Capítulo 13: The Stormterror
Under Artoria's guidance, Noelle embarked on her journey as a knight-in-training. The training began with the basics, emphasizing the importance of a strong foundation. They would meet every morning at the training grounds, where Artoria would impart her knowledge and skills to the eager young knight hopeful.
Artoria, known for her exceptional swordsmanship, wielded a long sword with finesse and precision. Her movements were fluid, a testament to her mastery over the weapon. On the other hand, Noelle wielded a broadsword, a weapon that suited her strength and determination.
"Remember, Noelle," Artoria instructed, her voice filled with wisdom. "While our sword types may differ, the principles of swordsmanship remain the same. It's about discipline, focus, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your weapon."
"Yes, Artoria-sama. I'll strive to learn from your expertise and apply it to my broadsword technique." Noelle nodded, absorbing Artoria's words with enthusiasm.
With each training session, Artoria demonstrated her versatility by showcasing her proficiency in various sword types. From long swords to rapiers, she effortlessly adapted her style, revealing the depth of her knowledge. Noelle watched in awe, eager to absorb every aspect of Artoria's teachings.
During one particular session, Artoria picked up a broadsword mirroring Noelle's weapon of choice. She demonstrated the unique techniques and advantages of the broadsword, highlighting its power and versatility when wielded with skill. Noelle's eyes sparkled with excitement as she witnessed her mentor's mastery.
"Artoria-sama, your skill with any type of sword is truly remarkable," Noelle exclaimed, admiration evident in her voice. "How did you become so proficient in every sword style?"
Artoria smiled, her gaze focused yet gentle. "Years of training, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. I believe that a true knight should be adaptable and skilled with any weapon that comes their way. While I favour the long sword, I have studied and practised with various sword types to broaden my understanding."
Noelle nodded, her determination reignited. "I understand, Artoria-sama. I'll strive to be versatile in my training and explore the strengths and nuances of the broadsword."
Artoria placed a hand on Noelle's shoulder, offering encouragement. "That's the spirit, Noelle. Embrace the uniqueness of your weapon, but never limit yourself to just one style. Learn from others, experiment, and find what works best for you. Remember, the knight's dedication and skill define them, regardless of the sword they wield."
Artoria's mastery of various sword types inspired Noelle to push her limits and explore the intricacies of the broadsword. With Artoria's guidance, Noelle trained tirelessly, refining her technique and expanding her understanding of swordsmanship. Their training sessions became a harmonious blend of instruction, practice, and shared knowledge.
As time passed, Noelle's skills grew, and her confidence soared. Artoria observed her progress with pride, knowing that her disciple was on the path to becoming a noble knight. Their bond as mentor and disciple strengthened, forged through countless hours of training and shared passion.
Together, they embodied the spirit of knighthood, wielding their respective swords with purpose and honour. Artoria's mastery of any kind of sword type and Noelle's determination to excel with her broadsword created a formidable team, inspiring each other to reach greater heights.
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"Isn't that how it suppose to happen?!"Artoria's frustration grew as she realized her expectations of the training journey were unmet. Instead of focusing solely on honing her swordsmanship skills, Noelle had taken it upon herself to serve the other mercenary group members in their lodging. Artoria couldn't help but feel a mix of exasperation and admiration for Noelle's selflessness.
"Isn't my duty to train you in the ways of knighthood?" Artoria exclaimed, her voice tinged with frustration. "You should be devoting your time and energy to mastering your swordsmanship, not attending to the needs of others!"
Noelle bowed her head apologetically, her voice filled with sincerity. "I apologize, Artoria-sama. But I believe serving others is also essential to being a knight. It teaches me humility, compassion, and the importance of teamwork."
Artoria sighed, realizing that Noelle's perspective held its own merit. She had always been focused on the technical aspects of knighthood, neglecting the softer, more interpersonal side. Perhaps Noelle's actions were a valuable lesson in themselves.
"Indeed, a knight must possess not only strength and skill with a sword but also qualities such as empathy and camaraderie." Thought 'Artoria' as she realized her wrong approach to the situation. "It seems I have been too rigid in my approach."
"Stop narrating my thought, Kazuki!" Shouted Artoria angrily as she punched in Kazuki's direction.
Kazuki, who happened to be passing by, narrowly dodged Artoria's punch and laughed. "Haha, I am sorry, Artoria. I couldn't resist adding a touch of humour. But you've come to a valuable realization, haven't you?"
Artoria's frustration began to dissipate, her huff turning into a contemplative sigh. "Yes, I suppose I have. Noelle's dedication to serving others has reminded me that knighthood encompasses more than just swordplay. It's about embodying virtues such as empathy and camaraderie."
"Ah, Noelle, can you bring me my sake there?"
