Chapter 3: A New Rival
Vio's newfound power with the Sword of the Paragons was a closely guarded secret. He knew that if his father, a strict and traditional Paragon, were to discover the sword, he would insist that Vio follow the family's strict training regimen, which included using the standard training swords.
One morning, as Vio was preparing to leave for the training center, his father intercepted him. "Vio," he began, his voice stern, "I've heard rumors about you and a new sword. I want you to understand that no matter what weapon you wield, you must still adhere to the family's training protocols. From now on, you will use the standard training sword, just like everyone else."
Disappointed but understanding, Vio agreed. As he walked the five kilometers to the training center, his mind raced with thoughts of his new mission. He knew that his father was only trying to prepare him for the challenges ahead, and he was determined to prove himself, even with a less powerful weapon.
When Vio arrived at the training center, he was greeted by a familiar sight: a group of young trainees, their laughter echoing through the courtyard. Among them was a young black teenager, strikingly handsome and lean. His slender physique drew teasing comments from the other boys, but Vio sensed something different about him. He remembered stories of a legendary warrior from the southern kingdoms, known for his incredible skill and agility despite his barely having muscles stature. Could this be him?
Determined to learn more, Vio approached the young teenager. "You're new here, aren't you?" he asked. The teenager nodded, his eyes meeting Vio's with a hint of curiosity. "I'm Vio," Vio continued. "I've heard some impressive things about your skills."
The teenager smiled. "My name is Kael. And thank you. I'm still getting used to this place."
As they began to train together, Vio was amazed by Kael's speed and agility. His movements were fluid and precise, and his swordsmanship was far more advanced than any of the other trainees. It was clear that Kael possessed a natural talent that was unmatched.
From that day forward, Vio made it his mission to befriend Kael. He saw in him a kindred spirit, a young warrior who was destined for greatness. Together, they trained tirelessly, pushing each other to their limits. And as they grew closer, Vio realized that Kael was more than just a talented swordsman. He was a loyal friend, a confidant, and a potential ally in the fight against the darkness that loomed over the kingdom.
As weeks turned into months, Vio and Kael's bond deepened. They shared stories of their families, their dreams, and their fears. They discovered a mutual respect for each other, born out of their shared passion for combat and their determination to overcome any obstacle.
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One day, as they were sparring, Kael asked Vio about the mysterious sword he had heard rumors of. "I've seen you with it a few times," Kael said, his eyes filled with curiosity. "It seems to be quite powerful."
Vio hesitated, torn between his desire to confide in Kael and his fear of breaking his father's rules. In the end, he decided to tell him the truth. "It's called the Sword of the Paragons," he revealed. "It's a family heirloom, passed down through generations."
Kael's eyes widened. "I've heard legends about that sword," he said. "Wow, that sword literally been the core when this kingdom was formed. If I remember correctly, wasn't it lost for a few hundred years?"
Vio nodded. "I found it accidentally." Vio could have lied, but he felt an instinct he didn't have with others. He was sure of that. Remembering the future where Kael died for his friend, a commoner who was given a crime he didn't commit. Kael acted after hearing that his friend was on death row, but unfortunately at that time, coincidentally a commander was visiting. Kael, no matter how talented, wasn't much of a problem against an 8th circle magician.
As they continued to train, Vio began to notice a change in Kael. He was becoming more confident, more assertive, and more determined than ever before. It was clear that his time at the training center was having a profound effect on him.
One day, as they were practicing their swordsmanship, a messenger arrived with a summons from the king. The kingdom's rural part was under attack, and a noble needed all the warriors he could muster to defend it.
Vio and Kael, along with the other trainees, were immediately dispatched to the battlefield. As they fought side by side, Vio was amazed by Kael's courage and skill. He was a natural warrior, capable of holding off multiple enemies at once.
In the midst of the battle, Vio found himself facing a particularly dangerous foe. The enemy warrior was wielding a massive, enchanted axe, and he was a formidable opponent. As they clashed, Vio found himself struggling to keep up.
Just when it seemed as though Vio was about to be defeated, Kael appeared, his sword drawn. He attacked the enemy warrior with a flurry of blows, forcing him back. Together, Vio and Kael managed to defeat the enemy, saving countless lives.
As the battle raged on, Vio and Kael fought side by side, their friendship growing stronger with each passing moment. They were a formidable duo, their skills complementing each other perfectly.
When the battle was finally over, the young noble was saved from the pirates. Vio and Kael were hailed as heroes, their names celebrated throughout the land. At least that's what they told themselves. Nobody would care if this part of the rural area would disappear or not, but there was a true reward in their friendship. They had faced danger together, overcome adversity, and proven themselves to be worthy of the Paragon name.
As they returned to the training center, Vio and Kael knew that their journey had only just begun. There were still many challenges ahead, and they would need each other more than ever. But with the Sword of the Paragons in Vio's hands and Kael's unwavering loyalty at his side, they were confident that they could face anything.