Chapter Twenty-Three - The Rookie vs. the Prodigy

All eyes were drawn to the skirmish.

Levana was stationary, more out of fear than any sense of duty, her gaze flicking back and forth between Ailith and Troy. It was only when Cadere intervened by marching in the middle of the confrontation that she scurried away. ''No one has to prove anything,'' he said.

''Are you going to let her disrespect us like that?'' Troy's hand was engulfed in ice and hovering over his dagger's hilt.

In retaliation, Ailith's hands were immersed in diamond. She felt Kuval grasp her shoulder, gently guiding her out of the way as he stepped forward. ''She meant no disrespect. Unlike you to Levana.''

''That was banter.'' He defended.

Ailith glanced at Levana. The trainee was quiet, not knowing where to look. Her hands were clenched and her shoulders slumped, doing little to convince Ailith that Troy's view was right. When she turned back to the pale-skinned Knight, she could see his skin slowly changing into an icy-blue. The cold air stung her face.

Troy turned to Cadere. ''Marshal, please approve this duel...''

''Denied.'' Cadere fired back.

Troy's chest heaved. More cold air expelled from his mouth. Ailith watched the ice covering his hands shrink, the sound of the element cracking loudly, before disappearing from sight. On the one hand, she was glad that things had ended this way. Provoking a Knight into a duel was not how she imagined persuading them to let her join.

Then lightning struck. What if getting into a duel was exactly what she needed to persuade them?

She failed to influence anyone with her loss in the tournament and no one, other than Nassandra, was around to watch her stop Jozi. No one has seen what she is capable of. Everyone around stared at her like she was a joke, a mongrel whose bark was worse than her bite. This could be her chance to finally prove what she was capable of before an audience that mattered.

''I accept the duel.'' She said, much to everyone's surprise.

Cadere eyed her dismissively. ''That's not how it works.''

''But, I accept the duel.''

''Only someone of a higher rank can authorise a duel to commence in this courtyard. Master Kuval and I see no reason to allow it.''

Giving her a more sympathetic look, Kuval nodded. ''We don't want temper's flare to create a fire.''

Ailith lowered her gaze. She had let her pride cloud her judgement. There was no denying that Troy was out of line towards Levana. However, a ping of doubt crawled its way into her subconscious. What if it really was banter? They were Knights after all. They were defenders of the righteous and fought for the innocent. Clearing her throat, Ailith bowed respectfully. ''I'm sorry for any offence I've caused.''

Troy was unresponsive. His lips twitched, holding in whatever words he wished to speak but couldn't with his superior's watching him carefully. Without a word, he extended his arm and opened his palm for her.

With a smile, Ailith accepted his gesture and shook his cold head. ''But, I still accept the duel...'' she said and then sharply turned to meet Cadere's glare. ''Not because I want to demean anyone. This'll be a friendly spar. I just want to test myself and see if I can compete with the Knights. The only way I can do that is by challenging the best.''

A confident grin was etched on Troy's face. Standing beside him, Marina nudged his shoulder playfully. ''Don't take her words accurately, otherwise, she wouldn't be referring to you.''

''You never allow me a moment.'' He groaned and pushed her back.

Ailith smirked. ''You both seem strong. I wouldn't mind duelling both of you.''

Everyone's eyes widened at the remark. For the first time since she entered the courtyard, Cadere's stern manner waned. Every time he thought he had figured Ailith out, she constantly surprised him. Kuval's face was curious and somewhat intrigued. ''Are you sure?''

She nodded. ''I'm well-rested and recovered.''

Troy let out a chuckle. ''You're not lacking in confidence, are you?''

Marina snorted. ''You, of all people, dare to say that?''

The other Knights circled the small group, eagerly waiting for an unpredictable spectacle. Kuval and Cadere stood next to each other, eyeing the crowd and feeling the anticipation. The Marshal wore a tired grimace. ''What do you think?''

Kuval glimpsed at the Knights before studying Ailith. ''Individually, they're skilled, but working together is another issue. If she can find a way to exploit that...''

Cadere turned to face him. ''I meant if we should authorise the duel or not.''

''Ah, my apologies,'' a small laugh escaped Kuval. ''I see nothing wrong with it. We'll judge it as if it were any other duel between Knights.''

Nervously standing from behind, Levana shuffled closer. ''Can she win?''

His smile to her was warm and soft. ''No victory in battle is ever certain. It could go in any direction and sometimes yield unexpected results.''

