What’s happening?

 

[Rudeus sama. Please show it to us. The power of the magic armor that was able to defeat me]

 

After hearing what Alek whispered to me, I suddenly spoke.

It was a speech I prepared in advance.

 

[Haha, everyone in the Holy Sword Region puts so much enthusiasm into their training as I expected! However, the day is almost over and I’ve gotten really hungry! How about we put an end to it here?!]

 

Everyone became disappointed.

---

 

And so, the greetings to the Holy Sword Region ended.

Although I’ve been called a coward by the Sword Saints, that is none of my concern.

The Holy Sword Region… No, Jino Britts will probably defend its neutrality until his death.

With that, I’m satisfied.

 

 

 

 

(source: http://ncode.syosetu.com/n4251cr/21/)

Sword God Jino Britts.

He is said to be the weakest Sword God in history.

Having never left the Holy Sword Region even once in his lifetime, with neither a tale of defeating a formidable foe.

Being the least popular of all the Sword Gods, people throughout the ages spoke about him as [a man who only became Sword God due to the passing of generations].

There have been only little confirmation as to whether he was the weakest or not.

However there is one fact that is for certain.

Out of all the Sword Gods, he lived the longest.

---

 

Jino Britts was born in the Holy Sword Region.

His father was a Sword Emperor and his mother was the younger sister of the Sword God.

 

He was three years old when he became self aware.

Jino had been swinging his sword for as long as he could remember.

Taking a wooden sword for children, he learned the way of swinging the sword from his father.

Just like that memory, Jino’s childhood days were filled with swordsmanship.

 

Waking up early, running and practice-swinging, training after breakfast, training after lunch, fitting in a short break after dusk and eating dinner, practice-swinging and then going to bed.

It was that kind of life.

That being said, Jino did not particularly like swordsmanship.

He trained like it was a natural thing to do but was only doing it because of his parents made him.

He never once did it by his own will.

 

Still when he was young, it was still good.

There were only those who were either practicing or practiced swordsmanship around Jino.

Other kids were doing it as if it was natural and his Sword Emperor father as well as his mother who was the Sword God’s younger sister, praised Jino for learning new techniques.

Even the retired old man praised Jino for being an admirable child when he was running around with a wooden sword.

There was no room for doubt.

Swordsmanship was common sense for Jino.

 

However, as Jino rose in rank, his surroundings changed.

His father who was pleased with him simply holding the sword became stricter as he ranked up.

Swing your sword to overpower your opponent.

You are still weak, don’t be overconfident just because you are overflowing a bit with talent.

Like that, he taught Jino and repeated harsh training beyond the likes of before.

 

Even the adults from the dojo, who in the beginning used to watch over Jino pleasantly, began to turn towards him bluntly with unpleasant eyes as he passed through the ranks of Intermediate and Advanced and beat them in matches.

At that moment, swordsmanship for Jino changed to something he was not interested in.

 

Even then, it was not like he wanted to do something else.

If it was a child from another country, he may have said something like wanting to become an adventurer.

However for Jino, the idea of [leaving home] never came out.

For some reason even his parents never taught him anything like that. Because there was no need to.

Jino never knew that there was an ever expanding world outside of the Holy Sword Region.

To Jino, the Holy Sword Region was the entire world.

Swordsmanship was the same as the likes of breathing air and eating food.

That’s why he continued to practice it.

 

To someone like himself, his childhood friend Nina also happened to be his only friend.

Nina was the daughter of the Sword God.

In the Holy Sword Region, anyone lower than the Saint rank are not allowed to enter the main dojo.

Anyone not higher than than the Advanced rank, including children, were thrown into dojos near their homes.

Nina was the daughter of the Sword God but she was no exception.

 

Nina wasn’t the only kid in her generation, but she was the only kid that was on par with Jino’s swordsmanship.

He got along with her.

In the Holy Sword Region, the popular topic was always about swordsmanship.

However, despite the fact that Jino disliked swordsmanship, he was a one of a kind genius and his theory regarding swordsmanship had an extraordinary side to it.

The only person in the same generation that followed him in that regard was Nina.

