Chapter 1.19 — The Duel of Fate

  "Another way?" Jen looked confused while she dodged my strikes.

  “Huff… huff… yes, they call it favor-quests.” I explained while trying to match her speed.

  “I can finally… go on a quest… and—get paid!” I said between breaths.

  “Ohh, well that's good, I guess.” Jen’s expression remained unchanged, blocking the strikes.

  How can she still talk and move like that—at the same time?

  I tried to keep up with her, but my stamina was running out.

  “Watch out.” Jen shouted while counterattacking.

  “Gahh!” I stepped back, avoiding her strike.

  She’s wide open!

  I dashed forward—about to swing my sword, but…

  Slipped—eyes wide—the world turned.

  “Wooh!” I screamed while my butt met the ground.

  Jen’s face—shocked.

  “What was that? You alright…” Jen offered her hand, helping me to stand up.

  “Yeah… I just… lost focus for a moment.” I said, catching my breath.

  Jen leaned in closer. “You're already tired? Your stamina hasn't improved much!”

  “Ohh, it's improved alright… you're just at another level, Jen.” I grinned.

  And also, there's that other reason—it's just so unfair, you know!

  Jen sighed. “This is not good, you're still much weaker than Ann was at that age—despite being a boy.”

  “Huh? She was much stronger than me when she was eleven years old? How do you know?” I narrowed my eyes.

  “Seriously! did you forget I'm also one of her sword instructors?” Jen’s voice, unimpressed.

  What? Is Jen serious?

  I scratched my head. “No, how would I—You never said anything?”

  Jen furrowed her brows. “Leo? You can't be this dense? I’ve always been one of her instructors. Remember that time you asked us to adopt her?”

  “Huh? Wait, it goes that far back?” I facepalmed myself.

  “Haaa… you're soo bad Leo… Yes—that long.” Jen pouted.

  No way!

  So that's why they easily waved me off back then!

  I really thought they had some special insight because of Tess?

  But no—it was because of Jen!

  “Uhm… sorry Jen, I guess I am dense?” I lowered my gaze.

  Jen lowered her head.

  “Ahh… I can’t be too mad at him—Leo’s still just a kid.” Jen muttered to herself.

  Jen raised her head. “It's alright. I guess you're also allowed to make mistakes.” Jen spoke softly while nodding.

  She rested her sword on her shoulder. “But the fact remains, you're still too weak—I can’t let you join the Guild so easily!”

  I shot up straight. “But it's just some low-level quest! And I’ve already defeated many monsters!” I explained in protest.

  Jen’s eyes narrowed. “Ohh really? So beating small fry monsters like the Klein Slimes—makes you qualified for a guild quest?”

  The air became tense while pressure built around Jen. I gasped—and stepped back.

  Her eyes turned serious, she pointed her wooden sword at me.

  A cold sweat ran down my spine… my body shook—frozen.

  Jen approached me, slowly.

  “If you can't even handle this little bit of killing intent—then I can’t let you join the guild!” Her voice was cold.

  “I told you… they're easy… there is no need to worry!” I pleaded.

  Her pressure suddenly intensified—I couldn't breathe.

  “That might be true, at first… but even a simple quest has a risk—you might suddenly encounter an enemy you cannot beat!” Jen stepped closer.

  I gritted my teeth.

  —fist tightened…

  Jen’s gaze intensified. “No—I cannot allow you to take such—risks!”

  My gaze turned sharp.

  Don't underestimate me!

  Despite the overwhelming pressure.

  I forced myself to stand—my body shook.

  “Ohh?” Jen’s eyes widened. “So you can move?”

  I grinned and pointed at her. “Then let me prove you wrong!”

  Jen blinked a few times, processing my words.

  She sighed—the pressure subsided.

  “Huh? How are you gonna do that?” Jen asked calmly.

  I picked up my wooden sword, pointing the tip towards her.

  “Easy… just fight me with everything you've got!”

  Her eyes widened. “You can't be serious?” Jen gaped.

  I nodded. “One minute… if I'm still standing by then—I win!”

  “You want me to go all out for one minute?” Jen tilted her head.

  “Exactly… if you win I'll do as you wish… but if I win, you’ll let me join… deal!” I spoke with resolve.

