The Rebel League

Chapter 13- Intiations x2

I quickly explained what the initiations were to avoid numerous questions thrown around the room. "The initiations are where new members of our team fight to prove that they're worthy of staying. The rules are that you have to fight a commander or the leader and no weapons or powers are allowed."

I purposely looked at Tristan for that last part. He shrugged, suddenly seeming disinterested in the whole thing.

"Hold up." Thea said, crossing her arms. This one is sassy as hell. "What happens if we lose?"

Estella jumped in for that one. "You won't be disowned, but you also won't be able to come with us on missions until you're deemed ready."

"Are we picking new commanders?" Kira said unenthusiastically.

Joel and I exchanged glances and shook our heads. Three was enough.

"We won't for now." I replied. "Any more questions?"

Joel's eyebrows suddenly shot up. "What about a new leader?"

"I'll do it." Estella and I said in sync.

I avoided her gaze and instead nodded at Joel. I'd already been leading this team, why not make it official? I was about to announce that fact when I looked at the two sisters whispering and giggling on the other side of the room. Estella had been a leader them just as long as I had to my group. It wasn't fair of me to take the position without considering her.

"You should duel to see who's better at being the leader." Kira muttered.

I scowled at the back of her head but it was actually a good idea. "We'll deal with that later. First things first, let's fight!"

"To the backyard!" Ruby exclaimed, dragging her sister out the back door.

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I ended up paired with Thea, who clearly wasn't kidding when she called herself 'unpredictable.' The fight started with us circling around each other. It then became very obvious that she taught by Estella (our fight had begun like that). Jeez, that seems like a Millenia ago- ah shit! Thea avoided my kick and retaliated with her own, hitting me right in the chest.

I doubled over, winded. Man, I need to train up.

My opponent stalked towards me with a triumphant smile. Luckily, my instincts took over at the last second and I kicked her leg out from under her. We both rolled and stood up, puffing. I am so out of shape it's not funny. She lunged forward but before she could make a move, I grabbed her collar and pulled my arm back for a punch.

"Time." Estella called from the sideline.

I let go of Thea and shook her hand. "Not bad."

She shrugged. "Not bad yourself."

Next up was Joel and Ruby. I sat against the wooden wall of the cottage next to Estella. She gave me a light smile and started playing with the end of her plait. I smiled in return, then turned back to the battle.

"Same rules apply. Fifteen minutes, whoever is left standing at the end is the winner. Or whoever lasts that long."  I chuckled and Ruby shivered.