Observing the exchange with concern and admiration, Noelle spoke up timidly while swiftly retrieving the sake bottle from the nearby table. "Artoria-sama, I didn't mean to upset you with my actions. I just thought it was important to help and support our teammates. Ah, here is your sake, Captain."
Artoria's stern expression softened as she turned to Noelle. "No, Noelle, it is I who should apologize. I've been too focused on my own perception of what it means to be a knight. Your selflessness and dedication to service have reminded me of the importance of compassion and unity."
"Ah, this sake is really delicious. Now, I regret not stocking it up when we left Inazuma. Noelle, can you prepare me a snack to go with the sake?"
Noelle beamed, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "I would be honoured to continue learning from you, Artoria-sama. Together, we can become not only skilled swordswomen but also knights who inspire others through our actions. Ah, here is your snack, Captain."
"Aren't you enjoying this too much, Kazuki!" Artoria snapped at how Kazuki enjoyed the services of Noelle way too much.
Kazuki chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Oh, come on, Artoria. Can't blame me for enjoying the perks a little, can you? Besides, seeing you two bond and grow together as mentors and disciples is quite entertaining."
Juvia entered the house, her footsteps echoing through the hallway. She glanced at the scene before her—Artoria, Noelle, and Kazuki engaged in a lively conversation—and couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in amusement.
"Did I just stumble upon a comedy skit?" Juvia quipped, a playful smirk on her face.
Kazuki noticed Juvia was holding a paper bag full of cooking ingredients and couldn't resist teasing her. "Oh, did you just return from grocery shopping, Juvia?"
"Yes, Captain," Juvia replied, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Gray-sama said we should celebrate our newest member joining our family."
Kazuki nodded approvingly. "Ah, a celebration sounds like a splendid idea. And it seems we'll need a good amount of food to satisfy everyone's appetite, especially considering we have a glutton here." He playfully pointed his eyes towards Artoria.
Artoria blushed, but her drool was betraying her. "How rude... *slurp*... of you... *slurp*... Kazuki!"
Kazuki chuckled, enjoying the banter. "Then stop drooling already, Artoria."
"Then where is Gray?" Kazuki asked, looking around the room.
"I am here," a familiar voice chimed in. Gray appeared at the doorway, struggling under a mountain of ingredients. He carefully placed them down, his expression a mix of exhaustion and amusement. "But who will cook all of this? Should we ask Sara again to prepare the meal?"
While observing the exchange with amusement and curiosity, Noelle spoke up, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. "Shall I take charge of the cooking? I'm quite skilled in the kitchen and would be more than happy to contribute."
All of the mercenary members' eyebrows raised in surprise. Gray quickly asked, "Noelle, you can cook?"
Kazuki also forgot that in the game, Noelle has a skill related to cooking, so it should be expected that Noelle can cook. He then said, "Oh, really? That would be a great help, Noelle. I didn't know you had such talent in the culinary arts."
"Yes, I've had some experience cooking for the Knights of Favonius. I would be honoured to prepare the feast for our celebration." Noelle blushed, a shy smile gracing her lips.
Kazuki nodded appreciatively. "That's settled then. Noelle, you can take the lead in the kitchen. I'm sure your cooking will impress us all."
Gray looked around the room and then turned to Kazuki. "Shouldn't we wait for Souei? He's usually the last one to arrive."
Before Kazuki could respond, a calm voice interrupted from the dining table. "There's no need to wait for me. I'm already here."
Noelle's eyes widened in surprise as she turned to see Souei sitting at the dinner table, seemingly appearing out of nowhere. She couldn't help but be amazed by his stealth and agility. It was a testament to the level of skill possessed by the mercenaries.
"Souei, you startled me!" Juvia exclaimed
Noelle's hand was on her chest. "I didn't even notice you entering the room."
Souei gave a small nod, his expression stoic as always. "Apologies for the surprise. It's a habit of mine to move silently."
Noelle's eyes widened in awe as she took in the remarkable abilities of Souei and the rest of the mercenaries. Their exceptional skills and talents were evident, making her admiration for them grow even stronger. She couldn't help but feel inspired and motivated to learn from such a talented group.
"Wow," Noelle exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "You all possess incredible skills! It's amazing to see the level of expertise each of you brings to the table. I feel honoured to join this team and learn from such highly skilled individuals."
*ROOOOAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR*
Just as everyone was engrossed in their conversations, getting to know each other better and sharing stories, a thunderous roar pierced through the air, causing the entire town to shake. The sound was unmistakable—it was the roar of a dragon.
As the dragon's roar's echoes continued reverberating through the town, a palpable tension filled the air. The sheer power and pressure emitted by the roar sent shivers down everyone's spines, causing them to tense up in response.
Kazuki, ever composed in the face of adversity, broke the silence with his calm yet determined voice. "Is it finally started? The storm finally comes."
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