The Shadow Order Book 4

Chapter 6: Choosing the Future

The next day, the training ground was alive with activity. The sunlight filtered through a canopy of leaves, casting dappled shadows on the earth below. The ground itself was a mixture of smooth stone pathways and open, sandy areas where students could spar. Wooden practice dummies lined one side, their surfaces already scarred from sword strikes, while a series of small targets were set up at the far end, each marked with mana runes to track accuracy. At the center, a spacious ring of compacted dirt served as the main sparring arena, surrounded by wooden benches where spectators or resting trainees could sit.

Seraphina moved confidently through the space, her silver hair catching the light as she demonstrated basic sword techniques to a small group of students. Her movements were precise and fluid, each strike measured yet powerful, showing her skill and control over both her weapon and her mana. She corrected students as they tried to mimic her stances, her voice calm yet commanding, drawing everyone's attention with ease.

Sitting on one of the benches, Kael watched Seraphina intently. She had a natural grace and poise, qualities that had only grown with their time together. He sighed, his thoughts drifting inward. I do have feelings for her, he admitted to himself, his gaze softening. But how can I be honest with her when so much of my life is hidden? Leading the Shadow Order, his role as Shadow, the secrets he had buried deep to protect those he cared for—all of it weighed heavily on him. What would she think if she knew? Would she understand, or would it only push her away?

Lost in thought, Kael didn't notice Arthur entering the training ground until he heard his name being called. "Kael! Seraphina!" Arthur's voice cut through the hum of the students. Kael looked up, and Seraphina turned from her demonstration, wiping a thin sheen of sweat from her brow as they both made their way over.

Arthur handed each of them a list of the students they had met the day before. "What do you think of these candidates?" he asked, his tone businesslike but warm. "There are some with real potential. I suggest we shortlist a few for more detailed interviews before making any decisions on enrollment."

Seraphina scanned the list thoughtfully, nodding. "I think that's a great idea. It'll give us a better understanding of who they are and why they want to be here."

Kael nodded in agreement, glancing down at the names. "Yes, it'll help us gauge their motivations and if they're a good fit."

A short while later, the three of them moved to a room in the training school set aside for interviews. The space was modest but comfortable, with walls adorned with tapestries depicting historical sword techniques. A large oak table sat in the center, with three chairs on one side for the instructors and one on the opposite side for the candidate. A small window allowed sunlight to filter in, casting a warm glow across the room. Nearby, a rack of practice swords and equipment hinted at the purpose of the room, lending an air of discipline and readiness.

Their first candidate entered: a tall, lanky boy named Finn with curly hair and bright green eyes. He looked a bit nervous, but he met their gaze confidently as he took a seat. Arthur spoke first, his tone welcoming. "Finn, tell us a little about yourself."

Finn smiled nervously. "Well, I grew up on a farm in Valoria's countryside. My family doesn't have much, but they've always supported me in my dreams. I want to be able to defend them, to make sure they're safe." His hands clenched slightly as he spoke. "Swordplay feels like something... I could be good at, and it would give me a way to protect the people I care about."

Seraphina's eyes softened. "That's a noble reason, Finn. And what draws you specifically to our school?"

Finn hesitated, then replied earnestly, "I've heard of your skill, Lady Seraphina. I want to learn from someone who understands not just sword techniques but the purpose behind them."

Next was a young woman named Eira, her short dark hair and intense gaze giving her a determined look. She leaned forward as she spoke, her voice steady. "I'm from the northern mountains, where the air is thin, and the winters are harsh. Life up there is about survival, and I grew up learning how to hunt to feed my family." She paused, glancing at each of them. "I want to learn swordplay because it's about more than just survival. I want to master it, to bring honor to my family and my people."

Kael leaned forward, intrigued. "What kind of training have you had?"

Eira's gaze was unwavering. "Mostly self-taught with a spear. I've had to rely on my instincts, but I want to refine my skills with formal training."

The third candidate, a burly boy named Roland, seemed a bit rough around the edges. He scratched his head sheepishly as he introduced himself. "I'm from the docks—my family runs a fishing business." He shrugged, a bit embarrassed. "I'm not fancy or anything. But I want to learn swordplay so I can look after my younger siblings. The docks can be dangerous, and I don't want them growing up afraid."

Seraphina smiled warmly. "I think that's a wonderful reason, Roland. You have a lot of heart."

The final candidate was a quiet, slender boy named Leif with pale skin and delicate features. His voice was soft but filled with quiet determination. "I grew up reading stories of knights and warriors. My family has never been wealthy, but they always encouraged me to dream. Swordplay... it feels like a way to bring those dreams to life. I want to be someone who can stand for something."

Arthur nodded thoughtfully. "It sounds like you have a lot of passion, Leif. That's important in any form of training."

After a long day of interviews, the three of them gathered outside the training room, looking tired but satisfied. Seraphina leaned back against the wall, letting out a small sigh. "I really liked all of them. They each have something unique to bring to the school."

Arthur stretched, rolling his shoulders. "Agreed. They're a good mix of personalities and backgrounds. It'll be interesting to see how they learn from each other."

Kael smiled, nodding in agreement. "They seem eager and motivated. I think they'll make a great group."

Arthur grinned, looking between them. "Why don't we give them their first lesson right away? No time like the present, after all."

Seraphina's eyes lit up with excitement, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, let's do it! Kael, help me gather them at the training ground. I can't wait to get started."