The discovery of the basilisk had shifted the focus of my life. Every waking moment was now dedicated to preparing for the possibility of confronting this terrifying beast. Papa had agreed to put me through a rigorous training regimen, and Zed was just as committed to learning. Our days were filled with intense physical and mental exercises, and the results were beginning to show.
* * *
The mornings began before dawn, with Papa's stern voice echoing through our small home. The first light of day found us already in motion, running laps around the village and through the surrounding forest. Papa had us sprinting up steep hills, wading through cold streams, and navigating through dense underbrush.
"Keep your pace steady," Papa's voice called out over the rhythmic sound of our footsteps. "You need to build endurance. A hunter's strength is as much in their heart as it is in their muscles."
The terrain was challenging, and my legs ached with each step. Zed kept pace beside me, his determination unwavering. We competed against each other, pushing ourselves to run faster and climb higher. The pain was intense, but it was accompanied by a growing sense of accomplishment with each mile conquered.
* * *
After our morning runs, we moved to strength training. Papa had set up a series of challenging exercises—lifting heavy logs, carrying sacks of stones, and hauling ropes over obstacles. These tasks were designed to simulate the physical demands of combat and survival in harsh conditions.
"Strength is crucial," Papa said, demonstrating how to lift a large boulder with proper technique. "You need to be able to move obstacles, carry your gear, and help others when necessary."
The weights we lifted were heavy, and I struggled at first, my muscles protesting with every lift. Papa's encouragement kept me going. Zed and I cheered each other on, our voices filled with determination.
"Almost there, Keyn!" Zed shouted as we heaved a particularly heavy log.
"Keep pushing, Zed! We've got this!" I responded, my breath coming in ragged gasps.
* * *
As the sun climbed higher in the sky, we transitioned to agility and reflex training. Papa had set up an elaborate obstacle course, complete with swinging logs, narrow beams, and muddy pits. We had to run, jump, and dodge our way through the course, all while maintaining speed and balance.
"Agility will save you from many dangers," Papa instructed as we navigated the course. "You need to be quick and nimble to avoid attacks and react to sudden threats."
I stumbled a few times but quickly regained my footing. Zed and I raced through the course, challenging each other to beat our previous times. Our movements became more fluid and precise, our coordination improving with each attempt.
"Great job, Keyn!" Zed called out as I cleared a particularly tricky obstacle. "You're getting faster!"
* * *
Afternoons were dedicated to combat training. Papa taught us the art of weaponry—how to wield bows, daggers, and swords with skill and precision. We practiced our aim, our stances, and our striking techniques.
"Accuracy is key," Papa said as he demonstrated how to notch an arrow and draw the bowstring. "You need to be able to hit your target from a distance."
My hands were sore from the constant drawing of the bowstring, and my arms ached from the weight of the dagger. Zed and I sparred with each other, learning to anticipate and counter each other's moves.
"Good block, Zed!" I called out as he parried one of my attacks. "Keep your guard up!"
* * *
In the evenings, we focused on strategy and knowledge. Papa shared stories from his own experiences, detailing the battles he had fought and the lessons he had learned. We studied maps, learned about the terrain, and devised plans for different scenarios.
"Understanding your enemy is just as important as being physically prepared," Papa said, spreading out a map of the region. "You need to know their habits, their weaknesses, and how to exploit them."
Zed and I pored over the notes from the library, discussing different tactics and strategies. We drew up plans for defending the village, setting traps, and creating safe zones for the villagers.
"If the basilisk attacks," Zed said, pointing to a section of the map, "we need to have a plan in place to evacuate the villagers and protect key areas."
"Agreed," I said, nodding in agreement. "We'll set up traps around the perimeter and designate safe zones within the village."
* * *
As the days passed, our training became more intense. We pushed ourselves to the limit, but Papa's encouragement and Zed's support kept us motivated. The bond between us grew stronger as we worked together to achieve our goals.
One day, after an especially grueling training session, Papa gathered us around a campfire. His face was lined with fatigue but also pride.
"You've both come a long way," Papa said, his voice filled with approval. "Your dedication and hard work are evident.
"Thank you, Papa," I said, feeling a swell of gratitude. "We've learned so much from you."
"We won't let you down," Zed added, his eyes reflecting the same determination.