Chapter 1609 Chapter 1430: Sword's Training
In the northern part of the Drexia Empire, the most powerful empire stood a mansion.
A beautiful mansion stood majestically amidst a lush green landscape, surrounded by a dense forest of towering trees. The grandeur of the mansion was evident in its exquisite architectural design, characterized by intricate details and elegant lines. Its facade boasted a combination of classic and modern elements, with large arched windows that allowed natural light to flood the interior.
The mansion was nestled on a sprawling estate, with meticulously manicured gardens that showcased a vibrant array of flowers and ornamental shrubs. A cobblestone path meandered through the gardens, leading to a grand entrance adorned with towering columns and a magnificent wooden door.
As one stepped inside, they would be greeted by a breathtaking atrium, adorned with a sparkling chandelier that cascaded from the ceiling. The interior was adorned with luxurious furnishings, from plush velvet sofas to intricately carved wooden cabinets. The rooms were spacious and filled with natural light, thanks to the large windows that offered stunning views of the surrounding greenery.
The mansion's backyard was a haven of tranquility, featuring a serene pool that reflected the blue sky above. A stone terrace provided the perfect spot for outdoor gatherings, with comfortable seating and a pergola draped in climbing vines. The sound of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the wind added to the serene ambiance.
Surrounded by a dense forest, the mansion offered a sense of seclusion and privacy. The towering trees created a natural canopy, casting dappled sunlight onto the estate. The gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional hoot of an owl added to the enchanting atmosphere.
Overall, this beautiful mansion harmoniously blended with its natural surroundings, creating a serene and picturesque retreat for its fortunate owner. This mansion belong to Maria and currently she stopped by the mansion on her way back. She was with Sakuya and Luna.
This mansion was well equipped as it possessed a tailored made training grounds.
The training ground was a vast expanse of open space, meticulously designed to facilitate various types of physical activities and skill development. It was a place where athletes, soldiers, and individuals seeking to improve their abilities would come to hone their skills and push their limits.
The ground was flat and well-maintained, covered with a layer of soft grass that provided a comfortable surface for training. The perimeter of the training ground was marked by a sturdy fence, ensuring the safety of those inside and keeping distractions at bay.
At one end of the training ground, there were designated areas for cardiovascular exercises and endurance training. This section featured a running track, complete with marked lanes and timers to help athletes measure their progress. Nearby, there was a row of stationary bicycles, treadmills, and elliptical machines for individuals to engage in intense cardio workouts.
In another area, there were multiple stations for strength training and weightlifting. Here, one could find a variety of equipment such as barbells, dumbbells, and weight machines, catering to different levels of fitness and training goals. The area was designed to accommodate multiple users simultaneously, with enough space between each station to ensure safety and comfort.
Adjacent to the strength training area, there was a dedicated space for functional training and agility exercises. This section featured agility ladders, cones, and hurdles to improve speed, coordination, and flexibility. It also included a padded area for practicing martial arts techniques and self-defense maneuvers.
Towards the center of the training ground, there was a spacious field that could be used for team sports like soccer, rugby, or football. The field was marked with boundary lines and goalposts, providing a perfect arena for athletes to practice their skills and engage in competitive matches.
Throughout the training ground, there were strategically placed water stations and benches for participants to rest and rehydrate. Additionally, there were shaded areas with seating arrangements, allowing spectators to observe and support those who were training.
The training ground was not just limited to physical activities. There were also designated spaces for mental training and focus enhancement. These areas featured meditation zones, where individuals could find a quiet and peaceful environment to relax, reflect, and practice mindfulness techniques.
Overall, the training ground was a well-equipped and thoughtfully designed space, providing individuals with the necessary resources to enhance their physical abilities, improve their performance, and achieve their goals. It served as a hub for personal growth, discipline, and camaraderie, fostering a sense of community among those who shared a common passion for self-improvement.
Inside the training grounds stood two girls.
''Let's train using sword.'' It was Maria who made this suggestion.
