Bonds Forged in Fire IV
The trials had tested them, but training never truly ended. If anything, the trials had only reinforced what they already knew—there was still so much more to learn.
The courtyard of the estate was alive with movement as the morning sun cast golden light over the training grounds. Clow Reed observed from the balcony as Syaoran and Tranquility clashed swords, their forms a blur of motion. The air crackled with energy—not just from their weapons, but from the tension that had been building between them for weeks.
Reiko stood off to the side, arms crossed, her golden eyes flickering between the two. “This isn’t training anymore,” she muttered.
Yue, standing beside her, smirked. “No, it isn’t.”
Syaoran lunged, his blade aimed for Tranquility’s shoulder, but Tranquility twisted at the last second, parrying the strike and countering with a swift kick. Syaoran barely avoided it, landing lightly before launching himself forward again.
The match continued, both fighters refusing to yield.
Clow sighed. “They’re going to keep this up until someone interferes.”
Reiko shook her head. “They need to settle this.”
A final clash of steel sent both of them skidding backward. Syaoran narrowed his eyes. “Not bad,” he admitted.
Tranquility smirked, spinning his sword before sheathing it. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”
Reiko rolled her eyes. “Are you two done?”
“For now,” Tranquility replied, his golden gaze lingering on her for a moment longer than necessary.
Yue glanced at Syaoran. “Your footwork is improving.”
Syaoran blinked at the sudden praise. “Thanks.”
Yue nodded, turning away, but not before Syaoran caught the faintest hint of a smile on his lips.
Reiko elbowed Tranquility. “You almost lost that fight.”
Tranquility grinned. “Almost.”
She laughed, shaking her head. “Come on. Endymion and his guardians are waiting. I think Helga mentioned something about a group lesson today.”
Together, they walked toward the castle, the weight of their responsibilities still heavy on their shoulders, but their bonds growing stronger with every step.