Beyond The Waning Light of Paradise

Chapter 6: Training

The morning sun cast long shadows across the training grounds as Silas led Kael to the Remington training area. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine. Silas, his wooden sword clutched tightly in his hands, wore a grin of eager anticipation. He couldn't resist a boastful glance at Rowan, who watched from a distance, confusion flickering across his face.

"Just you wait, Rowan! I'm going to be the greatest warrior in Solarisynth!" Silas declared, his voice brimming with youthful bravado.

With a wooden sword over his shoulder, Kael assessed the training grounds critically, amusement evident in his eyes. The space was ample, and the ground firm and even—suitable for their training.

As they began their session, Silas launched himself at Kael with untrained energy. With the patience of a seasoned teacher, Kael guided him through the basic stances and footwork.

Unable to contain his excitement any longer, Rowan joined them. "You're the commander, right? Why are you here? Can I learn too?" His voice carried a hopeful yet nervous edge.

Silas, feeling a surge of pride, grinned. "Of course! Kael's going to teach me how to be a great warrior. He can teach you too!"

Kael regarded the two boys with a mixture of amusement and approval. With an exaggerated sigh, he said, "Very well, but one at a time."

As the morning wore on, the trio became engrossed in their training, the children's laughter and swords' clanging filling the air. The scene was one of youthful exuberance, a stark contrast to the grim realities that had preceded it.

After the training session concluded, Kael fell into a thoughtful silence. Abruptly, he requested, "May I borrow your swords?"

Silas and Rowan readily handed over their wooden practice weapons. Kael hefted each sword, turning it over in his hands. "These are lighter than I expected," he mused, his brow furrowed. "Even for short swords, they feel underweight." He pointed out the cracks and dents marring the wood. "Durability is a concern. Pine is soft and light, ideal for beginners, but it won't hold up under consistent use."

His gaze shifted to the two boys. "How old are you, exactly?"

"Eleven years and two months," Silas replied.

"Twelve years and five months," Rowan added.

Kael nodded slowly. "You both have time before your coming-of-age ceremonies. Silas, you have over three years, and Rowan, over two. I think it's time for an upgrade. We'll order new wooden shortswords made from oak. They'll be heavier and much sturdier. Getting used to the added weight will be excellent training during our sparring sessions."

Silas and Rowan exchanged excited glances. The prospect of wielding more substantial weapons filled them with excitement.

"The new swords will arrive in a week or so," Kael continued. "In the meantime, we'll focus on footwork and evasion drills."

The boys nodded enthusiastically, their eagerness to learn undiminished. As the sun descended, and cast dancing shadows across across the training ground, they continued their practice, their movements increasingly fluid and coordinated.

                               ☪︎ ･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･❂

With each passing day, Silas and Rowan's skills improved. Kael's tutelage was rigorous, but the boys were determined to excel. They pushed their bodies to the limit, fueled by a desire to become the best warriors they could be.

A week later, the day dawned with an air of anticipation. The arrival of the new swords had been the subject of countless whispered speculations. As morning broke, a cart rumbled into the courtyard, its cargo shrouded by a thick canvas. With bated breath, the boys watched as Kael approached the cart and, with a grunt of effort, pulled out the first sword.