Chapter 10: Combat Class
Arthur and Luke made their way to their next class, combat training. As they entered the large square room, Arthur immediately noticed the raised platform in the center—a sparring arena. Standing atop it was a female instructor who leaned casually on a wooden sword.
Arthur nearly tripped over his own feet as he took in her appearance. She was strikingly beautiful, with long brown hair tied up in a perfect ponytail that complemented her olive skin. She wore tight white combat garments that revealed her athletic physique, and a confident smirk played across her lips as she watched the students file in.
But there was something else about her—something Arthur couldn't quite place. He felt it, albeit barely... a presence, an aura. This woman was no ordinary instructor; she was an experienced Chosen, and a powerful one at that.
"Stop staring," Luke whispered, nudging Arthur with his elbow. "That's Ms. Anne. I've heard she's a pathfinder."
Arthur swallowed hard. A Pathfinder? That's no easy feat. No wonder her presence felt so intense.
Once all the students had entered and found places around the perimeter of the room, the instructor straightened her posture.
"Welcome to Combat Training 101. I'm Ms. Anne," she announced, her voice clear and commanding. "Today's session is simple—one-on-one sparring matches. This will help me gauge your current skill levels and plan my teaching accordingly."
The class suddenly seemed much more engaged than they had been during Realm Theory. Students straightened their backs, eyes gleaming with excitement at the prospect of testing their skills with a weapon.
Ms. Anne paced the platform as she continued. "While many Chosen rely primarily on their magic after entering the realms, your physical combat abilities remain crucial."