 

Nina was the leader.

She brought children of the same generation together and stood on the top of that summit herself.

She not only stood at the top of the children from the same dojo, but also the ones from every dojo in the Holy Sword Region.

Although there was the fact that she was the Sword God’s daughter, Nina was definitely talented. Among the children, her swordsmanship was the strongest.

Amongst the children in the Holy Sword Region, the ability of one’s sword was the basis for everything.

 

During her break from sword practice, Nina gathered the children and made a secret organization.

It was an organization only for children.

Jino took the role of second in command within the organization.

Although there was the fact that he was the second strongest, him getting along well with her played a role as well.

 

Nina and Jino.

It was most likely that these two saw something different in swordsmanship.

As proof, out of all the children in Nina’s group, most of them never reached past the Sword Saint rank.

 

That organization lasted for five years but once Nina reached the Sword Saint rank, it was disbanded.

As expected, Nina and Jino reached the rank of Sword Saint at the same time.

Even compared to history, their growth was considered to be quite fast.

 

Especially Jino.

He became a Sword Saint at a mere 12 years old.

When Jino became a Sword Saint, people around him yelled in surprise [Isn’t he the youngest?].

Both his father and mother praised him with open arms.

 

However Jino was not particularly happy.

He felt like he just did as he was told, so he didn’t think it was amazing, and he knew that the four year older Nina was stronger than himself.

 

Nina and Jino were allowed to practice in the main dojo after becoming Sword Saints.

Nevertheless, nothing changed.

Everyday, everyday, sword training.

As usual.

Since Nina was the closest to him in terms of age and skill, he always practiced with her .

As usual.

Nina dragged around Jino like her henchman as usual.

As usual.

Despite the fact that Nina was surrounded by senior swordswomen, the fact that she was the leader didn’t change.

Things that did change, were things such as the Sword God looking over his training and the increase in distance between his home and the dojo.

 

Ahh that’s not right.

The opportunity to receive teachings by Nina’s father, Sword God Gal Farion increased as well.

He said something totally different from what Jino’s father said.

 

[Swing the sword for yourself]

 

If Gal’s words were to be summarized, it would give off that kind of feeling.

Jino’s dad would often say the likes of [Swing the sword for the sake of getting stronger] at the dinner table.

Jino knew the difference between the two phrases, but he couldn’t really tell which one was right.

In regards to each one, nothing really hit home.

 

Nevertheless, there was no real scolding as long as he completed the training given to him.

Also, in the occasional mock battles, as long as you didn’t lose too much, no one said anything.

Despite the fact that moving to the dojo dropped his mock battle win rate, it was a fight against adults who were 10 years older than Jino. There was nothing to blame for the losses he sometimes suffered.

 

Although there was change…. nothing big changed.

That’s what he thought.

 

It was obviously that day that the big change occurred.

 

She came.

 

Eris Greyrat.

---

 

The moment Eris arrived at the Holy Sword Region, she did a striking debut.

Defeating Jino and Nina in an instant, she gave off a strong impression.

 

Complete defeat.

But even that was not a huge change for Jino.

For Jino, something like losing was an everyday occurrence.

Although he was praised as a genius amongst his generation, he always lost to Nina.

It was the first time he lost to such a surprise attack, but when there were times he traded blows with his father or the Sword God, it ended in a similar result.

Therefore, it was the same thing either way.

 

It was not like he didn’t feel angry, but after being scolded by his father due to the Sword God declaring [Jino is naive], such feelings vanished.

Ahh, so it’s alright to do things like that too, such was the lesson he got out of it.

Though despite learning the lesson, he had the level of discretion to think [Let’s not do it because it will be frowned upon at the dojo].

 

Nina was the one who changed the most.

Nina was different from Jino.

With her bruised face flushing with rage, she didn’t speak for that entire day.

After practice in the dojo, she returned home and cried at the backyard in secret.

She swung her sword while crying.

As she repeatedly muttered, Unforgivable, unforgivable…

 

Jino hesitated to call out to her.

It was the first time Nina experienced losing to someone amongst her generation.

Even so, it was not like she lost with just any ordinary sword.

