Chapter 7: Training.

Chapter 7: Training.

After three days of training with Lucifer, he was already able to keep up with him a bit. Although I kept losing every confrontation, at least I was now able to block and dodge some attacks. Each day was more intense than the last, my body was beginning to adapt to the training.

Little by little, I began to catch glimpses of the path while I fought. It was like a glimmer in the midst of chaos, a small invisible thread guiding my movements. I tried to use the resources I had learned while fighting with the mask.

Finding a weak point in Lucifer's stance was practically impossible. Every move he made was precise, and any mistake on my part was immediately exploited without mercy. His mastery of combat was overwhelming; not only did he anticipate my attacks, but he seemed to be two steps ahead at all times.

I tried to apply the same tactics I used to defeat Uhtred: leveraging my surroundings, using my body as an additional weapon, and attacking from unexpected angles. However, none of that worked against Lucifer. His ability to read my intentions made him block or deflect each of my moves with an almost insulting ease. It was as if I were fighting someone who knew my techniques even before I executed them.

—You've improved quite a bit in just three days—. Lucifer commented as he continued launching attacks, his movements as fluid as they were relentless.

—Thank you, I suppose… but if I need to see the path, why not use the mask? —. I asked, dodging and blocking with difficulty.

Lucifer paused his offensive for a moment, holding his sword calmly as he looked at me.

—If you are not able to see the path on your own, you will never truly master it—. he explained, with a tone that mixed patience and severity. —If you are not able to see the path on your own, you will never truly master it —he explained, with a tone that mixed patience and severity. —The mask shows you a path, yes, but it is a guide, not a definitive solution.The mask shows you a path, yes, but it is a guide, not a definitive solution. If you depend too much on it, you will only be a prisoner of its power.

I frowned, confused but intrigued by his words. Lucifer continued:

—When you are able to see the path for yourself, you will understand the true purpose of the mask. Only then, when you put it back on, will you be able to unlock its next phase, a power you can't even imagine now. But to get there, you must surpass your own limits without relying on shortcuts.

His words were clear, but the frustration remained latent. He was eager to progress, but he understood that there were no shortcuts in this type of training. If I wanted to surpass the champions of the other archangels, I would have to learn to walk my own path before relying on borrowed power.

There were only four days left to finish training with Lucifer, and the pressure felt like a constant weight on my shoulders. If I wanted to be stronger, I had to find the way on my own. I needed to master that unique feeling I experienced with the mask on: a mix of calm and fun, as if each movement flowed effortlessly.

—Alright, I'm ready to continue. Don't hold back. I said, trying to sound confident as I adjusted my stance and gripped the sword tightly.

Lucifer smiled, a smile that seemed to hide a challenge.

—Trust, that's good. But I hope your actions match your words, Orion.

Without warning, he attacked with speed and precision. His movements were as fluid as they were lethal, forcing me to react instinctively. But this time, instead of just blocking or dodging, I tried to stay focused on the feeling I was looking for: that lightness, that almost instinctive connection with the sword that I always felt under the influence of the mask.

Each blow resonated like an echo in my hands, but I did not back down. I clung to that inner calm, allowing it to guide my movements. Although I continued to make mistakes, something inside me began to align, as if the pieces of a puzzle were starting to fit together.

Lucifer paused for a moment, observing me with critical eyes.

—Not bad. You are starting to understand. But it's still not enough. Come on, don't slow down.

I nodded, taking a deep breath before raising the sword again. Time was running out, and I knew that every second was crucial if I wanted to unlock the true potential of my ability.

Each time it was getting closer. That small thread that I could barely perceive at first began to take shape before my eyes, as if an invisible line were guiding my movements. I could anticipate some of Lucifer's attacks and respond with greater precision. Although I still made mistakes that resulted in blunt blows from his sword, they no longer left me paralyzed as before.

The pain was there, sharp and constant, but instead of stopping me, it pushed me to keep going. Each impact seemed to sharpen my determination, making me feel that I was one step closer to understanding the path.

With each exchange, that feeling I used to have only with the mask on grew stronger. It was as if the scattered pieces of a puzzle began to come together inside me, giving me a clarity I had never experienced before.

