CH 12
Time without waiting for anyone continued to pass on
and Diablo, utilize every second of time to become stronger
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one day during morning training instructor announced
Chief Instructor Asmodeus, a tall, imposing figure with a stern expression, stood before the children. His presence commanded silence and respect. He began to speak, his voice echoing through the cave.
"Today, we move to the next phase of your training: weapon mastery. The weapon you choose now will determine your future career and your place in hell. Pay close attention as I explain each weapon and its significance."
Asmodeus walked over to a rack holding swords. He lifted one and held it aloft.
"The sword," he began, "is a symbol of strength. It requires agility and precision. Those who master the sword often become frontline warriors, leading charges and defending our territory."
"I myself am a sword user"
Next, he picked up a spear, which was next to the sword
"The spear is versatile and powerful. It allows for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. Spearmen are crucial in both open combat and defensive formations."
Moving to the next rack, he hefted a heavy mace.
"The mace is a weapon of sheer power. It is not for the faint of heart. Those who wield the mace must possess great strength and endurance. Mace bearers are often the bulwark of our forces, breaking enemy lines with their might."
Finally, Asmodeus picked up a bow and a quiver of arrows.
"The bow and arrow," he said, "require patience, precision, and keen eyesight. Archers provide crucial support from a distance, able to strike down enemies before they even reach our lines."
Diablo listened intently, his eyes darting between the different weapons. He knew the importance of this decision. While many of the children were dazzled by the beauty and prestige of the sword and spear, Diablo's mind was focused on survival and strategy.
One by one, the children were called forward to choose their weapons. As expected, the majority flocked to the swords, enchanted by their elegance. Others chose spears, drawn by their versatility and reach. A few bulky, muscular children, likely those who had received some training before coming to the cave, opted for maces.
When it was Diablo's turn, he stepped forward with confidence. He bypassed the swords and spears, ignoring the curious and judgmental stares of his peers. He picked up a bow and a quiver of arrows, feeling their weight in his hands.
Diablo knew that in a fight for survival, being able to strike from a distance could be the difference between life and death. The bow would allow him to maintain a safe distance from his enemies, giving him a strategic advantage.
As he returned to his place, he noticed No. 25—Lilith—choosing a sword. Diablo guessed she must have had prior knowledge or training with the sword, given her confidence and skill.
Once all 130 young demons had selected their weapons, Asmodeus spoke again.
"You have made your choices. Now, you will be divided into four groups based on your weapon. Each group will have specialized training and instruction."
The children were then sorted into their respective groups: sword, spear, mace, and bow. Diablo joined the archers, noting the diverse mix of children who had also chosen the bow. Some looked uncertain, while others, like Diablo, seemed confident in their choice.
The archers were handed manuals detailing the use and maintenance of the bow and arrow. Diablo opened his manual and began to read. It contained intricate diagrams and detailed explanations on everything from basic stances to advanced shooting techniques.
The next few weeks were intense. Each day began with rigorous physical conditioning, followed by hours of weapon training. The archers practiced shooting at targets of varying distances, learning to adjust their aim and account for factors like wind and movement.
Diablo quickly distinguished himself among the archers. His focus and determination, honed from his previous training, allowed him to excel. He spent extra hours practicing, perfecting his aim, and refining his technique.
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As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, the young demons continued their training.
The cave echoed with the sounds of clashing weapons and the grunts of exertion. Each child grew more proficient with their chosen weapon, their bodies and minds becoming finely tuned instruments of war.
Diablo's skills with the bow became renowned among his peers. He could hit targets with pinpoint accuracy, even in the most challenging conditions.
His strategic mind allowed him to anticipate his enemies' movements, making him a formidable opponent in mock battles.
Lilith, too, shone brightly in her group. Her swordplay was precise and deadly, a testament to her natural talent and rigorous practice.
She and Diablo often exchanged knowing glances, a silent acknowledgment of each other's prowess.
The instructors watched with keen eyes, noting the progress of each child. They saw the potential in Diablo and Lilith, recognizing that these two might rise to become key figures in their ranks.
One day, as the children were practicing, Chief Instructor Asmodeus called for attention. "Listen well," he began. "Your training is progressing well, but the true test of your abilities is yet to come. Soon, you will be put to the test in real combat scenarios. Prepare yourselves."
A murmur ran through the crowd. Real combat. The words sent a thrill of fear and excitement through the young demons.
Chief Instructor Asmodeus stood before them, his expression serious.
"Today, you will face your first true test," he announced. "You will be divided into teams and sent into the wilderness. Your task is to survive and complete the objectives given to you. Remember your training. Use your skills.."
The children were divided into teams, with Diablo and Lilith finding themselves on the same team. They exchanged a nod.
As they stepped into the wilderness, the weight of their task settled on their shoulders. This was no longer just training. This was real. They moved through the dense forest, their senses heightened, every rustle and shadow a potential threat.
Diablo led the way, his bow at the ready. Lilith was close behind, her sword gleaming in the dappled sunlight. They moved with purpose, their training guiding their every step.
The first challenge came swiftly. A group of rival demons appeared, their eyes gleaming with malicious intent. Diablo's heart pounded as he nocked an arrow and took aim. His hands were steady, his mind clear. He released the arrow, and it flew true, striking one of the demons squarely in the chest.
Lilith moved with grace and precision, her sword a blur of motion as she engaged the enemy. The rest of the team followed their lead, working together to overcome the threat.
As the battle raged, Diablo felt a sense of pride and determination swell within him. This was what they had trained for. This was their moment.
When the dust settled, the rival demons lay defeated, and Diablo's team stood victorious. They had passed their first test, but they knew more challenges lay ahead.
For now, they took a moment to breathe, to regroup, and to prepare for the next challenge. Diablo looked at Lilith, her eyes shining with the same fierce determination he felt.
"I did it," she said, her voice filled with a mixture of relief and excitement.