Seven days had passed since Adrian arrived at the Warmaster's shack, and during that time, he had immersed himself in rigorous training under Knight Bernahl's guidance. The clearing near the knight's dwelling had become their sparring ground, where they engaged in friendly combat to hone Adrian's newly acquired skills.
On this particular day, the sun hung high in the sky, casting dappled shadows through the leaves of the surrounding trees. The air crackled with anticipation as Adrian and Knight Bernahl stood facing each other.
Knight Bernahl charged forward, his greatsword held firmly in his hands. The weight of the massive weapon seemed effortless in his grasp as he swung it sideways, aiming for Adrian with precision.
Adrian's training kicked in, and he reacted swiftly. He remembered the lessons on Quick Step, the Battle Art that had become his foundation. As Knight Bernahl's sword whistled through the air, Adrian focused his energy and executed the technique, disappearing in a blink of an eye.
In that fleeting moment of evasion, Adrian reappeared behind Knight Bernahl, his movements seamless and graceful. A grin tugged at the corner of his lips as he swung his broadsword and witnessed the surprise and satisfaction on the Warmaster's face.
But Knight Bernahl was not one to be caught off guard. With a quick recovery, he propelled himself forward, spinning his body in the air with impressive agility. As he completed the rotation, he unleashed a flurry of throwing knives, aiming to overwhelm Adrian with the onslaught of projectiles.
Adrian's reflexes were on full display. His eyes shined white as he deflected the incoming knives with his own blade. His movements were precise, each strike meeting its mark with expert precision. The metallic clash of steel against steel echoed through the clearing, filling the air with an electrifying energy.
Knowing that timing was crucial, Adrian waited until the last moment before Knight Bernahl's feet touched the ground. Sensing the moment, he stomped the ground beneath him, channeling his focus into the earth.
The ground trembled, a low rumble echoing through the clearing. Knight Bernahl's landing became unsteady, his balance disrupted by the sudden seismic force. Adrian seized the opportunity, charging forward with renewed determination.
Knight Bernahl reacted swiftly, burying his greatsword into the ground and falling to his knees in a state of focus. Adrian's broadsword clashed against the Warmaster's shoulder. To Adrian's surprise, Knight Bernahl stood firm, his body unyielding as the blade reflected off his skin with a metallic clang.
Before Adrian could resume his attack, Knight Bernahl took a deep breath, gathering his strength. He released a thunderous roar, a primal sound that echoed through the clearing, momentarily stunning Adrian and freezing him in his tracks.
Shaking off the momentary paralysis, Adrian regained his bearings, but it was too late. He found himself staring into the piercing gaze of Knight Bernahl, his sword mere inches away from his neck. The realization washed over Adrian, a mixture of awe and respect for the Warmaster's skill and precision.
A brief pause filled the air as the weight of the situation settled upon them. Adrian sighed, acknowledging his defeat in this particular exchange. He knew Knight Bernahl had once again demonstrated his mastery, reminding Adrian of the vast gap between their skills.
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Knight Bernahl's stern expression softened into a reassuring smile. "Well fought, lad," he commended, his voice carrying a mixture of admiration and knowing experience. "I was ready to spend an entire month teaching you the basics, but here we are..."
"You're ready to continue your journey..." Knight Bernahl continued, trailing at the end of his sentence. "As such, it's time for you to be on your way, I should think..."
Confusion creased Adrian's forehead as he frowned, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "But..." he interjected, "you haven't taught me how to listen, and I've yet to master anything besides the basics..."
A knowing grin spread across Knight Bernahl's weathered face, his eyes glinting with a hint of mischief. "I did say I would teach you how to listen, didn't I?" he replied, his tone laced with a gentle amusement. "But I never specified when and where."
Adrian's frown deepened, his confusion giving way to curiosity. He leaned in, awaiting Knight Bernahl's explanation.
With a serious expression, Knight Bernahl continued, "Seek me in the Volcano Manor beyond the Great Lift, in Mount Gelmir. There, I will impart upon you everything I know...."
A flicker of uncertainty passed through Adrian's eyes as he contemplated the significance of the Volcano Manor. He remembered hearing about it being the residence of one of the demi-gods who inherited the Elden Ring's shards while playing the game.
Still, a fire burned within him, fueled by his determination. "If that's what it takes," Adrian responded. "Then I'll head to the Volcano Manor sooner or later. If not to learn, then to find the first friend I've made in this shitty world..."
A solemn pause hung in the air as Knight Bernahl's expression turned grave. "Then I'll await your arrival. However, remember, lad, should your faith in the Greater Will and the Golden Order be ignited, never set foot inside the Volcano Manor," he cautioned, his voice tinged with a hint of sorrow. "It is not a place for those with faith in their hearts..."
Adrian's determination hardened, his voice filled with conviction. "I'll keep that in mind, Bernahl..." he affirmed, his gaze steady and unwavering.
With a final nod of acknowledgment, Knight Bernahl placed a weathered hand on Adrian's shoulder, his touch conveying a sense of mentorship and guidance. "Go forth then, lad," he said, his voice carrying a mix of encouragement and farewell. "Until we meet again..."
And with that, Knight Bernahl turned and disappeared into the forest, leaving Adrian alone amidst the rustling leaves and whispering breeze. The weight of his upcoming journey settled upon him, mingling with a sense of anticipation and determination.
...
Adrian returned to the Warmaster's shack, his footsteps echoing softly in the stillness of the forest. As he entered the shed, memories flooded his mind, mingling with nostalgia and amusement.
He couldn't help but chuckle, the sound carrying a touch of disbelief and wonder. It seemed like ages ago when he first encountered Knight Bernahl, not as a tarnished warrior but as a player exploring the virtual world of Elden Ring in his previous life. In the game's world, Knight Bernahl had been nothing more than an NPC with a cool armor, a mere merchant selling Ashes of War.
Adrian's eyes wandered around the shack, taking in the familiar surroundings. He remembered encountering Knight Bernahl in the game for the first time. The moment he laid eyes on Knight Bernahl's armor, intrusive thoughts flooded his mind, the impulse to attack in hopes of claiming the armor for himself. How different things were now?
His laughter subsided, replaced by a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation. Knight Bernahl had become more than just an NPC with cool armor. He had become a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of guidance in the Lands Between. The lessons learned, the spars fought, and the bond forged were far more valuable than any virtual treasure.
As Adrian gathered his belongings, carefully securing his provisions and weapons, he couldn't help but reflect on the journey he had embarked upon. The memories of his previous life lingered, providing a unique perspective on the world he now inhabited.
With a final glance around the shack, Adrian felt a renewed sense of purpose. The lessons he learned from Knight Bernahl had prepared him for this moment, and now it was time to put them to use.
With a whistle, Adrian summoned Torrent, his loyal spirit companion. The ethereal form of the majestic horse materialized before him, its body exuding a gentle glow. Adrian approached Torrent, running his hand along the steed's radiant mane, a smile of familiarity and fondness gracing his face.
"Glad to see you, buddy," Adrian said, his voice filled with warmth and gratitude. "It's been a week since we last journeyed together."
With a graceful leap, Adrian mounted Torrent, his body fitting perfectly into the saddle as if they were two halves of a whole. He felt the spirit's presence beneath him, a comforting energy that seemed to flow through his veins.
Facing south, Adrian set his gaze on the horizon, his heart filling with anticipation for the path that lay ahead. The lands stretched out before them, a tapestry of untamed beauty and hidden wonders waiting to be discovered.
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