Chapter 487: The Sword Paragon Part 2
…3 centuries earlier…
A young boy practiced his swordsmanship under a tree in the gardens of the Gale manor. Despite only having seen 11 summers, each strike was done with masterful skill. He moved underneath the winding branches of the yew tree with graceful precision, careful to not cut a single leaf.
Gian stopped his arm mid-thrust and relaxed his muscles. The wind felt brisk as it blew over his sweat-covered skin. His breathing was heavy but steady. Deciding to take a break, he sheathed his sword and sat down underneath the tree, leaning on the trunk for support.
It was here, a year ago, when his older sister had made him a promise the day she left. If he behaved well and studied hard in his classes and training, when Stryga returned she would take him to his favorite bakery and they’d eat as much cake as he’d like.
Gian leaned his head back, closed his eyes, and sighed.
It had been a year, but she still hadn’t returned. The adults whispered about where Lady Veres could be, but Gian wasn’t worried. He knew Stryga would come back to him, all he had to do was wait under the yew tree for her just as they had promised.
Until then…
Gian drew his sword and raised it high.
I’ll protect both our Houses in your stead.