Today, I woke up early, my heart pounding with excitement at the thought of training with my father. As I stepped outside, the crisp morning air filled my lungs. There, under the soft glow of dawn, I saw my father. He was meticulously polishing his sword, the blade catching the first light of the day and reflecting it in dazzling arcs.
I approached him quietly, not wanting to disturb his focus. He must have sensed my presence because he turned to me with a warm smile.
"Good morning, my boy," Dad said, his eyes sparkling with pride.
"Good morning, Dad," I replied, returning his smile.
"Are you excited to train with me?" he asked, his smile growing wider.
"Yes, Dad, I'm very excited," I said, feeling the anticipation bubble up inside me.
"Good," he nodded, pleased with my enthusiasm. "But before we begin, there are some important things you need to understand. Let's start with the basics. First, you need to know about this world and why it's so important for us to become strong."
He paused, his expression turning serious. "This world is filled with challenges and dangers. Strength isn't just about physical power; it's about protecting those we love and standing up for what's right. Today, we start that journey together."
In our world, true strength comes from awakening an elemental power at the age of seven, a gift not everyone is fortunate enough to receive. As my seventh birthday approached, I couldn't shake the anxiety gnawing at me. What if I didn't awaken? My father noticed my worried expression and laughed heartily.
"Don't worry, my boy," he said, ruffling my hair. "You will definitely awaken because both your mother and I are Awakeners. There's no chance you won't awaken." His confidence was contagious, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me.
Curious to know more, I asked, "Dad, what are the elements?"
"There are eight core elements from which one might awaken," he began. "These elements grant different abilities that shape who you are and what you can do. They are:
1. **Arcane (Magic)**
2. **Flare (Fire)**
3. **Frost (Ice)**
4. **Shock (Electricity)**
5. **Gale (Wind)**
6. **Quake (Earth)**
7. **Astral (Spirit)**
"But Dad," I interrupted, "that's only seven. You mentioned there are eight."
"Ah, yes," he said, a serious tone creeping into his voice. "There is an eighth element: Shadow (darkness) . It's exceedingly rare. In the entire history of our world, only one person has ever awakened to it. That person became the strongest emperor ever known because of the immense power Shadow bestowed."
I began to daydream, imagining myself wielding the formidable power of Shadow. Dad chuckled at my far-off look.
"Don't get lost in daydreams, my boy," he said, his eyes twinkling. "You will awaken a strong element, I'm sure of it."
His words filled me with hope, and I asked eagerly, "Dad, what is your element?"
"I have the Quake element," he replied, flexing his muscles playfully. "It makes me strong and formidable in combat. Your mother, on the other hand, has Arcane, allowing her to wield magic. I can't do that."
"So, different elements grant different abilities?" I asked, fascinated.
"Exactly," he confirmed. "Each element provides unique strengths and skills. But remember, this world isn't as peaceful as it seems.
There is a great threat that looms over us—demons. You've heard about them in your mother's fairy tales, but they're real. The barrier that keeps them at bay was established by the strongest emperor, but it's weakening. Recently, there have been reports of demons slipping through, though the royal knights have managed to handle them so far."
His words sent a shiver down my spine. "What can we do about it, Dad?"
He placed a firm hand on my shoulder and looked into my eyes with a serious expression. "To protect our world, you must become strong. Train hard, master your element, and be ready to fight when the time comes."
Filled with determination, I looked up at him and declared, "I will, Dad. I promise to become strong and protect our world."
"That's the spirit, my boy," he said, pride shining in his eyes. "With that resolve, you'll go far."
"Now, let's start our training. We'll begin with the basics," his father said, his voice firm yet encouraging.
"Yes, Dad. I want to be strong even before my awakening," aric replied, determination shining in his eyes.
Father smiled, pride evident in his expression. "Yes, my boy. No matter what element you possess when you awaken, you have the potential to be a great swordsman. That's something I am sure of."
Aric nodded, gripping his practice sword tightly. "I'm ready, Dad. Let's begin."
His father positioned himself opposite the boy, demonstrating a basic stance. "First, we'll focus on your stance and footwork. A strong foundation is crucial for any swordsman. Watch carefully and do as I do
Aricmimicked his father's movements, adjusting his posture under his father's watchful eye. "Good. Now, let's move on to basic strikes. Remember, control and precision are key."
As the training continued, Aric's movements became more fluid and confident. His father guided him with patience, correcting mistakes and offering praise for improvements. Together, they worked tirelessly, the bond between father and son growing stronger with each lesson.
"Well done, my boy," his father said after a particularly successful session. "With this dedication, you'll be ready for anything, even before your awakening."
Aric smiled, sweat dripping from his brow but eyes filled with determination. "Thank you, Dad. I won't let you down."
Just like that Aric started practicing sword for 2 years before his awakening