Published: January 22, 2026
“Master! Today, I’ll finally take a point!”
“Today, I’ll finally beat you, Master!”
Several days had passed since the battle with Amuntzarse.
In the indoor training ground of the silver rabbits of the night sky, I was facing off against Log and Carole.
“Alright, bring it on.”
At my signal, the two of them sprang into action.
Log launched a series of thrusts and sweeping strikes from the front.
(He’s even adding feints now. He’s definitely improved over these past few days.)
While dodging and parrying Log’s attacks with my sword, Carole, who had circled behind me, suddenly slashed from behind.
—Or so it seemed. Instead of closing the distance, she threw a dagger aimed near my right shoulder.
By the way, all the weapons we’re using now have their edges dulled, so they can’t actually cut, and even if they hit, they won’t cause serious injury.
(If I’m not careful, I might hit Log with it—that would be a bad move.)
I evaded the dagger’s line of fire while handling Log’s attacks.
However, the dagger didn’t pass by my side; it stopped midair before reaching me.
(Is this Object Float?)
Object Float is a magic technique I taught the magic development room when I joined the clan. It’s a spell that allows objects to levitate.
Back when I developed it, it had no name, but the magic development room named it when it was about to be released to the public.
(So, they eliminated the risk of friendly fire while restricting my movement. That’s a clever idea.)
Whenever Carole aimed for my right shoulder, I would dodge to the left.
Knowing her next move made it easier to land my attacks.
While I was focused on Carole’s dagger, Log launched a thrust faster than before.
(Their tactical skills are improving. But I still have no intention of losing.)
I drew his spear tip close, waiting until he could react but couldn’t move his body quickly enough.
At the right moment, I rolled clockwise, entering Log’s close range.
Switching my sword to my left hand, I used the momentum to strike my right elbow into Log’s solar plexus.
“Ugh...!”
Grabbing Log’s collar with my right hand, I pulled him back hard.
Exhaling and unable to brace himself, Log was pulled forward, walking several steps ahead.
“—Eh!?”
As a result, he collided with Carole, who had been closing in from behind, and the two of them tumbled over, entangled.
To think he buried his face in Carole’s chest. Well played, Log.
“Log, you’re heavy!”
“—!? S-s-sorry!”
Log, probably stunned by the confusion, stayed still for a moment but regained composure at Carole’s voice and hurriedly separated from her.
“Aw, I thought it was a good strategy.”
Carole, still lying down, grumbled.
“I think it was a good plan. Did you two come up with it together?”
“Yes… We thought that if we could predict Master’s next move, we could land attacks. Our physical abilities are superior, after all.”
This time, I was sparring without buffs because the martial arts tournament was coming up.
Facing two buffed opponents required more concentration, making it good training.
“Well, it’s a difference in experience. By the way, Carole, when did you learn Object Float? You hadn’t used magic before.”
“Hehe~ Rain-neechan taught me~ I wanted to surprise the Master by showing it off, but you just dealt with it normally. I wanted to see a more surprised reaction!”
Actually, Carole and Ms. Rain get along well.
They were acquainted even before I joined the clan, probably through Mr. Albert.
Carole looks up to Rain as an older sister, and Rain, having a big sister personality, naturally likes Carole.
“No, I was definitely surprised. It just didn’t show on my face because we were in battle.”
“Really~?”
“Really. But why did you decide to learn magic?”
Carole’s expression turned unusually serious at my question.
“Well... I thought I could get by with just close combat. I’m faster than most, and confident handling blades. But against big guys, I wasn’t much of a challenge. I lost in an instant. I don’t intend to change my fighting style, but after watching the battles between Master and Log, I realized I should increase my options in combat. Right now, all I can do is charge at the enemy. But that alone can’t protect everyone. That’s why I wanted to learn magic.”