Chapter 5 : The Way of The Bow
A dense forest stretches as far as the eye can see. Sunlight filters through the thick canopy of trees, dappling the forest floor below. All is still and quiet.
After a moment, the CRACKLE of undergrowth alerts us to movement. Eren, strides purposefully between the trees, rifle slung across his back his eyes burn with determination and skill beyond his years. Today's training will be no exception.
It's been a very interesting week for him and his friends ever since the School opened and children in Kuroyuri started studying he learned many things there but to be honest he's mostly relearning things that he already knew and a few things that is unique only to Remnant compared to Earth.
Hours ago he and Cinder went to Bruce house to hang out with him alongside his cousins Eddie and James it was interesting to say the least and to be honest he doesn't like them not anything personally or anything but more on how they act around Cinder he may be a very dense person when it comes to relationship but he has grown and mature on Earth a lot ever since he first kiss Historia hand and because of that he can see those Boys were having a crush on his sister and that actually makes him quite protective of her during their time in Bruce house and after the whole ordeal Eren and Cinder now go back to their usual routine.
Right now they are training in the forest outside of Kuroyuri they are both using Rifles most specifically Bolt Action Rifles and the main goal of this training was basically both he and Cinder would try to shoot each other first in the forest basically training in guerrilla tactics they are both using their Aura but the rule Eren set is that a single hit from their rifle means you're dead he wanted to make this as realistic as possible so how to non Aura people fight.
This would not only train Cinder to be too dependent on Aura but it would also help her to be careful when it comes to infantry combat as in always take cover, be maneuverable and not be seen in a way it's similar to how Eren was taught when he first infiltrated Marley even the most Experienced and skilled soldier can be killed in one stray shot Eren knew this because Modern Warfare is no longer about raw firepower but maneuver, cover and concealment.
Now both of them were in the forest currently trying to find the other and beats each other in this training Ren and Nora was supposed to train with them but Nora got sick so Ren decided to stay with her in their house with their Mom while she gets better. Li, Ren dad was working so he's not available to be home right now.
He stops by a large oak and runs his fingers lightly over the bark, tracing patterns in the ridges. Lost in thought, planning his strategy. A slight RUSTLE behind makes him whirl, hand flying to his rifle.
But it's only Cinder, also, emerging from the shadows. Like Eren, she is all lean sinew and coiled power, balanced perfectly on the balls of her feet, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. Her amber eyes now looking at Eren.
"I was beginning to think you wouldn't show." Eren said relaxing his guard
Cinder lets out a breath, A smile tugs at the corner of her mouth.
"And miss a chance to beat you ? Not a chance."
Eren smirks. He wouldn't say it out loud but out of all the Three children he's currently training Cinder is the most skilled out of all of them and he was proud of her though to be fair she had a head start but still and they both respect each other's skills though they'd never admit it. A friendly rivalry has developed between the two warrior siblings.
"Big words for such a little Firefly. Let's see if you can back them up" he told her mockingly using another nickname that he made for he.
"we'll see about that" she said smiling in a challenging tone
She unslings her own rifle, checking the bolts and ammunition with practiced efficiency. Eren mirrors her actions, running experienced hands over his well-worn weapon, ensuring it's in prime condition for the challenges ahead.
When both are satisfied, they nod at each other. It's time to begin. With barely a rustle, they disappear into the forest, melting into the shifting shadows. The game is afoot.
The woods fall SILENT once more. An outsider might think all was tranquil. But for Eren and Cinder, the hunt has only just started.
Several unseen minutes pass. The dense foliage muffles any sound of movement. Patient observers wait in stillness, relying on senses sharpened by endless drills.
A quiet CLACK comes from Eren's position up in the branches, chambering the first round. His keen eyes scan the undergrowth below, catching the faintest disturbance that would have eluded anyone less focused.
There - a flash of crimson between the trunks. Cinder, stalking steadily closer, staying low and blending into her surroundings. She hasn't spotted her observer yet. The perfect target.
Eren raises his rifle slowly, compensating for wind and distance. Steadies his breathing. And fires in one smooth motion.
