Episode 76: Elrahar and the Clash with the Blood Elf Swordsman
Elrahar had slipped deep into the hidden camp of the corrupted elves, stalking his target with patient steps. The high-ranking elf within the barrier of crackling magic seemed complacent, unaware of the hunter closing in. Elrahar steadied his breath, hand on his blade, preparing for a sudden strike to end it swiftly.
But as he moved to close the distance, a figure emerged from the shadows, blocking his path. A crimson cloak unfurled, and eyes glowed like embers. The newcomer carried the aura of a predator, unmistakable—he was a swordsman of the Blood Elves.
"Elrahar," the stranger spoke in a low voice, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I've heard of your name. A famed swordsman of the Elven Kingdom. What fortune—at last, I have the chance to test myself against you."
Elrahar's grip tightened, though his expression stayed calm. "Stand aside. My quarrel isn't with you. I've no time for your games."
The Blood Elf shook his head slowly, amusement flickering in his eyes. "That corrupted wretch isn't mine to protect. But a duel with you? That alone is worth my time."
Steel rang as the swordsman drew his blade. In an instant, the air was alive with tension. Their gazes met, and without further words, blades clashed in a blur of speed.
The Blood Elf fought with dazzling precision, his strikes flowing like a dance—sharp, relentless, almost beautiful in their cruelty. Elrahar met him stroke for stroke, his own blade flashing with disciplined ferocity. Sparks scattered in the twilight, each strike a contest of strength and will.
From behind them, the corrupted elf lord sneered. "So predictable. Elves forever chasing pride and proving themselves. Even when the world burns, you crave your duels."
Anger flared within Elrahar, but the Blood Elf only laughed softly, parrying another blow. "Perhaps he's right. But I fight only to prove the worth of my blade."
At last, the Blood Elf pulled back, lowering his sword. His eyes gleamed with something between respect and challenge. "You are worthy, Elrahar. More than I hoped. Next time, we won't stop until one of us falls."
Elrahar exhaled, unwilling to waste further time. "Then I'll be ready."
With a final smirk, the Blood Elf withdrew into the shadows. Elrahar turned once more toward his true prey, yet a certainty lingered in his heart: this duel was unfinished, and destiny would bring their blades together again.
**
Episode 77: Leon, the Junior Commander, and the Dawn of a Great Battle
Tension hung heavy over the armies of Elysium. Reports of the corrupted elves spoke of growing organization, of a threat swelling beyond scattered raids. The kingdom's high command had chosen to strike their hidden stronghold—and so Leon found himself preparing, his small company arrayed under his orders.
A new figure arrived in camp, towering with presence: a senior field commander sent to oversee the assault. His voice carried across the assembled soldiers, sharp as steel.
"Their stronghold lies near. They hoard supplies, building toward something greater. Today, we break their spine and raise the name of Elysium in triumph!"
Leon's heart pounded. This was no skirmish. This was war on a scale he had only imagined. As the senior commander laid out the plan, Leon moved among his men, adjusting lines, steadying hands. He could feel the weight of every gaze, every life entrusted to his command.
When the order to advance thundered out, the army surged forward. Leon led his section, shield and spear braced, into the tide of enemies. Steel rang, arrows screamed through the air, and the battlefield became a storm of chaos.
Amid the crush, a heavily armored corrupted elf broke through, bearing down on Leon. For a heartbeat, fear clenched his chest—then training and will took over. Leon raised his blade, deflecting the strike, his body surging with the strength of augmentation. In the blur of combat, he found an opening, drove his weapon home, and the enemy fell.
A roar of triumph rose from his men. Their morale, teetering on the edge, flared back to life. Leon pressed them forward, shouting orders, holding the fragile line together.
But as the battle wore on, exhaustion and blood weighed heavily. Traps sprang, ambushes struck, the enemy's cunning tested their resolve. The senior commander's signals cut through the haze, calling for regrouping. Leon obeyed, rallying his men into tighter formation, forcing discipline where chaos threatened.
Hours bled away in fire and steel. At last, victory was theirs—the corrupted elves driven into ruin. The field was a graveyard of bodies and broken weapons. Leon stood amid it, chest heaving, his hands raw from the grip of his sword.
The senior commander approached, laying a heavy hand on his shoulder. "You fought well today. Your courage held the line. Remember this—leadership is forged in fire, and today, you took your first steps."
Leon bowed his head, words failing him. In his chest, pride and burden twisted together. He had led men into battle, and some would never return. Yet he had also kept many alive.
As the embers of war faded into night, Leon made his vow in silence: to bear the weight of command, to grow stronger with each battle, and to guard Elysium with all he had—no matter the cost.