Lucifer smiled as he dodged one of my attacks and countered quickly.

—I see you're starting to understand it, but there's still more to it. If you truly want to master the path, you have to trust that feeling completely. Don't hesitate, Orion. The path is not shown to the uncertain.

I wiped the sweat from my forehead as I prepared for the next round. I knew I was close, but I also understood that I still had a long way to go. However, for the first time, I felt that this goal was within my reach.

My gaze was fixed on Lucifer, watching every move he made, with a completely clear mind, focused solely on the sensation I had been seeking.

When Lucifer launched his next attack, time seemed to slow down. His sword was aimed at me in an upward arc, targeting my ribs directly. It seemed he was planning a horizontal cut that would cross my abdomen. In that instant, I saw it: the path.

It wasn't just a perception, it was a certainty. As if the very air itself were showing me the trajectory of his movements and, at the same time, the perfect response to counter him. It was a clear path, a flow that led me to disarm Lucifer.

Without hesitation, I took a step back, just enough to be out of his reach. His sword completed its arc, and at the exact moment, before he could reposition his weapon, I moved mine. My sword struck his wrist with precision, and his sword fell to the ground with a metallic clang.

Lucifer took a step back, surprised, although his expression quickly returned to its usual mix of pride and defiance.

—Wow… it seems you finally found it—. He said with a crooked smile while picking up his sword. —But don't get too excited, Orion—. Seeing the path is just the first step. Now you must perfect it.

I was breathing heavily, but I couldn't help but smile. I had found the way, and now I knew I could go even further.

—Now that you can finally see it, I'm going to raise the level—. Lucifer said with a smile that exuded challenge and a touch of fun.

—Level up?—. I asked, wiping the sweat from my forehead while trying to catch my breath.

—Yes. Did you really think I had been fighting seriously all this time? He replied with a mocking tone, spinning his sword with ease, as if it were an extension of his arm.

A shiver ran down my spine upon hearing those words. If what I had experienced so far was not his maximum, how far was his true power?

—But before you face the real intensity, you should rest for a few minutes—. Her smile softened slightly, almost as if she wanted to reward me for my progress. — Consider this your reward for reaching the goal. Consider this your reward for achieving the goal.

I let myself fall to the ground, leaning on my wooden sword. My body was exhausted, but the feeling of having found the way remained fresh in my mind. I looked at Lucifer, who stood there, unperturbed, as if not a single drop of sweat had touched his skin. I knew that what was coming would be more difficult, but I also knew that he was ready to face it.

All this time, there was someone watching my training with Lucifer, hidden behind a pillar that led to one of the mansion's hallways. Although her presence was discreet, it had not escaped my notice.

—You can go out now, Elena. You have been watching my training—. I said, turning towards the pillar with a slight smile.

A shy figure emerged from its hiding place, clearly surprised.

—When did you realize he was there?—. Elena asked, trying to maintain her composure as she moved forward slowly.

I let out a small laugh before responding:

—Ha, ha, ha, not long ago. It was just at the moment when I could see the path. For a moment, I saw you peeking out from behind that pillar.

Elena opened her eyes in disbelief. "But... the pillar was behind you." How were you able to see me?

Before I could respond, Lucifer intervened, his tone filled with astonishment mixed with approval.

—Impressive. Not only did you manage to see the path, but you also sensed movement behind you. That is a sign that your senses are beginning to expand beyond the ordinary.

Elena looked at me intently, as if she were trying to decipher something. I simply shrugged.

—I suppose that, for a moment, everything was so clear that it was impossible to ignore it—. I said, trying to downplay it, although deep down I knew this was an important step in my growth.

Lucifer, for his part, crossed his arms and nodded with a satisfied smile.

—If you continue down this path, Orion, what you are capable of perceiving and doing will only keep growing. Now, rest and talk to Elena. Because after this little distraction, the training will be even more intense.

—I'll be back in a while—. I hope you're ready when I get back. —said Lucifer, turning around with an inscrutable expression.

I didn't know if he wanted to give me some space to talk to Elena or if he had to attend to some important matter. In any case, the silence he left after his departure was palpable.