From what Jino had heard, they fought using a wooden sword embedded with iron.

She didn’t even lose gracefully.

Collapsing, getting mounted on and beaten endlessly, even leaking herself due to the fear and pain, that was how she lost.

It was a defeat like no other.

It was the first time in her life that she experienced something like this.

 

Since then, Nina’s attack against Eris begun.

At first, Nina conspired with the other swordswomen and tried to exclude her out.

 

But Eris never cared about other people from the very beginning, so it resulted in failure.

Eris desired for strength more than anyone else.

The Holy Sword Region’s internal affairs was none of her concern.

 

Without any opposition, Nina’s frustration began to build up regularly.

She badmouthed Eris at every opportunity and even complained about her to Jino.

 

Jino didn’t like that kind of Nina.

When Nina was the leader, she was completely different.

Even if there was someone she didn’t like, she didn’t exclude them out.

 

Nina looked like a bad person to even Jino, who knew her for a long time.

 

It was one day that changed that.

Without telling anyone, Nina suddenly disappeared.

 

Of course, there was no one that worried.

Although Nina had never left the Holy Sword Region and was ignorant of the outside world, she was a Sword Saint.

There was talk about how she may have left to go on a combat training trip because of being provoked by Eris.

There were more people who were impressed than those who were worried.

It was to the point that even Jino was told by his father: [It may be a good time for you to see the outside world as well. If you hunt a red dragon, maybe that relaxed expression of yours will change].

 

Although Jino thought about doing it, he never took action.

Because he never had much interest about the outside world he never once visited.

To put it bluntly, he was a bit scared as well.

 

The majority of the adults in the Holy Sword Region knew about the [Outside World].

However, it was at most to the degree of knowing about neighboring countries or the countries they were from.

There weren’t many people who actually traveled around the world.

The tales that were told were mostly about where and what technique they used to defeat a certain opponent.

 

Among such tales, there was one adult who told him stories of her failures.

Ghyslaine Dorudia.

It was Sword King Ghyslaine.

Although she was an adventurer who traveled around the world, she taught him about the times she almost died due to her own stupidity.

 

[The world is a place where even the most talented swordsman die. If you don’t know how to use magic or math, or how to read, death will come swiftly]

 

Ghyslaine’s serious face as she told him these stories made Jino believe her.

It was because Jino, like the rest of the children in the Holy Sword Region, didn’t know how to read, use magic or math.

 

Without any interest, rather fear of not being able to solve things with swordsmanship alone.

It was no surprise that he didn’t even want to go out.

 

In any case, Jino didn’t chase after Nina and days passed by.

 

It was after two months since Nina left that she came back.

Jino wanted to ask Nina about her trip, but she didn’t tell him anything.

Something probably happened.

Since that day, Nina changed.

Stopping her harassment towards Eris, she became more serious and earnest in regards to swordsmanship.

 

She rarely associated with other swordswomen and her arrogant nature disappeared as well.

She spent most of her breaks on special training.

Though that special training was nothing more than trading blows with Jino in sparring sessions.

Following her like a henchman, he traded blows with her countless times.

Trading blows silently.

Such days passed by.

 

And so, this was when Jino began to fall for Nina.

---

 

It was only after months and years passed by that Jino began to become aware of his love.

 

Before that, many things happened.

The North Emperor Auber and Water God Reyda came to visit.

For Jino, none of these events interested him but the same could not be said for Nina.

Being provoked by Eris, Nina constantly grew stronger.

Even Jino, who did special training with her, also became stronger as well.

 

But it slowly became impossible to win against Nina.

Even though he rarely won against her before, his win rate against her steadily plummeted.

In the blink of an eye, there was a huge gap between Nina and Jino.

 

Jino didn’t really think much about this issue.

Losing against Nina was the same as before.

Going from winning only once every five times to winning once every ten times is not that big of a change.

But why is it.

Somehow he felt like he was being left behind.

 

At that day, Sword God Gal Farion called for Nina, Eris and Jino.

 

The Sword God asked for the answer of [The difference between a Sword Saint, Sword King and a Sword Emperor].

