Chapter 77

Chapter 77 Count Floyds household was a descendant of a war-hero founding noble with a fairly large territory near the capital. In my previous life, it had remained a neutral force until the civil war had escalated, and for some reason, joined the Second Princes faction, thus walking the path towards its downfall. As the war turned in favor of the First Princes faction toward its end, the Floyd family was made an example of and was wiped out by the other nobles, who were watching and waiting for an opportunity. And at its last stand, there was an incredible rumor that the familys young lady, barely of age, had barricaded the inner fortress door and cut down a hundred knights. Eileen Floyd, a female knight born in the wrong era, and even the wrong country. Given Grandia Kingdoms views on the status of women, her story became even more infamous. Her end, after the civil war, became a song spread through the lips of poets and bards across the kingdom. A variety of stories had been created and spread about her. Of course, most of these stories were tragic love tales based on her. Yet, her last moments undoubtedly shocked the people of Grandia. And Logan was now witnessing with his own eyes that the rumors of her previous life were not entirely without merit. Considering her young age, the level she had reached was not easily achieved. Furthermore, considering the difficult circumstances for a noble lady to dedicate herself to swordsmanship training She might have a talent not inferior to Rhonian or Victor. Logan had come to this engagement meeting expecting to pass the time and then leave, but unexpectedly he had come across a real talent. Curiosity and regret swirled in Logans eyes. Theres only a few months left until the civil war restarts. An engagement is meaningless. If it were marriage instead of an engagement, he could use it as a pretext to tie this talent to the Maclaine family. However. Considering they had just met, planning a marriage in just a few months was an impossible tale within the nobility of Grandia. I dont have any particular talent for seducing women. There was no immediate way to bring this talented lady into the Maclaine family. Such a pity. Excuse me? Oh, no, my apologies, Lady. Just talking to myself sorry. Its alright. An awkward silence weighed heavily upon them. Hmm, maybe we could start with a cup of tea Ah, yes, that would be good Forced conversation attempts continued, but the silence lingered. Finally, Logan sighed and spoke. It seems like you didnt really want to be here either, Lady. Excuse me? Since Im in the same situation, shall we come to an agreement and leave this place? Her expression changed subtly at his words. Youre suggesting we dont waste any more of our meaningless time? Yes, thats right. Hmm. Then, how about we make the time meaningful? Excuse me? The sudden shift from understanding to interest took Logan by surprise. It was as if she was pleased by the idea of not wasting time. It also felt as if she was proposing this with the intention of enticing him in return. If that was the case, there might be a sliver of possibility. What do you mean by meaningful time? Thump, thump. Hiding his anticipation, Logan looked at Eileen. I hear youre a disciple of the Sword Saint. Would you be willing to spar with me? Excuse me? Caught off-guard by her unexpected proposal, Logan could only chuckle inwardly. The fact that I cant gauge your level even knowing youre a student of the Sword Saint leads me to think you must be more skilled than I am. Would a spar be troublesome for you? The proposition was unforeseen, but that was what made it fresh and interesting. Looking at the eagerness in Eileens expression, Logan nodded with a smile. Very well. A sparring match with someone of your young age and talent is also a welcome challenge for me. * * * Mistress! Laila, the maid who had been taking care of Eileen for a lifetime, was anxiously tugging at her sleeves. Startled, Eileen turned her head towards Logan, who was a little ahead. Fortunately, he didnt seem to overhear. Keep your voice down! He might hear you! Argh, thats not the problem, Mistress! The Count specifically ordered you not to do this. Why are you acting this way? I cant handle this. Its different now! This is an official spar. Laila, dont you trust me? Eileen was assertive, but Laila was adamant. I cant trust you. How am I supposed to trust you, Mistress? Oh dear, really. Pfft. Somewhere far away, a laughter trying to be suppressed could be heard. Keep it down, I told you! She hadnt even conceived how this spar could have turned out. A shocking pain intruded into her romanticized dreams, creating a surreal reality. Her body begged to collapse, but she refused. To her, Logans red eyes looking down seemed to scoff as if asking, Is that all? I have to land at least one hit! Eileen briskly wiped away the blood trailing past her eyes. She wanted to leave a bruise on those insufferably red eyes as if tainted by the blood on her hand. Wipe the blood from your eyes and Thump! Die! She launched an attack during the moment he spoke. It was beyond sparring; it was a strike filled with extreme personal emotion. Nevertheless, it was futile. Whack! Even if the sword came half a beat late, it was always there in time, intercepting her own. Ironically, her following blows, barely deflecting his attacks, felt more like luck. Well judged. He praised her, even though she had expected scorn for resorting to a cheap shot. But to Eileen right then, even that sounded like mockery. Your movements should be more concise though! Clash. Another jolt of agonizing pain blurred her vision once more. This wretched man! It wasnt about playing games Whether due to pain or anger, tears welled up. Yet, even so, Eileens body moved with shortened, deliberate motions. She had never felt such electrifying pain throughout her whole body. And she didnt realize her unnecessary movements were decreasing, nor that her injuries werent as severe as the pain suggested. And in front of her, Logan watched with bright eyes as Eileen continued to transform. It must have been how my master felt watching me. Overflowing with potential but failing to harness it. Although she seemed to have bad habits indicative of being self-taught, a few points of guidance had her immediately improve her form. Her talent was real, not just some story or rumor. So I must conclude this definitively. Just as he made his decision, Eileen charged once more. Ahh! A cry that sounded like both a scream and a rally. It was unfitting for a lady of rank but the result it brought couldnt be ignored. Her zigzagging footwork and shifting blade, a stark contrast from her initial straightforwardness, was like she was a completely different person. Yet. Logans iron sword easily deflected hers, burying itself into her solar plexus. Whoosh! Whack! The impact would surely paralyze her for quite some time. Emotionally and physically. As Logan withdrew his sword, Eileens body wilted weakly. But even then. Lets, lets go again. Again Desperation in her voice, as if refusing to end it there. Struggling to rise, Eileens plea was almost heart-wrenching. Spirit, check. Logan sighed softly, preparing himself mentally. What was happening had significant implications for the future. But Its well worth it. Resolute, Logan extended a hand. Ill help you up, Lady. Again, lets do it again! Ill give you another chance next time. Sigh Chuckling, Logan helped Eileen to her feet. Then, he whispered a few words into her ear. What? Yes? Eileen, with a confused look, nodded after a moment. The few whispered words resulted in a situation more unbelievable than the improbable spar. The servants, still in shock, were rendered completely speechless for a long while.