Volume 3 Chapter 2 Training Begins, But──
Even though my ultimate goal of becoming a "2nd rank mercenary" hasn't changed, there are certain things that hasn't been any change in that aspect.
However, aiming higher than a '3rd rank mercenary,' I realized I need besides just completing missions, especially since I set my sights higher than being a 3rd rank mercenary. As a mercenary, I lacked achievements, experience, equipment, and the funds to obtain them.
That's why I decided to take on more challenging missions that carry a little more risk, deviating slightly from my previous safe route. Of course, I always consulted with Mikage, my senior mercenary, and never neglected the necessary preparations.
In addition, as part of my training, I asked Mikage for a favor.
──It's training outside of official missions.
"Shi!"
I swiftly dodged Mikage's "spear" thrust by jumping to the side.
I swung my black spear as a counterattack. But by that time, Mikage had already moved out of range.
"You're too slow! You should have been able to hit me at that timing!"
"Take this!"
Despite being scolded, I took another step forward and launched a follow-up attack. However, Mikage calmly intercepted and dodged my attack.
"This──"
"Ha!"
As I struggled to break through Mikage's defense, my spear was suddenly deflected.
"Always be aware of your opponent's counterattacks! Don't let your guard down when you're attacking!"
With my posture greatly disrupted, Mikage mercilessly launched an attack. I was too occupied with defending and couldn't find the opportunity to regain my footing.
"Sei!"
With a powerful blow, my spear was knocked out of my hand.
"Uh-oh..."
"Take this──"
Mikage's strike slammed into the empty space by my side.
"Cough... cough..."
I was blown away and fell to the ground, gasping for breath from the pain and impact. Mikage, who had thrown me a stern gaze, snapped back to reality when she saw my condition and said, "Huh!?"
"Yukina-sama, are you okay!?"
"Just... just give me a little more time... Ouch!"
The tip of her weapon was made of wood and had a rounded end, so the risk of a serious injury was low. However, if I took a direct hit from her sharp blow, it would definitely "hurt" a lot.
"I'm sorry! I got carried away..."
Mikage, who had just moments ago looked fierce, now bowed deeply with a genuine sense of apology. Even the fox ears on top of her head drooped down.
"No, it's fine. I'll recover quickly from this."
I put my hand on my side and cast a spell called "Healing." The magical light gently permeated my body, and the pain started to ease.
At times like this, I truly appreciate learning "Healing" from Kyunei. Thanks to that, I don't have to endure the pain that would otherwise make it hard for me to move.
Once my breathing calmed down, I used the black spear for support and stood up. The tip was covered with thick fabric and tied with a string, just like Mikage's imitation spear, to prevent any injuries from the blade. At this point, it's a story about preventing injuries rather than causing them.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine now. But it's amazing. Even though you're not a professional using a 'spear', I can't keep up with you.'
"Well, my father drilled me in martial arts, so it's an honor to be of use like this."
"I see. In that case, I'll continue to rely on you."
I adjusted my stance with the spear and looked at Mikage. Seeing my stance, Mikage's expression showed a slight hint of unease.
"Is that okay? Probably... no, definitely, things like this will happen multiple times, you know?"
"Yeah. I'm prepared for some pain."
I said this to Mikage, who was concerned about me, with the intention of reminding myself.
Among the "elements that I lack," which I mentioned earlier, the one I lack the most is "experience." To put it another way, it's the tactics of combat in "personal combat."
Until the 4th rank mercenary, most of the battles were against monsters. However, when you become a 3rd rank mercenary, there will be more requests involving personal combat. Like repelling thieves or capturing criminals.
In terms of simple physical abilities, monsters are much more dangerous than humans. With a few exceptions, if humans and monsters clash head-on, humans will almost certainly die.
But humans have "intelligence and skills" that more than make up for that "difference." That's why humans are able to secure their survival.
So, when fighting against humans, there is a high possibility of getting defeated if you fight with the same mindset as a monster. In fact, I've heard that many new mercenaries who have just become 3rd rank from Mikage lose their lives in requests that involve battles between people.
As for my personal experience in battles with people, I've only had some fights in back alleys. I'm confident that I can easily win against amateurs, but that's about it. I have never fought against professional criminals who make a living out of violence. If I were to encounter them, the only option would be to run away.
However, if I aim to become a 2nd rank mercenary, U cannot avoid battles with people. If I have accepted a request, there is no choice but to fight. That's why I asked Mikage for a personal "practice match" like this.
But the weapon Mikage is using right now is a "spear." Originally, Mikage's weapon of choice is a katana.
According to Gram──
'In my opinion, Mikage may not be as skilled with a katana, but I believe she can handle weapons in general.'
When I actually asked Mikage, it was just as Gram had predicted. Thanks to that, I was able to train for fighting opponents with weapons other than swords.
Also, Gram imposed restrictions on my training.
'While training with Mikage, "Summon" and "Enchantment - Weight Increase" are prohibited. At least for a while.'
Summon and Enchantment - Weight Increase are powerful abilities. If used well, they can even defeat stronger opponents.
But, training with those abilities won't develop pure 'skills'. Even if they are eventually allowed, Gram said that now is the time to focus on building the foundation.
──Therefore, Mikage shouldn't go easy on me.
Mikage understood my 'determination', nodded, and took up a spear just like me.
"Alright... whenever you're ready, come at me."
"Let's go──!"
I pumped myself up and stepped forward towards Mikage.
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