Chapter 6

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"Even if we call it practice, what should we do?" I can't make the two of them do the same training I used to do. If they were forced to do that, they would definitely want to quit.

"That's true. How about a simple sparring session?"

(Sparring... )

The quickest way to improve one's skills is through actual combat, but it's not always possible to engage in real battles. Therefore, sparring with someone of similar skill is the best way to improve. I don't know the exact skill levels of these two yet, but I can tell they are definitely weaker than me. Just by their walking style and the way they conceal their presence, I can see the gap in their abilities.

There are several issues with sparring with someone whose skill level is too far apart. First, it can lead to a loss of confidence. If the opponent is older or a master, it might be different, but if you lose to someone around your age, especially in your first encounter, the risk of losing confidence is high.

Second, there is less to learn. When you fight someone much stronger, you might not even understand what they did. You can learn from explanations after the fact, but the goal of sparring is to learn in the heat of battle.

The last and most troublesome issue is that it can lead to straying from the path. This is connected to the first point about losing confidence. If someone can recover from a loss of confidence, it's fine, but those who can't might choose a different path. In general, they might choose a different career, but a small number might try to gain power through forbidden magic or other means.

"..."

"I understand what you're thinking, young master. But these two are close to your age. I think it's a good opportunity for you to know what the top level of skill is for your age group. If you fail here, then that's that. Not many people get to have such an experience."

"Since Smith says so... But I won't go all out."

"I understand. The pacing is up to you, young master."

"Got it."

"Who should go first?"

I can start with either Shuri or Rad. But what if I were in their position? If I could imagine fighting the first person, I would want to go second. But that's just my preference. Some people might want to go first to avoid losing morale. Even a small bit of hope can make a difference.

"Can I go first?"

"Sure. Let's start then."

I get into a combat stance, holding my dagger and observing Shuri. Shuri approaches me gradually while watching me. This is the worst thing an assassin can do.

What is an assassin? As the name suggests, an assassin kills their target without being noticed in the dark. This is the basic principle of an assassin. However, Shuri is approaching me face-to-face. Even in a sparring session, what should you do when the target is in front of you? There are several methods, but the easiest way is to use magic. By using magic, you can divert the target's attention for a moment. In that instant, you can use the dark magic of stealth to get close and take them down.

(That would be a waste to end it here...)

Normally, I would use magic to get close, but this is a sparring session for Shuri's benefit. As Shuri approaches, I don't use magic but instead use technique.

I silence my steps and vary my pace. This is a type of walking technique that creates an afterimage of me for the opponent. Shuri is surprised by this and a momentary opening appears. I don't miss this opportunity and use a martial arts technique called "shukuchi" to close the distance and press the tip of my dagger to her neck.

"I yield."

Shuri's fighting style is that of a warrior, not an assassin. If this isn't corrected, she will never become an assassin.

(Next, I guess.)

"Okay. Next is Rad."

"Sure."

Before the sparring session, I was as careless as Shuri and thought Rad was weak too.

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