The group was scattered, resting on the floor after their first successful training session with Aura. Finn, still elated from his breakthrough in sensing aura, sat cross-legged with a faint smile, while the others lay back— their exhaustion evident.
Seraphina stood at the center, her gaze shifting ever so slightly as she observed the group. She had already decided on the next step— while aura sensing was crucial, their physical capabilities were far too lacking to support any meaningful growth as knights.
They needed tailored physical training— something structured yet achievable given their malnourished states.
She still wanted them to focus on the aura, because shaping their physical body with just training alone would take much too long for her liking— but that didn't mean she could neglect the training altogether.
She addressed them as they rested, allowing them to listen to her while they lay around.
"You've done well for your first session of aura training. But sensing aura is only the beginning. Your bodies are far from ready to handle the demands of a knight's training, and without physical strength, you'll crumble before you even start."
The group looked up, a mix of curiosity and apprehension on their faces.
"That's why I've created individual training plans for each of you."
Truth be told, she came up with these ideas after observing them before, and while they were meditating she decided to add some final touches to it and go with them. She was no personal training or gym junky, she wasn't the best at this but she could adapt what she knew to them.
"These plans are designed to push you to your limits without breaking you. Each of you has different strengths and weaknesses, and your training will reflect that."
She began with Viera, meeting her sharp gaze.
"Viera, your frame and posture suggest agility, but your movements lack refinement. You'll focus on endurance and core strength. Running laps around the area, climbing, and practicing balance exercises. You'll also begin shadow sparring to refine your reflexes."
Viera nodded, her jaw tightening in determination.
"Got it."
Next, Seraphina turned to Garrick.
"Garrick, your age gives you experience, but it also means your body needs time to adapt. Your training will focus on steady strength-building exercises— push-ups, squats, and light resistance work. I'll also teach you breathing techniques to enhance your stamina."
The older man gave a curt nod, his weathered face showing no sign of complaint.
"Finn."
Seraphina's gaze softened slightly as she addressed the youngest member of the group.
"You have a natural aptitude, but your body is weak and malnourished. Your focus will be on basic muscle training— light bodyweight exercises like jumping jacks and sit-ups, combined with stretching to improve flexibility. You'll also practice breathing exercises to help control your aura flow."
Finn nodded eagerly, his green eyes bright with excitement.
Lyra was next.
"Lyra, your movements are clearly calculated with much thought, but your body lacks coordination— you think too much which causes your body to stagger. You'll focus on balance and flexibility— yoga-style stretches, controlled movements, and light agility drills. You'll also start with basic weapon handling to build confidence."
Lyra's freckled face flushed slightly, but she nodded.
Finally, she turned to Joren, who met her gaze with his usual skeptical expression.
"Joren, your frame, and posture suggest latent strength, but you're too stiff. You'll focus on dynamic exercises— sprinting, jumping drills, and light sparring to loosen up your movements. I'll also have you practice quick-draw techniques to improve reaction speed."
Joren crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful.
"Fair enough."
Seraphina wasn't finished.
She gestured to a small bag she'd brought, pulling out neatly wrapped parcels of bread, dried meat, and fruits.
"Your diets will also change. You can't build strength without proper nourishment. Each of you will receive a specific portion based on your training plan. No hoarding, no skipping meals. If you're serious about this, you'll follow it to the letter."
She handed the parcels out, explaining the contents and their purpose.
"Viera, you'll focus on lean proteins and fruits to maintain agility. Garrick, you'll need more carbs for energy and recovery. Finn, your portions will be smaller but spread throughout the day to avoid overloading your system. Lyra, focus on hydration and balanced meals. Joren, you'll get a mix of proteins and carbs to fuel your training."
The group exchanged glances as the importance of Seraphina's meticulous planning sank in. It was clear she had put significant thought into each detail, tailoring every aspect of their training and nutrition to their individual needs— they were impressed and even grateful for such care.
Something no one had ever given mere slum rats such as themselves before— even the oldest of them felt a tear coming on.
"Any questions?"
She asked, her tone leaving little room for argument.
Finn raised a hesitant hand.
"What if... we mess up?"
"Then you'll learn from it and keep going."
Seraphina replied firmly.
"This isn't about perfection. It's about progress. As long as you're committed, you'll improve."
The group nodded, they resolved to complete the training given to them to the best of their abilities— if not for themselves, then for the person before them who put so much effort into it. Even Joren, who often carried an air of skepticism, seemed more focused than before.
Seraphina allowed herself a small, satisfied smile.
"Good. Rest now. We begin your physical training tomorrow morning at dawn— I won't be here every day but I will check on you once a week."
As the group settled into their makeshift sleeping arrangements, Seraphina made her way out of the shack and towards the upper district once more— making her way back to the inn where she stayed. The night was already falling, but she wasn't done yet for the day.
She actually had something she wanted to talk to Edwin and Samuel about, something that she realized while buying the materials she needed.