Chapter 10: The Rise of Raven

Raven felt a new surge of strength coursing through his veins. Two weeks of intense training under Kargath and his experienced team had done wonders for him. His muscles were more defined and he could feel a noticeable increase in his stamina. As he looked at his reflection in the nearby stream, he realized that his birthday was just a month away, but he chose to keep the date to himself.

In the fantastical world of Arcadia, time was measured in "tides" and "moons". Each tide was equivalent to three of the world's standard hours and a moon was the equivalent of one standard month. Raven made a mental note that his birthday is in one moons time.

He met with Kargath and the leader informed him that there were two more tasks he needed to complete before they could embark on their first mission together. Firstly, Raven would have to spar with Finlye, another apprentice, and either defeat him or endure for ten minutes. Secondly, they needed to visit a blacksmith to forge a weapon for Raven.

At the blacksmith, Kargath explained to Raven the significance of having a weapon that was made specifically for him. "A weapon is an extension of oneself in combat," Kargath said. "The blacksmith will forge a weapon that is tailored to your strengths and weaknesses."

The blacksmith, a gnarled old man with a stern expression, took Raven's measurements and asked about his fighting style. Raven explained that he had only recently started training and didn't have a defined style yet. The blacksmith nodded, "That's not a problem, we'll forge a weapon that can adapt to your changing style as you grow stronger."

As the blacksmith worked on Raven's weapon, Kargath revealed that their first mission was fast approaching. "We've received a request from a village in the southern mountains," he said. "They're being terrorized by a pack of worgs and need our help to protect their livestock."

Raven nodded, eager to prove himself. But before he is allowed join the mission, he had to complete his final test - sparring with Finlye.

Raven and Finlye entered the training grounds and the other mercenaries gathered around to watch the spar. Finlye was a formidable opponent, but Raven had improved greatly in his training and was eager to show what he had learned.

The fight between Finlye and Raven was intense and lasted for nearly 15 minutes. Finlye was quick and agile, but Raven was strong and determined. They exchanged blows, each trying to get the upper hand. Raven noticed that Finlye was using magic to enhance his attacks, so he decided to do the same. He summoned his pebble core and channelled its power into his attacks, making him even stronger.

The other mercenaries gathered around, watching the intense battle unfold. "Look at those two go," one of them commented. "They're both so evenly matched."

"I've never seen apprentices this skilled," another added. "They'll make great mercenaries someday."

As the battle raged on, both Raven and Finlye began to tire. But they pushed through, determined to finish the fight. Finally, Raven landed a powerful blow that sent Finlye sprawling to the ground. The other mercenaries cheered as Raven helped Finlye to his feet.

"Good job, Raven," Finlye said, panting. "You're a strong opponent. I can see why Kargath chose you."

"Thanks, Finlye," Raven replied, smiling. "You're not so bad yourself. I can't wait to see what the future holds for us."

The two apprentices hugged each other, congratulating each other on their progress and skills. They knew that their journey as mercenaries had only just begun and that there was much more for them to learn and accomplish in the years to come.

Kargath nodded in approval, "Well done, Raven. You have proven that you have what it takes to join us on our mission. We leave tomorrow in the morning, be ready and get a good night's sleep."

Raven was filled with a sense of pride as he left the arena and headed back to his tent. He couldn't wait to see what lay ahead on his journey as a mercenary.