The gun CRACKS, loud in the hush. But Cinder is no longer where she was standing. She rolls to the side in a practiced maneuver just as a spray of wood chips explodes from the trunk behind her.
Without missing a beat, she drops and fires a shot upward at the sound of Eren's perch. But he's already flung himself nimbly to another branch, watching her sweep the empty space below with satisfaction glinting in his eyes. Well played.
Cinder mirrors his approval with a subtle smirk before slipping further into the sea of trees, determined to regain the advantage. Eren swings down and gives chase, keeping low as they begin to close in on each other once more.
The dance continues, each feint and counter flowing seamlessly into the next maneuver. Bolt actions cycle, ammunition depletes, but neither can gain a decisive edge. They've trained together too long to be easily bested. Sweat beads on their brows as the afternoon wears on, energy flagging, but the will to succeed burns fierce and strong.
Finally, as light begins to fade into dusk, it seems one must falter. Eren rolls into a sheltered hollow, pausing to catch his breath. Cinder spots her chance and stalks nearer, keeping downwind so he can't detect her approach.
Just a little further and she'll have a clean shot. But something makes her stop, a prickling at the back of his neck that has saved her life before. She peers closer through the thinning light.
And realizes too late it was a ruse. This hollow has offered Eren perfect cover to swing around behind her, unseen until now his rifle is leveled at her chest and with the pull of the trigger he fired.
*BANG*
smoke wisping from the barrel as the bullet hit her Aura flickering for a moment as she stumbled backward.
He steps from the shadows with a triumphant smirk.
"Well played yourself. I do believe that means I win this time C"
Cinder huffs a reluctant laugh, letting her rifle hang at her side in surrender. She eyes Eren with new appreciation glinting behind his exhaustion.
"Next time, Eren. I'll be ready for your tricks.
Eren smirk softens into a smile, he then holds his hand out to her to help her up in which she took.
"Well that's was exhausting let get back home" Eren said nodding at that they both began their journey home and when they get back they were both greeted by their Mothers.
"Welcome back kids" Carla said welcoming them as she sat on the dining table as she cleaned up the place while Dina was sitting watching the Tv
"Hi mom." Hey ms Yaeger!" They both said
"How was your training ?" Dina asked while still watching the TV
"Oh it was good Cinder almost beat me so and she's improving" Eren said while both he and Cinder unsling their rifles and put it on top of the closet
"Really?" Dina said looking at them now while she glanced at Cinder "Did you get him good ?" She asked
Cinder smiled sheepishly. "I almost had him, but Eren pulled a clever trick at the end. He's very goodat this."
Eren smirked. "What did you expect ? I'm a War veteran. Though you're no slouch yourself, C."
Carla chuckled. "It sounds like you two had quite the intense training session. I'm glad to see you both taking it being careful." She got up and started preparing lunch. "You must be hungry after all that. Why don't you go wash up and then come join me in the kitchen?"
"Okay, Mom/Ms Yaeger!" Eren and Cinder said in unison, heading to the washroom.
Once they were out of earshot, Dina turned to Carla. "Those two are really something, aren't they? I'm amazed at how skilled they're , especially Cinder. She's come so far since Eren started training her."
Carla nodded, a proud smile on her face even though there's a slight reluctance. "Yes, they're both natural-born fighters. I'm grateful that they lookout for each other but sometimes I wish they could just be normal kids instead of training to fight and kill."
Dina nodded sympathetically understanding her "I know but you know why they have to train" she told her reminding her best friend of Eren mission
With a sigh "You're right I just can't help but worry after all" she then waved her hand at her inviting her to the kitchen "but enough of that let's make lunch."
The children then came back after cleaning them self while at the table is filled with food now the family eat together as they talk about their day after eating lunch the family decided to do their own things while both their Mother decided to work Eren decided to rest in his room reading a book.
Cinder on the other hand had other ideas and wanted to simply walk around the Town to stretch her legs she asked her parents for permission first and so Cinder wandered through the Town near the Walls, feeling restless and seeking solace in the quiet calm. As she neared a a clear space near the wall, the twang of a bowstring drew her curiosity.
