The Spar

Chapter 72

Katarine has spent a few days with the Ethan family. She learned what kind of daily routine Ethan went through on a daily basis. She learned to appreciate the simple life on a farm. It was hard at first because she wanted to be raised to follow farming life, but she was still a woman who lived surrounded by luxury and comfort. However, as she observed Ethan's parents dedication and hard work, she began to understand the value of simplicity and hard work. Katarine realized that there was beauty in the quiet moments on the farm that she had never experienced before.

Feeding the farm animals was becoming more meaningful to her as she saw the direct impact of her actions on the well-being of the animals. Katarine found a sense of fulfillment in contributing to the daily operations of the farm and felt a newfound appreciation for the hard work that went into maintaining it.

At the same time, she was able to get proper instruction from Ethan's father in close combat. She now can cast or shoot fire bullets with a range of 10 meters and with destructive force of a 45 caliber incendiary ammo. With each passing day, Katarine's skills in combat were improving, and she was becoming more confident in her abilities. She was grateful for the opportunity to learn from someone with so much experience and looked forward to honing her skills even further.

She even noticed that her martial arts skills were all mediocre. Compare to what Ethan learned, the sparring matches she encountered were planned and ordered to be light and inclide to not harm or hurt her; she could fight and actually win in a normal fight if the enemy did not know how to counter her attacks; facing monsters that indicriminately attacked a living being and saw the target as food was not the right way to improve her combat abilities. She needed an environment and situation to truly test her skills and improve her overall effectiveness in combat situations.

Katarine saw how Ethan got beaten up by his father while training on their barn, his punches were heavy and sharp; she never saw Ethan stagger in a fight; he was losing very badly. She thought Ethan was already an excellent figure, but seeing how his father pushed him to his limits showed her that there was always room for improvement. She realized that true growth came from facing challenges head-on and pushing oneself beyond their comfort zone.

Katarine watched in shock as Ethan's father mercilessly unleashed heavy and sharp punches upon his own son during their training session in the old barn. Ethan, usually a formidable fighter who never faltered in a match, was now stumbling and struggling to defend himself against his father's relentless onslaught.

The sight was both heartbreaking and eye-opening for Katarine. She had always admired Ethan for his skill and prowess in combat, believing him to be an unbeatable force. However, witnessing him being pushed to his limits by his father made her realize that even the strongest individuals had their weaknesses.

As Ethan continued to take blow after blow, Katarine saw a fire ignite in his eyes - a determination to not only survive his father's brutal training but to emerge stronger than ever before. It was then that she understood the true essence of growth and improvement. It wasn't about being perfect or invincible; it was about confronting challenges head-on, embracing the discomfort, and pushing oneself beyond what they believed was possible.

Despite the pain and exhaustion evident in Ethan's face, Katarine could see a newfound sense of resilience building within him. With each strike that landed, he rose to his feet, his will unbroken, his spirit unyielding.

Finally, as the training session came to an end and Ethan's father called for a break, Katarine approached Ethan with a newfound respect shining in her eyes. She held out a hand to help him up, and as he looked at her with a mix of exhaustion and gratitude, she knew that this experience had changed both of them in ways they could have never imagined.

Ethan's father asked Katarine to give Ethan some water, The barn they were in was their boxing ring. Ethan was getting attacked by his father, but at the same time he was getting instructions from him. Nicolas mentioned that Ethan developed a bad habit of moving too much. He pointed out that hesitating about an attack was hindering his progress. Ethan listened intently.

In the chaotic arena of life, the wisdom of striking decisively while maintaining the balance between offense and defense cannot be overstated. A fight, whether physical or metaphorical, is not merely an engagement; it is an intention to conquer.

When you step into such an arena, be it a literal battlefield or the trials of daily existence, your resolve to emerge victorious must overshadow any hesitation. The moment you initiate a confrontation, whether it's to defend your principles or pursue a goal, the expectation should be clear: victory is the only acceptable outcome. To waver or hold back strikes during a conflict is to invite defeat and potentially perilous consequences.

