The Reluctant Small Villain

Chapter 16

The exercise may not unique, they were still considered valuable, particularly when compared to the skills offered by regular mercenaries.

In this world, every force has its own set of exercises, fighting styles, and breathing techniques, which usually come at a price if you're not affiliated with them in some way. However, some these stances are almost universal and can be found in nearly every fighting technique. They are often referred to as foundational or basic moves, with more advanced techniques being derived from or influenced by these fundamentals.

In battles, opponents can sometimes identify each other's forces by their special or unique stances and fighting styles. These stances are often mimicked by outsiders, especially unassociated mercenaries, loner fighters, or free knights. This mimicry helps in identifying allies or adversaries, providing tactical advantages.

The original owner was actually fortunate to have a good reputation in that particular town. He had a few students whom he was teaching to read and write. 

His standing in the community likely helped him avoid serious repercussions. Without this favorable reputation, he might have faced harsher consequences, potentially even jail time, for his unauthorized spying.

He was only fined, which was a good outcome considering he had only seen the beginning. Fortunately, the original owner had a sharp mind and managed to remember at least the first three stances. However, that was the extent of his knowledge. The original owner couldn't even fight a chicken.

The truth is, Aria was just pretending to be calm and confident when Robin considered fighting him. Inside, he was really panicking and thinking quickly what to do next. He knew that if his act failed, he'd have to run away as fast as he could. He hoped that by appearing unbothered, Robin wouldn't press the issue. His heart raced with anxiety. He knew that being discovered would jeopardize everything he had worked for and planned.

Aria maintained the facade to buy time and keep Robin from becoming suspicious. Despite his fear, he forced himself to stay composed on the outside. He had a plan to escape if any sign of a fight appeared. He just hoped everything would work out and it actually did.

Robin suggested to discuss with him.

After some time, they decided that the money collected would be divided among several categories. Some would go to the laborers, who were them. A portion would be given to people who were hiding, if they could locate them. The rest would be used to buy incense or paper money or to make a donation to the temple or church to pray for the souls of the deceased. They would use the money in whichever way was applicable and most appropriate for the dead.

However, the amount of money was not significant. Considering this was a poor village, the money they had taken could have been a lifetime's savings for the villagers. Most of it had been looted by the bandits, with only a few coins slipping through because the army arrived and startled the bandits, driving them away like a cat chasing a mouse.