"A Farmer Who Become The Guardian of the Enchanted Forest"
Written By: Night Fury
Chapter 2
Here is Chapter 2 - Training Begins:
That evening, Hiro ate his meal hurriedly, too restless to linger at the table any longer. His mind churned with possibilities until one idea stood out - to join the Adventure Guild in the city, as he had always dreamed. After finishing his chores, Hiro packed a bag under the moonlight and left a note for his family, thanking them for their years of support.
The well-traveled road led Hiro through fields and pastures illuminated by glittering stars overhead. Before long, distant torchlights signaled his arrival at the city outskirts. He heard raucous laughter and clashing steel in the training yards, knowing the guild worked even at this late hour. Hiro walked up and knocked on the large oaken doors.
A gruff-faced man answered, sizing him up skeptically. "We're closed, farmer. Go home and tend your crops." Hiro steeled his nerves. "Please, sir. A fairy blessed me with gifts, and I want to help people as an adventurer." The man peered closer at Hiro, then grinned. "Fairy tales, eh? Show me what you've got then, boy."
He led Hiro outside where warriors sparred. "Fighter!" bellowed the man. "This sprout wants training. Go easy, yeah?" A hulking figure approached and swung without warning. Hiro yelped and rolled away barely in time. Laughter rang out as his opponent attacked relentlessly. Hiro managed to dodge but could not land a hit, growing tired and bruised.
At last Fighter withdrew, scoffing. "He won't last a day out there. Send him back to the plow, Guildmaster." Hiro panted on the ground, devastated. But then he felt an inner fire and surged to his feet, eyes blazing with new resolve. Before anyone could react, Hiro smashed into Fighter with all his might, toppling the shocked warrior.
Silence fell. Hiro helped Fighter up, ashamed of losing control yet unable to back down now. The Guildmaster threw back his head and roared with mirth. "By the gods, he's got spirit! Very well, farmer - you may join. Fighter, it seems you have found an apprentice worth your time. Train him well."
Over the next few moons, Hiro learned under Fighter's stern tutelage. Each morning started with grueling exercises to increase his strength and stamina. Basic sword forms and stances were drilled relentlessly. Afternoons meant wilderness survival lessons and hunting trips to sharpen his senses. By night, Hiro studied guides on monsters, magical creatures, and healing herbs.
Bruises, blisters and fatigue became constant companions, yet Hiro persisted through sheer determination. Slowly, his skills grew until he could now hold his own against Fighter for some time. His body transformed into a leanly muscled build capable of great feats. One day, Fighter nodded in approval. "You've come far, boy. I believe you are ready for your first real job."
Hiro beamed, thrilled to finally prove himself. Fighter led him to the mission board and pointed at a posting. "The Bloodyboar has been terrorizing travelers in the western woods. Track it down and remove the threat, by any means necessary." Hiro swallowed hard, suddenly conscious of how much rested on his ability now. He steeled his nerves and said, "I will not fail."
Armed with supplies and advice, Hiro strode towards the forest as the sun rose the next morning. Though apprehensive, he felt truly alive for the first time in years - and more ready than ever to begin his adventures at last. The real test has begun, Hiro thought determinedly. I must use all I have learned to prevail!