THE FIRST BATTLE - AKI POV

The path westward winds along the edge of a dense forest, where the road slices through competing terrains. To the left, a thick forest looms, while to the right, an expansive open grassland stretches out. The sporadically used road they traverse is marked by patches of grass and weeds, remnants of its infrequent travelers.

Despite Aki's unfamiliarity with this road, he harbors little fear. Nevertheless, he remains vigilant, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. His left hand rests firmly on the hilt of his sword, ready to draw it at a moment's notice.

While the road may be perilous, I highly doubt that formidable monsters lurk here - after all, it's in close proximity to the Academy. The teachers would have eradicated any potential threats. However, it would still be unwise to underestimate the dangers that might be present.

In stark contrast, Yumi practically skips alongside him, exuding energy and vitality. Her captivating blue eyes wander the scenery, finding delight in the picturesque view rather than searching for potential perils.

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself," Aki says, a smile forming on his face.

"Why wouldn't I?" Yumi replies. "This is what we've been working for."

Yumi's words fill Aki with gratitude, though he tries to hide it. "How was the celebration last night?"

Yumi gazes up at the clear blue sky before responding, "It was fantastic - I danced a lot!"

"Sorry you had to leave early."

"It's okay. I wanted to get plenty of rest for today, anyway!"

Aki grins at her, his heart warmed by her words, before refocusing his attention on the road. However, a nagging feeling tugs at him, sensing something amiss in Yumi's previous statement.

What rest? Didn't she say something about not getting much sleep?

Before Aki can delve deeper into his thoughts, something catches his eye in the periphery—a swift object hurtling towards them. With honed reflexes, he swiftly erects a barrier that encloses both of them, just in time for the object to harmlessly bounce off.

"Eh?" Yumi lets out a yelp as she inadvertently walks into the barrier and collides with it. The **** of the impact nearly topples her, but she manages to regain her balance. She turns to Aki, her eyes filled with curiosity and concern.

Aki spares a quick glance at Yumi, ensuring her well-being. He then calmly crouches down to inspect the object now lying on the ground.

"Arrows," Aki murmurs, a hint of disgust in his expression. "Goblin-made arrows, judging by their crude design."

As if in response to Aki's observation, a group of half a dozen goblins emerges from a nearby clearing, chattering loudly. They raise their bows and unleash a volley of arrows.

The barrage of arrows pummels against the barrier as Aki turns to Yumi. "Use your shield—it's difficult to maintain a barrier for both of us."

Yumi complies, swiftly raising her long shield before her. A protective barrier envelops her body, surrounded by a healing aura.

With Yumi now protected, Aki seizes the moment to act.

With precise movements, he casts MAGIC MISSILE at the goblins and dashes towards them. Three glowing balls of aura materialize from Aki's hand, racing towards the goblins. With resounding impacts, three goblins fall, each bearing a gaping hole in their torsos.

The remaining goblins stare at their fallen comrades, one of them nudging the bodies as if hoping to rouse them. Sensing the danger, Aki halts his advance and turns to face Yumi, his hand raised.

Goblins aren't as dim-witted as they appear - they feign stupidity to lure unsuspecting warriors into a false sense of security. The fact that the goblin archers reveal themselves even when unnecessary is a clear sign of lurking flankers.

Aki smiles proudly at Yumi, who meets his gaze without a trace of fear. She understands his intentions, knowing that Aki would never jeopardize her safety. Swiftly, she raises her formidable mace and pivots, delivering a crushing blow to a goblin's head. The goblin's expression freezes in shock as its head caves in under the **** of the strike.

The remaining three goblins stand frozen, believing they have caught their opponents off guard. They manage to gather themselves enough to scream in anger at Yumi. Yet, in that very moment, three glowing orbs streak past her, striking each goblin in the torso. They perish before even touching the ground.

Aki redirects his attention to the three remaining goblins, fully aware that their flank has crumbled and their arrows are rendered useless. Desperation sets in as all three attempt to flee.

Suddenly, three glowing orbs emerge from the forest, intercepting the retreating goblins. Each orb finds its mark in a goblin's torso, swiftly ending their lives.

"The savior is here!" a resounding voice echoes from the depths of the forest.