Chef in the Apocalypse

Chapter 16: Swordsman Training

Jayce stood before the gathering of swordsmen, his posture composed and his expression calm yet resolute. He saw a mix of gazes staring at him, some bore the same fanatical reverence that was leftover from his earlier impassioned speech.

"Swordsmen" he began, his voice carrying a firm but measured cadence. "For whatever reason, you have chosen this class. Whether you thought it sounded cool, or you resonate with the idea of being a warrior, it matters not."

"The fact of the matter is, you now have no other choice but to become a fully fledged warrior. If you want to survive, that is." As he said these words, his heart began to throb.

Jayce paced back and forth in front of the swordsmen, compounding his thoughts and finding the right words.

"Truth be told, out of all the classes, swordsmen are the most difficult in the early stages. Going up against monsters that are stronger and faster than you, all while trying to keep yourself and your party alive."

A few eyes flickered after his words, showing a sign of uncertainty. He didn't blame them, for he was in a similar position to them in his last life. However, the difference was, he did not have someone as a mentor to learn from.

"However, do not despair. With diligence and correct attribute scaling, upon reaching the later levels, your job will be much easier."

While the words sounded pretty, some of the group still bore uneasy looks. Jayce would have been surprised if one sentence were to assuage their worries.

He reached for his sword on his back, in order to teach them some moves. However, of course there was no longer a weapon situated there. Clearing his throat in embarrassment, he held out his hand and gestured for a sword from one of them.

"Ahem. Your starting abilities are the building blocks of your prowess. Allow me to guide you through Sword Slash and Parry, your two starting skills as a Swordsmen."

Feeling the sword in his hands brought a wave of nostalgia. He measured the weight, and slashed the air a couple of times to get used to it. Unfortunately, his starting stats were lower than he was used to, putting an unexpected burden on holding the sword.

However, he had been a swordsman for 10 years, so he was able to adapt in no time.

"Watch carefully. While I am not a swordsman and therefore do not have the same starting skills, I am proficient enough to guide you."

Jayce demonstrated the Sword Slash with controlled precision, his movements efficient and deliberate. At least, it looked so from an outsider's perspective. 'Damn it.' Jayce cursed internally, feeling his muscles cry out in protest from the foreign action.

Straightening his body, and hiding any pain from his face, he continued, "Sword Slash is a versatile offensive skill, delivering swift and precise strikes. It allows you to exploit openings in your opponent's defense, targeting vital points with calculated efficiency. Remember, it is not the sheer force of the strike, but the accuracy and timing that make it lethal."

He then shifted into a defensive stance, demonstrating the Parry technique. "Parry, on the other hand, is the key defensive maneuver. It grants us the ability to deflect incoming attacks and counter with a swift riposte. By observing our opponents' movements and predicting their intentions, we can nullify their assaults while simultaneously seizing the opportunity to launch a counterattack."

Jayce's voice remained composed, his words practical and focused. "As swordsmen, we rely on the following, in order of priority; Strength, Dexterity, and Vitality. Strength grants us power in our strikes, Dexterity enhances our agility and precision, while Vitality ensures our endurance to withstand the rigors of battle."

He glanced around, making eye contact with each swordsman, conveying a sense of shared purpose. "Your role as swordsmen is to stand at the forefront of the fight, shielding our allies and engaging enemies head-on. Alongside the Guardians, you provide a stalwart defense, ensuring the safety of our comrades as we carve a path through adversity."

A sense of determination and confidence emanated from Jayce's words. "Remember, the true measure of a swordsman lies not in grandiose ideals or flashy techniques, but in discipline, adaptability, and the mastery of our fundamental skills."

Jayce's gaze turned solemn, his piercing eyes carrying a weight of experience and wisdom. The swordsmen in the room leaned in, their attention captured by his words. He addressed them with a voice that commanded respect and conveyed the gravity of their situation.

"Never underestimate an enemy, my fellow swordsmen," Jayce's voice carried a somber tone, each word measured and deliberate. "No matter how small or how unformidable they may seem, complacency can be our greatest downfall. One false move, one momentary lapse in judgment, and everything we hold dear could be lost."

A middle-aged man with a small goatee stood up, his eyes reflecting curiosity and a hint of skepticism. "Mr. Jayce, how is it that you possess such profound knowledge and understanding of Cataclysm?" he inquired, his voice laced with curiosity.

Jayce's expression remained enigmatic, a hint of mystery lingering in his eyes. He shook his head, a wry smile playing at the corner of his lips. "Let's just say I've had my fair share of encounters with Cataclysm," he replied, purposefully avoiding a direct answer. The air of intrigue deepened, leaving the room buzzing with anticipation.

Sensing the disappointment on some faces, Jayce swiftly redirected their focus. With a clap of his hands, he reignited their energy and determination. "But enough about me. It's time for action. Let us begin our training, my fellow swordsmen!" His voice regained its vigor, a surge of enthusiasm coursing through his words.

Handing the sword back to its original owner, Jayce deftly paired the swordsmen, ensuring each had a sparring partner. Soon, the room echoed with the resounding clash of metal, the rhythmic dance of combat filling the air.