Chapter 7: The Path of the Blade

Kael stood outside his father's workshop, hesitating. The conversation with Elder Thalor had left him with more questions than answers, but one thing was clear—if he wanted to explore the world and uncover its secrets, he needed to be stronger. And that meant learning to wield a sword.

But do I really need a sword? Kael thought, his mind racing. In my past life, I mastered Jeet Kune Do. I could use a knife, nunchaku, or even my bare hands. Wouldn't that be enough?

He shook his head, dismissing the doubt. No, a sword is different. It's versatile, powerful, and it's what people in this world use. If I want to survive out there, I need to adapt. Besides, it wouldn't hurt to add another weapon to my arsenal.

Taking a deep breath, Kael pushed open the door to the workshop. His father, Garrick, was sharpening a blade, the rhythmic sound of metal on stone filling the room.

"Dad," Kael began, his voice steady despite the nerves, "I want to learn how to use a sword."

Garrick looked up, his expression unreadable. For a moment, he said nothing, then he set the blade down and leaned back in his chair. "A sword, huh? What brought this on?"

Kael shrugged, trying to sound casual. "I've been thinking. If I'm going to explore the forest—or maybe even leave the village someday—I need to know how to defend myself. And you're the best fighter I know."

Garrick studied him for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. We'll start tomorrow at dawn. Don't be late."

Kael blinked, surprised by how easily his father had agreed. "Really? Just like that?"

Garrick smirked. "You're my son. If you're serious about learning, I'm not going to stop you. But don't think this will be easy. Training with a sword takes discipline, focus, and a lot of hard work."

"I can handle it," Kael said, his determination shining through.

As Garrick returned to sharpening the blade, Kael hesitated, then asked the question that had been on his mind since his talk with Thalor. "Dad, what about magic? Thalor said it's real. That you've used it before."

Garrick paused, his hands stilling on the blade. For a moment, he didn't respond, then he set the sword down and turned to face Kael. "Magic is real, boy. But it's not like the stories. There are two types: Inveris and Gaianis."

Kael frowned. "What's the difference?"

Garrick leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "Inveris is about channeling energy within your body. It strengthens your muscles, sharpens your reflexes, and can even protect you from harm. It's what I use in combat. It's subtle, but powerful."

"And Gaianis?" Kael asked, his curiosity piqued.

Garrick's lips twitched into a faint smile. "Gaianis is what most people think of when they hear the word 'magic.' Fireballs, lightning bolts, that kind of thing. It's flashy, but it takes a lot of energy and focus. Most people can't use it effectively in battle."

Kael's eyes widened. "Can you use both?"

Garrick shook his head. "I've only ever used Inveris. It suits my close combat fighting style, quick strikes, and strong defenses. But that doesn't mean you can't learn both. With enough training, anyone can."

As Kael left the workshop, his mind was racing. Inveris and Gaianis. If I can master both, I'll be unstoppable. And if I combine that with my skills from my past life...

He felt a surge of excitement. For the first time, he had a clear goal. He would learn to wield a sword, master both types of magic, and become stronger than anyone in the village. And then, when he was ready, he would leave and explore the world.

End of Chapter 7