Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

The next day had already started. The first class was Elemental Manipulation again, and I managed to participate without any issues. However, I couldn't attend the second class - Weapon Mastery Class. Just like Instructor Valerie, Instructor Darius didn't allow me to join the practical sessions.

Instead, he handed me a thin book and told me to read it carefully in the resting area.

The book's name was "Silent Edge: The Path of Subtlety."

'Wait, is this what I think it is?'

Intrigued, I opened the book and began to read. It detailed an five-star sword technique that seemed deceptively simple at first glance. The movements described were minimalistic, focusing on precision and timing rather than flashy displays of power. However, as I delved deeper into the text, I began to understand the underlying complexity and the sheer potential of the technique.

The Silent Edge was all about exploiting the smallest openings, using the least amount of effort to achieve maximum impact. Each move was designed to flow seamlessly into the next, creating a rhythm that could overwhelm opponents with its unpredictability.

I could easily believe that such a refined technique had been created by Instructor Darius himself. Back when he was known as the Sword of the End, he must have developed this style to perfection. The legend of his prowess suddenly seemed much more real and intimidating.

One particular move, "The Whispering Cut," stood out to me. It was a simple, horizontal slash that targeted the opponent's weakest point in their defense. The key was to execute it with such speed and silence that the opponent wouldn't even realize they had been struck until it was too late. The novel also mentioned that this move alone had turned the tide in many of Darius's battles.

As I continued reading, I came across another move called "Phantom Step." This technique involved a swift, almost imperceptible sidestep that allowed the user to evade attacks and reposition themselves for a counterstrike. Combined with the Whispering Cut, it created a deadly combination that could disorient and defeat even the most skilled adversaries.

My excitement grew with each page. I could see how mastering these techniques could elevate my swordsmanship to an entirely new level. The Silent Edge was not just about defeating an opponent; it was about doing so with elegance and minimal effort, embodying the very essence of efficiency.

After finishing the book, I closed it gently, a newfound respect for Instructor Darius swelling within me. Why not? He is an all weapon user, but having this much insight and knowledge about swordsmanship, he is simply a genius!

It was clear why he had earned his formidable reputation. I was determined to practice these techniques as soon as my arm healed. Wait, I could do the Phantom step. Yeah, that's right.

I spent the rest of the class time in quiet contemplation, replaying the techniques over and over in my head, imagining how I would integrate them into my own style. I could hardly wait to append them into action. I mean to practice.

But, a question comes in now...

Why did he give this book to me?

Although I must have left a good impression on him during this one and half a month, I can tell we aren't that close. We could be called a student and a teacher who understands each other and gets along well.

Although, wasn't he supposed to give this book to his only disciple? Giving it to me as well... I don't know what his motives are.

Is he perhaps thinks I'm talented with swords? But his disciple is a monster as well, maybe on par with the Main Character's Talent.

Or, is it just me who is overthinking things?

But then again, he also gave a sword technique to Aurelius when he was around his second year. Though the technique is different, it is on par with the one in my hand.

Sigh, I'm sure I will get the answers I want at the end of the lesson.

And just like I expected, when the class ended, instructor Darius asked me to stay behind which I agreed without a second thought.

As the other students filed out of the classroom, I stayed seated, watching Instructor Darius with anticipation. He was a tall, imposing figure with a stern face that rarely showed any emotion. His reputation as a master of all weapons preceded him, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and curiosity about what he had in store for me.

"Adrian," he began, his voice steady and calm, "I see you've read through the book I gave you."

"Yes, Instructor," I replied, holding up the thin book, "The techniques in here are incredible. I would definitely want to learn them."

"Oh, why so? Can you tell me your thought about it?" He asked seemingly curious.

"Yes," I replied and started explaining what I thought about the book and what I understood.

"That's all I could grasp for now." I said at the end of my speech.

"For now huh." He chuckled to himself. "You are a weird one indeed..."

Well, I wasn't wrong though. If I could put them into action, I was bound to discover more. And I'm not weird, ok?!

Ah, right, I should ask that right?

"Umm. Instructor, I would like to ask something."

"Go ahead."

"Why did you give this book to me?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

Instructor Darius paused for a moment, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Just because I wanted to," he said casually.

"Eh?" I couldn't help but blurt out, stunned by his straightforward response.

He chuckled at my reaction. "I see you're surprised. Let me elaborate a bit more," he said, his tone becoming more serious. "Adrian, I've seen a spark in you, a talent that's rare and worth nurturing. It would be a shame to let that potential go to waste with no one to guide you."

I blinked, trying to process his words.

"Besides, you remind me of someone I once knew. Someone who had the same look in their eyes, the same determination... The same fate..."