Elena took a step closer to me, crossing her arms while watching me with curiosity. — Is it always like this with you?Is it always like this with you? Direct and mysterious at the same time.

I let out a light laugh, running a hand through my hair still damp with sweat.

—I guess it's part of his style. Although, honestly, I'm never sure what's going through his mind.

Elena seemed to relax a bit and let out a sigh.

—I wanted to apologize for spying on your training. It was not my intention to make you uncomfortable. I just... wanted to see how much you've progressed since you got here.

—Don't worry, it didn't bother me—. I replied, with a smile. —Although I'm surprised that you're so interested.

She avoided my gaze for a moment, as if she were organizing her thoughts. Finally, she looked at me again.

—It's hard not to be interested. You are... different, Orion. Since you arrived, you have shown a determination and strength that few possess. And now, with everything at stake, I feel it's important to understand you a little more.

His words caught me off guard. I wasn't used to that kind of honesty, and for a moment I didn't know how to respond.

—Well, I still have a lot to improve—. I said, finally, trying to divert the attention a bit. —Although I appreciate that you notice it.

Elena gave a faint smile.

—How have Finan and Leofric been? What have they been up to? I haven't been able to see them much because of training —I asked, trying to steer the conversation a bit.

Elena smiled softly.

—I suppose they're fine. They have been touring the city together, as if they were father and son. It's something sweet to see them.

I couldn't help but smile at the image she was describing.

—You're right. They have become very close, as if they had always been family.

Elena nodded, her gaze momentarily lost on the horizon of the courtyard.

—I also believe they have found some peace here, even if it's temporary.

I sighed, looking at the clear sky.

—I would also like to explore the city, but with this training, I haven't had time for anything.

—If you want, after you finish training with Lucifer, I can take you to see interesting places in Columba—. Elena said with a warm smile.

His words took me by surprise, and I couldn't help but blush. He only says it out of kindness, I thought, but the memory of that night at the banquet, when I told her she was pretty, came back to my mind and made me even more nervous.

—Yes... if it's not a bother for you, then I would be delighted—. I replied, trying to sound casual, although my voice betrayed the nervousness I felt.

Elena let out a slight laugh, as if she found my reaction amusing.

—It's no trouble at all. I think it will do you good to take a break, even if it's a small one, after everything you've been through.

I nodded, trying to maintain my composure, even though my mind was a chaos. There was something in his tone and the calmness of his presence that made me feel comfortable, but at the same time, it made me incredibly nervous.

—Then it's a deal—. She said, with a sparkle in her eyes. — Just make sure you don't give up on your training.Just make sure you don't give up on your training.

—I'll try... even though Lucifer isn't making it easy for me—. I replied with a smile.

Elena laughed again, and that moment of simple conversation managed to lighten some of the weight I was carrying inside. Maybe, just maybe, Columba had more to offer than I expected.

About five more minutes passed during which we continued talking, enjoying a calm conversation that helped clear my mind from the training. It was an unexpected and necessary respite.

However, that moment of calm came to an end when Lucifer appeared.

—I'm back, brat. Stand up. He said with his usual authoritative tone, although in his eyes there seemed to be something akin to expectation.

Elena stood up elegantly and gave me one last smile before leaving.

—I'm stepping back so you can keep training. Good luck, Orion —. He said, as his soft voice filled the space for just a moment longer.

—Thank you. See you later. I replied, trying not to sound too enthusiastic.

I watched her as she walked down the hallway, and I couldn't help but feel that brief exchange had given me something more than just encouragement.

—Are you done with your romantic moment or are you going to keep sighing?—. Lucifer interrupted, raising an eyebrow with a mocking expression.

I straightened up quickly, trying not to show my embarrassment.

—I'm ready to continue—. I affirmed, with renewed determination.

Lucifer smiled sideways, drawing his sword as if nothing had happened.

—I hope so. Because this time I won't hold back even a little.

And with those words, the training continued.

Without a doubt, Lucifer had not been fighting seriously before. Now his speed and strength were overwhelming, but being able to see the path to the difference. Although I managed to dodge his sword by a hair's breadth, I could face him up close without the fear that used to paralyze me. It was as if calmness and fun had taken control, guiding every move I made.

