The spar between Alan and Cedric unfolded on the training ground, with Andrew overseeing the training session. The air was charged with anticipation, and even Themus, who was usually focused on his work, observed the exchange with interest.
Cedric, determined to showcase his progress, immediately initiated his Northstar footwork, creating a swirling constellation pattern beneath his feet. The mana, compressed through constant practice, formed a beautiful and intricate spiral, ready to propel him into action. Alan, already at Silver Rank 1, exuded confidence, his aura signaling the strength that came with his recent advancement.
Truly, the protagonist of the story—being a 7-year-old at Silver Rank 1—was rare, and he had finally reached the lowest level where one could somehow travel the continent, but it was not recommended.
As Andrew signaled the start, the brothers engaged in a dance of swords, each movement deliberate and calculated. Cedric, with his wooden sword, faced Alan, who wielded also wielded a sword with a wooden blade enhanced by compressed mana. The clash of wood and steel echoed through the training ground.
Cedric, using the footwork to gain speed, closed the distance between them. The spiral beneath his feet left faint traces in the air, showcasing the proficiency he had gained. However, the dual concentration on footwork and mana infusion slowed down the process, giving Alan an opening to counter.
Alan, with his enhanced strength and form his new aspect the "Guillotine" which could increase the power of his steike by 20%, swung his sword with increased power. The blade sliced through the air, leaving a trail of energy. Cedric, sensing the impending strike, deftly evaded using the Northstar footwork, leaving afterimages in his wake.
The spar continued with a series of exchanges – slashes, feints, and thrusts. Alan, with his superior rank and experience, exploited his advantage, launching powerful attacks. Cedric, adapting quickly, used the footwork to evade and counter. The wooden sword in his hands became an extension of his will, a tool to manifest the essence of the Northstar Swordmanship.
The choreography of the battle unfolded, a dance of blades that showcased the evolving skills of the young Martial Saint. Cedric, despite the gap in rank, demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The constant training with the dummy and practical sparring sessions were honing his combat instincts and refining the intricate maneuvers of the Northstar footwork.
As the spar reached its climax, Alan, recognizing Cedric's growth, gradually increased the intensity. Cedric, however, rose to the challenge. In a final exchange, Cedric successfully executed a feint, creating an opening for a swift thrust. The wooden sword, infused with mana, touched Alan's shoulder, signifying a successful strike.
The training session concluded with both brothers catching their breaths. Andrew, observing the progress, nodded in approval. The practical application of the Northstar Swordmanship in a dynamic fight marked a crucial step in Cedric's journey. The training with the dummy would further refine his techniques, paving the way for greater mastery. The training ground, witness to the clash of blades and the dance of mana, stood as a testament to the legacy of the Northstar family.
As Cedric continued his training with the dummy, each swing of his wooden sword became more deliberate. The rhythmic dance of the Northstar footwork intertwined with his attempts to refine the mana coating on his blade. The dummy, made of thousand years tempered Ice steel, stood resilient, absorbing and challenging every strike.
In the midst of this training, Cedric's mind was consumed by reflections on the recent spar with Alan. The distinct sensation of their mana coatings clashing lingered, prompting him to delve deeper into the intricacies of his brother's technique. He mulled over the difference he had felt – Alan's mana coating remained formidable, even when their strengths were equalized.
Cedric's thoughts coalesced into a realization: it wasn't just about compressing mana; it was about the quality of the mana itself. While Cedric had been concentrating on taking the existing mana and compacting it, Alan employed a more sophisticated approach. Alan's technique involved purifying the mana before compressing it onto the sword's edge. This meticulous process resulted in a coating that was not only denser but also more resilient.
As Cedric continued to refine his Northstar swordmanship, the revelation sparked a newfound understanding of the subtleties within mana manipulation. He adjusted his approach, experimenting with refining the mana before compression. The wooden sword cut through the air with a swifter grace as Cedric sought to replicate the enhanced density he had observed in Alan's technique.
The training ground, wrapped in the aura of focused determination, became a canvas for Cedric's exploration of swordsmanship principles. Each attempt to infuse the refined mana brought a deeper connection to the intricate dance between technique and elemental manipulation.
The dummy, a stoic witness to this progression, stood resilient against Cedric's evolving strikes. Every clash echoed with the pursuit of mastery, a journey marked by insights, revelations, and the tireless commitment to unlock the secrets of the Northstar swordmanship.