First offs, big thanks to wolfraven80 for agreeing to be my beta. I think she basically deserves co-author credit just for keeping me vaguely sane while writing, which is much harder than it sounds (laughs).

Maxmagnus20019: Thank you for your encouragement!

Casiana1: I'm glad you liked it, and I do like your feedback. The only way for me to improve is if people tell me what needs work. I'm very grateful for your comments and advice.

MeowSap: Yay! I'm not the only procrastinator XD

Neonlights: I'm glad you like both my writing and Seth and Eirika XD I've got my beta already, but thanks for the offer and the review!

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"Just focus. Keep your eyes on me; I'm your opponent. In a duel, you can't let yourself be distracted. Remember everything I've taught you and you'll be fine."

The two stepped into battle stance. Eirika took a deep breath and launched her attack.

"That's it. Move your feet now, or you'll- my lady! Are you all right?"

Seth's worried face loomed over her. Eirika blinked a couple of times, then attempted to stand up.

"I'll be okay…I told you not to hold back, Seth. If I'm going to learn to defend myself, I'll have to get used to people trying to knock me off my feet. You don't have to worry so much about me."

The paladin tilted his head slightly to the left and frowned.

"I know you asked me to train you, but I can't just go knocking you around like I do with the recruits, princess. Your brother would kill me."

Eirika sighed.

"It's because I'm a princess that I need to learn how to fight. What if you can't protect me, Seth?"

She took a step backwards involuntarily as Seth stepped closer to her.

"I will always be there to protect you, princess. It is…after all, my duty."

And my heart's greatest wish…