The final match was against Alaric. The entire estate gathered to watch, the anticipation palpable. Alaric stepped into the courtyard, his presence commanding. He carried a massive greatsword, its blade dark and ominous.
“This is your ultimate test,” Alaric said. “Show me the strength you’ve gained.”
Damien nodded, his resolve unwavering. The match began with Alaric launching a powerful strike that Damien barely dodged. The sheer force of the swing left a deep gouge in the stone floor.
Alaric’s attacks were relentless, each one calculated and devastating. Damien fought back with everything he had, but Alaric’s experience and raw power were overwhelming. Despite his best efforts, Damien found himself on the defensive, struggling to keep up.
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The crowd watched in awe as the battle unfolded, the sound of clashing steel echoing through the courtyard. Damien managed to land a few solid hits, but Alaric always countered with greater force.
In the end, Alaric disarmed Damien with a powerful strike, sending Ebonfang flying. He leveled his greatsword at Damien but didn’t strike.
“Well fought,” Alaric said, his voice filled with pride. “You’ve proven yourself.”
The crowd erupted in applause, their respect for Damien cemented. As he retrieved Ebonfang, he noticed the soldiers whispering among themselves, their gazes filled with newfound admiration.
As the match concluded, Alaric turned to the gathered soldiers. “Spread the word,” he said. “Damien Ashenblade is no longer the weakest of our line.”
That night, as the family gathered, a messenger arrived bearing news. The other three great families had heard of Damien’s rise. Their reactions were cryptic but promising—messages of interest, veiled congratulations, and an unspoken acknowledgment of a new force within the Ashenblade dynasty.
Damien’s journey was far from over, but he was no longer the forgotten scion. His path now intertwined with the greater destiny of the world.