A Brighter Future (Kuroinu)

Although Rhodes was curious about Grave’s enthusiasm, he set aside those thoughts once he stepped onto the training ground. Grave immediately initiated some tests to evaluate Rhodes’s physical condition, intending to create a tailored training plan. However, the results of endurance and strength tests were disappointing.

Grave was certain that Rhodes was even weaker than a regular militia. Yet, this outcome fell within Grave’s expectations. He believed that Rhodes, with his sheltered upbringing, had never undergone any physical training. What Grave was interested in was Rhodes’s potential.

“In that case, we’ll start your training from the very basics, Lord Rhodes.”

“Alright.”

Rhodes wasn’t surprised by the results. He knew his physical condition, and as Grave continued to plan his training, Rhodes couldn’t help but wonder if he truly possessed the potential Grave had mentioned.

When Rhodes caught the wooden sword Grave threw at him, he suddenly felt a strange sensation surging through his body. It gave him a sense of immediate strength.

At that moment, a chibi version of the Goddess Leliantia appeared before him. Rhodes’s eyes widened in surprise, but before he could exclaim, the chibi goddess spoke.

“Rhodes, if you can see me like this, it means you’ve obtained a weapon. Don’t be too surprised or make any noise because only you can see this image. Let me explain: this is the final measure I’ve prepared to ensure your safety. I know you’re a good boy and have no desire to be a hero or adventurer, just wanting to live a peaceful new life.”

“But in this new world, without some power, you’d be in danger. So, I’ve left you this gift. It activates once you have something that can be used as a weapon. I’ve already fulfilled your wish, and I can’t grant you any more extraordinary powers. This is all I can do to assist you on your journey to become stronger.”

“Your body is naturally talented, whether in martial arts or magic. With a weapon in hand, you’ll quickly become proficient, understanding how to use it and how to fight. This is my limit, and from here on, it’s up to you. Work hard, and make your life even happier!”

After delivering this message, the chibi version of the Goddess Leliantia disappeared, leaving Rhodes somewhat stunned. He couldn’t help but feel that if he didn’t know his own identity, he would find this treatment from the goddess unbelievable.

“Lord Rhodes?”

Grave, who had been watching Rhodes holding the wooden sword in a daze, felt an unexpected change in his aura. It was as if Rhodes, who had known nothing about combat a moment ago, had suddenly transformed into a well-trained soldier.

This astonishing transformation left Grave in disbelief, but it was happening right before his eyes. His excitement surged.

“Father, his current state…”

Claudia was also surprised by Rhodes’s sudden change. She was about to inquire about it when she saw Grave wielding his wooden sword and launching an attack. She was startled and instinctively moved to intervene.

However, she couldn’t stop him in time. Still amazed by the gifts the Goddess Leliantia had given to Rhodes, he suddenly felt a surge of energy within him. He raised his right hand and blocked Grave’s attack with the wooden sword.

“General Grave?”

Facing this unexpected response, Rhodes looked at Grave in confusion. However, he saw the excitement in Grave’s eyes.

“Lord Rhodes, please engage in combat with me now. I can sense that your talent is simply nothing more than amazing!”

He could sense it?

Rhodes realized that Grave had noticed his transformation. That’s why he had attacked him suddenly. While this situation was unexpected, Rhodes didn’t resist it. He wanted to get accustomed to it. Moreover, the Goddess Leliantia had mentioned that this was just a way to provide him with a better foundation, not that he had become invincible.

“I understand.”

Rhodes began to counterattack after giving his response. Compared to his previous lack of knowledge, he now not only knew how to wield the wooden sword better but also how to attack his opponent.

This performance brought a smile to Grave’s face. From someone who knew nothing and was even physically weaker than a new recruit, Rhodes had become a remarkable warrior after picking up a weapon for the first time. This kind of talent was what Grave had always been seeking.

Grave’s excitement increased as he swung the wooden sword with greater power and speed, causing Rhodes’s hand, holding the wooden sword, to start tingling. Although he now had the skill of a seasoned fighter, his physical condition hadn’t changed much, and after a short struggle, his stamina couldn’t keep up.

Finally, Grave seized the opportunity and sent Rhodes’s wooden sword flying, signaling the end of their match. Claudia, who was watching from the sidelines, was astounded. She had expected to have to intervene, but to her surprise, Rhodes had held his own against Grave in the fight. Though he had lost, what intrigued her more than the result was Rhodes’s exceptional combat talent.

“This talent is just as my father said, no… it’s even better!”

Claudia had never seen anyone with such extraordinary talent. Someone who, on their first time picking up a weapon, could use it like an experienced warrior and know how to attack and evade enemy strikes. For her father, who revered strength, such a person was undoubtedly the most exciting thing.