As they reached Abriddge, Kira couldn’t help but replay the battle in his mind. Darumu’s combat style had been so impressive—quick, precise, and devastating. In comparison, he felt clumsy and uncoordinated with his rusty sword and awkward magic.

They stopped at the guild to report their findings. Darumu quickly pocketed her share of the reward and stretched with an exaggerated yawn, her toned body on full display.

“Whew, nothing beats a good workout,” she said, grinning as she caught Kira glancing at her. “Like what you see, newbie?”

Kira’s face turned crimson. “I-I wasn’t—uh, never mind!”

She chuckled, patting him on the shoulder. “Relax, kid. You’re cute when you’re flustered. Come on, let’s grab a drink. I need to celebrate.”

They found a cozy tavern near the guild, its dim lighting and warm atmosphere offering a welcome reprieve from the day’s chaos. Kira sipped his drink, trying to focus on his plans rather than the way Darumu’s outfit accentuated her curves.

“Hey,” she said, leaning in close. “What’s with the serious face? Thinking about your next big move?”

Kira nodded. “Yeah... Watching you fight made me realize how much I need to improve. I’m tired of feeling useless.”

Darumu smirked, her face inches from his. “Not bad, newbie. You’ve got guts. So, what’s the plan?”

“I want to combine magic and close combat,” Kira said, determination in his eyes. “Like a swordsman, but with magic.”

Darumu raised an eyebrow. “Huh. Sounds tricky. But if you can pull it off, you might actually keep up with me someday.” She playfully flicked his forehead, making him scowl.

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“I mean it,” he said, rubbing his head.

“Alright, alright,” she said, laughing. “Let’s see what you’ve got. Meet me at the training grounds tomorrow morning. Don’t be late.”

The next morning, Darumu was already at the training grounds, dressed in an even more daring outfit—a tight crop top and shorts that left little to the imagination. Kira swallowed hard, focusing on his sword instead of her figure.

“Alright, show me what you’ve got, Arcane Swordsman,” she teased, tossing him a practice blade.

Kira started with basic strikes, combining them with small bursts of magic. But his movements were stiff, and his energy control was erratic.

Darumu sighed, stepping behind him. “Your stance is all wrong. Here, let me show you.”

She pressed herself against his back, guiding his arms into the correct position. Kira’s face turned red as he felt her warmth.

“Focus, newbie,” she whispered in his ear. “Or you’ll never beat me.”

“I-I’m focused!” he stammered, adjusting his grip.

After hours of practice, Kira managed to land a few solid strikes. Darumu stepped back, watching him with a satisfied smile. “Not bad for your first day. Keep this up, and you might even impress me.”

That night, as Kira rested in the inn, the System’s window appeared.

“User has demonstrated proficiency in hybrid combat. New skill unlocked: Arcane Strike.”

“What’s that?” Kira asked aloud.

“Arcane Strike allows the user to channel magical energy into a melee weapon, enhancing damage and creating additional effects based on elemental alignment.”

Kira’s eyes lit up. “Perfect. Let’s test it out tomorrow.”

The next day, Kira and Darumu returned to the guild to inquire about the mysterious orb. The guildmaster, a stern woman with piercing eyes, examined it carefully.

“This is no ordinary artifact,” she said. “It’s connected to the Dark God’s corruption. I suggest you keep it hidden—and far away from those who would exploit it.”

As they left the guild, Darumu nudged Kira. “Looks like you’ve got yourself a cursed treasure, newbie. What are you gonna do with it?”

“I don’t know yet,” Kira admitted. “But I have a feeling it’s important.”

Darumu grinned. “Well, whatever happens, I’m sticking around. Someone’s gotta make sure you don’t get yourself killed.”

“Thanks,” Kira said, smiling.

“Don’t thank me yet,” she said, winking. “You’re buying the drinks tonight.”