The next day, a Thursday morning, Marcellus awoke with a sense of purpose, the advice of Aulus still fresh in his mind. The morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of the sea mixed with the awakening city.
As the first rays of sunlight filtered through his aperture, Marcellus prepared for the day ahead. He reflected on the importance of focusing on his current abilities as a Hollowed, determined to explore and master them to their fullest potential. The mysteries of the diary, the mark on his palm on the back of his left palm, and the intricate world of the Aspirant loomed large in his thoughts, but he felt more equipped to navigate these complexities.
After a simple grub breakfast, Marcellus set out, his stride confident.
The city of Mythralis was waking up around him, the streets beginning to bustle with the day's activities. Merchants were opening their stalls, the aroma of fresh bread wafting through the air, mingling with the sounds of early morning chatter.
The morning was unusually foggy, a thick mist enveloping the streets of Mythralis, muffling sounds and casting a ghostly pall over the city. Marcellus, adjusting his plans slightly, decided first to procure bandages—a necessary supply for Finn. Marcellus decided to start his breathing training.
He wrapped his mantle tighter around himself against the damp chill of the fog and set off towards the market. The streets, usually bustling with activity, were quieter, the fog lending an eerie calmness to the city. The muffled sounds of distant carts and the occasional screams of a whores cut through the mist, creating an atmosphere.
Marcellus navigated the familiar streets with ease, despite the reduced visibility, he was a Hollowed after all. His footsteps echoed on the stones, the sound oddly comforting in the enveloping fog. As he walked, he remained vigilant, his senses honed as a Hollowed alert to any unseen dangers that might lurk in the obscured alleyways.
Upon reaching the market, he found it less crowded than usual, perhaps the fog having deterred some of the regular patrons. He made his way to a stall known for its medical supplies. The vendor, a middle-aged woman with a keen eye for her customers' needs, greeted him with a nod.
Noticing he did not seem to have any wounds from his "Bandages or ointments?" she asked, already reaching for a roll of clean, sturdy cloth.
"Bandages yes, thank you," Marcellus replied, appreciating the efficiency of the transaction.
As the vendor prepared his purchase, Marcellus's gaze wandered over the other items on display—a variety of herbs, salves, and potions, each with its own purpose and healing properties. He made a mental note of the items, considering their potential usefulness for his journey.
This purchase cost Marcellus a total of twelve copper coins, with each bandage costing four copper coins. He purchased three – one for himself, as it was always wise to be prepared, one for Finn, and one as a backup, given the unpredictable nature of their lives.
After paying for the bandages, he thanked the vendor, who gave him a casual nod, accustomed as she was to the needs of those who lived on the edge of danger.
As Marcellus stepped back into the fog-laden streets, he noticed that Mythralis was slowly coming to life. The fog, though still thick, couldn't dampen the spirit of the city as it awoke. There were more people outside now, their silhouettes emerging from the mist as they went about their morning routines. Street vendors called out their wares with renewed vigour, and the sound of carts and footsteps added to the growing chorus of the waking city.
Marcellus blended into the flow of the crowd, his mind already moving to the next part of his day, with his immediate errand complete, Marcellus, having completed his errand, quickly made his way back to the governor's house, specifically to the training yard.
Upon reaching the governor's house, Marcellus passed through the gates, greeted by the sight of the expansive training yard. It was a place marked by discipline and rigour, an area dedicated to the development of combat skills and physical prowess. The yard was equipped with various training implements - wooden dummies, weapon racks, and open spaces for sparring and exercise.
Marcellus's presence in the yard had become more frequent, given his commitment to his training Finn. He spotted a few familiar faces - fellow trainees and guards - engaged in their morning routines. Some were sparring, their movements a dance of controlled aggression, while others were focused on individual exercises, building their strength and endurance.
Marcellus spotted Finn practising his swings in another part of the yard. Finn was focused and diligent, each swing of his wooden weapon executed with concentration and effort. It was clear that he was putting in a serious effort to improve his skills.
Approaching Finn, Marcellus observed his disciples's form and technique. Finn's movements were becoming more fluid, a sign of growing proficiency. As he neared, Finn noticed Marcellus and paused, offering a nod of acknowledgement.
"Your form is improving," Marcellus commented as he walked up to Finn, an encouraging smirk on his face.
Finn, wiping sweat from his brow, replied with a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction, "Trying my best. Every day brings a new challenge."
Marcellus patted Finn's shoulder. "Keep at it. You're making noticeable progress."
They took a brief moment to catch their breath, standing side by side, looking over the training yard.
"So, what's on the agenda for you today? Coming by the Siren tonight" Finn asked, curious about Marcellus's plans.
Marcellus shared a brief overview — "Uh We are going to start your Tenma training today,"
Finn's eyes lit up with a mix of excitement and nervousness at Marcellus's announcement. "Really? We're starting with the Tenma training today. That's... that's great!"
Marcellus nodded, observing Finn's reaction. "Yes, it's time we stepped up your training. But first, tell me, have you been practising the breathing techniques I showed you? They're fundamental to mastering the Tenma training."
Finn straightened up, a serious expression crossing his face. "Yes, I've been practising them every day. It's been challenging, but I think I'm getting the hang of it. The rhythm, the focus – I can feel it's starting to make a difference."
Marcellus listened, pleased with Finn's commitment. "Good. Now that your physical conditioning is about so, the breathing techniques are about harmonizing your mind and body, preparing you for the more advanced aspects of the training. Tenma training is demanding, both mentally and physically. It requires discipline, concentration, and a deep connection with your inner strength."
Finn nodded, absorbing Marcellus's words. "I understand. I know it won't be easy, but I'm committed."
Marcellus smiled, clapping Finn on the shoulder. "That's the spirit. Let's get started, then. Remember, focus on your breathing, maintain your form, and let your movements flow naturally."
Marcellus's encouraging smile momentarily froze as he heard Edwin's voice cutting through the air, calling out, "Blackeye!"
Turning towards the sound, Marcellus saw Edwin approaching, his demeanour suggesting urgency, important news or something. He turned back to Finn, handing him one of the rolls of bandages. "Here, take this. We'll use it for your training," he began, but before he could explain further, the reality of Edwin's interruption set in.
He gave Finn a resigned look. "Looks like we'll have to postpone your training to tomorrow. Take the day off, go through those breathing techniques again, and we'll pick up from here."
Finn a little less excited, understanding the situation, nodded. "Sure, Marcellus. I'll keep practising. See you tomorrow then."