Forgotten Command

As the duel came to an end, scattered applause broke out in the audience, accompanied by cheers of appreciation. I looked around, uncertainty coursing through me at the unfamiliar display of support. Selena approached, smiling broadly as she laid a hand on my shoulder.

"Thanks for humoring my selfish request," she said words tinged with amusement.

I couldn't contain my curiosity any longer. "Why?" I blurted out, "Why did you need to spar?"

She turned, giving me a playful wink, but the soberness of her tone gave me pause. "Not me. You."