The next day, in the majestic Regalia Castle at the heart of the Ednia Kingdom, a space specifically designed for royal knights training echoed with the sound of clashing steel.
Monarch Jonady,dressed in light attire that starkly contrasted with his royal status, was immersed in an intense training session with Lord Gilbert the captain of the royal guard and one of the most renowned swordmasters in the kingdom.
After inspecting various reconstruction projects aimed at revitalizing Ednia, Jonady had decided to dedicate time to his personal improvement.
He understood that his role as monarch extended beyond political and strategic decisions he needed to become a protector, capable of defending his people and his realm.
Though he had shown courage and resilience during the demonic invasion, Jonady was keenly aware of his limitations.
His encounter with the demon Giyard had taught him a harsh truth he could not always rely on his subordinates to save him this realization spurred him to address his weaknesses.
The sound of blades clashing filled the air, each strike showcasing the king focus and his opponent's rigor.
Gilbert donned in full armor, showed no mercy to the young monarch every move, every attack was executed with precision and force pushing Jonady to his physical limits.
The monarch body was drenched in sweat, his muscles strained to exhaustion finally he collapsed to his knees, his breath heavy, his body trembling with fatigue.
Sitting nearby Raelia, dressed in a green blouse with black polka dots a white skirt, and a brown straw hat watched the scene with a blend of pride and concern.
From her chair, she had observed the training with unwavering attention as Jonady crumpled to the ground she let out a soft sigh stood up and approached him her face lit with a gentle smile.
"Don't forget to hydrate," she said handing him a glass of cool water she had prepared.
Jonady accepted the glass gratefully and drank deeply, relishing the brief respite.
Ever attentive, Raelia produced a towel and began gently wiping the sweat from his face her touch tender and reassuring.
"So Gil, do Jonady make some progress with his swordsmanship?" she asked, continuing to care for her childhood friend.
Gilbert, who had just sheathed his ornate sword, approached them with a smirk.
"Yes, His Majesty is progressing at a remarkable pace" he replied sincerely.
In truth, Gilbert was impressed by the king's efforts.
Although he held nothing back during their bouts, he couldn't deny that Jonady progress was astonishingly swift. Gilbert who had begun training with the sword at the age of eight as a young noble, found himself wondering how someone who claimed to have no prior experience could learn so quickly.
A persistent thought crossed Gilbert's mind: at this rate the king might one day surpass him.
The idea made him smile inwardly, though he refrained from voicing it he nodded as if confirming his own reflections, before adding with a touch of admiration:
"But thinking about it, with the level of seriousness he applies to everything we shouldn't be surprised."
Raelia, pleased with this response, regarded her friend with approval. She had always believed in Jonady's potential, and hearing Gilbert confirm his progress was reassuring.
Meanwhile, Jonady slowly regaining his breath addressed his mentor with a weary smile.
"You're pushing me to my limits, Gil i thought you'd go easy on me since i'm still a beginner."
Gilbert, amused, raised an eyebrow before replying with a slightly teasing tone:
"Your Majesty, going easy on you won't make you competent you've already demonstrated you have an iron will. It would be an insult not to push you to your limits."
Jonady let out a faint but sincere laugh, appreciating the blunt honesty of his captain.
"Well in my world, I never had the chance to wield a sword everything i do here i do to protect Ednia and all who depend on me. I don't want to be a king who only relies on others."
Raelia, moved by his words placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"You're already doing far more than anyone could ask of you, Jonady. You've proven your worth time and again. What you're doing today only strengthens what we already know: you are a king worthy of the crown."
Gilbert, equally moved, nodded in agreement.
"You have potential Your Majesty, and I'm convinced that if you continue on this path, you will one day surpass many swordmasters. Your determination is your greatest strength."
With Raelia's help, Jonady rose to his feet, his legs still trembling from the effort.
"Thank you, both of you. Your words give me the strength to keep going," he said with a heartfelt smile.
Raelia, ever watchful, helped steady him before teasing lightly:
"But for now, you need to rest. A tired king can't rule effectively, let alone fight."
A soft laugh rippled among them, easing the tension of the training session.
Gilbert, resuming his serious demeanor, addressed the king one last time before leaving the training grounds:
"Your Majesty, tomorrow morning, I propose we work on parries and counters. It will be another crucial step in your training. I'm certain you're ready for the challenge."
Jonady nodded, determination shining in his eyes.
"I'll be ready," he replied, pride evident in his voice.
As they left the training grounds together, i felt a warmth growing within him. The sincere encouragement of my companions, combined with my own progress imbued my with newfound confidence. I knew the road ahead would still be long but i was ready to walk it, step by step.
Through my efforts and unwavering determination, aspired to become not only a capable ruler but also a warrior worthy of defending his kingdom against any threat.
And as i made his way to my quarters to rest, i couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride—for Ednia for his people and for himself.