22. Castle

Kael awoke as the first rays of dawn filtered into the room. His eyes struggled to focus in the darkness for a moment before he noticed the cold stone walls of the room. His body still felt exhausted from last night's sleep, but at least he was starting to feel a little stronger. He rubbed his eyes and slowly got out of bed.

The air in the room was cold, but the sounds outside and the early morning activity reminded Kael that he was not alone here. The other Witchers had started their day, occasionally talking to each other.

Kael put on a light leather robe and left the room, putting away his few belongings. Aedrin was waiting for him.

When Aedrin saw Kael, he nodded slightly and motioned for him to follow.

Kael followed him through the wide, cold corridors of Kaer Morhen. In other rooms, behind the great stone walls, there was noise and humming. He could see some Witchers beginning their morning exercises, others just working on their shields and swords. They were all physically strong, and Kael was filled with a sense of dread and curiosity, thinking that this was his future.

After a while, Aedrin led him to a large training area. It was more open and brightly lit than the rest of Kaer Morhen. Inside, several Witchers were performing various tests and practicing intensely with their swords. Kael was more than a little excited to see this setting; here, as Aedrin had said, was where the truly challenging part of the training would begin.

Aedrin led Kael to a spot in the center and then stood in silence for a moment. "This is our battleground," Aedrin said as he looked around at Kael. "Here you will learn about the creatures of nature and how a new warrior like you will face them. It all begins with knowing your body and focusing your mind."

Kael was silent for a moment. He could feel the weight of Aedrin's words. Not only physical strength was needed here, but also mental discipline.

"Today will be your first test," Aedrin said. "I want to see how long your body can last."

Kael noticed the seriousness in Aedrin's eyes as he listened intently. The training seemed to start quickly.

Aedrin looked into Kael's eyes, wanting him to understand how difficult and complex the training was. In this world, it wasn't just about physical skill; each stage of training required a deep focus on shaping the body and soul of a witcher.

"Training here in Kaer Morhen is a multi-step process," Aedrin said, stepping back to see the seriousness in Kael's eyes. "The first stage is the physical foundation that we will work on with you here. We will train you to strengthen your body, to increase your endurance. But that's not enough. This training is a lifelong journey."

Aedrin continued, watching Kael's reaction. "After the first stage, we will subject you to the 'Witcher's Potion'. This will push your body to its limits while developing your mental abilities. The potions will strengthen your body, but they are very dangerous. Some young people do not survive this stage. Your body will be changed by the potions, but only the fittest will survive the change."

As Kael listened intently to Aedrin's words, he began to feel the fear within him. He thought about what would happen if the fears and uncertainties in his mind were combined with the effects of these potions. But at the same time, he felt how much he longed for this path.

"After the potion phase, a test awaits you," Aedrin said solemnly. "This test will determine whether or not you are accepted as a witcher. It is not only a physical test, but also a spiritual one. You will have to take your medallion and go on a quest alone for the first time in the real world. This is a test to test you against monsters. And it will test not only your ability to survive, but also your judgment.

Kael took a deep breath at this information. He realized that this journey was not only about gaining strength, but also about discovering his personal limits.

Aedrin saw the question marks in Kael's mind. "This medallion is the identity of a witcher," he explained. "It is a symbol that will remind you of your inner strength, your journey, every moment of it. Once you have your medallion, you are considered a Witcher. But remember, this is just the beginning. While training here at Kaer Morhen, you will also learn the 'Discipline of Emotions'. This is the key to balance, to controlling your body and mind.

Kael nodded, trying to understand what Aedrin was saying. He realized that everything in this world had an aspect that transcended the body. And his time here would give him the opportunity to explore every aspect of life.

Aedrin took a few steps back to see how ready Kael was. Then he gestured for him to come closer. "You must do this right, Kael. Come on."

Kael bent down and took a deep breath for a moment. His body was not fully recovered yet, but that would not be a hindrance to the training. He could feel the pressure Aedrin was putting on him; every move was a step more difficult. But that would not stop Kael.

First, he had to make a run to test his speed. On the testing ground Aedrin had set up, Kael had to push his body. There was only one way: he had to be faster, stronger, and more cautious.

Although he could have achieved better results by using the Force, he chose not to. He didn't want the witchers to know about his abilities and his past.

Kael broke into a run, counting his steps and planning each one carefully. His legs were strained from the blows, but he had to go a little farther each time.

Aedrin watched Kael in silence. His every move would show his future potential. Kael's success was an important step in confirming Aedrin's commitment to his training.

Finally, Kael finished his run. He was out of breath, but his body had found a little more strength. Aedrin paused for a moment as he watched Kael catch his breath.

"You have started well," Aedrin said, "but this is only the beginning. You will see more today. You will need the same discipline in battle."

Kael thought for a moment about what Aedrin had said. "What more do I have to do?" he asked slowly.

"When your mind and body are united, the real training will begin," Aedrin said, looking into Kael's eyes with a smile. "But first you must recognize the power within you. Then everything will be easier."

Feeling a little stronger, Kael slowly got into position to prepare for his next steps. He began to realize that everything was not only a physical battle, but a mental one as well. This training ground for Kaer Morhen was the first step on a journey that would shape both his body and his mind.

If you want to support me patreon com Talamo