**
Episode 78: The Aftermath of Battle and Serina's Worry
After the Elysium army shattered the stronghold of the corrupted elves, they began their return march, the air heavy with fatigue yet buoyed by the pride of victory. Soldiers spoke words of encouragement to one another, savoring relief—until shadows stirred in the deep forest.
Remnants of the corrupted elves emerged, striking swiftly at the army's rear. Leon sensed the danger first, his voice cutting through the ranks:"Stay alert! The corrupted elves are upon us!"
In the scramble, he shoved a comrade aside just as a blade streaked toward him. He caught the strike on his shield, but another attack came from an angle he hadn't seen. He tried to brace—too late. Pain tore through his side, hot and sharp.
Staggering, Leon bit down the groan rising in his throat. Even wounded, he barked orders to steady the line."Do not falter! Hold them here—we return together, or not at all!"
His emergency treatment band flared to life, halting the worst of the bleeding. It kept him alive, but left him weak and barely able to move. His men drove back the ambushers, then lifted him between their shoulders, carrying him homeward. Even half-conscious, Leon forced a smile, reassuring words spilling out to calm his men.
When word of his injury reached Serina, she hurried to his home without hesitation. Dressed simply, unlike her usual confident self, she paused before his door, hands clasped tight.
What will he think of me? Will he mind that I came?
For once, the outspoken young lady found it hard to summon courage. But the memory of Leon bleeding on the battlefield hardened her resolve. She drew a breath and knocked.
The door opened—not to Leon, but his mother. The older woman's eyes widened at the sight of the unfamiliar girl."Pardon me… and you are?"
Serina faltered for a heartbeat, then steadied herself."My name is Serina. I… I'm a friend of Leon's. I heard he was hurt, and I came because I was worried."
The mother studied her earnest face, the eyes full of concern. A smile softened her features."Come in, child. Leon is resting inside. If you are his friend, then you are welcome under this roof."
Serina bowed gratefully and stepped inside. Guided to Leon's room, she lingered at the threshold, heart beating fast. If I see him wounded, I may falter… but he needs courage, not pity.
She pushed the door open quietly. There was Leon, pale but smiling the moment his eyes met hers."Serina… you shouldn't have troubled yourself to come."
She crossed the room, lips curling in a small smile."How could I sit still, knowing you were hurt?"
Leon chuckled weakly. "It's nothing serious. I'll manage."
But the bandages around his arm, the bruises across his skin—none of it escaped her gaze. She sat beside him, gently taking his hand."You protect others without hesitation, Leon. But don't forget—you are someone precious too."
For a moment, silence filled the room, warm and fragile. Leon looked at her hand resting in his and whispered:"I'll be more careful. I promise."
The quiet between them said what words could not.
**
Episode 79: Serina's Second Visit
After rushing to Leon's side that first time, Serina spent her walk home replaying every moment. Relief at his survival mingled with unease—had she overstepped? Had she startled his mother with her sudden arrival?
Days later, she resolved to return, properly this time. She prepared a small box of confections as a token of gratitude and respect. Dressed neatly, she adjusted her attire again and again in the mirror before setting out.
At the door she hesitated, then knocked softly. Leon's mother opened it, her face brightening in recognition."Oh, Serina—it's good to see you again."
Serina bowed, offering the gift with both hands."Last time I came without notice. I worried it was rude. Please accept this, just as a small thanks."
The mother clasped her hands warmly."You needn't have. Your concern alone meant more than enough. Still, I'm touched by your kindness. Come in—our home is simple, but you are welcome to share tea with me."
Inside, she bustled to set the table, apologizing as she did."It's nothing special, forgive me. We live modestly…"
But Serina shook her head with a soft smile."Please don't apologize. To me, this is an honor. I only wished to show my respect… and my thanks."
They shared tea together, conversation flowing gently. Leon's mother began to relax, finding Serina thoughtful, sincere, and surprisingly easy to talk to. In turn, Serina learned stories of Leon's childhood, glimpses of how he had grown into the steadfast man she now knew.
A sound stirred from the back room. Leon was waking. At his mother's gentle urging, Serina entered quietly.
Leon's eyes widened at the sight of her, mingling surprise with faint guilt."Serina… you came again. Thank you. How are you?"
She smiled. "Better, knowing you're safe. Truly, I'm grateful."
The words carried more weight than courtesy; her gaze shone with relief and something deeper. Leon saw it, and his lips curved into a quiet smile of his own.
That second visit, more prepared and heartfelt than the first, drew them closer still. Serina left with a new understanding—not only of Leon, but of the home and love that shaped him. And in that understanding, the bond between them deepened.