The Water Magician

The group of Skizblaznil, who had sent the pirates back into the sea.

After carefully examining the information, Abel made a decision.

"This time, we will head towards the Western Nations instead of Nozoo Kingdom."

Eventually, there may be a possibility of establishing relations between the countries, including Nozoo Kingdom.

But for now...

"I think it would be better to avoid sailing towards an unfamiliar sea with your majesty on board," Captain Paulina stated clearly.

Upon hearing those words, Scotty, the squad captain of the Royal Knight Order, nodded deeply in agreement.

With such strong opposition, Abel did not push the matter further.

With their original goal in mind, Skizblaznil headed straight towards the Western Nations.

Everyone on board Skizblaznil was working hard.

The crew was diligently performing their duties for a safe voyage.

The knights of the Royal Knight Order were honing their skills to protect their master, whose arrival was uncertain.

While each had different responsibilities, many wore lively expressions.

Among them was one knight, however, who wore a troubled expression.

After hesitating for some time, that knight descended into the ship's hold.

A while later, he returned to the deck holding two items in hand and walked purposefully towards his target.

"Lord Rondo, I would like to ask for your guidance!"

"Huh?"

Knight Zack Cooler was requesting a mock battle with Ryo.

In his right hand, he held a wooden sword and pointed it at Ryo.

The sight surprised two people.

Scotty Kobuck, the squad captain of the Royal Knight Order, and Abel, the king.

They somewhat understood why Zack had challenged Ryo to a mock battle.

"Hey, Zack!"

"Ryo, I need to talk about work."

Scotty called out to Zack, while Abel called out to Ryo.

Simply put, they were trying to separate the two.

By the way, Ryo had no idea why Zack had challenged him to a mock battle.

"Don't stop me, Scotty! I need to defeat that person to move forward!"

"Are you saying something foolish? After all, you're up against a duke. Moreover, the first duke! Besides, what would a mage do in a mock battle with a sword? Even if you win... it doesn’t mean Lady Sera will notice you!"

"I know. I know, but..."

A whispered exchange occurred between Scotty and Zack.

Zack had long been in love with the elf Sera.

But he also knew that Sera had a good relationship with Ryo, who stood before him.

He understood that fighting Ryo in a mock battle wouldn't change anything.

He understood this intellectually.

Yet, he felt restless in his heart.

"I want to pour everything into this... if I don't, I feel I can't move forward."

"Zack..."

Scotty frowned.

He understood Zack's feelings.

He also knew about the relationship between Ryo and Sera... though he didn't know the details, he was aware they were very close.

Zack must have been holding back until now.

However, witnessing the 'battle' yesterday must have caused him to lose that restraint.

Yet, both were squad captains of the Royal Knight Order.

They led fifty knights together.

In front of their subordinates...

"Mr. Zack, you’ve had a scary face since the first time we met."

"Is that so…?"

"I may have done something wrong, but I can't remember."

"Maybe something happened without you noticing."

Ryo shook his head, while Abel, who knew the whole story, decided not to reveal anything.

"So, Abel, do you have something related to work?"

"Huh? Ah, well, let me see..."

Abel was quickly thinking of something to separate the two.

Of course, there was no work.

But he had to keep the conversation going...

"You were once the swordsmanship instructor for the Run Knight Order, right?"

"Yes, yes. Everyone was so motivated that I found it rewarding as well."

Ryo nodded in recollection.

"And now, what are you doing?"

"In the mornings, I have mock battles with Sera. At the Elf Autonomous Bureau."

"Ah..."

Abel nodded.

He felt as if he had received that report...

As Ryo and Abel were conversing, Zack had approached.

Behind him was Scotty, wearing a downcast expression.

Seeing this, Abel realized.