"What? You actually managed to stand this time." My father said in surprise.
I took the advantage of this slight lack of defence. I changed my handle from the left to right hand.
In almost an instant, I twisted and slashed from the side. My blade was blocked but I slid it till the hilt hit his blade.
The goal was to avoid any force that may result from the clash. And this way, I'm able to close the distance.
He noticed my plan and raised his blade to swat off mine. But just then, I took advantage of his defence. I hit the hilt of my blade with as much force as I can and it spun around his.
Dad raised his blade, a serious expression took precedence on his face.
My blade twirled like a screw nail until it finally hit his chest. I jumped back and my blade fell before him.
For a moment I was stunned that worked. My father always blocked my attacks by making sure he released a little shockwave to repel me. But once I cut it, I can get in close.
He didn't rely on his own strength. As much as it was for my safety, it was still his flaw. And I made sure to take advantage of that.
My father stood up and took a deep breath. I couldn't understand what he might have been thinking then.
"Yey.. yey.. yes..!! Big brother finally won." Kendal cheered loudly as she stood from her seat.
She was silently holding her breath since the started the duel. It had become more than just a habit for her to come and watch our duels.
"Hahahaha... how unexpected. I definitely didn't see that coming. Little boy, you really got some skills don't you?" He said as he approached me.
His huge physique towered over me as he approached me. My breath was ragged as I couldn't fathom what he was after. It was like an imposing aura was clouding him.
He stabbed his wooden sword beside me. He lowered to my level and held me by the clothes.
"Son, you did great today. As a reward, I'll give you some time off." He said in a plain calm voice.
I didn't expect this response. Honestly, I don't know what response I was expecting. The man kept confusing me with each gesture.
He carried me up happily and hugged me in his arms.
As for me, I was pleased. A fluke it might have been. But it still proved my capability to adapt. If I trained more, I might succeed.
But above all else, I wanted to try fusion. If I can use a fraction of my sealed magic, I'd be even better. And so I made up my mind. I'm going to use my pair time to research about this damn seal.
Or at least about how I can make flaws in it's designs. This old man refused to release it even for a short while. He might be a bit overprotective. He doesn't use his magic during our duels. Meaning he is always avoiding releasing or destroying it by luck.
"Now then, let's go home. I think your mother will be very happy to learn you're improving." He said as he put me down.
"Does that mean I can finally go hunting with you? I hear it's tons of fun out there." I said with bright eyes.
Who am I kidding. I already know he won't give me any such permission. But this is a way to get him to make the training harder. That's the only way I'll improve. Even if I get sick and drained. I'll make sure to absorb all possible skills into me.
"You seem to be moving a little too fast. How about I promise you this. I'll take you hunting in the mountains. But only when you're fifteen." He said, raising a finger.
"Do you really promise?"
"Of course. Anything for you."
"Then I'll always remember that." I said and walked to Kendal.
The truth is, he's not gonna do it. The probability of him taking me hunting anywhere is less that my current age -six percent. Most mountains are gaining beasts and monsters. Some are overrun. And no one knows why.
But I bet this will go on for years. If possible, I'm predicting ten years. Either way, it won't happen.
"Let's go home now. I think were done with the training for today." I said to Kendal whome I offered my hand.
The girl jumped and hugged me. Not a surprising twist. But she's gotten a little carefree towards me. Sure, we're... friends, or cousins if I may say so. But I really don't like the pace.
"Wait a minute. Why don't we meet Emma before going home? I think I need some books from her." I said patting her head.
When she nodded, I pulled her at arm's length and held her hand. We left the training grounds and went for the library.
There, the large doors creaked open when we arrive. Silent and boring as usually. And Emma was buried in a load of books as usual too. I guess she really wouldn't mind having books for coffin.
"Hey Emma...!!" I shouted out into the silent massive room.
Emma flashed before us holding two books in her hands. Books floated all around her, even blocking her face from us.
"Wow, you're one devoted librarian I have to say. Such dedication is all but admirable." I said sarcastically.
"Oh, I'm guessing it's my two favourite cousins. Maybe I should really join your family. You guys never forget checking up on me." Emma teased as she responded.
"Kendal, can you go get yourself a book. I'll read it to you today." I said to Kendal and she didn't protest as she went on the crusade for a new book.
"I came here to ask and complain. You still haven't said anything about our old topic. Kendal needs a friend besides me." I reminded Emma who paused all movement.