Kapitel 36: Chapter 36 - Into the Forest
With her training progressing well, Seraphina was eager to put her skills to the test in the real world in an environment that didn't require her to constantly fear incoming death. That is why she couldn't wait to visit the nearby forest and prepare for the combat and survival she would face there.
After her conversation with Sir Aldric, he was able to convince her father to agree to the idea, but he insisted on sending knights to protect her after the recent incident. Understanding his concern, Seraphina didn't even protest.
The experience she sought could still be gained under watchful eyes, and at least this way her life wouldn't be endangered by unknown accidents in the forest.
On the morning of her departure, Seraphina packed her gear meticulously. She took her rapier-type longsword, a few knives, and basic survival supplies including a water pouch, some dried food, and a small first aid kit.
She dressed in lightweight but sturdy clothing, perfect for quick movement through the dense forest while also protecting her from some injuries.
She made sure she had enough things to at least stay a few nights, as they were most likely going to be camping in the forest while she trained. This way she can gain some experience surviving in the wild.
The three knights assigned to accompany her arrived at the entrance of the estate as she finished her preparations. Each was a level one knight, chosen by her father for their skill and loyalty.
He wanted to send a stronger one, but with the current trouble brewing he didn't have stronger knights he could spare.
"Good morning, Lady Seraphina. My name is Edwin, I will be accompanying you."
Greeted the lead knight, a tall and lean man with a stern expression and a calm demeanor. He was somewhat aged, with grey hair already beginning to appear on his face.
"Good morning, Sir Edwin."
Seraphina replied as she glanced at the other two behind him.
"These are Knights Harold and Samuel."
Edwin introduced, gesturing to the other two knights as he noticed her gaze. Harold was a burly man with a friendly smile, while Samuel was younger, with an intense look in his eyes that hinted at a desire to prove himself.
"We're ready to move out whenever you are, my Lady."
Harold added, his tone reassuring and awaiting orders.
"Will Sir Aldric not be joining us?"
Seraphina asked as she was sure the man would be joining them today.
"Afraid not, my Lady. Sir Aldric has a lot of work to do recently so he is unable to make it today."
Seraphina nodded, while she would've been more assured with Sir Aldric joining them, she knew the man was very busy with his position. Instead, she simply motioned for them to begin.
"Let's head out then."
The group bordered their horses or in the case of Seraphina, a carriage, and they left the estate to begin their journey towards the forest.
While it was referred to as nearby, the forest was actually a bit away from the estate. At the very least it would take an hour or two to get there on horseback, but since it was still early morning with the sun casting long shadows on the road, they would arrive before dark.
As they approached the forest's edge, the dense canopy of trees casting a cool shade over the path, Seraphina remembered what she had read about this forest.
The Dragon Forest; called such because it's believed to have been formed on the corpse of a dead dragon from ancient times. The very flesh and blood of the dragon gave life to the vast expanse of greenery and towering trees that filled the land.
It was known for its diverse wildlife, and the deeper in you went the creatures grew stronger and stronger. Making it the perfect place for Seraphina to gain real combat experience, at least on the outer parts.
Upon arriving in the forest, they were forced to ditch the carriage and horses since the paths of the forest would obstruct their movement, as such they moved silently as a group through the premade paths.
The knights took their roles seriously, scouting the area for any potential threats. Seraphina followed their lead, keeping her senses sharp and her body ready for any sudden movement.
"Remember, Lady Seraphina. This is a training exercise, but the dangers are real. Stay alert and trust your instincts."
Edwin whispered as they walked, being sure to remind the girl of the danger present.
Seraphina didn't need to be reminded of the dangers present, but she nodded in reply regardless and gripped her hands around her sword tightly.
The forest was alive with sounds; the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the occasional snap of a twig underfoot. It was both serene and menacing, the silence was nerve-wracking.
After a while of walking and scanning the surroundings, the group came upon a sign of recent animal activity. Tracks in the soft earth indicated the presence of deer nearby, and the knights decided it would be a good opportunity for Seraphina to start.