Jino had no idea what the answer was.

However, Eris and Nina were different.

Nina answered after a moment of thought while Eris ended with insisting her answer was correct despite being told it was wrong.

The Sword God was also satisfied with Eris’ answer and made them fight each other.

Announcing that the winner would become a Sword King.

 

And so, Eris won.

Eris became a Sword King while Nina wept.

 

Seeing the weeping Nina, Jino had a strange feeling.

Unconsciously clenching his fists, he tightly shut his mouth.

He couldn’t understand his feelings.

Nor the reason why he felt like so.

He might be irritated.

Or maybe even frustrated.

Why isn’t he himself standing there?

Does he not even have the right to fight those two?

After this, what would become of himself?

 

It was the first time Jino ever felt such emotions.

 

At the same time, he realized it.

The question that the Sword God asked Nina [Marrying with Jino or becoming a Sword King. If you had to choose between the two, which would you choose?].

Hearing that question and feeling his face flustered, unable to deny anything.

 

That he somehow fell in love with Nina.

---

 

Since then, Jino changed a bit.

It wasn’t that his usual behavior changed. He completed the training given to him by his father and the Sword God and continued his special training with Nina.

That didn’t change even after Eris left the Holy Sword Region.

His matches against Nina just became more intense than before.

 

What changed was his attitude towards swordsmanship.

He became more proactive than before.

He began to think about the meaning of everyday practice as well as thinking about each technique, he experimented with various things.

 

The result was extraordinary.

In the blink of an eye, he became on par with Nina.

It wasn’t anything strange.

Jino had the talent from the very beginning.

 

Nina also changed.

Nina, who became a Sword King, began to often travel to nearby villages and towns after Eris left the Holy Sword Region.

Hunting demons, going to dojos in big towns and giving out lessons.

Nina was proactive in such activities instead of just focusing on improving her swordsmanship.

 

On the other hand, Jino refused to leave the Holy Sword Region as usual.

Though he no longer felt scared of the outside world, he had no thought of leaving.

Even Jino did not know the reason why.

Maybe there was no reason at all.

But there was also no reason to leave either.

 

He trained diligently even when Nina wasn’t there, and from time to time, built up a lot of practice by sparring against his Sword Emperor father.

 

However, each time, he couldn’t overpower his opponent.

His Sword Emperor father was too far out of reach.

According to the Sword God, he would be gifted with his Sword King license soon, but that was it.

 

In terms of technique, he had already caught up to his father.

It was the same for Nina.

It was probably the same for fellow Sword Kings Ghyslaine and Eris.

 

But he couldn’t win.

He was lacking a single step.

He knew that.

He even knew what he needed to do to win.

But he couldn’t put it into action.

Although he became proactive, he restrained from putting himself into a harsh environment.

No, there was a time when he did put himself into a harsh environment.

And each time, he always thought to himself.

Why must I do these things to the point where I suffer?

 

Years passed by without an answer.

---

 

One day, Nina asked him after coming back from seeing a coronation ceremony in the Asura Kingdom.

 

[Hey Jino. Why don’t we get married?]

 

Jino responded with a nod.

He didn’t give it much thought.

Instead, it was something he expected to happen sooner or later.

It was because he liked Nina and it didn’t seem there was any indication of her being in that sort of a relationship with another man either.

 

Nina, who had an impatient personality, brought Jino to her room and immediately did the deed.

It was both their first time, so there were a lot of lacking points as well.

However, there was enough compatibility between the two to dedicate themselves to at least one night.

 

As the pleasant feelings kept coming, he thought to himself.

I want more of this.

It was probably the first time in Jino’s life that he wanted something so strongly.

 

The day after that.

Jino took Nina along to see the Sword God.

It wasn’t Nina that took Jino, but Jino who took Nina.

To tell him that they wanted to get married.

It was a rare sight for Jino to move independently.

 

[No]

 

Was the Sword God’s immediate reply.

The Sword God who never once interefered with his daugther’s education, gave a firm NO for the first time.

The reason was simple.

In the eyes of the Sword God, Jino lacked charm.