For the first time, I could hold my own in a fight, but something didn't fit. Despite my progress, I felt that Lucifer was still holding back. His gaze and movements denoted absolute mastery, as if he were merely testing me. And yet, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't land a blow with my sword.

My attacks, although quick and well-directed, were anticipated and blocked with frustrating ease. Every time it seemed I could take the lead, Lucifer reacted with impeccable precision, keeping me at bay.

—Not bad, kid. But if you think this is enough to face what's coming, you're very mistaken. He said, deflecting one of my punches with such force that I almost lost my balance.

I didn't respond. My thoughts were focused on a single goal: finding a gap, any weakness in his defense, and proving that I could hit him.

—I'll give you some extra motivation. If you manage to hit me with your sword, the training will end and you can have that date with Elena.

—It's not a date! He will just show me around the city. I replied quickly, although my tone betrayed my nervousness.

Lucifer laughed mockingly when he heard me.

—As you say. But if you get like this, I think you don't want to admit it.

I gritted my teeth, trying to ignore his comment. I didn't want to get distracted, but the idea of finishing the training and exploring the city with Elena gave me a new motivation.

—Alright. Get ready, because I'm not going to stay here all day. I said, taking a firm stance and raising my sword.

—That's what I want to see. Give me your best shot. Lucifer replied with a defiant smile, adjusting his stance for a more serious confrontation.

My determination was at its peak. This was my opportunity to show how much I had progressed... and to get a moment of peace outside the training yard.

I became more aggressive, trying to hit him with all my might, but soon I realized I was being too predictable. My movements were easier to read, and Lucifer blocked my attacks with apparent ease.

My aggressiveness made me vulnerable, and Lucifer didn't hesitate to take advantage of it. With a quick and precise movement, he struck me in the side, forcing me to retreat, staggering.

—If you're going to attack like a madman without thinking, this will be very easy for me—. Said Lucifer with a mocking smile, lowering his sword with confidence.

I gritted my teeth, frustrated. Not only had I become more predictable, but I had also let my guard down. I needed to calm down and regain my focus if I wanted to have a real chance of hitting him.

—Come on, don't give up yet. I thought you wanted that "no date" —. He added, provoking me even more.

Hours passed and it was getting late. Exhaustion began to weigh on me, my strikes grew slower, and my body felt each impact of Lucifer's wooden sword. However, the determination continued to burn within me. I wasn't going to give up, not after everything that had happened to get here.

Despite the pain and exhaustion, something inside me began to align, as if I were no longer fighting only with the wooden sword, but with my entire being. I had learned to read Lucifer's movements, to anticipate them, and finally, I felt as if I were connected to the path in a deeper way.

In a final effort, using the little strength I had left, I managed to get ahead of him and strike him precisely in the side. My wooden sword hit its target, and for a brief moment, the sound of the impact resonated in the air.

I stopped, breathing heavily, while Lucifer, surprised, slowly lowered his sword.

—You did it… —. He said, with a look of recognition.

I fell to my knees, exhausted, but a feeling of satisfaction and relief washed over me. I had achieved what seemed impossible just hours before.

Lucifer smiled, pleased to see how I had surpassed my own limits.

—Well done, kid. Now you have what you were looking for, you can go to your appointment.

I leaned on the wooden sword, feeling a mix of pride and exhaustion take over my body. Every muscle burned, but still, I tried to get up, to keep fighting. However, my body rebelled, and I fell to my knees. The fatigue was unstoppable, and when I tried to force myself to continue, everything crumbled. I collapsed to the ground, completely exhausted. The pain was unbearable, but it wasn't just the physical pain that affected me. Before I could realize it, darkness surrounded me.

In the last breath of consciousness, an idea slipped into my mind: I couldn't believe I had failed. I had achieved what Lucifer expected of me, but I had not fulfilled my promise to Elena. She had shown me a hopeful smile, and we had talked about exploring the city together, sharing that time. Now, all that remained was the emptiness of not being able to fulfill what I had promised her. That disappointment crushed me more than any blow Lucifer could have dealt.

The darkness enveloped me completely, but the weight of guilt and frustration remained, like a burden on my chest. I had failed, not in battle, but in the most important thing.