Chapter 3: The Strongest Sword in the World, Kazuki Hoshino

Chapter 3: The Strongest Sword in the World, Kazuki Hoshino

Kazuki had come to accept the fact that he was talented with swords. However, there was a problem: his skills wouldn't apply to other weapons. He had trained with his father's sword, but his skill with it was limited.

Even worse, Kazuki wasn't confident that he would be able to use a sword against a superior opponent. He knew that he was capable of winning with his current level of ability. But, even then, he feared that he might not be able to withstand an attack from someone stronger than himself.

"I feel like I need more training before I'm ready to face any serious opponents."

He was afraid of losing control of himself during battle. He was sure that he would panic and lose his cool. The thought of dying because he lost his composure filled him with fear.

"I guess I should start practicing with other weapons soon."

As he contemplated his future plans, Kazuki saw a familiar girl walking toward him.

"H-hey, Kazuki! Long time no see!"

"Nanaka."

"I didn't expect to run into you here."

"I'm on vacation."

"Did you decide to travel somewhere?" Nanaka asked.

"Yeah, I wanted to get away from everything for a bit."

"Ahaha, you're such a dork."

"Gomen nasai."

"You don't have to apologize to me," she said. "Anyway, are you going to the castle?"

"Yeah. I'm headed there right now."

"Ah, I wish I could go with you. I want to see you again. Oh, and hey, do you wanna join my group?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"We're doing a field trip! We're heading to the castle, and we're staying there overnight!"

"Overnight...? Um, actually, I don't think I can. I'm kind of busy right now. Sorry."

"Aww, c'mon Kazuki! It'll be fun! I promise!"

"Well, I suppose I could manage a couple of days."

"Yay! Let's go shopping!"

The two girls started to chat as they walked. Kazuki watched them with a smile.

"I wonder where we should go first," Nanaka said.

"Whatever you want."

"I'm thinking about a cute little boutique, or maybe some coffee shops..."

"Sure."

"Maybe we should look at some souvenirs?"

"Yeah, whatever you want," Kazuki repeated. He really didn't mind where they went. He couldn't help but enjoy watching the two of them chatting.

"Do you guys want to split up?"

"No, it's fine."

The two of them continued talking as they walked.

***

After spending the night at the inn, Kazuki woke up early in the morning. He packed his things and left to find the castle.

"Where are you going?"

"To the castle."

"Why?"

Kazuki opened his mouth wide. "Because I'm going to the castle!"

***

"What do you want to do, Kazuki?"

"I want to see the king."

"Why?"

Kazuki looked up at the towering building. He couldn't help but feel intimidated by its size. "I want to talk to him."

"About what?"

"I don't know."

"Is there something bothering you?"

"I don't want to talk about it here."

"Can I meet him? I heard he's really nice."

"How do you know that?"

"Oh, I read it in a book. Isn't that weird? A book was telling me about the king's personality."