  Jen raised a brow. “But you're exhausted! You’re not gonna last for—”

  “Then you have no reason to refuse… No?” I leaned in with smugness.

  Jen lowered her head for a moment.

  “Alright… I won't go all out, but if you are still standing after one minute… I'll accept your choice.” She declared.

  “We need someone to track the time… I’ll ask Grey.” Jen turned toward the house—then.

  “Heey! Honeypoo!” A familiar voice called out.

  We turned our heads, a hooded figure was running towards us.

  “Ann?” I shouted, surprised.

  Ann quickly waved her hand in front of her face… shushing me.

  She closed the distance between us.

  “Not so loud… I'm not supposed to be here.” Ann whispered.

  Jen glanced at her. “Then why are you here? You know that Leo is not allowed to be near you?”

  Ann lowered her head. “I know… but I need to speak with you.”

  I widened my eyes. “Speak with Jen?”

  “Speak with me? Now? Can't it wait until our next lesson?” Jen asked, confused.

  “NO! It's too important—please…” Ann spoke with sincerity, her voice trembled.

  I stared at them while scratching my head.

  What’s up with her?

  Ann glanced back at me, her face turned red and she immediately looked away.

  Jen’s eyes widened. “Ohh… well of course… we can talk.”

  Jen turned and walked toward the house with Ann… but—

  “Hey! Where do you think you're going!” I pointed at Jen.

  Jen glanced back at me. “Leo, this isn't the time… we can continue later.”

  “No, if you go now—you’re forfeiting the duel!” I folded my arms.

  “Huh! You can't be serious.” Jen’s face turned flat, her voice unimpressed.

  Ann blinked, turning her head back and forth between us.

  “Hey… what's all this about a duel?”

  Jen sighed and explained the details. Ann nodded while her eyes slowly widened—awestruck by the news.

  “No way! Are you sure Honeypoo?” Ann gaped in disbelief.

  I folded my arms, nodding rapidly. “Yes, I'm sure… this is a matter of honor, as a man!”

  “Pfff…pfff…” Jen chuckled, quickly hiding her grin behind her hand.

  “Come on! Are you going back on your word?” I bellowed.

  Jen went silent, and her gaze met mine—her expression turned serious.

  “I understand,” Ann said, “then let me be the timekeeper.”

  “Huh? Ann, you don't have to?” I shook my head.

  “No, this is an important matter to both of you… best not to let it linger for long!” Ann spoke firmly.

  I froze, trying to process it all…

  Huh? No way—She just sounded like her older self!

  “Alright, wait here.” Jen walked into the house.

  A moment later she came out, holding something in each hand.

  “Here, use this for timekeeping.” Jen handed a small golden device to Ann, which looked like one of those fancy Pocket Watches people used to carry in my old world.

  Ann nodded and opened the device.

  Jen turned and raised what looked like a stick—toward me.

  “Very well, let's settle this!” Jen’s posture changed, ready for battle.

  “Huh? You want to fight me with a stick?” My face looked like a question mark.

  Jen smiled. “This is more than enough—one minute, right?”

  I sighed.

  Am I really that weak?

  Or is she just that confident?

  “Alright then.” I raised my wooden sword.

  Jen’s eyes narrowed.

  —her grip tight.

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  My heart pounded.

  A bead of sweat ran down my face…

  Ann raised her hand slowly. “Ready?”

  Jen and I nodded… while awaiting Ann’s signal.

  You see, there's something I have been wondering about.

  Every time things get a little serious, my body just moves—like it has its own will.

  So, this duel might become very… interesting.

  A slight grin formed at the corner of my lips.

  My heart—pounding.

  “Ready… GO!” Ann’s hand cut down through the air.

  Suddenly the air changed and I instinctively took a step back…

  I looked up at Jen—feeling some kind of tingling sensation.

  Huh? It's not killing intent!

  —Could it be?!

  My hand instantly moved, blocking her strike with my sword—but it was too strong.

  A sharp pain shot through my chest and my body flew back from the impact.

  “Ahh!!” I shouted, gritting my teeth.

  I immediately dug my feet into the ground, stopping my momentum.

  Huh? When did she move?

