As dawn broke over the forest, Elaro found herself wide awake, her mind was racing with the events of the previous day. She had faced monsters, and learned her extraordinary powers, and discovered that her new life in Astia was full with unimaginable challenges. Yet, despite the danger, she felt an undeniable excitement.
Eldin's voice broke her thoughts as he comes. "Good morning, Elaro. I hope you're ready for your first day of training." Elaro nodded, feeling nervous. "I think so. But I still don't understand all of this power I have how can I control it."
"Control will come with practice and understanding," Eldin replied calmly. "For now, we'll start. Your Evolutionary Path is unique, and the SSS-Class is a rank that few people know about it. But your journey to unlocking it will require discipline, focus, and patience."
Eldin takes her to an open space. "Let's begin with something simple. Take out the weapon you created yesterday."
Elaro closed her eyes, focusing on the light warmth in her chest where her power seemed to reside. She concentrated, letting the energy flow to her hands, shaping it into the slender red blade she had summoned before. The blade formed in her grip and it was glowing more in the morning light.
Eldin nodded in approval. "Good. Now, I want you to focus on maintaining its form while moving."
Elaro began to move, the simple combat stances Eldin had shown her. But as she swung, she struggled to keep the blade stable, it was glowing, the light fading in and out as her concentration wavered.
"Relax," Eldin instructed. "Don't force the power, let it flow naturally."
With a deep breath, Elaro adjusted her grip, feeling the energy settle. She moved more carefully, her steps becoming more assured. The blade held its form, and Elaro feels a little confidence.
As Elaro's training continued, Karo arrived, leaning casually against a tree as he observed her progress. His smirk held a hint of challenge and admiration. "Not bad for a beginner."
Elaro shot him a look, her grip tightens on her blade. "Thanks, I guess."
Karo stepped forward, his own weapon was a curved, silver-edged sword, appearing in his hand with practiced ease. "How about a little sparring, then? Let's see if you can handle someone who's been doing for this a bit longer."
Eldin observed the interaction. "This could be a good lesson, Elaro. Karo's experience will push you to move faster." Elaro hesitated, but she could feel her heart fasten at the challenge. "Fine. Let's see what you've got."
Karo grinned, giving her a slight bow. "Ladies first."
Taking a steady breath, Elaro charged, swinging her blade towards him. Karo blocked it very easily, the sound of clashing their energy was filling the air. She tried a second strike, but he dodged it effortlessly, his movements quick and fast.
Karo's smirk grew. "Come on, you'll need to be faster than that!"
Frustration was building inside her, but she remembered Eldin's advice. She steady's her posture, focusing on each move rather than reacting to his taunts. As Karo strike again, she dodged, surprising him with a counterattack that forced him to step back.
"Not bad," he admitted, his green eyes flashing with amusement. "But don't let your guard down." Before she could respond, he moved forward, aiming for her left side. She barely managed to blocks, the impact jolted her arms. The force of his strike sent her stumbling, and she struggled to regain her strength.
"Focus, Elaro!" Eldin called out. "Remember, power alone is not enough. Use your instincts."
Taking his words to her heart, Elaro adjusted. With a swift movement, she channels her energy into her blade, pushing back against Karo's strike with a strength she hadn't known she possessed.
For a brief moment, Karo looked taken aback. "Interesting…" But before she could savor her small victory, he swung again, his blade was glowing with a fierce light. This time, she had no chance to dodge. Karo's strike sent her flying backward, and she landed hard on the ground.
She groaned, feeling defeat. Karo walked over, extending a hand to help her up. "You've got a lot of strength; I'll give you that. But you're still far from ready."
Elaro accepted his hand, feeling a little bit of resentment and gratitude. "Thanks… I think so."
After her sparring match with Karo. They sat by the stream. She rubbed her sore arms, feeling the weight of her inexperience, but also a little motivation in her.
"You have talent, Elaro," Eldin said, sitting beside her. "But talent alone isn't enough in this world. Every hunter must adapt."
Elaro nod, the words sinking in her. "I understand. I'll work harder."
"Good," Eldin replied. "You're beginning to grasp the foundation of your power. But if you want to truly become strong, you must connect with your inner force and your essence."
"My essence?" she asked.
"Every hunter's power is a reflection of who they are. Your path is filled by your desires, your beliefs and your purpose. Discovering this connection is what will allow you to grow."
She sat in silence. She had always dreamed of being more, of finding a purpose that was greater than herself. Just as they were finished their conversation, a chill swept through them. Eldin stood, as he scanned the tree lines. "Stay close, Elaro. We have someone coming."
Elaro felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise. From the shadows, figures began to emerge in dark, twisted creatures with dark eyes and jagged claws. They moved with an unnatural way, their forms shifting as if they were made of smoke.
"What are those things?" she whispers, gripping her blade tightly. "Shades," Eldin replied, his tone grimed. "Creatures born from dark magic. They feed fear and despair. This world is full of them, and they are particularly drawn to new hunters."
Karo stepped forward, his expression was serious as he summoned his weapon. "Guess it's time for the rookie to show what she's made of."
Elaro clenched her teeth, feeling her heartbeat fasten. She wasn't sure she was ready, but there was no time to think. With a deep breath, she summoned her energy, her blade glowing brighter as she prepared to face the approaching shades.
The first shade lunged towards her, its clawed hand swiping. She dodged, swinging her blade in a wide arc that sliced through its form. The creature disposed, dissolving into a wisp of dark smoke.
Another shade attacked, but this time, Karo takes it, his movements fast and precise. He dispatches the creature effortlessly, giving her a nod as he moved to face the next one.
Elaro fought alongside him, feeling her confidence grower with each strike. Her movements became faster, her attacks more precise. She could feel the energy within her responding which was guiding her actions.
Finally, the last shade fell, dissolving into the ground as silence returned. Eldin approached, his expression was of quiet pride. "Well done, both of you. Elaro, you handled yourself well. Remember, every encounter will make you stronger."
Elaro nodded, wiping her sweat. She could feel the weight of the battle, but also a sense of accomplishment.
As the sun began to set, casting the forest in shades of orange and purple, Eldin led them back to camp. Elaro feels a new bond forming with both Eldin and Karo. Though Karo's presence remains a challenging to her, she sensed a shared purpose between them that hinted at the trials and victories they might face together.
Sitting by the fire that night, Elaro reflected on her journey so far. She had entered this world as an ordinary girl, but each step was shaping her into something more powerful. But even as she feels the warmth of the fire, there was an unease also. She could still feel the darkness that had surrounded the shades, a reminder that not everything in this world could be conquered easily.
Her journey was just a beginning, and the true test was yet to come.
To Be Continued