The Infinite Story Volume 1

20. Maybe there's another way

"I need to head to the medieval district," Reginald declared.

"Awh, why?" Jenn's disappointment was palpable.

"Things mustn't have gone well for the other knights. I should offer a helping hand."

"I see..."

"Yes, and by the way, try not to get involved in this fight unless absolutely necessary. I know your friends are on the opposing side, but I assure you, as long as I'm still a prime knight, no harm will come to them."

"So, you knew."

"Yes, I did catch on, Miss Goddess," Reginald replied.

Jenn smiled, activating her reincarnation ability and walking toward him. "I see. Then I'll make sure my friends are successful in what they're doing!"

Earlier that day...

"So what exactly do you do around here?" she asked.

"I observe and protect," he replied, his voice carrying the weight of years of duty. "I have sworn to be a knight until I die."

"But aren't you a bit old to still fight?" she inquired, her curiosity tinged with concern.

"Even though I am an old man, I still fight for this city and the people. They are the things I hold most dear in my life," he declared, his eyes reflecting a lifetime of dedication. "The fantasy district needs me."

"So you are not going to retire," she observed.

"To be honest, I have thought of retiring many times," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of weariness. "But I wouldn't want the burden of my job to fall to someone else. It is very dangerous and requires you to be on duty 24/7. As much as I love this job, it is not ideal for anyone. So, I'll fight until I can't anymore, and then I'll leave it to someone worthy—someone who wants it."

"What about you? Why did you choose to come to the capital?" asked Reginald.

"Well, there are these two individuals that kinda escaped me and my friends. Now, we are trying to find them, you know, but they aren't anywhere near here. Although, I'm pretty sure I maybe just think I sense one of them over there," Jenn explained, pointing her finger in the direction of the modern district.

Jenn pondered to herself, "Maybe I imagined it, but I think Jasha is here. Is he?"

"Are they friend or foe?" Reginald inquired.

"Well, to be honest, they aren't friends, really! Well, at least not ours, and if they aren't on our side, I don't think they will be on yours," Jenn explained.

"Ah, I see. Then I can help in finding these two!" Reginald offered.

"It's okay, you don't need to bother yourself with such tasks for my sake. We just met, and I don't think it's polite of me to accept such a favor," Jenn replied.

"I understand, but I do have another question," Reginald continued.

"Yeah?" Jenn prompted.

"Your magic, who exactly are you?"

As the present unfolded, Jenn clenched her fist, transforming it into a demonic form, and aimed a punch at Reginald. However, Reginald swiftly raised his shield, effortlessly blocking the attack without even budging an inch. Instead, Jenn was pushed backward.

"He's built like a tank!" Jenn thought to herself, impressed by Reginald's resilience.

Jenn went in for another punch, but Reginald deftly drew his sword and swung it at Jenn, who leaped backward, narrowly avoiding the blade. With a swift motion, Jenn unfurled her demonic wings and took flight, diving down with impressive speed. She delivered a powerful punch aimed at Reginald, but he raised his shield once more, absorbing the blow. Despite the force behind Jenn's attack, Reginald stood firm, his feet planted firmly on the ground, maintaining his balance without faltering.

Jenn delivered more strong punches, but they were blocked by Reginald's shield. Determined to find an opening, she grabbed his shield and forcefully moved it out of the way, aiming another punch. However, Reginald swiftly switched to his sword, intercepting Jenn's attack with precise timing. Despite her relentless assault, Reginald's defense remained impenetrable, showcasing his remarkable skill and resilience in battle.

Jenn grabbed Reginald by the shield and hurled him against a nearby house, shattering it upon impact. Despite the force of the blow, Reginald remained steadfast, standing tall amidst the wreckage.

"No wonder you're still part of these knights!" Jenn exclaimed with a smile as she darted toward him at incredible speed, launching a barrage of punches. However, each strike was met with the unwavering defense of Reginald's shield, showcasing his formidable skill and resilience in combat. "I'll break both you and your shield by the end of our battle!"

As they resumed their conversation, Reginald listened intently to Jenn's revelation.

"Oh, me? Well, I'm a goddess! Specifically, the goddess of reincarnation!" Jenn announced proudly.

Reginald's expression remained composed, but there was a glint of intrigue in his eyes. "Ah, I see. I wouldn't just believe such a bold claim from anyone, but you indeed are special, Miss Jenn," he replied with a smile, acknowledging the uniqueness of her identity.

Jenn saw his smile and it also made her smile.

In the midst of their intense battle, Reginald's expression betrayed a sense of sadness. He didn't want to fight Jenn, but circumstances had left him no choice. Despite the clash of their powers, Reginald made a conscious decision to focus solely on defense, only blocking Jenn's attacks rather than retaliate with equal force. He had no desire to harm her, even though he possessed the strength to do so.

Even at his full strength, Reginald couldn't shake the uncertainty of the outcome. He knew that defeating Jenn would require more than just physical prowess. He had a flicker of hope that they could find a solution without resorting to violence.