Chapter 43: Overwhelming Skill Difference
Instructor Kai's voice carried a note of satisfaction as he addressed the class.
"Excellent work. Now, step forward and choose a weapon from the stands. But don't pick carelessly and think. Your weapon is more than just a tool; it's your lifeline. When your abilities fail, when everything else is stripped away, what remains is your skill and your weapon. So choose wisely, because this will be your first companion and your closest ally."
He drew his katana from its sheath and held it up before he continued,
"This is my katana. It's sharp, precise, and deadly. But it is weak for defence. My fighting style is swift, so my weapon complements it. Each of you will have a unique style, and as such, you'll have a unique weapon. Some of you may even master your weapon to a level beyond me. But what I excel at, what I can teach you better than anyone, is how to fight with weapons alone."
Then, he took a step forward, scanning the eager faces before him.
"Combat is like a game of strategy. You analyze your opponent, anticipate their moves, and adapt. Your first lesson begins now. Two at a time. Step forward and show me what you've got. Who wants to go first?"
Silence settled over the training hall.
Then, without hesitation, Seraphim raised her hand and strode toward the center.
In her right hand was a silver longsword that shined brightly. Of course, this was just a practice weapon, so it couldn't cause any lethal damage.
Even so,
The others hesitated. They all knew her reputation as Rank Number One. Even if her physical stats weren't overwhelming, her unknown ability made her an additionally deadly.