Training

It took me several days to fully assimilate the information provided in the manual, and a few more days for the pulsating pain in my mind to subside.

I gathered a selection of swords from the knights, carefully choosing a longsword for both my practice sessions and future endeavours. This particular longsword possessed a balanced length, allowing for versatile single-handed use, while its extended grip accommodated the option of wielding it with both hands.

Galadriel had made it clear that she would be unable to communicate with me for the time being, emphasizing the importance of dedicated sword practice during this period.

Going to the courtyard just beyond my room, I surveyed the surroundings, ensuring no one was present. Assured of my solitude, I picked up the longsword obtained from the knights.

Its weight was neither excessive nor insubstantial, striking a harmonious balance.

Like many others in my previous world, I harboured a certain fascination with swords, and I couldn't resist indulging in some playful swings and manoeuvres.

After satisfying my initial amusement, I shifted my focus on practicing the sword techniques outlined in the manual.

The initial portion of the manual delves into various exercises and postures aimed at developing muscular strength and flexibility.

These exercises coincided with the exercises Galadriel had taught to me earlier, and given my consistent daily practice, I deemed it unnecessary to reiterate this section.

Moving on, the subsequent part of the manual proved to be of utmost significance, as it detailed the intricate process of infusing mana into one's weapons.

As an experienced mage, I initially presumed this aspect would be relatively simple. However, attempting to imbue mana into the sword using the prescribed method presented its fair share of challenges.

Whenever I managed to successfully infuse mana into my body, I encountered difficulties in imbuing the same mana into the sword.

Conversely, when I directed my focus towards the sword, my body lagged behind, akin to attempting to breathe simultaneously through both the nose and mouth.

Despite my persistent efforts, I spent an entire day attempting to master the technique, only to encounter repeated failures.

Undeterred, I persevered into the following day, yet the desired outcome eluded me once again.

Nearly a week and a half transpired before I achieved a semblance of success in synchronizing the infusion of mana within both my body and the weapon.

However, I must acknowledge that the process remained incomplete. The manual emphasized the necessity of establishing a harmonious flow and connection between sword and body, a feat that eluded me thus far. The rotation of mana between sword and body proved to be a challenging process. It required the deliberate pushing of mana from the body into the sword, followed by an orchestrated pull of mana from the sword back into the body, all accomplished with a balanced and rhythmic precision, which proved to be a daunting task.

"Finally..." I exhaled deeply, observing with satisfaction as a faint blue glow emanated from my sword. "It is complete."

After two weeks of rigorous dedication, I had successfully mastered the art of mana infusion as outlined in the manual. Throughout this intensive period, I diligently trained during the day, adhering to the manual's instructions, while also ensuring that my mage activities did not suffer. In nightfall, I would engage in meditation and meticulously review the intricate runes and formulas of the fourth circle, preparing for the imminent breakthrough in near future.

As I firmly grasped the sword infused with mana, I could feel its potent energy coursing through my being. It was no wonder that this facet held such paramount importance within the Wyrmheart Stance.

With a seamless motion, I swung the sword through the air, causing a resonant chirring sound as it cleaved through its path. The proficiency I had achieved surpassed my initial expectations, and I owed a great debt of gratitude to Galadriel. Embedded within the manual was a sophisticated system that facilitated my progress. Each time I erred in mana infusion or the rotational patterns, a mental signal alerted me to my mistakes.

Moreover, the manual expertly guided me in attaining the necessary rhythm for the fluid rotation of mana between the sword and my body. If not for these invaluable aids, I could only speculate that the process would have taken several months, if not an entire year, to master.

Without wasting time, I delved into the next segment of the manual, which focused on the Fourth Stance of the Wyrmheart Stance—a segment that emphasized intricate footwork. Although it puzzled me why the manual prioritized this particular part to learn first over the others, I trusted that there existed a good rationale beyond my understanding . Resolute in my decision, I set aside any further contemplation and proceeded directly to the Fourth Stance.

Once again, the exercises presented were familiar, as they mirrored the ones taught to me by Galadriel during the preceding months. Undoubtedly, footwork played a pivotal role in the art of swordsmanship. It bestowed upon practitioners the ability to maintain optimal distance, adjust their positioning swiftly, and execute offensive and defensive manoeuvres with utmost efficacy.

The manual introduced a series of complex stepping patterns, encompassing forward, backward, sideways, and diagonal movements. It emphasized the necessity of maintaining a stable and balanced posture throughout each intricate motion. Furthermore, it enlightened me on the utilization of mana to enhance agility and facilitate weight distribution while in motion.

The manual insisted on the practice of seamlessly integrating footwork with a variety of sword movements, a harmonious marriage that cultivated fluidity and precision. It compelled me to simulate diverse combat scenarios, thereby fostering versatility in my footwork techniques.

Whenever I erred in my execution, the persistent mental buzz would serve as a persistent annoyance, yet paradoxically, it also guided me towards heightened accuracy. After an arduous and diligent effort spanning an entire month, I finally learnt the Fourth Stance of the Wyrmheart Stance.