“Alright, what do you guys wanna learn?” Arias asks as he stands in front of Rodrick and Sammy.

Rodrick raises an eyebrow. “What are you talking about? I thought you were going to teach us a sword technique? Just do that!” He asks, a little annoyed.

Sammy looks to Rodrick then to Arias, and just chooses to listen for the moment.

“Yeah, but which one? The overbearing ones, the free-flowing ones, the deceptive ones? I could pick out a suitable one for each of you, but that's boring. Instead, I prefer to force decisions and make you bear the consequences.” Arias says before letting out a laugh.

Rodrick frowns. “You’re evil, Arias.” He says before considering the matter.

Arias lets out a smile. “Yes, yes I am.” He says as he waits for their decision.

Rodrick rubs his chin, thinking it over. “I want… I want something structured. Something where there’s a plan for each move, an appropriate reaction to each attack…” He says before looking to Arias. “Do you have something like that?” He asks.

“Well, a lot of them are like that. But you probably want something like domination and control.” Arias says with a smirk.

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Rodrick’s eyes flare up. “I do not! Not that! It’s more like preparation and foresight! But like, extreme!” Rodrick exclaims.

“Hmmm. You sure you have the mind for that, Rodrick? The analytical skills?” Arias asks with a raised eyebrow. It was better to doubt him now than down the road.

“Hmph! Of course!” Rodrick says with confidence.

Arias lets out a sigh. “Fine. This one’s for you.” He says as he throws a book over.

Rodrick catches it and smiles.

Sammy’s eyes widen. Where’d that come from? She asks herself.

“It’s called the Swordheart Flow. It’s basically mind-reading. Pretty cheat-like if you ask me, but hey, whatever floats your boat.” Arias says with a teasing smile.

“It’s not cheating!” Rodrick exclaims, defending his technique, before opening the book.

Arias looks to Sammy and smiles.

Sammy’s eyes connect with Arias, a blush immediately formed once more before she turns away.

Arias lets out a sigh. Not happening, little girl. Just forget about it. He thinks with a shake of his head.

Sammy turns to Arias once more, and bravery pushes her forward. “I want someone– I mean, I want something strong and overbearing!” She announces with a loud voice.

Rodrick looks up and he watches Sammy’s intense stare towards Arias and he frowns. Damn pretty boy Arias! He exclaims, not liking where this was headed.

Arias’ eyes widen. Damn, girl! Easy! You’re still young! He exclaims, a little frightened.

Arias gulps. “Ah, ugh, what do you mean? Strong how? Like resilient? Or powerful? Or maybe he's the strong silent type– I mean, maybe it’s a steady sort of strength. Ah-huhm.” Arias says before clearing his throat.

Rodrick rolls his eyes. Get a room! He thinks, annoyed.

Sammy’s face continues to get hotter. “I mean like– I mean like, dominant and in control!” She says as she closes her eyes and feels the blood rush to her head.

Arias’ eyes widen. Holy shit, girl. Let’s take a breath. He thinks, wanting to step away from the situation. Arias clears his throat and throws a book over. “Bloodflood Tidalwave. It's uhmm, ah-humm. It’s probably what you’re looking for. If you ask me, they tried to pack too much into this one, but it should about right. If you ever make it to the sixth stage of this thing, let me know, because that feat is basically unheard of.” He says before turning around and walking away “Okay, I’ll leave you kids to play. I, uhm , I need some air.” Arias says with a wave.

Rodrick frowns. “We’re outside, idiot!” He calls out.