Kenley had made a swift exit, not just out of instinct, but because he had caught sight of Smith storming toward him with an unmistakable look of fury.

  The Training Grounds?

  These were the exclusive training grounds of the Church's Holy Knights. Unlike players, ordinary people in the real world had to go through four stages to become knights: first as a page, then a squire, followed by an apprentice knight, and only then could they attain full knighthood.

  The Church's system wasn't too different from that of the nobility, except it omitted the page stage entirely.

  Most of the trainees here were squires and apprentice knights. Fully-fledged knights were typically sent on missions or other assignments outside.

  A quick glance around the training grounds revealed only squires—there wasn't a single apprentice knight present. It was likely due to the Holy Blessing Day, which had left the city understaffed, forcing even the apprentice knights to be dispatched for security duties.

  Kenley scanned the group—these squires were all around levels 10 to 15, not particularly strong. What was the Flower Sword Saint doing in a place like this? Observing the swordplay of these trainees?

  That seemed unlikely. With her level of skill, coming here would feel a bit like bullying novices.

  "Look! It's Lord Roland!" A squire cried out in surprise.

  "Ah! Lord Roland, what brings you here?"

  "Lord Roland, may the Holy Mother bless you!"

  The crowd of squires quickly turned toward Roland, bowing in greeting.

  Kenley took this opportunity to slip quietly to the side of the training grounds, watching in silence without drawing attention to himself.

  For one, he hadn't been invited. Moreover, he wasn't yet familiar with the current Sword Saint, Roland. If he rashly stepped forward and spoke, it would only provoke suspicion or discontent. It was better to observe from the shadows first.

  The Flower Sword Saint was the only female among the Seven Sword Saints—and also the youngest. Kenley recalled that, during the events of the fourth expansion, she had just attained the rank of Sword Saint.

  At present, she was only level 65, not yet at her peak. In the sixth expansion, however, she had once slain three demon lords single-handedly—her most legendary battle.

  The squires looked up at their newly ascended Sword Saint with adoration, eagerly stepping forward to greet her.

  Kenley took the opportunity to study her as well. She had long, pink hair, gemstone-like eyes, and wore a silver light armor over a white battle dress. Around her neck hung a three-gem pendant, and her left wrist bore a black armguard. Her appearance exuded both competence and elegance.

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  Her posture was poised, her features striking—even among women, her beauty was exceptional. She maintained a faint, almost imperceptible smile, and her gentle gaze carried no sharpness. Yet, the composure in her demeanor made her overwhelming strength evident to everyone present.

  At her waist hung an ornately patterned, well-maintained sword in a pure white scabbard. Though it remained sheathed, anyone with a shred of knowledge could tell it was no ordinary weapon.

  Flower Whisper—Aether.

  That was the name of her sword, the very weapon that had forged her legend. A growing weapon that had accompanied Roland through countless battles, it had eventually evolved to legendary quality—an unparalleled masterpiece.

  At this moment, it was likely at epic (purple) grade.

  "You've all worked hard in training today." Roland's voice was soft yet distinctive—Kenley immediately recognized it, conjuring her image in his mind.

  "Rogue, your swordsmanship has improved significantly, but there are still a few moves that need refinement," she said.

  "Yes, Lord Roland! To receive your guidance is an honor beyond words!" The leading squire—level 15—was visibly overwhelmed with excitement at being singled out by the Sword Saint.

  As expected, she was just as kind and patient as in the game. Kenley still remembered the time he had sought her out as a mentor—back then, several players had been dueling over the opportunity to learn from her.

  Haha, how long ago was that?

  The memory made him chuckle involuntarily.

  "Who dares behave so rudely, laughing out loud here?!"

  One of the squires immediately glared at him, seeming offended by his laughter.

  Suddenly, all eyes were on Kenley.

  He sighed inwardly—he had been too absorbed in his thoughts and had let his voice slip.

  Straightening up, he offered a polite bow."Apologies. I was merely reminded of something personal, and it made me laugh. I meant no disrespect. Please forgive me."

  "Nonsense! You were clearly mocking Rogue! You carry a sword—are you a warrior? If so, let's have a duel!"

  Kenley broke into a cold sweat. These squires are really hotheaded. I laughed once, and now they want to challenge me?

  Rogue, the squire in question, narrowed his eyes."I don't know who you are, but since you carry a sword, I assume you have some skill with it?"

  "Yeah! You laughed so boldly—does that mean your swordsmanship is that great? Prove it in a duel!"

  "Don't be a coward! If you dare to mock someone but lack the courage to face them, did your mother never teach you proper manners?"

  The squires quickly joined in, jeering as though Kenley were some uncultured rogue.

  Kenley's mouth twitched. Are they using the Sword Saint's presence as an excuse to show off? Hoping to impress her with their sword skills?

  "Lord Sword Saint, please bear witness! He was the one who mocked us first! We request a duel to settle this!" one of the squires declared.

  Roland furrowed her brows. She had originally come here at Bishop's request, intending to mentor a few of the trainees. Having spent some time studying at the Church, she had wanted to revisit old memories.

  But she was a well-mannered woman. Rather than giving an immediate answer, she first took a closer look at the young man in question.

  A standard-issue imperial military sword at his waist. His attire resembled that of a southern merchant. No noble crest—so he wasn't an aristocrat. Wait… A Devout's Emblem?!

  After some thought, Roland finally spoke."Young man, what is your name?"

  "Kenley."

  "A fine name. While I do not know the reason for your laughter, improper behavior can indeed invite criticism. Kenley, do you accept this duel? Rest assured, you are under no obligation. With me here, no one will resort to violence if you decline."

  Her voice was gentle and soothing, though her words felt like she was subtly offering him a way out.

  Roland really hasn't changed…

  "You may refuse," Rogue sneered,"but by tomorrow, the entire capital will know the name‘Kenley the Coward.'"