When embarking on a hunt, the stakes are equally high. Your target is not merely an objective but a lifeline for survival, and emotional distractions can lead to fatal errors. Lowering your guard out of empathy or hesitation might cost you dearly.

Instead, maintain a resolute focus, for every moment counts in this intense pursuit. Emotions can cloud judgment, and in the heat of the moment, clarity of purpose must reign supreme.

In a battle zone, the nature of your response must be instinctual and immediate. While showing restraint may come off as noble, it is often a luxury that can lead to one's downfall. The opposite extreme—being reckless and consumed by overthinking—can equally be detrimental, leading to missed opportunities and confusing outcomes. You are tasked with a critical choice: to identify yourself as a protector, a hunter, or a savior. Each designation comes with different responsibilities and required mindsets.

Being a protector embodies the essence of selflessness and devotion; it means placing the security of loved ones above your own. Many have bravely given their lives in this capacity, driven by the fierce loyalty to shield others from harm.

However, it is crucial to recognize that sacrificing one's life in the process can be misguided. The ultimate goal of protection is not martyrdom but survival. To truly serve in this role is to ensure both your safety and that of the person you are protecting, nurturing a shared resilience in the face of adversity. In the end, the delicate dance of action and restraint, of heart and mind, defines our place within the skirmishes of life.

Katarine listened intently as Nicolas explained the intricacies of sparring, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and determination. Her desire to fully grasp the nuances of combat led her to ask Nicolas if she could physically try sparring with him. Ethan's father, recognizing her earnestness and dedication, smiled warmly but cautioned her that while she was indeed a good student, her current training regimen might not adequately prepare her for the realities of sparring with an experienced fighter. He wisely pointed out that fighting him wouldn't be the best idea, considering the vast difference in their levels of experience. However, he understood her eagerness to bridge the gap between practice and the adrenaline of a real fight, anticipating that she would eventually approach him with such a request.

To Katarine's surprise, Nicolas revealed that her sparring partner would not be him but rather Rebecca, Ethan's mother. The announcement sparked a mix of excitement and apprehension within her. Rebecca was seen as a soft-spoken and gentle person, which was confusing to Katarine.

Rebecca smiled warmly, her eyes gleaming with a mix of mischief and sincerity as she addressed Katarine.

"Don't get fooled,"

She said softly, her gentle tone contrasting with the underlying strength of her words.

"I may seem soft-spoken, but like my husband, I can assure you that I don't want weakness in those I care about."

Katarine felt a flicker of uncertainty but was drawn in by Rebecca's conviction. For all the nurturing nature that Rebecca exhibited, there was a fierce spirit lurking just beneath the surface.

"We have seen the effort you put into your daily training and chores while staying here," Rebecca continued, her admiration evident.

"From the simplest farming tasks to the heaviest work, you've never complained."

She leaned in closer, her voice taking on a more serious tone.

"I expected this from someone my son loves. You are strong-willed, and you never take 'no' for an answer."

The praise washed over Katarine, filling her with a sense of pride she hadn't anticipated.

"You see challenges as problems to overcome."

Rebecca added, a hint of challenge sparkling in her eyes.

"You are the perfect match for Ethan."

As she handed Katarine a pair of sparring gloves, the anticipation in the air grew thick.

"Now, wear those gloves, my dear," Rebecca encouraged.

"And let's see what you've learned during your time here."

The atmosphere shifted as excitement mingled with trepidation.

"By the way," Rebecca warned with a playful glint.

"The moment you wear those gloves, don't hesitate, because I won't!"

With that last remark, Rebecca stepped back, her own determination evident. It was clear that in this friendly duel, Katarine would face not just a mother-in-law but a formidable opponent, one who valued strength and resilience above all else.

