Chapter 66: Breakthrough - 2
Mudrel lay unconscious on the dusty floor, his broadsword discarded. Herald stood over him, still, his presence a heavy, undeniable weight in the hideout. His demonstration had been clear: he was on a level I could barely comprehend. My own training sword felt like a toy.
"You are improving, Disciple," Herald stated, his voice flat. "But you are still a Novice. A beginner."
I grunted, pushing myself to my feet. My muscles ached from the previous sparring session. "I understand, Master. But what does it take to ascend? To move beyond Novice?"
Herald turned, his gaze fixed on me. "In this world, a sword is not merely steel. It is an extension of the wielder’s mana, their will. The path of a Sword Knight is one of constant ascension, through what we call Sword Realms."
He began to explain, his voice devoid of emotion, yet each word carrying immense weight. "There are eight recognized Sword Realms: Novice, Apprentice, General, Master, Sword Sage, Sword Prince, Sword Saint, and Sword Sovereign." He paused, his gaze distant. "Beyond that, some legends speak of a Sword God realm, but no one has ever ascended it. It remains a theoretical peak, a myth."
My mind absorbed the information. Eight realms. And Herald was a Sword Sovereign. That meant he was at the absolute pinnacle of known sword mastery. It put his power into terrifying perspective.
"I, myself, am a Sword Sovereign," Herald stated, confirming my deduction. "The path is long, arduous, and often solitary. Each realm demands more than just physical strength. It demands a deeper understanding of mana, of the blade, of oneself."
"You, Disciple, are currently a Novice. Your raw strength and agility are high, thanks to your unique signature, but your understanding of mana manipulation and true swordsmanship is rudimentary. To ascend to the Apprentice realm, you must achieve three things."
He held up a finger. "First, you must temper your body to be able to wield D-tier sword techniques. These techniques are beyond the physical limits of a mere Novice. They demand a body that can withstand immense mana flow and physical strain."
He held up a second finger. "Second, you must learn how to manipulate mana against your blade. Not just for defense, as I’ve shown you, but to imbue your weapon with offensive capabilities. To make your blade an extension of your mana, not just your muscle."