 

Without a sense of independence, not to mention an adventurous spirit let alone ambition.

A man who simply does as he is told.

Although the Sword God did not know that the two had spent the night together, he figured that Nina was the one who brought up the topic of marriage to him as well.

 

Jino was the type of man that never wanted something for himself.

He never tried to grasp something with his own hands.

And yet, marriage?

Don’t make me laugh.

But at the same time, he had another thought.

That it wasn’t a bad flow of events either.

 

[If you want to get married, defeat me yourself. Then I’ll give you my permission].

 

It was the Sword God’s way of encouraging Jino.

By giving him an obstacle, he hoped that Jino would show at least a bit of determination.

 

[…… !]

 

However, at that moment, Jino understood.

He felt as if something clicked in his head.

I understand.

Ahh, it was this all along.

 

The thing that the Sword God would always tell him.

Something that he was missing.

The identity of [Why?].

It was this.

It was something as simple as this.

 

Jino felt as if everything in front of his eyes became clear.

The thing he couldn’t really understand throughout his life was starting to become clear.

He grasped something with his own hands.

The final one, the one step that he was missing.

It was a [Goal].

 

After that, it was simple.

---

 

Jino changed.

He completely changed.

His entire being changed.

 

He stopped all the training that he was ordered to do until now.

He even stopped his special training with Nina.

 

Did he become truant?

Not at all. He started training by himself.

In that training, there was no need for a partner.

He already had plenty of combat experience from his special training with Nina, practicing with his father and participating in countless mock battles.

 

There was a theory for winning as well.

Jino had a vision of gaining certain victory against swordsmen of the Sword God Style.

However, to reach that vision, there was an extraordinary amount of effort needed. He had to overcome painful and harsh days.

Hence the reason he didn’t do it until now.

He didn’t have a reason to do it.

Whether it was frustration or irritation, such feelings weren’t enough to endure it.

However, it was different now. Jino had a goal in his hands.

I want Nina, I want her no matter what. Even if I have to go through painful things I want her.

That goal changed the painful and harsh to joy and hope.

 

After that, all there was left was to grind and sharpen.

Forging his body to increase the speed and weight of the sword.

It was needed to verify his theory.

Training, Special Training, Practice.

There were countless words, but none of them applied.

If one was to find a word that applied…. It would be [Work].

 

Jino simply did the things that he needed to do.

To make his body be able to defeat the Sword God, he worked flawlessly everyday.

To reach his limits, Jino continously worked.

Jino was able to do it.

He had that sort of talent from the very beginning.

 

With motivation, deeply thought out theory, flawless work.

The innate talent that controlled all those things.

With these four elements combined, Jino’s sword became sharp.

 

★　★　★

 

And so, the fated day came.

 

That day, Jino got up early and went to where his childhood friend was and once again proposed to her.

Facing off each other with wooden swords, Jino defeated Nina and told her to become his.

After she accepted, he headed to where the Sword God was.

 

It was the afternoon and there was a mock battle going on in the main dojo.

In the Holy Sword Region, it was a combat practice that happened from time to time.

It was not only a place where one could test to see how much their skill improved, but also allowed for two people to challenge each other to see who was at the top.

 

In such a place of training, Jino unexpectedly came back.

For a Sword King like Jino, his opponents would either be two Sword Saints, Nina who was the same rank as he was, or a Sword Emperor who he would challenge together with Nina as two people.

Nina was absent.

Since that was the case, naturally he would face off against two Sword Saints as tradition followed.

 

However,  as soon as he walked to the center of the dojo, Jino pointed his wooden sword at the Sword God.

The dojo fell deadly silent in an instant.

 

[Jino! You bastard, what are you doing!]

 

The first person to get up from their seat was Jino’s father, Sword Emperor Timothy Britts.

 

He raised the wooden sword he had by his side and struck at Jino.

No, he tried to strike him.

However, the moment he tried to get up with one knee, the knee that was at the front was smashed.

At the same time, the hand holding the wooden sword was also smashed and caused the sword to drop on the floor.

 

Sword Emperor Timothy Britts opened his eyes wide in shock.