The barn stood like a fortress against the fading light, its wooden beams creaking gently as evening descended. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of hay and the earthy musk of animals long gone. Dust motes danced in the beams of sunlight filtering through the cracks in the walls, casting an otherworldly glow on the scene.

Katarine stood in the center of the barn, her heart pounding in her chest. She adjusted the sparring gloves, their weight unfamiliar on her hands. Across from her, Rebecca, her future mother-in-law, wore a sly smile that sent a shiver down Katarine's spine.

"When you came here, your hands were soft and untested," Rebecca taunted, her voice smooth like honey but laced with challenge. "Let's see if you can handle the heat."

Katarine's eyes narrowed, a flicker of determination igniting within her. She could feel the weight of Ethan's gaze from the sidelines, his father, Nicolas, standing beside him, arms crossed and a bemused expression on his face.

"You got this, Kat," Ethan whispered, his voice filled with encouragement, but the tension in the barn was palpable.

Taking a deep breath, Katarine glanced down at her rugged farm jumpsuit, the fabric rough against her skin, a stark contrast to the soft, delicate image she often projected. She felt the heaviness of Ethan's old working boots dampening her spirit, a reminder of her initial hesitation. No, she wouldn't let that hold her back.

With a surge of defiance, she kicked off the boots, feeling the cool, solid earth beneath her feet. "This is how I fight," she declared, her voice steady. The gesture sent ripples of surprise through both Ethan and Nicolas, who exchanged glances, unsure whether to be impressed or worried. Rebecca chuckled, the sound echoing in the spacious barn.

"Well, well, look who's getting bold. Guess I'll have to step it up." With graceful movements, she peeled off her own shoes, revealing strong, calloused feet. The sight was unexpected; this was no mere mother-in-law. This was a warrior. "Are you ready?" Rebecca asked, her tone now serious, eyes locked onto Katarine's.

"Ready as I'll ever be," Katarine replied, her heart racing but her mind clear. She had entered this spar not just to prove herself to Rebecca, but to herself. She wanted to show Ethan, to show everyone, that she was more than just the woman he was going to marry.

"Then let's begin!" Rebecca shouted, lunging forward with surprising speed.

Katarine barely had time to react as Rebecca's gloved fist swung at her. "Whoosh!" The air whizzed past Katarine's ear as she ducked instinctively, her body moving on pure adrenaline. "Nice dodge!" Ethan called out, excitement lacing his voice.

Katarine barely registered him as she straightened, her focus narrowing on Rebecca, who had regained her stance, a smirk playing on her lips. "You'll have to do better than that, sweetie," she taunted again.

"Bring it on!" Katarine shouted, her voice tinged with both defiance and thrill. They circled each other, each woman waiting for an opening. Katarine felt the energy in the barn shift; the weight of their rivalry was palpable. The stakes were high; this wasn't just a sparring match. It was an opportunity to forge a bond, to earn respect, and to establish her place in this family.

And then it came—Rebecca lunged again, this time feinting to the left before swinging a punch to the right. Katarine reacted, blocking the blow with her forearm but feeling the jolt of impact travel through her.

"Gah!" she gasped, momentarily stunned. "You hit like a truck!" Rebecca threw her head back and laughed, a rich sound that filled the barn. "And you're learning fast. But don't get too comfortable!" Regaining her composure, Katarine felt the determination surge again.

"I'm just getting started!" With newfound resolve, she retaliated, swinging her gloved fist toward Rebecca, landing a glancing blow to her shoulder. "Ugh!" Rebecca grunted, surprise flashing across her face.

"You've got some fight in you!" "Yeah, I do!" Katarine retorted, adrenaline coursing through her veins. She could feel Ethan's eyes on her, the weight of his faith in her pushing her onward. The match continued, their bodies weaving and dodging, each woman testing the other's limits. Sweat glistened on Katarine's brow as she felt her muscles burn, but the exhilaration kept her going.

