True God In Another World (Tensura x Tbate)

Chapter 99 - Two Years Later

Rimuru POV

Two years had indeed felt like an eternity.

The war with Alacrya had intensified beyond initial predictions, their attacks growing more aggressive and frequent. Their primary assault method relied on fortified towers, and thankfully, they hadn't yet developed a means to transport large armies across the ocean. This limitation had been our saving grace, allowing us to maintain defensive positions along key strategic points.

Jackson's entry into the war, along with his party, had provided a crucial morale boost to our forces. Their presence significantly reduced casualties as they moved throughout the continent, coordinating defenses and leading counter-operations. Their expertise in dungeon warfare proved invaluable in preventing Alacryan forces from establishing permanent footholds in contested areas.

After extensive negotiations, the academy Jackson had established merged with Xyrus Academy, becoming a subsidiary institution. Uncle Vincent's generous funding enabled substantial improvements and expansions to both facilities. The integration created a more comprehensive educational system, better suited to preparing students for the realities they now faced.

We recruited several retired adventurers as instructors, their practical experience proving invaluable in adapting our curriculum. As potential future combatants in this ongoing conflict, students required thorough preparation. The educational framework underwent significant modifications, emphasizing knowledge of beasts, dungeon navigation, warfare mechanics, and strategic thinking. Special attention was given to understanding Alacryan mage capabilities and developing effective countermeasures.

The results of this new curriculum manifested clearly in student progress. Where once the academy grounds echoed with casual conversation and theoretical discussions, now they resonated with the sounds of controlled combat practice and tactical exercises. Even first-year students mastered basic defensive spells and emergency protocols as standard requirements.

From my office window, I observed a group of third-years executing combat drills under Claire's watchful supervision. Her distinctive red hair caught the morning light as she demonstrated an advanced shielding technique. The students followed her movements with intense concentration - their expressions so different from the carefree looks they'd worn just two years prior.

"They're improving quickly," Lily commented, approaching to stand beside me. "Claire's developed into an exceptional instructor."

"She has," I agreed, unable to keep the pride from my voice. "Though sometimes I find myself missing the days when their biggest worry was passing theory examinations."

Lily's hand found mine, offering a gentle squeeze of understanding. "We all do. But they need this preparation now."

I glanced at my childhood friend, marveling at her transformation. The shy girl who once hid behind her mother had grown into a confident young woman, capable of leading students and handling complex administrative duties. Her assistance during council meetings had proven invaluable, despite her initial nervousness in such formal settings.

Our eyes met, and Lily suddenly seemed to realize she was still holding my hand. She quickly released it, a blush coloring her cheeks.

"S-sorry," she stammered, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear - a gesture so familiar from our childhood that it brought an involuntary smile to my face.

"Don't worry about it," I assured her, returning my attention to the training session below. Claire had now paired students for practical dueling exercises. "Sometimes I question whether we're taking the right approach - essentially transforming an academic institution into a military training facility."