The sharp edge of the axe hurtled toward Theo with speed and precision. Even though it was a sparring session, Harald’s strikes were anything but gentle.

Theo chuckled to himself. Sparring had always been a better teacher than solo training, but he hadn’t expected Harald to express his thanks in such a fierce manner. The only difference from earlier combat was the switch to a smaller hand axe, but even this seemed more challenging.

Harald’s massive frame wielded the axe like a lightweight toy. Despite the size of the weapon, his swings were quick and unrelenting. If anything, the smaller axe made Harald’s attacks feel even faster, as if compensating for its lack of weight with sheer velocity.

“Ah, it feels good to swing something light again,” Harald remarked casually, his grip on the axe shifting between short and extended holds, keeping Theo constantly guessing about the range of his attacks.