This became Eryndor's daily routine: every morning, he would wake up before dawn and start with a grueling run while carrying weights. The rugged terrain surrounding the old man's dwelling made the runs even more challenging, pushing Eryndor's endurance to its limits. After the run, he would meditate for at least an hour, focusing his mind and preparing himself for the day's training.
Combat training followed, with the old man teaching him hand-to-hand techniques. Eryndor's days were filled with intense physical activity, as he learned how to harness his strength and agility. After a short rest, during which he would meditate again to hone his mind, Eryndor would head to the nearby waterfall for a brutal session of lifting heavy stones.
The icy waters and the weight of the stones made for a formidable combination, but Eryndor persevered, determined to become stronger. This routine continued for the first year, during which he built a solid foundation in combat and physical training.
In the second year, the old man introduced weapons training, teaching Eryndor the use of every imaginable weapon. Although Eryndor's favorite weapons were twin swords, the old man insisted on teaching him a little bit of everything. Eryndor learned how to wield swords, daggers, and bows, each with its unique techniques and challenges.
Unbeknownst to Eryndor, the old man had been secretly adding small amounts of poison to his meals and water during the first two years. The old man gradually increased the dosage, building up Eryndor's immunity to various toxins. This would prove to be a valuable asset in the future, as Eryndor would need to be able to withstand even the most potent poisons.
By the third year, Eryndor began learning advanced techniques while still refining the basics. He mastered various weapons, including swords, whips, and daggers. The old man taught him how to use his agility and strength to his advantage, making him a formidable opponent in close combat.
In the fourth year, the old man introduced more potent poisons, this time with Eryndor's knowledge. He taught him how to concoct and identify antidotes, recognize herbs, and develop his skills in poison resistance. Eryndor's training had become increasingly sophisticated, pushing him to his limits and beyond.
The fifth year saw Eryndor's training shift towards strategy and tactics. The old man taught him how to analyze situations, predict his opponents' movements, and adapt to different environments. Eryndor's mind became sharper, and his ability to think on his feet improved significantly.
In the sixth year, Eryndor began training in stealth and deception. He learned how to move undetected, gather information without being seen, and use misdirection to his advantage. The old man taught him various disguises and deceptions, making him a master of subterfuge.
By the seventh year, Eryndor had become a highly skilled warrior, with a deep understanding of combat, strategy, and stealth. The old man had taught him everything he knew, and Eryndor had proven to be a worthy student. The old man knew that Eryndor was ready for the next stage of his journey, one that would take him out into the world and test his skills in ways he never thought possible.
The old man watched Eryndor's progress with a sense of pride and satisfaction. He had transformed Eryndor into a formidable warrior, capable of facing even the most daunting challenges. The old man smiled, knowing that Eryndor's future would be filled with adventure, danger, and triumph.