The morning sun cast a warm glow over the forest as Kael and I stood at the edge of the clearing. Today marked a new phase in my training, one that would test my abilities and push me to my limits.
"Arin," Kael said, his voice steady and calm, "today we are going to hunt some lower stage beasts. This will be a test of your skills and your ability to harness ki in real combat situations."
I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. The thought of facing real beasts was daunting, but I knew that this was a crucial step in my journey. I nodded, gripping the practice sword tightly in my hand.
"Remember what you've learned," Kael continued. "Focus your ki, stay calm, and trust in your training. I'll be with you, but you must rely on your own strength and instincts."
With that, we set off into the forest, the sounds of nature surrounding us. The air was filled with the scent of pine and the rustling of leaves, and I could feel the ki flowing through me, ready to be unleashed.
Meanwhile, at the Darian Manor, Cedric lounged in a luxurious armchair, a glass of fine wine in his hand. He gazed out of the window, a smug smile playing on his lips. Aunt Niel sat across from him, her expression one of concern and sadness.
"Cedric, have you heard any news about Arin?" Aunt Niel asked, her voice tinged with worry. "Is he still alive?"
Cedric shrugged, his expression indifferent. "Why do you care so much, Aunt Niel? Arin was always a weakling. He's probably dead by now."
Aunt Niel's eyes filled with sorrow. "He was still family, Cedric. I can't help but worry about him. He didn't deserve to be cast out like that."
Cedric took a sip of his wine, his tone dismissive. "He brought it on himself. He was never strong enough to survive in this world. We have more important things to focus on."
Aunt Niel sighed, her heart heavy with sadness. "I just hope he's safe, wherever he is."
Cedric waved a dismissive hand. "Forget about him, Aunt Niel. We have our own plans to worry about. Arin is no longer our concern."
As the tension hung heavy in the air, the Darian Manor stood as a symbol of power and authority, but also of the challenges and conflicts that lay ahead.
Our first target was a small, weak beast known as a Forest Hare. Despite its size, the hare was incredibly elusive and quick, making it a challenging target. I crouched low, trying to stay hidden as I watched the hare dart through the underbrush.
I took a deep breath, focusing my ki to enhance my senses and speed. With a burst of energy, I lunged forward, swinging my practice sword. The hare dodged my strike with ease, disappearing into the foliage.
Frustration welled up inside me, but I pushed it aside, determined to succeed. I continued to track the hare, my movements becoming more precise and controlled with each attempt. After what felt like hours, I finally managed to corner the hare and deliver a swift, decisive strike.
The hare fell to the ground, and I let out a sigh of relief. Kael approached, a proud smile on his face. "Well done, Arin. You've shown great perseverance and skill."
With the Forest Hare successfully hunted, Kael decided it was time to move on to a larger, more formidable beast. Our next target was a Shadow Lynx, a creature known for its stealth and agility. The lynx was a master of evasion, making it a true test of my abilities.
We tracked the lynx through the forest, following its elusive trail. The hunt was grueling, and I quickly realized that this beast was far more challenging than the hare. The lynx seemed to vanish into thin air, reappearing only to taunt me with its agility.
I struggled to keep up, my frustration growing with each failed attempt. But Kael's words echoed in my mind: "Focus your ki, stay calm, and trust in your training." I took a deep breath, centering myself and channeling my ki.
With renewed determination, I continued the hunt. I moved with greater precision, my strikes becoming more calculated and controlled. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I managed to land a decisive blow, bringing the Shadow Lynx down.
Kael approached and examined the lynx's corpse. With a swift motion, he retrieved a small, ornate ring from his pocket and placed it on the lynx. The beast's body vanished, seemingly absorbed into the ring.
I stared in awe and curiosity. "What is that?" I asked, unable to hide my fascination.
Kael smiled. "This is a space ring. It allows me to store objects and creatures in a separate dimension. It's a useful tool for hunters and adventurers."
I marveled at the ring's capabilities, my mind racing with possibilities. "Can anyone use one of those?". "Yes but a decent one costs a fortune, luckily I was able to get this one".
As we made our way back to the clearing, Kael's expression grew somber. "Arin, there's something you should know. I'll be leaving the forest soon. I came here to hunt a specific beast, and once I've completed my task, I'll be moving on."
I felt a pang of sadness at the thought of Kael leaving. He had been my mentor and guide, and I wasn't sure if I was ready to continue my journey without him.
"Will you come back?" I asked, my voice tinged with uncertainty.
Kael placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Our paths may cross again, Arin. But for now, you must continue your training and grow stronger. Remember everything I've taught you, and trust in your own abilities."
He paused for a moment, then added, "If you want, you can come with me to the Adventurers' Guild. It's a place where you can continue your training, take on quests, and grow even stronger. The choice is yours."
I took a deep breath, considering Kael's offer. The thought of joining the Adventurers' Guild was both exciting and intimidating. It would be a chance to continue my training and grow stronger, but it also meant leaving the forest and facing new challenges.
After a moment of contemplation, I looked up at Kael and nodded. "I'll go with you to the Adventurers' Guild. I want to continue my training and become stronger."
Kael smiled, a look of approval in his eyes. "Good choice, Arin. We'll leave as soon as I've completed my task here. In the meantime, continue your training and prepare for the journey ahead."
As the sun set over the forest, I stood in the clearing, my heart filled with a mix of determination and uncertainty. I knew that my journey was far from over, but I was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.