  Jen had her stick thrust right at my chest.

  Her sharp gaze remained unchanged.

  “Is that all you got? I've barely begun.” Jen said coldly.

  I stood tall. “Ohh, it's only natural to let a lady go first, right?” I forced a smile, ignoring my pain.

  Ahhh… what am I saying?—do I want to die?

  Jen’s eyes widened. “Hmm… you serious?”

  Crap, I got no choice!

  I nodded. “I'm still standing, am I not!” My body shook.

  Why am I talking like this? I’m not some Shounen hero!!

  I cried on the inside—while trying to look cool on the outside. I glanced at Ann, she covered her mouth with her hand—looking concerned.

  Jen sighed. “Have it your way.” She raised her stick ready to strike again.

  “Sorry Leo, but I have no choice!” Jen whispered to herself, her brows knitting together.

  I grinned and gestured for her to come at me.

  I need to focus.

  I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, recalling all the training we’ve done during the last couple of years.

  “You ready Leo? I’ll make sure you won't stand up after this!” Jen’s voice hardened.

  She tightened her grip around the handle—her hands shook, her body trembling.

  My heart calmed down, opening my eyes. I raised my sword over my head.

  “Show me what you got!” I narrowed my eyes.

  “Forty-five seconds left!” Ann shouted.

  Jen suddenly dashed.

  She's so fast!

  —No, focus Leo!

  I relaxed my mind, slowing down my breath.

  Suddenly a figure appeared in front of me—the strike came from above.

  I tried to block it—it's so heavy!!

  But my gut suddenly screamed not to—I instinctively moved my sword and barely changed the strike's trajectory.

  She’s faster with that stick!

  Jen’s face turned surprised for a moment.

  Her strike had scratched my sword, and deflected to the side—almost hitting the ground.

  My eyes twitched.

  Huh? I’ve seen this before, she was gonna guard-break me!

  It sounds insane to want your opponent to block, but it's a common tactic in fighting games.

  I locked my eyes on her.

  She's definitely not playing!

  If the opponent blocks—you guard-break them—they get stunned!

  Jen composed herself and in one fluid motion she came even closer—launched a barrage of attacks.

  I began to block her strikes, my hands starting to feel numb.

  I can’t keep blocking.

  Jen pushed in closer—her speed increased.

  I barely managed to block those attacks, feeling the gust of the strikes blowing on my face.

  The constant barrage pattern suddenly changed.

  —wait, her strikes! They’re light?

  My hands still shook, but despite the speed I was managing to hold on.

  The correct response—turtle up!

  I somehow recognized it, she was trying to lock down my movement with multiple strikes—limiting my options.

  But I have seen this before—I have won tournaments like this before.

  Jen kept up her relentless onslaught, not showing signs of slowing down.

  Ann looked in horror, a bead of sweat poured down her face.

  ”Thirty seconds left!” Ann shouted.

  Ann's eyes were locked on them, gritting her teeth.

  Gritting my teeth I barely held on for my dear life… waiting for that moment.

  It's coming up soon—the gap!

  Jen suddenly hesitated and held back a strike.

  I immediately felt her hesitation and stepped forward—trusting the tip of the sword toward her.

  Jen's lips curled into a smile.

  Got you!

  She immediately sidestepped my advance—instantly slashing vertically.

  The strike went for my back, but—I continued my sword's motion, rolling it over my shoulder and spinning—blocking behind me.

  Jen’s face turned to shock, realizing I had seen through her.

  I was still in motion but for a sudden moment—our gazes met.

  Jen's eyes widened and her face turned uneasy —almost like she was shaken!

  Her strike hit my sword, but I didn't stop—In one motion I spun my body around, deflecting her blade.

  I swung my sword in a big arc, carried by the momentum of the spin—responding with my own vertical slash.

  Jen tried to step back—but she knew it was too late and braced herself for impact.

  I put all my strength into this strike, but before I knew it—

  Ohh, no—I used too much force!—I’m gonna!

  “Ahh!” I screamed while my vision turned towards the sky, losing my balance.

  Jen looked surprised, seeing me fall on my back.

  I lay there and stared at the sky. “Huh?”

  Jen froze for a moment, processing what had happened.

