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In the days following the tournament, Reynold spent almost all his time in bed – the competition had truly drained him. Despite this, he felt a certain satisfaction knowing that he had gained some experience and, most importantly, that he felt closer to the other pupils of the baron. His thoughts gradually returned to the familiar routine of a calm and measured life. And even in his dreams, he now found himself in Baldur, which had become like home, where the old Gungnir, who had replaced his father, affectionately patted the young man on the shoulder.
Ilva, on the other hand, had no time for rest or idle dreams. Although the past week hadn't brought anything particularly terrible, the anger towards the baron still simmered within her. She still wasn't speaking to Reynold, not so much because of lingering resentment, but because of pride, which prevented her from being the first to seek reconciliation. Waking up today after a bright and rather pleasant dream, she felt relieved to remember that the week of punishment was finally over.
In the corridor of the Breckenndorfs' estate, Ilva ran into Reynold, who was hurrying to see the baron.
"Hello," Reynold said with a warm smile.
But the girl, as if not noticing her brother, was about to quickly pass by.
"Wait, Il," the young man stopped her. "Enough sulking."
"Oh, what?" the girl asked, feigning surprise. "I see you're in a hurry to fawn over your baroness? Or to hang out with your criminal friends and cut each other up?"
"What are you talking about? You know that no one..."
"It doesn't really seem that way," Ilva snorted, but nevertheless stopped.
"Well, I'm sorry."
"I'll forgive you when we're a hundred miles away from this... place."
"You know I'm looking for every opportunity..."
"To wave your stick at the baron to his delight?" Ilva spoke softly, but her voice trembled.
"I'm not doing this for my father. And not for myself," Reynold said with unexpected seriousness. "Do you think I was catching arrows and fireballs just to show off my strength? All of this is so that I can protect you." He emphasized the last word, looking directly into his sister's eyes. "For the sake of our dream. Even if you don't want to see it."
Ilva didn't know what to say in response to this outburst. She knew, of course, that her brother was exaggerating a little: fencing was more than just his job; it was also a real passion. However, his sincere words and confident face still warmed her heart with a pleasant feeling.
"Okay, maybe you're right. But still... we'll talk in the evening," she said with a slight smile to Reynold as she said goodbye.
When his sister was out of sight, the young man sighed heavily and ran his hand over his forehead. He felt much better.
Thus, Reynold continued on his way to his mentor, while Ilva headed straight to the cafe to meet with her friend.