Chapter 26
Morning came quietly.
Rudeus stood in the yard, wooden sword resting at his side.
He felt it immediately.
"…This is different."
Not just stronger.
Stabler.
His body no longer felt like it was catching up.
It had caught up.
Everything—muscles, reactions, balance, healing—
Aligned.
Paul approached slowly.
"…You've changed again."
Rudeus nodded.
"…Yes."
No explanation.
None needed.
Paul exhaled.
"…Alright."
He raised his sword.
"Show me."