  My eyes shot wide and I rolled back up, ready to continue the fight—but then.

  “Stop, that's enough,” Jen quickly said and raised her hand, signaling to stop.

  “Ehh? But the time isn't up yet?” I gaped in confusion.

  Ann stood suddenly beside us. “There's still fifteen seconds left!”

  "It's fine,” Jen sighed, lowering her weapon.

  Ann and I looked at each other, not sure about what Jen meant.

  Jen walked over to me and put her hand on my shoulder.

  “You did well, much better than expected.”

  “Ohh, uhm… thank you… but does this mean?” I scratched my head.

  Jen nodded. “Yes, it means I'll allow you to take on those guild quests… just promise you’ll be careful and not take quests that are beyond your capabilities.”

  “Of course I'll be careful!” I smiled and nodded like a maniac.

  “Good, now onto the other matter.” Jen looked at Ann, then looked at me—her gaze turned bloody murder!

  “Soooo… tell me, Leo—have you secretly been seeing Anja?” Jen’s face closed in, her eyes mad.

  “Ahh… I can explain!!” I leaned back—terror in my eyes.

  Ann suddenly swooped in. “It's not his fault—I'm the one you should be mad at!” She said sincerely.

  Jen turned her gaze to Ann, her face still screaming—murder!

  Ann leaned back, gasping in fear. “Uhm… it's… me who's been seeing him… not the other way.” Her voice trembled.

  ”Hmm… well why does that not surprise me!” Jen said exasperated.

  Jen’s eyes narrowed at Ann. “You do realize, you’ve been putting both of you in danger… by disobeying your father!”

  Ann lowered her head—her body still shaken from Jen’s intense gaze.

  “Uhmm… I know… I'm truly sorry—but!” Ann’s voice cracked.

  “I know… I get it.” Jen calmly interrupted her.

  Ann kept her head down, she looked like she was ashamed.

  “Ahh… stop it! Come on, I'm also at fault here.” I folded my arms.

  Ann looked up at me, surprised.

  Jen shook her head. “Yeah, yeah—you two lovebirds are really joined at the hip.”

  “Ehh!! Lovebirds!” I shot Jen a confused look.

  Jen’s eyes widened, she then facepalmed herself. “Don’t tell me! You're that dense!”

  “Huh? What?” I tilted my head.

  Ann’s face flushed red—and she immediately dashed over to Jen.

  “Gahh!—I really need to speak with you!” Ann said loudly to Jen, her eyes spinning like a cartwheel.

  Jen raised her hand and hid her smug smile behind it. “Pff… alright, alright… let's go inside then.”

  They turned and walked towards the house. Ann looked back at me, almost like she was concerned about something.

  Jen glanced back. “Leo, we're having a girl talk—don't you dare try to listen in on us!”

  Her gaze sent shivers down my spine—I shook my head.

  “Of course… you girls, go and have fun.” I forced an awkward smile.

  Why did I say that?—come on brain!

  I quickly turned away and went for a walk—to clear my head.

  I felt Jen's gaze linger on me… for some reason, it felt like she couldn't look away.

  Jen sighed and turned her head back to Ann. “Let's go then.”

  While they walked, Jen’s face turned serious.

  “What was that? That last moment felt—dangerous?” Jen muttered.

  Ann noticed Jen’s uneasy expression.

  “Jen? You alright?” Ann tilted her head.

  Jen widened her eyes, snapping out of it. “Ohh… yeah, I'm alright… No worries.”

  ***

  Later at the Nachman residence.

  “Are you sure?” Jen’s voice was stern.

  Ann nodded. “Yes, please… I really need your help.”

  “Hmm… It is possible but it's gonna take a little time.” Jen scratched her chin.

  “You’ll help? Is that alright?” Ann’s eyes widened.

  Jen took a deep breath. “I'm not saying it lightly… I truly understand where you're coming from… and yes—I want the same thing as you.”

  “...Thank you… I'm truly grateful…” Ann’s eyes watered.

  Jen leaned in, embracing her in a warm hug. “Of course, we love you—both of you!”

  Ann nodded, wiping away her tears.

  Jen leaned back, holding both Ann’s shoulders. “Alright… just give me a little time to get everything in place.”