Peering through, she spotted a lone archer practising his art. His form was impeccable - every movement flowed with practiced grace into the next. An arrow sang from his bow and struck true at the farthest edge of the clearing.
Cinder watched, transfixed, as the archer retrieved his arrow only to immediately nock and draw another. His shots rang out in rapid succession, each hitting minuscule targets with unerring accuracy even from extreme distances.
The hypnotic dance continued for over an hour as Cinder remained enraptured. This was no mere hobby - the archer's skill was the product of lifelong dedication to his craft She was rather amazed by the display.
Finally, the archer lowered his bow with a contented sigh. Only then did Cinder notice who he is it was Li Ren, Ren father and he is currently practicing his Archery skills.
Summoning her courage, Cinder emerged from the sidelines he noticed her and decided to ask
"Cinder ?" Li ask in surprise by her presence by the young girl presences "what are you doing here"
"Oh you know Mr Ren I was simply walking around simply exploring the town," Cinder said she then looked at the clearing with many target filled with Arrows. "What are you doing ?"
"Well young one I'm practicing" he simply said before continuing "I'm going to go on an expedition for a few days to clear out some minor Grimm near the Towns so I'm making sure that I'm as prepared as possible."
Cinder looked around again seeing the Arrows he fired all hitting its mark perfectly "That was pretty amazing Mr Ren" she said her voice in slight awe "Can I ask can you Mr Ren can your teach me" She asked surprising him by the unexpected request "I'm already a skilled fighter because of Eren but I would like to see if I can improve more" she looks at him pleadingly
Li considered her request thoughtfully. While he saw no reason to deny her request since the girl is a pretty good fighter for her age but he is concerned since Teaching her would put a dent on his schedule but looking at her he sensed an earnest thirst for knowledge within this girl that reminded him of his own early days. And her skills alongside her fire-based semblance showed promise if properly focused.
"Return here tomorrow at dawn," Li decided. "If you are willing to learn with patience and discipline, I will instruct you in archery's ways. But know that this path is long, and mastery must be earned through time and trial."
Cinder bowed low in gratitude. "Thank you , Mr Ren. I promise I will be a great student ." she said before she began running back home wanting to tell Eren about this.
As he saw Cinder began running back home Satisfied, Lie gathered his gear to depart Returning to his home and see his family.
Back at the Farm after telling her Family of the training Cinder get after asking Li her mother and Carla was at first against it since it would put dent on her schedule but after convincing them with the help of Eren they conceded.
Eren saw it as a good opportunity for her and he was rather glad that she was taking initiative in improving her skills in combat and to be honest he is rather curious on how it would go while he did have some experience in Archery since during his time in the Cadets in Paradis they sometimes have to hunt their own food in their training on how to Hunt and track their opponents so it was pretty basic his skill with a bow wasn't on the same level of Sasha he was pretty skilled with it so he decided to give a few tip to Cinder before she go.
The Next day the family woke up from their bed they all then cleaned up and ate breakfast Dina and Carla prepared to go to work while Eren decided to visit their friend Ren and Nora. Cinder after preparing returns back to the place where Lie promised to meet.
Cinder arrived near the wall the same place where she last met Li and there she found him along with a bag carrying many equipment next to him.
Li look at her as she approached and then she looked at his wrist before saying "Right on Time."
Cinder who was now in front of him greeted back "Good morning Mr Ren" she said politely.
He nodded before handing her a few of the bags to her "Come one" he said as he gave her the bags in which she took it he then began to walk outside of the gate of Kuroyuri "Let's Train"
Cinder following him while carrying the bags decided to ask "Where to Mr Ren."
He kept walking as he and Cinder was close to the gate "First you Call me Master Ren during the time in which I will train you" he declared before he momentarily looked back at her before answering her question "as to where" as they were now out of the gate "The Forest."
Dense Trees surrounds a grassy clearing. Sunlight filters through the treetops, illuminating dust motes that drift on the breeze.
