>>5517883This isn’t how you imagined Ashe joining the Blackwings would play out. You suppose some of the blame ultimately lies with you. Sending Sebastian to complete that dishonorable job was a bad decision in its own right. But you could have never imagined that while he was gone, you’d have fought against the Faerghus Dukedom. Perhaps had he had the opportunity to fight against Gwendal and his men, he would have gotten this need for vengeance out of his system. But as it stands now, he must feel cheated, and Ashe is now forced to deal with the full brunt of his anger.
>“…Very well. I’ll allow you your duel. On the condition that it’s fought with blunted weapons. There is to be NO killing. And after this is over, I don’t want to hear of it again. Regardless of your past, you’re Blackwings now. Comrades-in Arms. There is to be no continued feuding. Am I understood!?” “Understood, Commander.” Sebastian says.
“Ashe, do you agree to these terms?” You feel terrible for him. He had no idea what he was walking into. You couldn’t come to his aid though. Doing so would make the others believe he was receiving preferential treatment. He’d never fit into the group if that were the case. Unfortunately, this was just the reality of mercenary life.
“…I understand. I accept your challenge, Sir Sebastian.” Ashe says.
“Very well. Our duel will take place on the old student training grounds of the monastery. Tomorrow, at sunrise. Prepare yourself accordingly.” Sebastian turns his back on Ashe, and the crowd parts to let him through.
The commotion surrounding the brawl subsides, replaced with sellswords seeking to place wagers on who they believe will come out victorious. You note rather grimly that very few of them believe Ashe will win. You turn to speak with him, but he stops you before you can start.
“It’s okay, Blair. Honest.” Ashe says, with a sad smile. “The truth is, he’s right. I shouldn’t be allowed to run from my past so easily. Regardless of what my reasons were, I betrayed Prince Dimitri. If Sebastian wishes to duel me, then I’ll grant his request. I’ll try my hardest to win…but if I lose, I’ll take my beating like a man. No more running away. After tomorrow, my bow has a new purpose. Destroying evil and ending this war. This will be the start of a new life for me. One that I want to look back on with pride.”
>“Ashe…”“Hey, quit it! You make it sound like I’ll lose! Don’t count me out just yet. See you later, Blair. I’ve got to get ready”