  “And you need to tell him… now!” Jen raised a brow.

  “Of course, I’ll go and explain it to him.” Ann said, with a hint of nervousness.

  ***

  The sky was clear, the sun slowly setting.

  I stood right outside our home—training.

  “Hiah! Hiah!... Hiah!” I shouted while swinging my sword.

  That fight just now…

  I'm sure I felt a weird sensation the moment Jen got serious…

  —could it be?

  “Hey… you got a moment?” A familiar voice called out, interrupting my thought.

  I stopped and turned around, facing her. “Ohh, hey… yeah… what's up?” I scratched my head.

  Ann leaned in closer, fiddling with her fingers.

  Is it just me, or does she seem very nervous all of a sudden?

  Her eyes drifted around, she snuck a few glances at me—only to quickly look away.

  “Ann? What's going on?” My face turned concerned.

  Ann gritted her teeth, she began to curl her hair.

  “Leo…I’m…” Ann’s voice trembled.

  I leaned in. “Are you alright?—Ann?”

  She took a deep breath, placing a hand on her chest… she suddenly looked straight at me.

  “I'm getting married!” Ann shouted.

  I widened my eyes. “Huh? Married? Aren't you too young?”

  Ann froze… then she raised her brows. “Ehh! No, no… I meant… I’m engaged!”

  “Ahh… I see… Well, that's only natural I guess.” I forced a smile, scratching my head.

  “Huh! That's it? I'm engaged and that's your response?!” Ann gasped in disbelief.

  I tilted my head. “What do you mean? It's normal for nobles to be engaged this early, is it not?”

  Ann was taken aback, she slowly folded her arms.

  “Well, yes… but… I was hoping for a different response.“ Ann pouted.

  “Ahh, I see… hehe, sorry about that.” I looked away, embarrassed.

  Seriously, how else should I respond to something like that?

  I snuck a glance at her, her body suddenly curled up, like she was holding something back.

  “Leo… I hate it.” Her voice cracked, slightly.

  “Huh?” My eyes widened.

  Ann leaned closer to me. “I don't want this… Leo, I don't want any part of it!

  I don't want to get—married!”

  “Ehh? What do you mean?” I asked her, confused.

  Ann took a deep breath. “I hate this… my father choosing who I'm supposed to marry! Who I'm supposed to be with—who I'm supposed to—”

  Ann immediately paused, her eyes wide.

  “Who… who I'm supposed to… love?” She whispered softly.

  “Uhm… Ann?” I slowly raised my hand toward her.

  Suddenly—she stomped her foot.

  “NO WAY!” She said loudly, her expression resolved.

  I sighed. “Then, what are you gonna do?”

  Ann looked back and forth for a moment.

  She then curled her hair with her finger.

  She lowered her head for a moment… then she looked up—our gazes met.

  “Run away with me!” Ann said softly, her voice serious.

  My face shot up. “Ehh! What?!”

  “I hate to see you treated this way! I hate that we can't be together like before! I hate hiding under this hood, just so I can see you!” Ann shouted—her voice cracked.

  I blinked, listening to her while trying to process her words.

  Ann’s eyes watered. “I hate being forced to marry someone I don’t love! I hate being away from you!—I just want everything back to the way it used to be!”

  “I can’t take it anymore! Leo… I want to be by your side.” Ann gasped.

  Tears began to run down her cheeks.

  I closed my eyes, slowly lowered my head. “Ann… I’m…”

  “No wait!” Ann put her hand on my mouth.

  “Please Leo, you don't need to give me your answer yet… just think about it.” Ann said softly.

  I furrowed my brows.

  “I asked Jen for help… we can get away, start anew in a place where no one knows us.” Ann lowered her head.

  She then took a step back. “Just think about it… please.”

  Ann looked up and our gazes met. She smiled at me while tears ran down her face.

  I suddenly felt a slight pain in my chest—almost like my heart was slightly squeezed.

  I lowered my head and took a deep breath… I then nodded slowly.

  Ann’s face turned bright, she wiped away her tears… she walked past me, returning home.

  Ann glanced back at me. “If you decide to come with me… just tell Jen, and I’ll know.”

  Ann walked away—leaving me all alone.