"…"
Sakuya picked up the black iron sword lying nearby. She had planned to respond casually, even jokingly, but at least Maria was serious about her swordsmanship despite not being specialized in the sword like her.
'I'll just go easy and then…'
Swish!
Sakuya's eyes widened as the distance between them closed instantly. In a fleeting moment, Maria swung her sword.
Bang! Their swords clashed, emitting a loud noise.
Crack!
Sakuya deflected the pressing force to the side and stepped back, but Maria followed relentlessly, glaring as if to kill. Responding, Sakuya drew mana from her core.
'I can't go easy.'
She clenched her jaw. She had been cautious, fearing an accidental injury, but it was an arrogant thought. It wasn't respectful to an opponent who was seriously engaging in the spar. And then,
The black iron sword's edge was nicked.
That fearsome white sword. If she hadn't infused mana at the moment of contact… it might not have broken, but it would have certainly required a blacksmith's attention. She almost lost the sword.
Whoosh-
Green energy enveloped the black sword. Sakuya intercepted the descending, attempting sword strokes from all directions. Her vision, judgment, and strength, which didn't require measuring her realm, acted like a huge shield, repelling the onslaught of sword strikes.
She blocked every attack, but not with a casual one-handed form.
'It's getting faster.'
Sakuya drew a bit more mana from her core. Maria's sword was no longer the recklessly swung weapon of the past. It was now aimed properly at vital points, regardless of whether the opponent was a blood relative or a half-sister. She was desperately trying to kill her
It was because she trusted Sakuya. It was okay to do so with her. Though it was called a sparring match, even if Maria swung her sword laden with murderous intent, Sakuya would impressively block it. Maria had that kind of faith in her.
'What a monster.'
Sakuya felt a sharp sensation. Her ice blue eyes flashed, piercing through every sword path. In her confident gaze, which even seemed relaxed, she read the ability to exploit any gap in the swordplay. The gap in their skills was immense.
'That's why I like it even more.'
Maria grinned widely.
A sparring match to hone her skills as she tends to really heavily on sword in the recent fights. The result was satisfying.
Last night, Luna and Sakuya fought, it was a sparring match.
And didn't Sakuya lose terribly to Luna?
Luna in her new form was truly deadly if Maria must be honest. Even she wasn't sure if she would have emerged victorious if she didn't go all out.
Maria glared at the face across from her clashing sword.
"Swordsmanship suits you better than magic."
"…What are you talking about all of a sudden?"
Was she trying to induce complacency? But Sayura's mind did not waver. Like her straight sword, her once turbulent thoughts steadied.
Kwaang—
A green explosion erupted amidst the storm of sword strikes. The air screamed under the force of Maria's fully-powered swing.
Sakuya was strong. But Maria was also strong enough with the sword as well. She could slice through rocks and create craters with just the wind from her sword.
And then,
Sakuya began to swing her sword.
She realized she couldn't deflect all the sword strikes by just standing still. Her thought process flipped completely. The path she had been following to parry the strikes turned upside down.
And then another revolution. A blue arc cut through the air, finding a gap.
From above to below, like lightning, Maria swung her sword towards the falling blade.
'I've lost my edge.'
Maria remembered the slow-moving blade.
'A lot.'
The white sword was still intact.
'It's about time for a change.'
Maria drew upon more strength, she felt the sword resonate with her.
Kang!
'It's light… light?'
Sakuya felt something off. Contrary to the heavy sound that had just echoed. The sound now seemed like a faint scream. And it wasn't just the sound that was light.
She could no longer swing her sword.
Maria, recognizing this, stopped her own blade.
Sakuya looked at the black iron sword in her hand.
A cleanly broken sword came into view.
"…Huh."
She lifted her head, trembling.
"What's this? What is this? Sword Aura ?"
"Can't you see?"
Maria with a sly smile casually replied.
She, steadying her ragged breathing, said,
"Time to change the sword. It's my win this time.''
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