Owns Climb

Flow. Don’t think, First attack, then defend—you have to move in a way that connects you to your next stroke. Defending is but another part of the attack.” As Climb retrieved his fallen sword and made to get up while holding to his side, Gazef gently spoke to him, saying, “I held back so nothing would break. You’re still good, right? …What do you want to do?”

In contrast to Gazef, who didn’t seem the least bit out of breath, Climb was panting from the pain and stress.

If he couldn’t last for more than a few exchanges like this, he was wasting Gazef’s time. But he still wanted to improve, even if only slightly.

He nodded at Gazef and held up his sword.

“Okay, then let’s keep going.”

“Yes, sir!” With a hoarse shout, Climb raced forward.

After being struck, launched away, and occasionally kicked or punched, Climb collapsed on the floor, out of breath. The cold stones leeched the heat out of him through his mail and clothing, which felt good.

***

Gazef had barely any sweat on his forehead. He wasn’t out of breath. Sighing, Climb acknowledged the gap between the strongest man in the kingdom and himself, a boy splayed out on the floor.

***

Volume 5, Chapter 1.1