Chapter 13 - Evelyn's secret and the unexpected challenge

The tournament had been an enriching experience for Leonhardt. Not only had he demonstrated his combat prowess, but he had also met Evelyn, a skilled warrior with whom he felt a genuine connection. Her reserved attitude and impressive swordsmanship had captivated him, but something about her had always seemed a little strange.

After the final match, where both had given their all, Evelyn approached him with a serious expression.

—Leonhardt… there's something I need to tell you —she said in a low voice.

He looked at her with curiosity and a hint of concern.

—What is it?

Evelyn sighed and, in a quick motion, removed the headband she was wearing. At that moment, two long, pointed ears were revealed.

Leonhardt's eyes widened in surprise.

—You're an… elf?

She nodded.

—Yes… I am. I pretended to be human to compete on equal terms. Even though humans and elves get along, there's always a barrier between our races. I wanted to prove that my skill didn't depend on being an elf but on my own effort.

Leonhardt smiled.

—That's amazing. It doesn't bother me at all. In fact, I admire what you did.

Evelyn relaxed at his words.

—Thank you… I thought you might react differently.

Leonhardt laughed.

—If you knew everything I've been through, you'd realize this doesn't surprise me that much.

She returned his smile and, with a determined gesture, drew her sword.

—Then, how about we train together? I think you still have a lot to learn about swordsmanship.

Leonhardt stepped forward enthusiastically.

—Of course!

Training with Evelyn

For the next few days, Evelyn and Leonhardt spent a lot of time training together. She had a refined and precise fighting style, based on speed and technique rather than brute strength.

—Your style is more aggressive, but it lacks fluidity —Evelyn commented as she easily blocked one of Leonhardt's attacks—. You have talent, but you rely too much on your strength.

Leonhardt stepped back and took a deep breath.

—Then, what should I do?

Evelyn positioned herself behind him and took his wrist.

—Don't fight against the flow of battle. Learn to move with it. Watch…

With fluid movements, Evelyn dodged an imaginary attack and countered with impressive precision.

Leonhardt watched in fascination.

—That was incredible…

She smiled.

—It's not just technique; it's instinct. Trust your senses, not just your strength.

Leonhardt nodded and continued practicing. With each session, he felt himself improving, his style becoming more refined.

The Problem with Magnus

However, not everything was peaceful. One day, while Leonhardt and Evelyn were resting after training, a tall and muscular man approached them.

—Well, well… what a surprise to see a beauty like you here, Evelyn —the man said with an arrogant smile.

Leonhardt recognized him immediately. It was Magnus, a fighter who had participated in the tournament. He was around twenty years old, and his imposing physique gave him an intimidating presence.

Evelyn frowned.

—What do you want, Magnus?

He looked at her shamelessly.

—Don't pretend you don't know. A woman as beautiful as you shouldn't be wasting her time with a kid like him —he said, pointing at Leonhardt with disdain—. Why don't you come with me? I could give you something much better than these useless training sessions.

Leonhardt felt anger burning inside him.

—Leave her alone.

Magnus laughed mockingly.

—And what will you do if I don't, brat?

Leonhardt stood up, looking at him firmly.

—I'll make you regret saying that.

Magnus laughed even louder.

—You? Don't make me laugh.

Evelyn stepped between them.

—He's not worth it, Leonhardt. He's just an idiot.

But Leonhardt couldn't let it slide.

—I want a fight. Here and now.

Magnus smirked arrogantly.

—Alright, but don't cry when you lose.

The Duel Against Magnus

The fight began. Magnus relied too much on his strength and attacked brutally, but Leonhardt, applying what he had learned from Evelyn, dodged gracefully and countered at the right moment.

—What…? —Magnus grunted as he took a hit to the stomach.

Leonhardt smirked.

—You're not as fast as you think.

Magnus roared with fury and launched a devastating strike, but Leonhardt dodged it effortlessly and, with a swift movement, placed his wooden sword against his opponent's neck.

—It's over.

Magnus gritted his teeth, humiliated.

—Damn brat!

Evelyn approached Leonhardt and patted his shoulder.

—Well done.

Leonhardt beamed, feeling proud.

Magnus, defeated, walked away in anger.

Evelyn looked at Leonhardt with a new expression in her eyes.

—You know… you're more interesting than I thought.

Leonhardt felt his heart race for a moment, but he simply smiled.

—Thanks, Evelyn.

As they walked back together, Leonhardt felt that he had gained more than just a victory. He had found a true companion.