“What are you doing here?”
“I wanted to show you my technique.”
“The answer is still no.”
“I know. I remember what you said.”
“Why aren’t you resting?”
“I prefer not to stay in the common rooms if I don’t have to.”
“Are they still bothering you?”
“It’s not a big deal.”
I shook my head and sat in the chair. Stretching my legs, I found the book I had been reading earlier.
“See? I know how to fight.” Mayer added, completing a wide semicircle with his sword and stepping back.
“Hm.”
“You don’t need to teach me the basics. I know a lot already.”
I glanced at him, saying nothing.
“Then, I would finish with this simple combination.” He stepped back and lurched forward.
“And that’s why you can’t win a fight.” I muttered, turning a page.
“What? Why?” He stopped and wiped his forehead with the back of his arm.
“You fight as if you’re in a competition, as if there are rules you must follow.”
“What do you mean? There are rules.”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
“A fight is never fair. Until you learn how to deal with someone stronger, faster, and is trying to kill you with every blow, you’ve never really been in a fight.”
“Will you teach me, please?”
I sighed, shaking my head.
“What if I pay you?”
I chuckled.
He sheathed his sword, turning away, his lip quivered.
“I get it. I’m sorry to bother you.” He started walking away with his back stiff and artificially straight.
“Where are you going?”
“Back to the common room.”
“I’m not done with you.”
