The Shadow Order Book 4

Chapter 7: The Test of the Blade

The four students stood in the center of the training ground, awaiting Seraphina, Kael, and Arthur with a mix of excitement and nerves. Finn, tall and wiry, kept shifting from foot to foot, his bright green eyes flickering with anticipation as he adjusted his grip on the hilt of his sword. Beside him, Eira, with her short, jet-black hair and focused stare, stood rooted to the spot, her posture as solid as the mountain villages she hailed from. Roland, broad-shouldered and strong, shifted his weight back and forth, his intense gaze betraying his eagerness to prove himself. Leif, the quietest of the group, held his slender frame still, his pale skin glowing faintly in the morning light, his expression unreadable but his eyes alert.

Around them, other students gathered, their murmurs and whispers filling the air. They watched curiously, some of them more experienced and others less, eager to see what this chosen group would be taught. When Seraphina, Kael, and Arthur finally entered the training ground, a hush fell over the group, everyone's eyes turning to follow the three instructors.

Seraphina stepped forward, her silver hair catching the sunlight as she called the four candidates to the front. "I've seen potential in all of you," she began, her tone steady and warm. "Of everyone here, I believe you four have the greatest capacity for growth. Because of this, I'd like to teach you the Kagura-ryu sword style."

Excitement rippled through the group, and the four selected students shared looks of disbelief and excitement. Eira clenched her fists, her eyes alight with determination, while Finn's expression transformed into a wide grin. Roland glanced at Leif, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of pride and anticipation. Leif nodded silently, his face calm but his gaze intense.

Seraphina looked at each of them. "But before we begin, tell me—what does swordsmanship mean to each of you?"

Finn spoke first, his voice eager. "To me, swordsmanship is a way to protect. It's a way I can stand up for my family and keep them safe."

Eira added, her tone more measured but filled with resolve, "For me, swordsmanship is honor. It's a way to bring pride to my people and myself."

Roland shifted, scratching the back of his neck, but his voice was sincere. "For me, it's about strength. I want to be strong enough to protect those I care about."

Finally, Leif looked up, his expression serious. "Swordsmanship... it's a way to bring dreams to life. It's about becoming something greater."

Seraphina nodded, her gaze softening. "Those are noble reasons. And remember, the sword is an extension of yourself. Just as magic flows from within, so too should your sword technique. It should feel like a part of you in combat."

Roland tilted his head, a look of curiosity on his face. "But... isn't swordsmanship just a way to enhance our magic abilities? Isn't magic the focal point?"

Kael's gaze drifted to Roland thoughtfully, understanding the young man's perspective. In this world, magic is the foundation of all power. They've never experienced swordsmanship as a true art form on its own, he thought, realizing that the students hadn't been exposed to the kinds of swordplay that didn't rely on magical enhancements.

Seraphina smiled at Roland, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "A sword can be more than just an extension of magic. In times of true danger, a blade in skilled hands can be stronger than any spell."

The students looked doubtful, their expressions a mix of skepticism and wonder. The idea of a simple sword being able to overcome magic seemed almost absurd in a world where magic was everything. They exchanged uncertain glances, clearly struggling to grasp her perspective.

Seeing their disbelief, Seraphina raised her chin, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Looks like you need convincing. How about a practice match? The four of you against me. I won't use a single ounce of mana."