Cedric's day began with the usual routine – waking up, taking a refreshing bath, dressing for the day, and fueling up with a hearty breakfast. As part of his regular training, he headed to the training ground, where he engaged in weightlifting and completed laps around the designated area. During one of these laps, he struck up a conversation with his older brother, Alan.
Cedric, eager to know more about Alan's plans, inquired, "Brother, are you ready to leave the household in a few months to go to the academy?" Alan's birthday was swiftly approaching, just two months after Cedric's on the 1st of August. The Caliope Academy's admission, as Cedric recalled, took place on the 1st of January, and Alan would soon be eligible to join.
Alan, displaying a confident demeanor, responded, "Yes, Mom and Dad have already discussed it with me. I've been preparing for this since I turned five, and I believe I'm strong enough to hold my own, at least among the first-year students." Cedric acknowledged the truth in Alan's words; he knew from the novel that Alan's strength surpassed even most second-year students.
The prospect of Alan joining the academy marked a significant milestone for both brothers. While Cedric continued his training at the Northstar estate, Alan would embark on a new chapter of his journey at Caliope Academy. The academy was renowned for cultivating skilled cultivators and warriors, and Alan's strength positioned him favorably for success.
As the conversation unfolded during their laps, Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of pride for his brother's accomplishments and readiness to face the challenges beyond the estate. The dynamics of their family were about to shift, and the impending separation added a layer of anticipation and nostalgia to their discussions.
With Alan's departure, Cedric realized that he would soon be the sole heir training within the confines of the Northstar estate. While the prospect brought its own set of responsibilities, Cedric was determined to continue honing his Northstar techniques and unlocking the potential within his unique trait.
As the brothers continued their training and conversation, the sun cast long shadows across the training ground, marking the passage of time and the inevitable changes that awaited the Northstar family in the coming months.
Following their jogging session, Cedric and Alan seamlessly transitioned into their routine sparring session. The training ground became a stage for their martial dance, a display of skill and strategy. Their mana-coated swords clashed, creating a harmonious resonance that echoed in the air.
During the sparring session, Cedric focused on refining his techniques, particularly the Northstar footwork. The clash of their mana-coated swords filled the air as both brothers maneuvered with precision. Cedric, now accustomed to the purified mana flowing within him, felt a heightened sense of control and agility.
The spar was not just a physical exchange but a mental one as well. Alan, being the more experienced fighter, employed feints to challenge Cedric's reactions. A well-timed body feint by Alan disrupted Cedric's anticipation, but the younger brother quickly adapted, showcasing the progress in his combat awareness.
As the rhythm of their clash continued, Cedric seized an opportunity for a swift three-stab sequence, demonstrating improved coordination and speed. The Northstar footwork played a crucial role as Cedric evaded Alan's counterattacks and positioned himself strategically for the stabs.
The sparring session encapsulated the essence of their training – a fusion of technique, agility, and the controlled release of mana. The brothers engaged in a dynamic exchange, each movement a testament to their growth and dedication to mastering the Northstar martial arts.
After the intense sparring, Cedric took a moment to rest, allowing the adrenaline to subside. The significance of these training sessions went beyond physical prowess; they were a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of the Northstar legacy.
With a renewed focus, Cedric proceeded to the next phase of his training – practicing with the dummy. The millennia-tempered ice steel dummy stood as a formidable opponent, and Cedric's strikes left gashes up to 3 cm deep. The improvement in his striking power showcased the effectiveness of his training regimen and the impact of the recent mana purity ritual.
For the next 30 minutes, Cedric continued his assault on the dummy, each strike a testament to his determination and the cumulative effects of his consistent efforts. The routine, though rigorous, became a ritual of progression, a step closer to unlocking the full potential of his Northstar abilities.
As the training session concluded, Cedric felt a sense of accomplishment. The spar with Alan and the subsequent dummy practice highlighted not only his current proficiency but also the areas for further refinement. With the sun beginning its descent, casting warm hues across the training ground, Cedric looked forward to the continuous evolution of his skills and the challenges that lay ahead in his martial journey.
Cedric and Eustace then made their way towards the alchemy building.