Cadere groaned loud enough for others to hear. Once a few turned in his direction, the rest soon followed. It was obvious that he was the last one standing who opposed this duel. But, he couldn't deny a part of him was also curious to see what the princess's saviour was capable of. ''Very well...''

''Wait!'' Troy interrupted. His eyes shone with amusement and he shot Ailith a knowing, almost devilish smirk. ''You want to fight the best Knight here?''

It was almost too obvious that he was baiting her. She accepted it nonetheless. ''I do.''

Troy twisted his body so that he was half-facing her and tilted his head to the far end of the courtyard. Ailith looked over and spotted a woman meditating quietly in the distance. She must have been only a few years older than Ailith, at the most. Her hair was kissed by snow. The Knight's symbol adorned on the shoulder plate of her slim armour was also white, different from any other Knight she had encountered, even Kuval. A broadsword was nestled across her lap as she rested her hands on the blade.

When everyone knew who Troy was referring to, their whispers turned into gasps of disbelief. Ailith looked around her, trying to comprehend their fear. Even Cadere's face became ghostly white. They acted as if it were taboo to look at the woman sat peacefully in the corner.

''That is Commander Emlyn Baldur,'' Troy said. ''In this courtyard, she's second only to Master Kuval. Not even the Marshal would dare cross her path. If you can land one hit on her, you'll have proven you can walk with the best of us.''

Cadere reached out, attempting to grab Ailith, but she had already bolted away from him and towards Emlyn. Troy kept a straight face, hiding a wicked grin.

Marina bit her bottom lip. ''Can't you stop her, Marshal?''

He sighed. ''If Commander Emlyn accepts the duel, there's nothing I can do.''

Levana glanced at Kuval. ''Can she win?''

''No, she doesn't stand a chance.''

''What? But you said earlier...'' she sputtered. ''Then why aren't you stopping it?''

He watched on with interest. ''I'm fairly certain I know how Ailith will handle victory. But, I'm curious to see how she'll react when defeated.''

Ailith stopped a few feet away from Emlyn. The white-haired Knight kept her eyes closed. Her only movement was the slow rise and fall of her shoulders as she breathed. The young warrior opened her mouth to speak when she suddenly felt an overwhelming sensation burning off the commander, causing her smile to fade. An unseen force pulsed, causing Ailith to stagger back. She gulped, her heart thundered like a storm and a bead of sweat rolled down her temple.

Slowly, her smile returned. Clapping her hands together, she bowed her head as low as possible. ''Commander, ma'am, my name is Ailith Natia and I challenge you to a duel.''

Emlyn didn't react.

The courtyard was unbearably quiet. Ailith lifted her head to stare at the swordswoman and try her luck again. ''Sorry, I'd like to challenge you to a duel, please?''

Once again, nothing.

Ailith straightened from her low bow and rubbed the back of her neck. ''Can you hear me?''

Finally, Emlyn's head tipped slightly. For some Knights, it was enough to make the hair on the back of their neck stand. ''If I accept, will you stop pestering me?'' she said with a rough, hoarse voice.

Ailith smiled at her. She hurried towards the centre of the courtyard, ignoring the gaping stares of the other Knights. Right now, there was only one of interest to her. ''Ready when you are!'' She called out.

Emlyn opened her vibrant green eyes, grabbed the sword on her lap, rose to her feet and walked forward. Every step she took made the other Knights flinch. Cadere kept his arms folded over his chest, tapping his finger nervously. Levana hid behind Kuval, who seemed to be the only one calm.

Ailith and Emlyn faced each other, separated by a distance of ten feet. Emlyn sized up her challenger. Her expression was unreadable as she drew her blade, the metal hissing out of its cover. In contrast, Ailith was beaming. The fight hadn't started and she could already feel Emlyn's power. It quashed any doubts regarding the commander's prowess.

This was the opponent she wanted if she had any hope of becoming the greatest warrior in the world.

Kuval clapped his hands together, earning their attention. ''Before we begin...'' he retrieved the sword that clung to his side and hurled it towards Ailith.

She caught it and after a brief moment's inspection, recognised the blade. ''My sword!''

Ailith looked down at the weapon, brushing her fingers over the handle. Though she was not a swordswoman at heart, it felt comforting to hold the blade in her hand, like reuniting with an old friend. She smirked for a second before tossing it to Emlyn. Everyone gaped. Levana did so loudly she clasped her hand over her mouth to silence herself.

Emlyn caught the sword with her free hand and threw Ailith a questioning glare. Ailith merely shrugged. ''You can use it.''

