His training has begun. The Witch King was not the most generous of trainers but Basikov understands, because he will be important in the future and he would not have done the three tasks, just to be a petty soldier.
The Witch King first offers "What can I do about your finger?"
Basikov knows what he needs. He needs the surprise attacks that most would never suspect. He replies with "I would like a knife with the handle designed to fit in the place of my finger."
The Witch says with "Very well, you will have your wish. Attacks like that will be most useful, and will make your enemies surprised."
Basikov's sword fighting starts initially just decent. He has had training with swords before, but not to this challenging level.
The Witch King firmly asks "Why is there no such thing as almost victories?"
Basikov says "It is because almost victories still equal losses."
The Witch King says "That is correct." and he knocks the sword out of Basikov's hand.
"It is not like I have no belief in what you will be" says the Witch King. "But without training, you will fail."
"I understand" said Basikov.
The Wight picks up his sword again, but the Witch King was to excellent of a duelist, and knocked the sword out of his hand within two clashes.
Eventually, Basikov finally was able to learn the fighting style of the Witch King. For the first time, he successfully disarmed the Witch King. "An excellent improvement, but this is far from the end." said the wraith.
The next day, the Witch King had something new in store. "You will need to be able to face multiple enemies at once. I know it may not seem fair, but battle is not fair." said the Witch King.
He sends two of the other Nazgul out to face him, and Basikov was initially not sure what to do, but then he figures out that his previous training was the key. He mimics the Witch King and holds his own against the two Nazgul. Eventually he disarms both of them.
"Excellent" says the Witch King. "You are ready for your armor and weapons."
First, Basikov is given his knife which replaces his finger perfectly. "That shoulder plate with the spikes over there is perfect." He wants this one because he knows his weak spot is the rib cage, and the spikes add extra protection at the shoulders. He is given the armor and chooses a helmet that covers all but his eyes. He knows his face is also vulnerable so he
knows this is the best idea to have solid defense. However, neither of these were extremely heavy, due to the fact he needs armor that does not weigh him down.
Basikov chose a scythe because he believes it would throw enemies off guard when he gets ready for his agility attacks.
Finally, the Witch King presents Basikov with the gift of a sword with a snake handle and sharp ends on all sides of the blades. "This will help you with everything you will need in the future." "I think you are ready for the plan".