Chapter 141: Martial Arts training (2) (1/2)

In the hut, the small family of four sat around the dining table that was already packed full of all the goodies they liked. While Granny filled his own plate with her usual mixture of fruits and vegetables, Aiden picked up a large slice of dark red wolf meat and placed it on his empty plate. Lily followed along with a smaller slice and healthy garnish of veggies. Meanwhile, Number 3 kept hers empty for the time being, and just smiled at the scene in front of her.

Although her face kept the gentle calm as she kept enjoying the happy scene in front of her, her mind was being troubled by thoughts of a distant past. Ever since she saw those silver tinges… Those determined eyes, her strong determined heart was troubled by memories that she wanted to keep buried in the deep recesses of her mind. Alas, the heart was a tricky and fickle being, it didn't always do what you wanted it to.

Exhaling some air, she lightly shook her head and reached for the pitcher full of water to pour some for herself. As she picked up her mug and looked at the tranquil surface of the water in it, she couldn't help but smirk at herself. She was about to teach Aiden the art of controlling her emotions and using his own potential to enhance his own fighting style, but here she is, having trouble controlling her own aching heart.

As if noticing her troubles, Aiden swallowed the last piece of meat on his platter and looked at her. With concern clearly visible on his face and voice, he asked.

”Is everything alright Master? You seem… troubled?”

Her thoughts interrupted by his voice, Number 3 looked at the boy. Giving a friendly smile, she calmly answered.

”Don't worry, Aiden. I am okay.” Her smile turning into a cheeky smirk, she continued with a pert tone.

”You should worry about yourself. The training we are going to start with the both of you is not easy.” Facing the surprised Lily, Number 3 continued before she could voice her shock.

”Yes, you will be joining your brother as well. You need to be able to defend yourself, you can't just rely on your archery in combat. What if you run out of arrows? What if you lose your weapon? Will you just watch as your brother fights alone?”

Lily's shocked expression turned sour, knowing that she is right. However, a moment later, her clenched right fist was up in the air, to give more power to her determined words.

”No! I will do anything to help brother! Right Sam, Biggy?”

Answering her call, two distinguishable loud barks came from the side, agreeing to her words.

”Right. That's why you will also train with Aiden after breakfast. With all the looming dangers, it is that much more important for the both of you to widen your repertoire.”

”Master!” Aiden spoke up. ”What will we do about the goblins settling to the north in the forest? They migrated here due to someone's command.”

Number 3 smiled at his question.

”Do? Why should we do anything? They are no threat to us. Don't worry, with Granny and me here, they will never have any ideas. Besides, didn't you were taught to value life? Did they directly hurt or threaten you?”

Aiden couldn't give an answer to these questions. His master was essentially right: they were no threat to them, only to the humans in the city. The city that housed so many demons in the shadows… Should he really care about them?

However, there were a few good souls that were worth his attention, his care, his protection. Raising his right index finger, he looked at Number 3. He was about to voice these thoughts, when Number 3 continued, freezing his words in him.

”I know what you want to say. You want to protect those elders we saved the other day, and you think there are similar people worthy of saving amidst the shadows…” She looked at Granny who also was looking at her with a wry smile on her face. As their gazes met, they lightly nodded at each other, affirming their thoughts.

Looking back at Aiden, she continued.

”These humans have to face the consequences of their actions, Aiden. The calamity that is going to befall on them is the result of their rampant racism and disregard for the other races. For centuries, these humans thought of themselves as some higher beings, above the rest of the world. This horde you spoke of is the hammer of justice that is necessary to wake them from their stupor.”

Switching her attention to Lily, she went on.

”But don't worry. You will have a chance to save those you want to. There is still time. The goblins are still in the middle of settling down, it will take months, maybe a few years before their forces will be ready.”