Chapter 60: Training the Newcomer

Chapter 60: Training the Newcomer

The morning air was crisp as Kazuki stretched his muscles, preparing for the day's training. Lina stood a few paces away, looking both determined and nervous. Elara was helping her adjust the borrowed leather armor, while Tara inspected the training weapons.

Kazuki picked up a wooden sword, handing it to Lina. "Let's see how you handle this."

Lina gripped the sword with both hands, but her stance was shaky. Tara clicked her tongue. "You're holding it too tight. Relax your grip."

Lina loosened her hands slightly, trying to mimic Kazuki's stance. He walked around her, gently adjusting her posture. "Keep your feet shoulder-width apart. You need balance."

Lina bit her lip, concentrating. Kazuki took a step back, nodding approvingly. "Good. Now, try to swing it."

She hesitated before swinging awkwardly, almost losing her balance. Tara couldn't help but snort. "You look like you're trying to swat a fly."

Lina's cheeks flushed, but she steadied herself. Kazuki offered an encouraging smile. "It's okay. Everyone starts somewhere."

Elara gave Tara a pointed look. "Maybe you could demonstrate?"

Tara scoffed but picked up another wooden sword. "Fine. Watch closely, Lina."

With smooth, fluid movements, Tara demonstrated a series of basic strikes and blocks. Lina watched with wide eyes, clearly impressed.

Kazuki gestured for Lina to try again. This time, her movements were slightly better, though still unsteady. After a few more tries, she managed to keep her balance through a simple strike.

Kazuki clapped lightly. "Not bad. Keep practicing that motion."

Lina nodded, determination in her eyes. As she repeated the move, Tara circled her, correcting minor mistakes. Elara prepared a few basic spells nearby, explaining that Lina would eventually learn to defend against magic attacks as well.

After an hour of practice, Lina collapsed onto the ground, panting. Sweat plastered her hair to her forehead, but her eyes gleamed with satisfaction.

Kazuki handed her a canteen. "You did well for your first day."

Lina smiled gratefully, taking a long drink. "I didn't think it would be this hard."

Tara plopped down beside her. "Training's always hard. But you'll get used to it."

Elara knelt to check Lina's form again. "You have potential. You just need to build up your strength and endurance."

Lina wiped her forehead, looking thoughtful. "I'll keep practicing. I don't want to be a burden."

Kazuki shook his head. "You're not a burden. You're trying your best, and that's what matters."

Tara smirked. "Besides, if you're going to stick around, you'd better toughen up. We get into trouble more often than not."

Lina laughed softly. "I'll do my best."

Kazuki glanced at the sky, noting the position of the sun. "Let's take a break. We can continue after lunch."

As they settled down to eat, Kazuki couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Training Lina reminded him of when he first learned to fight, fumbling and unsure. Watching her determination gave him a sense of purpose — a reminder that despite the darkness he faced, there were still reasons to move forward.

For now, they had a new ally to train and protect, and that was enough to keep his demons at bay — if only for a little while.