In the island kingdom of Ednia the art of swordsmanship is a revered tradition and a fundamental part of the realm's culture.
Every swordsman whether noble or common, dreams of ascending the ranks of mastery to achieve the highest levels of skill.
Those levels numbering five serve as milestones for aspiring ,swordsmen and mark the progression of a fighter from simple .
Initiation to supreme excellence each level represents not only technical growth ,but also an inner journey where the mind and body merge intimately, making the blade almost alive in the hands of the combatant.
The first level is that of the Aspirant: this is the foundation the starting point for every young swordsman at this stage students learn the basics how to hold the weapon initial stances basic simple strikes and movements. Here endurance and strength are forged it is not yet about sophisticated techniques but about preparing the body to endure the rigors of training and combat aspirants are often likened to novices far from mastery but their progress depends on their determination and perseverance.
The second level that of the Expert: marks a turning point at this stage the swordsman has assimilated the basics and begins working on more complex techniques strikes become more precise, combinations more fluid and defenses more strategic the expert starts to understand the importance of positioning timing, and energy in each movement. It is a level where combat becomes more than mere brute strength the expert learns to assess an opponent's weaknesses anticipate their moves and respond with impressive speed yet despite their skill, the swordsman remains limited by physical and psychological perceptions with the next level still out of reach.
The third level the Ascendant: is when a swordsman connects their mind and body in an almost supernatural way, elevating their combat to a higher plane at this stage the swordsman masters not only technique but also intuition their mind is as agile as their body, and their combat becomes a dance. Where true mastery begins to take shape at this level and it becomes a decisive moment where the swordsman must choose to rise or remain confined by their own limitations.
The fourth level the Enlightened: is a peak attained by very few those who reach this level are regarded as absolute masters of combat for an Enlightened swordsman the blade becomes an extension of their body, a continuation of their soul combat becomes instinctive, a form of communication with the weapon and the environment where the swordsman seems capable of predicting and controlling every aspect of the fight. This is a state of total harmony between the swordsman their sword, and the world around them. Enlightened swordsmen are a very rare choosen talent and their presence on the battlefield can change the course of a war. Among the living only a handful have reached this peak: Lord Marcus, Lord Robert,Gilbert,Kaylen and Princess Raelia who with unmatched grace and power embody the ideal of this level.
Beyond those the peak levels the fifth level Legendary Sage :a state never achieved by any individual since Roland Ednia the kingdom's founder no one has reached this mythical level since the kingdom foundation. The Sage is said to be an absolute master, whose skill transcends human limits and touches perfection. At this stage the swordsman can anticipate an opponent's actions before they even occur a dance between soul and steel.
This legendary peak level is perceived by some as a legendary myth serving to inspire knights to never stop striving for progress.
In the kingdom of Ednia that reveres the art of the sword, Jonady pursued his own path to excellence.
For weeks he had integrated physical exercises into his training routine, seeking to improve his physical condition to withstand the demands of combat push-ups squats and cardio were now, part of his daily regimen increasing his strength and endurance.
But today's training session was different he stood alone in the royal gardens blindfolded a wooden sword in hand. He swung the blade fluidly, each strike perfectly executed, each movement aiming to solidify his stance and synchronize his mind and body.
The words of Lord Gilbert still echoed in his mind:
"Your Majesty, with your blade you must become one. Imagine your perimeter as an impenetrable barrier. No enemy should breach your zone, and no strike should be left to chance."
These words had become his mantra. He focused, executing each movement with absolute attention, seeking to internalize them deeply. Suddenly, he heard a faint sound of footsteps. His instincts awakened preparing to react. A small object cut through the air hurtling toward him. In a swift motion, he raised his wooden sword and deflected the object with surprising precision. The dull sound of the impact echoed through the garden.
Removing his blindfold, Jonady looked up to see his observers: Kaylen and Raelia, standing a few meters away, clapping enthusiastically.
Kaylen spoke first, a satisfied smile on his face.
"The princess said you were improving, but I wanted to see it for myself. And honestly... it's far more impressive than I imagined."
Raelia, visibly amused, chuckled as she approached.
"Well done, Jonady. You're improving at an incredible pace."
Jonady, slightly out of breath but pleased by their encouragement, stepped toward them.
"You surprised me. I thought I was alone."
Raelia gently took his hand, a mysterious smile on her lips.
"Come, we have something to show you."
Intrigued, Jonady allowed himself to be led by his two friends. As they walked through the gardens, he wondered what they had in store. Kaylen walked beside him looking thoughtful, while Raelia seemed joyful almost impatient.
They finally arrived at a clearing surrounded by tall trees at the center was a stone table, draped with a cloth that concealed something beneath it. Raelia gently pulled the cloth away, revealing a magnificent sword.The blade slightly curved gleamed with a bluish hue, and the hilt was adorned with exquisitely engraved patterns.
"This is for you, Jonady," Raelia said warmly.
Jonady stared at the weapon in awe.
"What is this?"
Kaylen answered, crossing his arms.
"A weapon forged specifically for you. Sienna worked with the palace blacksmiths to create a blade that suits your strength and speed. It's as light as it is resilient, with a unique alloy."
Jonady gently took the sword, feeling its lightness and perfect balance in his hand.
He swung it softly through the air, immediately sensing a connection with the weapon.
"It's incredible... Thank you."
Raelia nodded, proud of their gift.
"With this sword, you won't need to train with a wooden weapon anymore. It will become an extension of yourself."
Kaylen added with a smile:
"And who knows? Maybe someday you'll reach the Sage level ."
I chuckled softly but a spark of determination shone in his eyes.
"Hmmph who knows, perhaps. Either way it's not like I fight alone. I have you guys by my side."
In that instant i was filled with renewed determination, buoyed by the confidence of those around him more than ever i was resolved to become the new monarch that Ednia and its people deserved.