Casting away her suspicions, Emlyn twirled the sword in her hand. She then held it outward, examining every aspect of the weapon, from the metal used to the weight. ''Vella-made,'' she said calmly. ''I'd estimate three seasons old, but it could be older as the blade is hardly damaged.''

Ailith's brows rose, impressed that Emlyn guessed correctly. She couldn't contain her exhilaration for much longer, wanting to start this duel as soon as possible.

Not wanting to take risks, Ailith decided to go all-out from the start. She raised her clenched fists and covered her arms in diamond, striking a steady battle pose. Unafraid, Emlyn grasped the two swords in each hand and retained an easy-going stance.

Satisfied they were both ready, Kuval raised his arm in the air. ''This duel will conclude when I call, or if one yields. Are we clear?''

The two women nodded.

Kuval's arm dropped. ''Begin!''

In a flash, Emlyn closed the distance, pressing her sword against the flesh of Ailith's neck. Ailith's eyes widened and she was frozen on the spot. It happened so quickly she thought the commander had committed a flash start. However, even if she did, Ailith should have been able to see her attack. Hoping to find some space, Ailith swatted the sword away with her arm. Emlyn spun her body, moving like a blur, and swung the other sword until it rested against the back of Ailith's neck.

Ailith was motionless once again. She glanced down and saw small strands of her blonde hair cast into the wind. Twice her opponent could have killed her, all before she could blink.

She moved her leg to get away, but Emlyn kicked Ailith's other leg and swept her off her feet. Ailith could do nothing as the swordswoman slammed her palm into the warrior's chest, knocking the air out of her. Ailith crashed to the ground in a heap. She rolled away, panting and rubbing her chest. Luckily, Ailith saw Emlyn thrust her blade forward, aiming for her shoulder. She leapt to the side to dodge, only to be clattered as Emlyn kicked her stomach. Before the pain could register, Emlyn grabbed Ailith's shoulder and tossed her away effortlessly.

Ailith skidded along the ground a few times before stopping. Hidden in the crowd, Levana squinted. To her, this was not a duel...it was a massacre.

The fight seemed over already until Ailith admirably lifted herself up. Breathing heavily, she leapt forward and unleashed a flurry of punches. Emlyn blocked every punch. Sparks flew upon contact. Her feet danced, always one step ahead of Ailith's, no matter how swiftly the warrior threw her punches. Ailith charged, hoping to topple her opponent with her strength. Instead, this gave Emlyn the chance to counter by ducking and hooking her arm behind Ailith's knee. She yanked back, unbalancing Ailith before smashing the hilt of her sword into Ailith's side, causing her to plummet to the ground once again.

Ailith took longer to get back up. Meanwhile, Emlyn's breathing was soft as ever. Ailith spun on her heel, whipping her diamond arm like a mighty hammer. Emlyn responded by swinging the flat side of her blade, meeting the blow. The crash rang throughout the courtyard, shattering the ground beneath them. Jolted, but still in the fight, Ailith charged and continued her attacks. Emlyn parried with ease, treating the warrior's assault like an adult humouring a child.

Hoping to land the finishing blow, Ailith jumped in the air, twisted her body and thrust her elbow down on her opponent. Emlyn stopped the attack with her sword before grabbing Ailith's arm. She backflipped whilst holding Ailith before launching a powerful double-kick that sent her rocketing across the courtyard. Ailith grunted in pain as her back smashed into the wall, debris falling with her to the floor.

Gracefully, Emlyn rotated to land on her hands and knees.

''That's enough,'' Kuval called. ''I declare Commander Emlyn Baldur the victor.''

No one was surprised, emphasised by the half-hearted applause that followed. Levana covered her face with her hand, peering through the gaps between her fingers at Ailith's unmoving body. Troy's lip curled upwards and he stood tallest amongst the audience. He shared a quick glance with Marina, who appeared disappointed by the outcome.

Emlyn straightened and walked towards her downed challenger, her sword sheathed. Twirling Ailith's sword, she flung it back to Kuval. Her tranquil composure barely changed since her meditation was interrupted. She stopped five feet away from Ailith when she noticed the warrior's body moving, jerking up and down and heard a muffled blubbering.

Emlyn huffed. ''No tears, please...''

Ailith quickly sat up, laughing. ''That was incredible!'' Pain surged from her side, causing her to flinch and groan, but that did little to stop her jubilance.

Emlyn narrowed her eyes, unsure what to make of the strange reaction. It was the first time she'd encountered someone who was happy to be on the receiving end of a beating. ''As promised,'' Emlyn said. ''You'll stop pestering me.''

