Chapter 18 — Aric’s First Real Sword Test

The morning sun gleamed over the Silver Wyverns’ training courtyard, illuminating the polished stones and the countless marks left by swords clashing in practice. Today was no ordinary session. Kaelen had arranged a controlled duel—a test of everything Aric had learned so far.

“Today, you fight as if your life depends on it,” Kaelen said, his voice calm but heavy with authority. “Every mistake will be exploited, every hesitation punished. This is not just practice. This is preparation for real combat.”

Aric tightened his grip on his sword, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. “I’m ready, Master Kaelen,” he said firmly, though a flicker of nervousness betrayed his excitement.

Kaelen stepped back, giving Aric space. “Then begin.”

The test was designed with multiple opponents—trained Silver Wyverns knights acting as challengers. Each had a different fighting style, forcing Aric to adapt and think beyond memorized movements. As the first knight lunged, Aric reacted instinctively, blocking and countering. Kaelen watched, noting the fluidity of his strikes and the hesitation in his movements.

“Predict, then act,” Kaelen murmured. “Do not move blindly. Observe first, understand next, strike last.”

Aric faced the next attacker, a faster swordsman who used quick feints and deceptive movements. Aric’s eyes flicked from footwork to shoulder movements, recalling Kaelen’s lessons on observation. He sidestepped, blocked, and parried, finally landing a clean strike. A surge of exhilaration and relief ran through him.

But the real challenge was yet to come. Kaelen himself stepped into the center, assuming a stance that was familiar, yet different. Aric’s heart skipped. The Mirrorblade—the same mysterious figure who had saved him countless times, whose technique he had only begun to understand—was now testing him directly.

The first exchange was swift, precise. Kaelen moved in a controlled flurry, probing Aric’s defenses. The prince parried, dodged, and countered, but the Mirrorblade effortlessly mirrored his moves, subtly exploiting openings.

“You’re improving,” Kaelen said calmly as they circled. “But you still hesitate. Confidence alone cannot win battles. You must trust your instincts… and your understanding.”

Aric’s brow furrowed, determination igniting. With renewed focus, he shifted his stance, anticipating Kaelen’s next move. He dodged a feint, parried a slash, and executed the Rising Dragon Slash—a move he had practiced relentlessly. Kaelen’s eyes widened slightly, approving of the precision and timing.

“You are learning,” Kaelen said, stepping back. “Not just the technique, but the thought behind it. That is the true lesson of this test.”

Aric lowered his sword, breath heavy but heart racing with pride. He had faced multiple opponents, adapted, and survived the Mirrorblade’s scrutiny. More importantly, he had begun to internalize Kaelen’s philosophy: observation, adaptation, and understanding were more valuable than raw skill.

Kaelen studied him silently. “This is only the beginning. The real battles will not wait for perfection, and the threats beyond the walls will be far more dangerous than any training exercise. Remember today’s lesson. Use it well.”

Aric nodded, determination burning brighter than ever. “I will, Master Kaelen. I will not fail.”

As the sun climbed higher, casting long shadows across the courtyard, Aric realized something crucial: training was not just preparation—it was transformation. And under the Mirrorblade’s guidance, he was changing, step by step, into a swordsman who could face anything the world dared to throw at him.