Rekindled Bonds

Chapter 7

(A/N: Chapters will now only be posted on Tuesdays.)

Ash spent the next few weeks finding solace in Sebastian's company. During their time together, their connection deepened, surpassing anything they had experienced during their years as students. While Ash's mood had improved significantly, there was still a shadow of melancholy that clung to her.

"Ash," Sebastian's voice interrupted her swirling thoughts and she turned to look at him. "Why don't we do something fun today?"

She sighed and flashed a tight-lipped smile. "Okay, what do you suggest?"

He contemplated for a moment. "We should do something adventurous, get your adrenaline pumping. A few weeks ago, I believe I mentioned something along the lines of razing an Ashwinder camp and skinny dipping in the lake?"

Ash rolled her eyes. "You just want to see me naked."

"And what if I do?" Sebastian flashed a coy smile.

Ash gave him a playful shove. "If I agreed, how do you anticipate we raid a camp when there aren't any left?"

"Good point." He pondered for a moment before a spark of inspiration lit up his eyes and he gave Ash a devilish grin. "How about a duel? I demand a rematch. I've improved significantly since last time."

"Last time being when I knocked you flat on your ass?" Ash giggled.

"I tripped," he replied, his voice slightly higher than normal.

"Yeah, sure," Ash smirked. "Okay, deal."

In the Clocktower Courtyard, Ash and Sebastian stood in opposing lines, wands drawn, their gazes locked in determination.

Sebastian cast a mischievous glance at Ash. "How about we make this a bit more interesting?" Ash raised an eyebrow. "I propose a bet- the loser has to do whatever the winner decides." Ash looked at Sebastian with suspicion. Sensing her hesitation, he assured her, "Don't worry, I do have boundaries."

Ash's eyes widened and she spoke in a playful tone, "Boundaries? I don't think you know the meaning of the word."

He rolled his eyes. "I won't ask you to do anything I wouldn't do."

"The list of things you wouldn't do is nonexistent," Ash said flatly.

"I guess you'll just have to win then huh," he taunted.

"Oh, I have no doubts that I'll win."

"Cocky are we?" Ash and Sebastian settled into dueling stances. "May the best duelist win," he declared with a theatrical bow before casting his first spell.

Their wands crackled with magic as the duel began, each spell they cast was a testament to their skill and determination. As the battle unfolded, the courtyard echoed with the sounds of incantations and the flashing lights of spells. Ash and Sebastian were equally matched, neither willing to back down.

As the duel intensified, their faces lit up with competitive spirit. Ash fired off a series of rapid spells, causing Sebastian to falter. The last spell she cast hit him straight in the chest, propelling him backward onto the floor. With a smug expression, Ash sauntered over to Sebastian who was still lying flat on his back.

"So... You've improved significantly, huh?" Ash extended her hand toward him.

Sebastian rubbed his head as he sat up. "I let you win. You know, to make you feel better."

"Right."

Sebastian grabbed her hand and pulled Ash down to the floor alongside him. He rolled over, pinning her underneath him as he studied her momentarily, their noses mere inches apart. Their faces drew nearer and their lips brushed against each other for a fleeting moment before they both closed their eyes and their lips finally met in a passionate kiss. Ash felt her ears grow hot as Sebastian slid his hand up her arm before resting his fingers on the base of her throat.