''First, I never made that promise. And second, I am not letting this be our last duel...'' She used the wall to help her stand. She turned to Emlyn with a smirk. ''Because, from this point onward, I declare you my rival.''

Emlyn gazed back in confusion. In the background, the Knights turned to one another, hoping that someone could explain what they just witnessed. Levana glanced at Kuval, seeing the master wear a smile.

Shifting on her feet, Emlyn turned and retreated back to her corner to meditate, leaving Ailith without a worded response. It didn't matter to the warrior. Even if the duel didn't end in her favour, she felt like a champion. She limped back over to the others. Levana was the first to greet her. ''Are you hurt?''

''Yeah, all over,'' Ailith admitted. ''Did you see that?''

''You mean did I see you get thrown around the courtyard like a ragdoll? Yes, I did. I hope you're happy!'' She scolded.

''I am!'' Ailith beamed. ''I've never fought anyone that strong before!''

Her mind was still on the duel, trying to grasp an understanding of how much Emlyn dominated her. She was so preoccupied with those thoughts that she didn't notice the assembled crowd of Knights surrounding her until Marina grabbed her arm and hoisted it in the air. ''Let's hear it for Ailith! Obliterated in battle, yet came out with a smile.''

The Knights cheered for her, some sarcastically while a few were sincere. Levana clapped once before she was shoved to the side by the growing mob, pushed to the back and out of Ailith's sight. Troy kept his arms to the side. His eyes darting around, looking everywhere except towards the woman being celebrated. He balled his fist and lumbered away when no one was looking.

Watching the merriment with differing expressions, Cadere shared a passing glance with Kuval before stroking his grizzled chin. ''I can't understand this woman.''

''I understand her clearly,'' Kuval said.

''What is it you see that I don't?''

''You're searching for answers when she's already answered them. We feared that there was some hidden agenda or foul play. However, getting to know her, I think the truth is the simplest theory. She truly wants to become a Knight.''

Suddenly, a loud clang erupted from behind. ''But she can't!'' a voice bellowed.

The Knights scurried away from a bewildered Ailith. The terrified looks on their faces made Ailith's stomach churn.

Ailith turned around, seeing someone emerge from the shadows under the cloister she emerged from. The figure hobbled into view, rambling nonsensically under his breath so that no one could hear. Ailith swallowed hard as she waited for this person to step into the light and reveal himself. He used a red staff as a walking stick, helping him as his right leg was missing from under the knee. Ailith's breath was robbed of her. Despite his missing limb and his ageing face, she recognised him instantly. ''You...''

Jerimoth sneered. ''So, you do remember me?'' He continued to limp forward, ignoring the scrutinising look from Kuval. ''Then you remember what I said to you! And yet, here you are, still making a mockery of...''

''Jerimoth!'' Kuval faced him.

The fear Ailith experienced as a child came rushing back to her, especially when Jerimoth glowered at her. In a moment of weakness, her eyes drifted downwards, falling towards his missing leg. She gulped and looked back up, meeting his threatening scowl.

After a moment, he turned to Kuval. ''We might have a new lead in the assassination attempt. His Majesty requests our attendance.''

The conflict in Kuval wavered immediately. He nodded before looking over his shoulder towards Levana. ''Take Ailith back to her room.''

Levana pressed her fist over her heart and bowed. ''Yes, Master Kuval. Master Jerimoth.''

They paced towards a flight of stairs, never looking back.

Before an uneasy quietness could settle on the courtyard, Cadere cleared his throat loudly. ''Back to training. Nothing more to see!''

As the Knights returned to their routine, Ailith was rooted to the spot, staring glumly at the ground. How can she fall so low after feeling so elated a moment ago?

Levana forced a friendly smile. ''Well, I think that's enough excitement for today.''

Ailith brushed a hand through her hair. ''What does he have against me?''

''Don't let him get to you. He's like ten Bricens rolled into one. I say that with the utmost respect.''

''Is he really a Master Knight? Like Kuval?''

Levana nodded. ''They're the last two of that rank.''

''What happened to the others?''

''You two,'' Cadere interrupted. ''It's time to leave.''

After a hasty bow, Levana grabbed Ailith's arm and guided her out of the courtyard.

A/N: I hope that you enjoyed this chapter. I've been wanting to get to this one for so long. What was your favourite part? And what are your first impressions of Emlyn? Don't be afraid to comment and let me know what you like and where I can improve. Thank you all, and there will be more to come very soon. Take care.