Chapter 172: You’re Not Bad As A Newbie
Lariette shifted her eyes to the bat in her grip, trying not to bother herself too much with Ruediger’s towering figure behind. His broad palms still lay gently on the back of her hands.
"Keep your grip like this. Now, spread your feet a little. Feet shoulder-width apart," said Ruediger while taking a step back from Lariette, "Also, bend your knees slightly. Relax your shoulders."
Lariette exhaled, silently thankful for the distance. Ruediger’s warmth still lingered, encasing her frame. She swore she had unintentionally held her breath for a moment earlier.
"Like this?"
Lariette followed Ruediger’s instructions, her grip comfortable on the handle. He gave her a thoughtful nod, satisfied with her posture.
"Keep your eye on the ball, Lettie. Don’t swing too early when the ball comes. Your hand-eye coordination is good, but this is still different from throwing knives at your cheating ex."
Ruediger spoke with much belief. Thinking back on the accuracy Lariette possessed with her archery and dart-throwing skills, he knew she could handle her swing.
Lariette playfully glared at Ruediger, earning chuckles from him. He was clearly referring to the time when she aimed her cutlery knife at Damien[01].
"Teach me the differences, then," said Lariette, suddenly eager to show Ruediger her best shot. She couldn’t help but imagine the sleazy Damien at the pitching machine ahead.
Liking the determined look on Lariette’s face, Ruediger calmly explained, "With archery, you’re aiming at a fixed target unless it’s the horseback one. You draw the string at your own pace."
Lariette silently watched Ruediger walking closer to her, reaching for the bat. She straightened up. He gave the bat a small twirl before holding it out to her again.