Ryker and I arrived at the training ground, where everyone was already gathered. Since we were a bit late, we joined the group after some warm-up exercises and started practicing.
I wanted to duel with Ryker after seeing him fight with Tyler that day.
As I watch him practice, the feeling of wanting to duel grows more.
The general announced, " We'll practice fighting. Choose your partner for the duel."
Now is the chance. " Ryker," he looked at me.
" Duel with me." I continued.
He smiled and replied, " Okay, be ready, I won't go easy on you."
" Bring it on."
We got ready and started fighting. His attacks were incredibly fast, so much so that you wouldn't see them coming. He left no openings.
I managed to withstand his strikes. Our speeds were equal, meaning neither of us could land a hit on the other. The match lasted for quite a while until we both finally stopped, exhausted.
It ended in a tie. I won't lie; he was a tough opponent. Everyone around us watched in amazement. I would be surprised, too, if I saw a fight like ours. It almost looked unnatural. Since we arrived in this world, I feel like our powers have been increasing.
The general remarked, "Good work, you two. If this continues, you will awaken your true power."
I really wanted to push myself. Growing up, I thought I had to be perfect at everything, and that just made me even crazier about working harder.
Time passes, our training continues. Due to the tough training, everybody has improved.
It has been quite some time since we have come to the capital.
Ryker's relationship with me hasn't changed; we are like good friends now.
His other side doesn't show itself often and prefers to remain hidden most of the time.
One day, I was in the royal library when I saw Ryker. He was sitting, reading a book. I tried to approach him before seeing that he seemed odd.
"Ryker," I called out.
"He is asleep," came the response.
"It is you," I said, recognizing him; it was his other side.
He turned to look at me and remarked, "You don't seem happy to see me."
"Who would want to confront someone who once threatened their life?" I replied, sinking into a nearby chair. The warmth of his presence made the space between us feel charged with unspoken thoughts.
He chuckled and then turned back to his books.
"I want to ask you something," I said.
"Ask away," he replied.
"Do you actually have a split personality?"
" Can I hit you for your stupidity?"
"I was just confirming. So, how does it work? Do you like it? Are you real?"
"If you don't stop talking, I'll make you."
"Can't you just be nice for a moment? It's such a shame that the other one is so kind."
"We're both part of the same whole; if you think I'm bad, he is too. Think of us as one."
"He is an angel, and you are purely a devil."
"Do you know that his classmates are scared of him, not me?"
"Why?" My voice trembled as I stared in disbelief, my eyes wide with shock. I leaned heavily against the table, feeling its cool surface against my palms.
He moved in closer, invading my personal space, his presence both thrilling and unnerving. His deep blue eyes sparkled like the ocean under the sun, captivating me as always.
"If you fulfill my wish, I just might share my secret," he whispered, his gaze drifting to my lips with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine.
I recoiled slightly, momentarily stunned into silence. How audacious of him!
" I want to hit you, but I can't just do it."
"Am I too handsome?" he asked, a playful smirk dancing on his lips, the glimmer in his eyes hinting at mischief.
"Stop flirting every chance you get," she warned
"Are you sure you're not blushing?" he teased, mischief weaving through his words.
I brought my hand to my face, my skin radiating warmth, the realization hitting me like a wave: I was, indeed, red hot.
"You..."
" I what?"
I got up to leave.
" Already leaving," he looked at me with amusement.
I just rolled my eyes and said, " None of your business."
"What are you talking about?" He returned to his warm tone, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he waited for an answer.
"Sorry, I was just bluffing," I replied.
His personality changes so quickly and at the worst timing.
"How am I here?"
How am I supposed to answer that?
"Well, you wanted to read a book, so you came to the library." hope this cover it. God don't expose my lie.
"Did I? But I don't remember anything."
"Maybe you forgot because you were reading so intently."
"It happens to me often, though."
He didn't look so bright today; he was sulking.
"If it ever happens again, I'll be here to help you remember it. Okay?" I wanted to reassure him. I just couldn't see him sad.
I just couldn't say he has a split personality, he will not spare me if I do.
Something changed in his expression; he suddenly looked happy and innocent, too pure to be evil. How someone so pure be evil I'll not believe it.
We left the library and spent the rest of the day just goofing around.
Many days have passed, Ryker and I had been trying to obtain more information, but couldn't. Our free time has become more restricted now.
Tamphasana will challenge me to a duel from time to time. I beat her every time.
My skill has been approved now, too. But my magic has not awakened yet. I read the book my father gave me every night.
My parents will send me letters from time to time.
It was just the same day. Ryker and I were practising swordsmanship. We both were trying to surpass each other. The competition was high among us. He doesn't like to be defeated.
We have just finished our practice when a sudden announcement of someone's arrival was made.
Who was coming to visit us? And why does it have to do anything with us?