The Art of Precision

Casial and Adam walked toward Aqua, their expressions a mix of curiosity and admiration. Casial grinned and said, "You were aiming for my vitals the entire time—not that I disapprove."

Adam nodded, intrigued. Aqua's steady gaze shifted between them as he asked, "What do you think is most important in combat?"

Casial tilted his head, answering with a grin, "Speed and strength… probably?" Adam nodded in tentative agreement, though uncertainty flickered in his eyes.

Aqua's lips curled into a faint smile. "I gave a similar answer when my brother asked me the same question," he began, his tone thoughtful. "But I was wrong." He paused briefly, his gaze distant, and then continued, recounting the memory.

Years ago, under the gentle rays of sunrise, Aqua stood on the training grounds of House Rein, gripping a wooden sword with youthful determination. Facing him was his older brother, Ray, whose calm demeanor made Aqua bristle with resolve.

"Is that your answer?" Ray asked. "Then let's see it in action. I'll match your speed and strength."

Aqua charged forward, swinging his sword with all the speed he could muster. Yet each strike missed its mark—Ray dodged effortlessly, sidestepping with precision as if Aqua's attacks were predictable. Frustration mounted as Aqua tried again and again, yet his brother continued to evade him with the same ease.

Hours passed, and the soft morning glow turned into the harsh sunlight overhead. Exhausted and drenched in sweat, Aqua finally sat down on the training ground, panting heavily.

Ray approached, his shadow falling over Aqua. "Are you tired?" he asked, his voice tinged with patience.

Aqua glared up at him, frustration spilling over. "You were just dodging! You didn't even care to attack or take me seriously."

Ray knelt, offering a hand. "If I was dodging, why didn't you adjust your attacks? Our speed was equal."

Aqua hesitated before asking, "How could I do that?"

"Precision," Ray replied, his voice steady. "In real combat, it's not speed or strength that matters most. If you can't land a blow, then neither of those traits will help you. Precision allows every strike to count."

In the present, Aqua's gaze sharpened as he finished his story. "That's why I was aiming for your vitals," he explained to Casial.

Casial's eyes brightened, realization dawning on his face. "So it's all about precision," he murmured, impressed. Adam, standing nearby, was stunned. "Ray Rein taught you that? I thought he was known as a mage genius—not a swordsman!"

Aqua nodded faintly, his smile subtle but genuine. "Ray is more than what people think. And his lessons stay with you."