Chapter 28

Neither said anything as they continued to glare at each other, the intensity between them almost tangible. The silent battle of wills was abruptly interrupted by a booming voice.

"What's going on here!" demanded a master—the very orc who had put Finn through hell week.

Finn and Lythana acknowledged the master respectfully, Finn bowing and Lythana following his lead. Finn wasn't going to embarrass himself in front of a master, no matter what this dark elf had done.

Lythana, however, wasn't so reserved. She told the orc exactly what she did, grappling Finn after tripping him to become his sparring partner for the current term.

The orc roared with laughter as if this was extremely hilarious. Finn grimaced inwardly, hoping that sparring was full contact so he could definitively kick her ass.

The orc asked, "Lythana, why'd you do that?"

Without missing a beat, Lythana responded, "Because I believe he will push me to be a better martial artist and cultivator."

The orc looked at Finn, who was caught off guard by Lythana's answer. He peered at her inquisitively for a second before respectfully returning his gaze to the orc.

The orc, after finally stopping his laughter, said, "She may have taught you the most important lesson of all: always watch your back."

The orc continued, "I am Grolak, and I will be your master for the next two days." With that, Grolak disappeared from sight.

Finn, a little less angry but still very annoyed, looked at Lythana. "You'd better bring your A-game because I won't be holding back."

Lythana, thinking Finn was mocking her by referring to sparring as a game, responded harshly, "Just like you got out of the arm hold? Take this seriously." She then walked off, not allowing Finn to clarify.

Finn sighed and decided to follow the system prompt, which led him to a new area that appeared to be an outdoor training ground. As he arrived, he saw an absurd number of tables covered in thousands of weapons. There were about 10,000 students present, and Grolak was accompanied by other masters from various races, each exuding an air of authority.

Grolak addressed the gathering students. "I am Grolak, and I will be instructing you along with the other masters present. Today, we will focus on weapon training. Each of you will choose a weapon, and we will help you learn its use."

Finn didn't know what to think as Grolak talked about learning weapons. He had always preferred unarmed combat, but he understood the importance of mastering a weapon in this world. He scanned the tables, wondering which weapon would suit him best.

As Finn contemplated his options, he felt a surge of excitement mixed with uncertainty. The array of weapons before him was overwhelming, and he knew that choosing the right one could make a significant difference in his training.

Grolak continued, "Each of you must choose a weapon that resonates with you. It will become an extension of your body, a tool to channel your strength and skill. Do not choose lightly."

Finn glanced around, noticing that some students had already begun selecting their weapons. He saw a human boy heft a spear with a determined look, while a dark elf girl carefully inspected a set of daggers. The variety of choices was immense, and the pressure to make the right decision was palpable.

Lythana, standing nearby, was examining a slender, curved blade. She handled it with ease, testing its weight and balance. Finn couldn't help but feel a pang of competitiveness. He turned back to the tables, his eyes sweeping over the options.

As Finn contemplated his choice, he found himself at the end of the line, unsure if he wanted to learn an actual weapon. It felt wrong for some reason, as if it was against his nature.

The masters got behind the tables, and the students were instructed to join a master for two hours. Finn purposely stayed at the end of the line, still contemplating his decision. He really like unarmed combat, he didn't know that he wanted a weapon. The training ground buzzed with activity as students paired up with masters, eager to begin their lessons.

As time went Finn watched as the other students began their training, each finding their rhythm with their chosen weapons. The masters moved among them, offering guidance and corrections. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and determination.

Finn felt a growing sense of resolve. He might not have chosen a weapon yet, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. He would push himself to the limit, honing his skills and strength. The path to becoming a strong cultivator was arduous, but Finn was prepared to give it his all.