ETERNAL INSECT SYSTEM

008 - SWORD, SPEAR, ARROW

 

In the daytime, the training continued, led by Hilda with lessons on the sword, spear, and arrow. It was an intense session that had always been part of Arte's training regimen.

"My dear Arte! Would you like to rest for a bit after practicing with your father earlier?" Hilda offered, having witnessed her son conjure a massive Fireball.

It consumed a considerable amount of Magic Mana. Thus, she wanted to give her son a brief respite. But Arte's reply was decisive.

"It's alright, Mother! I still have the stamina to practice swordsmanship! Let’s begin your training!" Arte responded confidently.

"You truly are gifted, my son! In that case, let’s not delay any further. Let’s start with this sword!" explained Hilda, tossing a wooden sword to Arte.

"A skilled swordsman trains in various offensive and defensive movements, combining speed, precision, and agility to defeat their opponent. That's the essence of wielding a sword!" Hilda began her explanation.

She continued, demonstrating a sword move, "A swordsman typically trains in balance, coordination, and physical strength."

"We must maintain proper body positioning and make precise movements. Regular practice and repetition help us enhance our sword sensitivity and improve our reflexes in combat."

"Hah!" Hilda completed her demonstration, turned around, and looked at Arte. "Now, have you memorized and understood what I just demonstrated? Would you like to see it again?"

Arte sat cross-legged momentarily, then, in a flash and without uttering a word, he stood up and mimicked his mother's movements almost perfectly, with only slight errors.

"Arte, you're indeed extraordinary. Now, let's see if you grasp the basics of this sword art. How about the spear and the arrow?" thought Hilda, filled with enthusiasm.

"Did I do it right, Mother?" Arte inquired.

"Not yet, understand this too!" Hilda picked up her spear, launching into an extensive explanation while demonstrating the proper technique.

"The art of spear-throwing is about using the spear as a projectile weapon. Skilled soldiers or hunters master the technique of hurling a spear with power, speed, and utmost accuracy."

"The key to this technique is training the arm strength, body posture, and aiming skills to ensure the spear reaches its target precisely."

"You must–" Hilda was cut off by Arte, who flawlessly mirrored her intricate movements. He copied her with astonishing ease and accuracy.

Hilda gave a brief smile and then took a bow and several arrows from her left. She followed with a brutal demonstration of the Archery Technique.

"A master archer focuses on body posture, vision, and proper breathing techniques. We also learn to gauge distance and shooting angles." Hilda continued her advanced lessons, noticing Arte's prodigious aptitude.

"Considering factors like wind and gravity is the core of archery. Regular practice, in turn, aids in acquiring balance, muscle control, and shooting precision."

"So, have you grasped all this as well, Arte?" Hilda asked, glancing to her side, noting Arte was without a bow and arrows. Yet, she sensed he had understood.

"I get it, Mother! May I borrow an arrow and a bow? I'll try to replicate all of your movements without missing any!" Arte spoke determinedly.

He then showcased a combination of all the training. In his hands were a sword and spear, while a quiver and bow were strapped to his back.

He leaped swiftly, visualizing an enemy before him, moving with breathtaking speed. With definite movements, he wielded his sword with lethal precision.

His swordplay, combined with his strength and expertise, cut through the air swiftly and efficiently.

"It's still not enough!" Arte shouted, proceeding to hurl his spear. With trained eyes, he aimed at the nearest target. The spear flew straight, piercing the wind with accuracy.

Suddenly, Arte agilely retreated, released the bow, and took an arrow. In a split second, he drew the bowstring, felt its tension, and aimed the arrow elsewhere.

His eyes locked onto the target. He took a measured breath and released the arrow with unwavering skill. 

The arrow zipped through the air at high speed, cutting through the wind. Each of his moves became increasingly flawless.

"Let's combine everything!" Arte's cry echoed on the hill where they trained. He simultaneously employed the three techniques, alternating between sword slashes, spear thrusts, and long-range arrow shots.

"Hahaha, you're truly talented, Arte. It seems we'll have to ramp up the training we give you!" Gunnar suddenly descended from the skies, applauding.

He landed beside his wife, Hilda, who also beamed with pride, marveling at Arte's prowess. They were both left speechless by Arte's brilliance.

Arte set aside the wooden weapons and approached his parents. "I couldn’t have done it without guidance from both of you!" He smiled gently, appearing entirely innocent.

Gunnar and Hilda were briefly reminded of the previous night's troubles. But they quickly dismissed those thoughts.

"Alright, that's enough training for today. Tomorrow, we'll double your training regimen!" Hilda announced, hoisting Arte onto her shoulders.

The trio, a simple family, shared smiles. There were no sentimental moments, save for the knowledge of their true identities.

However, beyond that, the three returned home had dinner, and enjoyed each other's company. No one knew that these three would become formidable figures in the future.

Such was Arte's first day of training. Ten more years remained for Arte to complete his training. Every morning, he'd receive more lessons.

During his sessions, Arte occasionally acquired powerful skills to swiftly and accurately vanquish creatures, be it Magic Skills or Weapon Skills.

The days of pampering and play were no longer a part of Arte's life. His once gentle and caring parents had transformed into strict trainers.

Yet, Arte never felt disheartened. He knew he had to become strong, destined to be the most potent Wizard and Magical Weapon Knight in the future.

Thanks to the training, Arte developed a desire to explore this continent and, more broadly, this world of Magic and Swordplay.

Deep down, he was still curious and eager to uncover the truth about his identity – whose son he truly was and from which deity he descended.