At one point, Rebecca caught her off guard with a sudden jab, knocking her back a step. "Ha! Gotcha!" Katarine couldn't help but laugh, the sound bubbling up despite the intensity of the moment.

"Okay, okay, you're good! But I'm not done yet!" "Let's see it!" Rebecca challenged, her eyes sparkling with competitive fire. Katarine charged forward, channeling everything she had learned from their earlier exchanges.

She feigned left and then pivoted right, aiming a punch that landed squarely on Rebecca's side. The older woman stumbled, her eyes wide with shock. "Whoa! Nice one!" Ethan shouted, his voice ringing with pride. Rebecca regained her balance, her expression shifting from surprise to admiration.

"You're a quick learner; I'll give you that!" Gasping for breath, Katarine beamed, a sense of triumph swelling within her. "I'm not just your future daughter-in-law; I'm part of this family now!"

"Damn right you are!" Rebecca agreed, her tone softened by respect. "But don't think I'll go easy on you just because of that!" "I wouldn't want you to!" Katarine replied, the thrill of the fight coursing through her.

They resumed their spar, the atmosphere electric with energy, the barn echoing with the sound of their gloves meeting flesh and air. Each punch and block carried a weight of unspoken words, a testament to their evolving relationship.

As the minutes passed, fatigue began to set in. Katarine could feel her limbs growing heavy, her breath coming in short gasps. But she refused to back down, summoning the last reserves of her strength. With one final surge, she charged forward, a combination of punches aimed at Rebecca, who was caught off guard. "Whoosh! Bam! Pow!" The sounds echoed in the barn, a symphony of effort and determination.

But Rebecca, ever the seasoned fighter, sidestepped and countered, their movements becoming a dance of skill and instinct. They weaved in and out, each woman pushing the other to the limit.

"Come on, Kat! You've got this!" Ethan cheered, his voice unwavering in support. Katarine felt a rush of energy at his words, a fire igniting in her chest. "I'm not done yet!" With a final burst of energy,

She lunged forward, catching Rebecca off-guard once again. "Boom!" Her fist connected with Rebecca's shoulder, sending her sprawling back against the barn wall. "Whoa!" Nicolas exclaimed, his eyes wide. Rebecca chuckled, breathless and panting, but there was a twinkle of pride in her eye. "Well played, Katarine. You've earned your place here." Katarine stood, chest heaving, a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration flooding through her.

"I didn't just want to prove I belong. I wanted to show you I could stand up to you." Rebecca nodded, a smile breaking through her previous competitive demeanor. "And you did. You're stronger than you look, and I respect that." Ethan rushed forward, enveloping Katarine in a tight embrace.

"You were amazing! I knew you could do it!" The warmth of his body filled her with a sense of accomplishment and belonging. "Thanks for believing in me," she murmured, her heart racing. Nicolas stepped closer, a proud smile on his face.

"You've got guts, Katarine. Rebecca doesn't take challenges lightly." "Neither do I," she replied, a hint of mischief in her tone. Rebecca joined them, still catching her breath. "I suppose we'll have to do this again sometime. But next time, I'll be ready for you." "Bring it on," Katarine challenged, her smile wide and genuine.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the barn, it felt as if the air had shifted. They were no longer just a future daughter-in-law and a mother-in-law; they were allies in a newfound bond, forged in the heat of competition and respect. The barn, filled with laughter and camaraderie, echoed with the promise of many more matches to come.

And as Katarine stood there, surrounded by the warmth of family and acceptance, she knew she had found her place—not just in Ethan's life, but within this vibrant, fierce family that embraced her spirit.

"Let's go grab some dinner," Ethan suggested, breaking the moment.

"I'm starving!" "After that, spar? You'll need a feast!"

Rebecca laughed, clapping Katarine on the back. Together, they exited the barn, leaving behind the dust and echoes of the spar. The future loomed ahead, bright and full of possibilities, and for the first time, Katarine felt ready to face it head-on.