He was used to pain.

His facial expression never showed pain.

Despite that, the cold sweat that ran down his face.

In his eyes, there was the figure of Jino who had just finished swinging his sword.

After a glance at his father, Jino turned around to the Sword God.

 

[Sword God sama, I have come to take Nina]

 

He declared as he pointed the sword just like he did a moment ago.

Sword God Gal Farion looked at that sword and laughed ferociously.

 

[Alright, come ――]

 

at me.

Before he could finish those words, Jino moved.

But Gal also moved at the same time.

Rather, Gal was faster.

It was because Gal was already in stance.

When the Sword Emperor was defeated, he picked up a wooden sword, raised his hips and readied his sword drawing stance.

 

Though it was a disadvantageous stance, to Gal, nothing was disadvantageous.

To be able to surpass his opponent with overwhelming speed despite being at such a disadvantage, such was the being known as the Sword God.

However, he couldn’t surpass Jino.

Jino moved at roughly the same speed as the Sword God.

Nevertheless, the two wooden swords that moved at roughly the same speed clashed together a little closer to Jino.

That is to say, the Sword God’s speed was superior.

Thus, the Sword God drove his strike in even deeper with more speed.

 

It was at that moment that the Sword God had a bad feeling.

The Sword God was nearly flawless in this single trade of blows.

For the Sword God Style that had the motto of “A Single Strike”, to block an opponent’s sword was considered a poor move.

However, collapsing the opponent’s stance with the first strike and finishing him off with the next wasn’t unheard of.

It was like that until now.

To the Sword God Gal Farion who dominated his opponent with the first strike, there was no such thing as defeat.

 

That’s what he thought, but Jino’s sword was heavier than any other sword Gal had faced before.

Jino’s stance didn’t collapse.

Of course Gal’s stance didn’t collapse either.

It was a tie.

It was rare for Gal to experience a tie between first blows.

 

It was a tie despite the fact that Gal drove his strike in deeper.

In that case, the next move would be different.

Gal’s stretched out sword took time to come back.

Jino’s sword was different. Despite catching up to Gal’s sword, it was in a position where it could instantly go back.

It wasn’t like both of their stances collapsed.

It was the slightest difference in time.

 

But Jino made that slightest difference his.

The definitive difference that was like putting a thread through a needle in order to gain certain victory against Sword God Gal Farion.

 

Gal Farion couldn’t execute his second swing.

 

That day, Jino grasped everything he wanted into his own hands.

---

 

Sword God Jino Blitz.

He grasped everything he wanted into his own hands.

Nina Farion.

That was everything he wanted.

The title of the greatest swordsman, [Sword God] was nothing much to him.

 

He never once left the Holy Sword Region in his lifetime.

This resulted in him having the lowest popularity out of all the Sword Gods and rumors spread about him being history’s weakest Sword God.

He was also not accepted by the Sword Saints who were apprentices of the previous Sword God.

 

But he didn’t care.

Rumors had no meaning.

 

That was because he was going to defeat every single opponent who challenged him.

Such opponents included a swordsman who tried to become the next Sword God.

A challenger who came after hearing the rumors about the [Weakest Sword God].

Jino crushed them all.

After becoming the Sword God. Undefeated.

That was Jino Britts’ combat record.

 

It may have been possible that if he left the Holy Sword Region, he could have beaten experts such as the Water God Reyda and Death God Randolph.

However, he didn’t do it.

For him, the Holy Sword Region was the entire world.

From the beginning to the end, there wasn’t anything he wanted from the outside world.

 

Nevertheless, after becoming the Sword God, his world expanded without a doubt.

Because other than opponents, there were many people who paid a visit to befriend the Sword God Jino Britts.

Though they did not want to fight him, at times they requested for sword lessons and at times did business with him.

 

Rudeus Greyrat was also one of those people.

 

Yep, he suddenly showed up one day.

With the Mad Sword King Eris Greyrat at his side, who Jino had deep relations with.

Bringing along with him, the North God Kalman III and Dragon God Orsted…

 

 

 

 

(source: http://ncode.syosetu.com/n4251cr/20/)