Alden stepped into the academy's advanced training hall, stretching his arms as he prepared for another long session. His body had adjusted well to his increased stats, but his mind still struggled to keep up with the changes brought by his growing power.
Today's goal? Improve his dagger proficiency and mana circulation.
As he entered, a familiar voice echoed in his mind.
[Hmph. You are getting sloppy, boy.]
Alden sighed. Kurenai, his sentient katana, was awake again.
"Good morning to you too, old man."
[Your footwork was lacking during yesterday's spar. If you keep relying on brute force, you will never unlock the second form of my art.]
"I know, I know." Alden rolled his eyes. "I was busy not dying, okay?"
Before Kurenai could retort, another voice interrupted.
[You should listen to the sword, human. At least it has wisdom, unlike you.]
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Alden groaned as Shiranui, the Celestial Nine-Tails, chimed in.
"Oh great, now both of you are ganging up on me. This is exactly what I needed in life—a snarky fox and a nagging sword."
[I am not nagging, I am guiding,] Kurenai huffed.
[And I am simply pointing out your inadequacies,] Shiranui added smugly.
Alden rubbed his temples. "I should've tamed a mute beast and picked a normal sword..."
[Too late for regrets now, fool.] Both voices said in unison.
---
Shoving aside his existential regret, Alden stepped onto the training platform, selecting a combat simulation on the VR interface. He programmed an opponent—a Rank D- swordsman AI.
"Alright, time to test my new stats."
The simulation started. A warrior materialized before him, clad in light armor and wielding a steel longsword. The moment the match began, his opponent lunged forward.
Alden sidestepped, flicking his wrist. His dagger glided in a controlled arc, aiming for the AI's ribs.
The opponent blocked smoothly, pushing him back.
"Tch." His agility was higher, but the AI's technique was more refined.
[You hesitate too much,] Kurenai observed. [Your dagger art is incomplete. Adjust your footwork.]
Alden refocused. He adjusted his stance, flowing into the movements of the Shadow Fang Dagger Art.
The battle intensified. The AI pressed forward with relentless slashes, but Alden weaved between them, countering with quick thrusts and feints.
---
Alden's eyes gleamed as his Eclipse vision subtly activated, tracking every movement. The AI lifted its sword for an overhead slash—
Alden ducked, pivoted, and struck its exposed side.
[Proficiency increased: Shadow Fang Dagger Art – 8%]
[Excellent,] Kurenai praised.
Shiranui yawned. [About time you did something right.]
"Remind me again why I put up with you two?"
---
After an hour of relentless combat, Alden collapsed onto the training hall bench, chugging a mana recovery potion. His arms burned from exertion, but his progress was noticeable.
[Your speed has improved,] Kurenai admitted.
[Barely,] Shiranui corrected.
Alden smirked. "You two should start a comedy show."
[Only if you are the joke,] Shiranui quipped.
Alden sighed. This was going to be a long day.