Bonds of Darkness: Swordmen's Redemption

Chapter Six: Memories of Steel

A/N: All rights to the original content are reserved by the respective copyright owner.

Chapter Image Source: Pixiv Artist Code "72057969" / Pixiv Art Code "111991778"

Edit as of July 19, 2024: I am rereading my previous chapters and couldn't help but cringe at some aspects, particularly the repetition caused by my past self. Even the English is too complex for normal readers. So, I am editing some segments to use more natural vocabulary (screw you again, past self) and removing repetitions.

-Flashback Start-

The training ground glowed softly in the dawn light, setting a serene stage for a duel that was more than just a fight. Y/N and Jingliu faced each other, their eyes locked in intense determination. They were not merely teacher and student but the closest of friends, engaged in a sparring ritual that had grown dear to them over time.

Y/N stood tall in his formidable armor, his greatsword gripped with the confidence of a seasoned warrior. Jingliu, with her lithe figure clad in disciplined fighter's attire, wielded her lightsword with grace and agility. They watched each other intently, poised for a dance of blades.

Jingliu struck first with a lightning-fast lunge, her lightsword cutting through the air with the swiftness of a shooting star towards Y/N, who adopted a defensive stance. She unleashed a flurry of strikes, each a display of her speed and precision. Y/N, the stalwart defender, countered her attacks with a solid guard, the clang of their weapons echoing across the training ground.

As the spar progressed, Y/N's aura began to shift. A cerulean hue enveloped him, pulsing with energy through his greatsword—a subtle yet profound change.

Jingliu noticed this shift, signaling Y/N was ready to conclude their match. His resolve intensified, his movements deliberate, and the cerulean glow grew stronger, casting an ethereal light along his blade.

In response, Jingliu increased her pace, her attacks becoming quicker and more intense. She recognized Y/N's intention to end the battle decisively, a challenge she embraced as a measure of their growth.

Their duel peaked with Y/N executing a powerful swing, a move that embodied their shared experiences and unspoken synergy. Jingliu, fully alert, clashed with him head-on, their weapons meeting with a resounding impact.

But Y/N didn't stop there. With a surge of strength, he raised his greatsword and brought it down with formidable force. Jingliu was momentarily taken aback but rallied her strength to defend against it.

With her lightsword crackling with energy, she stood firm, the force of Y/N's strike challenging her to her core. She endured, her resolve unyielding, a testament to the strong bond between them. Her defense held, and she averted a devastating blow.

At last, Y/N relaxed, lowering his greatsword. Jingliu, catching her breath, lowered her weapon too. The spar was over, and though it had pushed her limits, she had proven herself.

"Jingliu," Y/N said with the wisdom of a close comrade, "your growth as a warrior is remarkable. Trust in your instincts and the skills we've developed together. That's what makes you formidable."

Breathing deeply after the intense duel, Jingliu felt a surge of warmth and gratitude. Unbeknownst to them, they had attracted an audience. The High Cloud Quintet—Ying Xing, Jing Yuan, Dan Feng, and Baiheng the foxian—had watched silently, admiring their skill and dedication.

Their applause broke out suddenly, resonating like thunder across the training ground.

Y/N, surprised by the applause, looked sheepish, scratching the back of his head. Jingliu simply smiled at the heartfelt praise.