Chapter 15
"Rudy."
Paul's voice was calm.
But serious.
"…Today, I'm not holding back."
Rudeus nodded.
No hesitation.
Because this—
Was what he wanted.
Paul moved first.
Fast.
Faster than ever before.
A real strike.
Rudeus reacted—
Barely.
Clash.
The impact echoed.
His arms shook violently.
"…So this is your real speed…"
But he didn't fall back.
Didn't retreat.
Instead—
He stepped in.
Adjusted.
Countered.
Paul's eyes widened—
Just slightly.
Because this time—
Rudeus didn't just block.
He struck.
And for the first time—
Tap.
His wooden sword hit Paul.
Clean.
Direct.
Silence filled the yard.
Paul slowly lowered his sword.
"…You hit me."
Rudeus stood still.
Breathing steady.
Eyes focused.
"…Yes."
Paul let out a long breath.
"…Rudy…"
For the first time—
There was no doubt.
No confusion.
No denial.
"…You're not learning swordsmanship."
A pause.
"…You're creating something new."
Rudeus said nothing.
But inside—
He already knew.