Li stands at one end of the clearing, inspecting his bow with practiced efficiency. The weapon is an elegant work of craftsmanship, made of pristine wood and stringed with blue dragon hide.
At the other end stands Cinder, her Amber eyes betraying her nerves. Though only an eleven , her skills are quite Impressive. However, she lacks experience when it comes to Archery with his help he will help harness Cinder's talent.
Li notices the girl fidgeting with her sleeve. "Relax your body," he says calmly. "Breathe deep from the stomach. Find your center."
Cinder closes her eyes and breathes as instructed. Her fluttering heart begins to still.
Li nods approval. "Good. Now take up your stance - feet shoulder-width, knees slightly bent. Bring the bow vertical before you."
Cinder mimics Li's demonstration. He corrects her posture with gentle touches.
"Feel the balance of the weapon. Extend your drawing arm straight back whilst keeping the bow vertical. Now, draw the string back to your jawline."
Cinder struggles with the draw weight but perseveres. Li watches closely. "Release when ready. Do not force the shot."
She lets fly. The arrow careens wildly into the brush. Cinder scowls in frustration but Li remains impassive.
"Do not despair. It takes years to master the bow. For today, focus only on your form. You will learn consistency through repetition."
They spend the morning running through the motions. By midday Cinder has begun to find harmony in her movements. Still, her shots remain erratic.
The sun hangs low in the sky as Cinder and Li take a break. Cinder wipes sweat from her brow, exhausted but eager to improve.
Li hands her a canteen. "Drink, then tell me what you have learned so far."
Cinder thinks for a moment. "Stance is important for stability and accuracy. I must draw the string straight back to fully extend the draw. And release when the shot feels natural, not forced."
Li nods, pleased. "You learn quickly. But skill alone is not enough - one must also cultivate patience. Frustration breeds inconsistency."
He rises and gestures towards the treeline. "Come. It is time for a new lesson."
Li leads Cinder into the forest along a narrow trail. Colorful beams of sunlight filter through the densely packed trees. Cinder listens carefully for any sound out of the ordinary.
Without warning, Li stops and draws an arrow from his quiver. Cinder freezes, scanning their surroundings nervously.
A twig snaps in the distance. Li fires immediately, his aim true. They hear a small squeal as his arrow finds its mark.
He grins at Cinder's surprise. "Your true enemies will not wait idly for your shot. You must develop instincts to fire on narrow cues, under pressure."
He holds his bow out to her. "Now it is your turn. Listen, and when you hear movement, shoot straight and true."
Cinder accepts the weapon nervously. She waits, breathing slow and deep as Li taught.
For long moments there is silence. Then - a rustle! Cinder draws and lets her arrow fly on instinct. It sails harmlessly past her unseen target.
Li puts a hand on her shoulder. "Well shot for your first try. Again!"
They spend the afternoon stalking the forest trails. Each time Cinder's instincts and accuracy improve, though succeeding shots remain elusive. Patience and experience will be her guide.
The sun dips below the horizon as Cinder and Li return to their practice area. Cinder's arms ache from the day's exertion, but her mind feels alight with new understanding.
Li regards her progress with a satisfied look. "You have come far in a short time. But archery is a journey, not a destination. Will you return tomorrow to continue your lessons?"
Cinder smiles, standing taller with newfound confidence. "I will be here at dawn, Master Ren."
Li nocks an arrow and lets his final shot fly into the fading twilight.
"Then until tomorrow, Cinder."
—
And that's a wrap and it's only been 2 days since the last Chapter this chapter wasn't much but it does show where Cinder learned her Archery skills from and it comes from none other than Hanzo I mean Li Ren himself (Ren dad) it's something I wanted to explore in depth more since it was briefly mentioned in Chapter 12: Titanic Defense during the final part of the first Scene.
And also the reason why the Next chapter came so fast is because yesterday on 31 May 2024 I just have my graduation day and is now I'm officially finished high school so as a celebration the fifth chapter is out so here it you go.
Well that is all from me until next time and let me know what you thought in the Review.