"We'll set up a perimeter and give you space to hunt. Remember, it's not just about catching the prey, but also about observing and understanding their behavior before you act."
Harold suggested, and the others agreed.
Seraphina nodded and crouched low, moving silently through the underbrush as she followed the tracks on the dirt. The knights spread out, maintaining a vigilant watch around her for any danger that might approach. She focused on her movements above all else, careful not to make any noise that could attract attention.
After a few minutes of tracking, she finally spotted a deer grazing in a small clearing. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she found the animal, but she quickly calmed herself down.
She took a deep breath, steadying herself as she drew her sword. She would use a bow but the training was for her sword, so using a bow would be counterproductive.
Slowly she moved closer to the deer's location, trying to avoid making any sound or accidentally breaking a twig and giving herself away. As she drew closer the deer didn't seem to notice her presence just yet, until finally, she was within striking range behind it.
Dashing forward she thrust with her sword towards the side of the deer, her sword piercing through the body of the creature as it began to flail around in pain and fear.
The animal stumbled as she drew her sword back, finally collapsing to the ground from the wound. Seraphina approached it cautiously, ensuring it was no longer moving before she signaled to the knights nearby.
Edwin, Harold, and Samuel emerged from the positions, nodding in approval at her successful hunt.
"Well done, Lady Seraphina. That was a clean blow."
Edwin said, a hint of pride in his voice.
Seraphina smiled, but then quickly spoke.
"We should move before the blood attracts other creatures."
As the day went on, they continued deeper into the forest but stayed within the range of the outer area. Seraphina faced various animals along the way, from more deer to wild boars, and even larger reptiles.
Each encounter taught her more about the importance of patience, observation, and precise actions. The knight offered guidance when needed but largely allowed her to handle the situation on her own as she saw fit.
By late afternoon, Seraphina had hunted several animals and even managed to fend off a large wild cat, that charged at her unexpectedly. She was growing more accustomed to hunting in the forest, and her skills were starting to shine.
The forest was dense and filled with life, but it also held dangers. As they navigated through a particularly thick part of the forest, they encountered a group of wolves. The wolves were territorial and aggressive, so when they entered their land the wolves did not like that.
Circling the group, with their menacing growls, the wolves stuck to the bushes and stayed hidden.
"Stay close, Lady Seraphina."
Harold instructed, drawing his sword. The other knights followed suit, readying their weapons for a potential fight. Keeping Seraphina in the middle so they can defend her.
Seraphina stayed focused, she didn't lose herself to fear or worry, she had been in such a situation already. This time however it was much easier.
She readied her own sword, focusing on the sounds of the wolves as they moved around them.
One of the wolves, lunged at her, its large body moving with deadly speed. Seraphina sidestepped the incoming creature and slashed at its side with her sword. The blade connected as the wolf yelped in pain but didn't back down.
The knights engaged the other wolves in combat as they all began to attack. Their swords flashed in the dim light filtering through the trees. Seraphina found herself in the midst of the battle once more, her movement constant as she didn't stop for a second.
She could feel the aura flowing through her body as she attacked, her limbs empowered by the flowing aura she was able to move much faster than normal; her slashes held more power behind them as they tore through the wolf's skin.
Despite the danger, she felt a sense of clarity and purpose on the battlefield, she felt herself enjoying the battle. The training she had undergone was paying off, and she could feel her strength greatly enhanced compared to before.
After a fierce struggle from the wolves, they finally retreated. Their numbers have been reduced to a mere fraction remaining and their spirits are broken. The group stood victorious, and none of them were even injured during the fight.
But they were tired as the night drew near.
"Are you alright, Lady Seraphina?"
Edwin asked, his voice filled with concern as he looked her over.
"I'm fine, thank you, all of you. You did well."
She replied with steady breathing, sheathing her sword once more.
The knights nodded, their respect for her growing. She had proven herself in a real combat situation, and they could see the potential in her. Not only that, but she treated them like more than just tools, that alone was more than some nobles did.
As the sun began to set, they decided to make camp for the night in a clearing nearby. The forest was too dangerous to travel through in the dark, and they needed rest after the day's exertions.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein