The Student by Niemann Darin

Author:Niemann, Darin [Niemann, Darin]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, epub
Publisher: Darin Niemann
Published: 2016-10-05T04:00:00+00:00

After classes that night, I found Dante waiting for me at our rendezvous spot. Dante and I had become close over the course of the year, as we usually spent our nights training. Once, I questioned him why he would bother to come out and practice with a novice, every night of the week. His reply being that of all things in this world, he enjoyed a good sword fight over most other things… except perhaps a mug of ale. He also told me that I was learning at an advanced rate, and it was interesting to witness firsthand. For me, what originally had been a simple interest had unfolded into a passion. I became accustomed to the hilt nestled in the palm of my hand and the solid weight of the sword seemed to lessen every time I held it. Now, standing here with weapon in hand, it was a mere extension of my arm. I felt stronger than I ever had.

Dante laughed at my confidence, “What has you strutting around like a rooster?”

I grinned, “Nothing of note, it has simply been a good week.”

Dante guffawed. “Whatever you say, kid. I know a victory dance better than anyone. So, what is it then? Who did you beat?” I decided to tell him about Max and his friends. I told him how they had been pestering me for some time now, and how I had finally stopped them. After I finished my story, Dante put a hand on my shoulder. “You did well, kid. Just remember that you don’t always have to fight your battles alone.”

I nodded and replied, “I know that, but at the same time, I knew that I needed to deal with it myself.”

Dante stood and I followed as he spoke, “I get it. I’ve had my fair share of squabbles in life. Now, enough talk, we have training to do. I know just the thing to knock your confidence down a notch.”

He faced me and drew his sword. I readied myself as well and smiled, “What might that be?”

He grinned, then tossed his weapon from his right hand, to his left. I blinked, confused. Dante charged me, sword in his left hand. I realized that blocking and parrying would be much harder, for both of us. The only thing I could think to do was dodge, and then counterattack. So I did. Dante’s sword thrust inward, attempting to get through underneath mine. I sidestepped the thrust, pivoting while moving to get myself positioned, then striking with a downward slash toward his neck. As fast as my counterattack was, Dante was faster. His sword appeared in front of mine to parry.

He grinned as we locked swords, “It’s been some time since I fought with my left. I’m not holding back this time, kid. Prepare yourself.”

I was too focused to give a reply, as I was trying to find a way to fight his new style of swordplay. He shoved me away roughly, breaking our swordlock. Dante, not letting up, continued his attack with fierce, relentless strikes.

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