Chapter 16
The yard felt colder that morning.
Not because of the weather—
But because of intent.
Paul stood with his sword drawn.
Not lazily.
Not casually.
Ready.
"…Rudy."
His voice carried weight now.
"From today on… I'm treating you like a real opponent."
Rudeus nodded.
That was exactly what he wanted.
Paul moved.
Fast.
No warning.
No hesitation.
A diagonal strike aimed cleanly—
Rudeus reacted instantly.
Step.
Turn.
Deflect.
But the impact—
CRACK.
His arms screamed.
Too heavy.
Too fast.
Paul didn't stop.
Second strike.
Rudeus barely adjusted—
Third.
Fourth.
Relentless.
For the first time—
Rudeus was being overwhelmed.
His movements—
Still correct.
Still efficient.
But not enough.
I can't keep up…
And yet—
His body continued to respond.
Adjust.
Refine.
Adapt.
Even as it broke.