The Tale of A Man Who Believed That His Reincarnation Had Granted Him A Japanese Sword And The Greatest Battle Sense, Only To Have The God Finally Inform Him "Huh, I Didn't Give You Any Combat Sense… That's Scary…" - Episode 16

A few days had passed since the day I was almost attacked by Lyra-san, and it was now the day of the main event of the swordsmanship tournament. I was staying at the Roiji Hotel in the central district of the ancient city of Redinbara, and on the morning of the event day, I was woken up early by Utsuho-san, who told me to change into a certain outfit.

Before I even had a chance to ask, “What kind of clothes are these?” Utsuho-san skillfully and forcefully helped me change into the clothes as if dressing a doll.

By the way, while I was changing, I received various comments from Utsuho-san, like “Hmm,” “I see,” and “Surprisingly big,” and I was looked at with a gaze like a snake eyeing its prey. If it were in my previous life, I could have reported it as sexual harassment and no one would have said anything… I was seen in so many ways… I can’t go out to find a husband anymore…

“Well then, Enri-sama. With this, the dressing for the swordsmanship tournament equipment is complete. As for my impression, I think it suits you very well. Moreover, I was able to see every corner of your body, so I am utterly satisfied.”

“Ugh, ah, thank you very much. Utsuho-san… ugh, sniffle… so embarrassing…”

While covering my face with both hands, I remembered all the things Utsuho-san had seen and blushed. Just then, the door to the room opened. When I looked, Lyra-san, dressed even more stylishly than usual, entered the room.

“It’s one hour before the main event of the swordsmanship tournament, but it seems the outfit I gave to Utsuho is ready as planned.”

“Of course, Miss Lyra. I have already changed to ensure that I won’t be embarrassed standing before the audience as the official swordsman of the Grosvenor family.”

“Hehehe… Utsuho, it seems you’ve had quite a bit of fun. Well, that’s fine. Your usual simple attire is nice, but Enri dressed up properly looks quite good too.”

My usual outfit consists of plain shirts, pants, and shoes that Utsuho-san prepares for me. But the outfit prepared for me today is quite extravagant and stylish.

A black vest with three buttons made of very light and sturdy fabric, a pure white shirt that looks clean and would immediately show any splatter of bl00d, black long pants made of an unknown stretchy material that feels comfortable even when bending and stretching the knees, and braided mesh sandals that have the comfort and lightness of Crocs from a past life, but with a touch of luxury.

It’s put together in a way that’s completely unimaginable for my usual self.

“That outfit? Sophia prepared everything for me. She delivered it herself on horseback late last night.”

Lyra-san, with a joyful expression, is tracing her finger over my outfit, which is different from usual. Overwhelmed by her smile and atmosphere that perfectly match the word “bewitching,” I can’t help but shiver down my spine, even though she’s just tracing her finger.

Eek, the allure is almost violent… Words like “mysterious” or “seductive” must surely be meant for someone like Lyra right now.

“I’ve taken care of all the necessary procedures for the competition. All that’s left is for Enri to enter the tournament and take everyone down. Easy, right?”

“Oh, so you took care of the necessary procedures and everything, Lyra-san? That’s great. I was worried about what I would do if there were any special procedures, customs, or tests.”

“Hehehe, that’s good, Enri. The way you don’t even entertain the thought of losing, it really must be the kingdom’s goddess’s will that we met.”

I fasten the sword belt handmade by Sophia around my waist and securely insert the katana. I check for any snags by moving my whole body vigorously several times, then place my hand on my waist and perform the drawing motion.

Yeah, it doesn’t feel tight or make my movements sluggish at all. It’s such a wonderful outfit that it doesn’t hinder my movements in any way—Sophia, you did an amazing job.

“Hey, Enri”

Lyra calls out to me. When I turn around and look at her, she is dressed in an extravagant outfit and gently extends one hand. Her face lacks the usual seductive charm or any kind of alluring atmosphere, and she looks somewhat shy.

“From now on, you’ll be stepping into the spotlight as the official swordsman of the Grosvenor family. So… well, um, until we get to the venue of the swordsmanship tournament, no, even until we leave the hotel would be fine.”

Our eyes meet. Even though we’re just waiting for words, I somehow feel embarrassed too.

“It was a dream. To have a swordsman or knight of my own to guide me by the hand. So, um… would you take my hand, guide me by the hand, and walk with me?”

It was pure longing. It must have been a pure dream for her.

So, I think that for her, sharing her innermost thoughts with others was very embarrassing but also very important. It was a side of Lyra I had never seen before. At the same time, I was really happy that she showed it to me.

To avoid wrinkles, I firmly stretch my clothes, straighten my back, and approach her. Then, I gently take the hand she offers.

“Let’s go, Lyra.”

The words were short and clear, and the gesture of taking hands was simple. The warmth from Lyra’s hand was palpable. Lyra gazed at the scene, as if savoring it just a little, and then spoke in her usual tone.

“Yeah, I’m going, Enri.”

The words were not long, but with composure, my master, Miss Lyra, wore her usual calm smile. Holding her hand, I walked in front of her and left the room, where Miss Utsuho was waiting. Dressed in her usual white and black classical maid outfit, she greeted us with a polite bow.

“It is time. Lady Lyra, and your accompanying swordsman. We will guide you to the carriage called for you at the front of the hotel.”

Walking down the corridor, descending the stairs, and passing through the hotel entrance hall, I stepped outside. On the road in front of the Roiji Hotel, a lavishly adorned carriage was parked.

The luxurious passenger seats of the carriage, which seem to have come straight out of London during the Industrial Revolution, are like small box seats. The coachman, after taking off his hat and bowing, got down from the driver’s seat and opened the carriage door.

I gave the driver a slight nod, boarded the passenger car first, and took her hand.

“Let’s go, Lyra-san.”

“Yes, let’s go, Enri. Please make sure to fulfill your duty properly.”

Thus, Lyra and I boarded the carriage heading to the swordsmanship tournament venue and left the hotel, seeing off by Utsuho.