Published: January 22, 2026
The next day, I headed to the forge of the silver rabbits of the night sky.
“Good morning, Mr. Alan.”
“Hm? Oh, Orun! Good morning. You’re here to pick up your swords, right? Wait a moment.”
When Mr. Alan noticed me, he moved to the back of the forge and brought out two swords of different lengths, sheathed.
“Take a look. The shape, weight, and balance of the longer one are the same as the black sword I made before.”
I took the swords from Mr. Alan and examined each one.
The longsword’s blade was lead-colored, but otherwise, it was almost identical to the schwarzhase. Even though different materials were used, I was amazed by Mr. Alan’s skill in replicating it so closely.
The shorter sword was about half the length of the longsword, but it fit me just as naturally without any discomfort.
These swords were specially made for the martial arts tournament.
Weapons were allowed in the tournament, but blades had to be dulled according to the rules.
These two swords complied with that regulation.
After checking how each sword felt, I sheathed them.
(It’s been a while since I put swords into their sheaths. Ever since I got the storage magical tool, I haven’t had a chance to use them…)
Long ago, sheathing swords was normal, but nowadays, it’s rare.
That’s thanks to the storage magical tool.
Sheathing swords was meant to prevent injury while carrying them and to keep the blades sharp.
Both issues are solved by storing them in the magical tool — which also saves space.
So very few people use sheaths nowadays.
But since magical tools are banned in the martial arts tournament, I had to have sheaths made.
“There’s still surprisingly little discomfort, as always…”
“All the data from orders by members is saved. When updating equipment, I refer to those data. Well, if it’s too old, the accuracy drops, so I often have to measure again.”
I see. Then,
“Do you have data for the new—tenth squad members?”
I asked Mr. Alan if he had their data.
“Yeah, I do. If I remember correctly, I took data from the rookies just before the instructor-led exploration.”
“Data from about two months ago is fine. Then, I’d like to order weapons for the three tenth squad members. Is it possible to have them made?”
“I can make them, but should the cost be deducted from the tenth squad’s expenses? Sorry to say, but if so, I can’t use top-quality materials.”
“No, I’ll pay for the costs and materials myself. I’ve got permission from the Exploration Management Department, and since the materials before joining the clan belong to me personally, I want the best weapons made using the remaining black dragon scales and deep-layer materials.”
I know others might say I’m showing favoritism.
But no matter what they say, I won’t back down.
They have endured such defeats but never give up and are working hard to get stronger.
Seeing that, I want to support them. After all, I’m their master. I have an obligation to protect them.
“If you have permission from the Exploration Management Department, that’s fine. Understood. Leave the materials here. I’ll be free during the thanksgiving festival, so it’s convenient. I’m glad to have something to work on. The weapons should be done by the end of the festival. I’ll contact you when they’re finished.”
Since exploration is banned until the festival ends, the timing is perfect.
“Understood. Thank you.”
“All right. Now, back to the topic. If you’re going to sheath those swords, you’ll need sword belts, right?”
Sword belts are bands used to hang swords near the waist.
Leather is the usual material, but since they’ll only be used in this tournament, cloth might be fine.
“That’s right. I don’t have any because I haven’t needed them until now. I’m thinking of requesting the clothing department to make them.”
“That’s a good idea. I could arrange them, but if you have time, it’s better to order them yourself. The clan’s reputation is at stake in this tournament, so it’s best to get the best ones made. Plus, the clothing department is probably idle this time of year, so they’ll start quickly.”