Chapter 96

First, Leoard finishes his sword practice with Barbarot. Next, it's time for unarmed combat with Gilbert, who is gracefully pouring tea for Olivia.

(When did Mother come here?

And, is it interesting to watch our practice?

I don't really understand, but since Mother seems to be enjoying herself, it's fine.)

While thinking such carefree thoughts, Leoard performs some stretching exercises.

(By the way, where did Isabelle go?)

Although it's a bit late, Leoard is worried because he can't find Isabelle, whom he left behind when he went shopping. However, he decides that it's not a big problem whether she is there or not and forgets about Isabelle. After all, Isabelle is a spy sent by the Fourth Princess, and he should be more cautious, but since Leoard hasn't been given any specific information, he considers it fine to leave her be.

By the time he finishes his stretching, Gilbert is standing silently in front of Leoard. As always, Leoard regrets not being able to detect him. He feels frustrated that he is still far from Gilbert's level. However, he is also determined to show Gilbert what he's made of.

"Let's begin, shall we?"

"Ah!"

"Hehe, are you trying to impress Lady Olivia?

You seem more enthusiastic than usual."

"Hmm, it seems so. I want to show Mother how much I've grown."

"She was already pleased."

"Is that so... Then, I should make her even happier!"

The ground of the proud courtyard of the Duke's mansion sinks under Leoard's step. Moving at a speed that a normal person cannot perceive, Leoard invades Gilbert's guard and throws a punch.

A heavy impact sound echoes, and the onlookers are surprised. Olivia, who was watching, covers her mouth in shock at Leoard's bold punch to Gilbert.

"Excellent, but you still can't reach me."

"Ha!"

Leoard's punch is caught by Gilbert and stops. Immediately, Leoard twists his body and delivers a kick, but it is also caught by Gilbert.

With his punch and kick both blocked, Leoard takes a step back and regains his composure. He lowers his stance, adjusts his breathing, and glares at Gilbert. Suddenly, Gilbert disappears.

The moment Gilbert disappears, Leoard takes a defensive stance, using his arm as a shield. The instant Leoard takes his defensive stance, Gilbert reappears and delivers a powerful roundhouse kick.

"Ugh...!"

"I'll keep them coming."

"Who talks while attacking?!"

Gilbert disappears again, but Leoard is already moving and successfully blocks Gilbert's attacks. The onlookers are even more surprised.

Even the knights responsible for security cannot perceive Gilbert's movements, but Leoard reads them perfectly and dodges the attacks with optimal movements. It's impossible not to be surprised.

Unlike the surrounding people who are continuously amazed, Leoard remains very calm. He accurately anticipates where Gilbert will attack and fully understands where to strike to make Gilbert uncomfortable.

However, he still can't reach him. It's only natural. Gilbert has lived more than twice as long as Leoard, and the difference in experience is too great. Besides, he is a legendary assassin who ruled the underworld. It's not easy for Leoard to catch up.

"Ugh...!"

Leoard, who blocked Gilbert's powerful kick, grimaces in pain. But he blocked it, which means he caught Gilbert.

"I've got you, Gilbert!!!"

"Ah!"

Gilbert is slightly flustered by Leoard's attempt to apply a joint lock. However, Leoard's joint lock doesn't work. Gilbert rotates his body like a top and slips out of Leoard's grasp.

"Tch!"

"No, no, that was impressive, young master. I was flustered for a moment."

"Is that so? Then I'm delighted!"

Leoard steps forward towards Gilbert, who is standing at a distance, and thrusts his fist. However, it was a bad move. Leoard's movements became a bit rough, and he is caught off guard.

Gilbert invades Leoard's guard and delivers a knee strike without mercy, sending Leoard flying into the air. Despite Olivia being present, Gilbert kicks the defenseless Leoard.

"Kuh... Haa...!"

Olivia stands up and rushes to Leoard, who rolls and tumbles on the ground.

"Leoard!"

Olivia's dress gets dirty as she helps the muddy Leoard to his feet. However, she doesn't mind. Leoard's condition is more important right now.

"Gilbert! Do you really need to go this far just because it's practice!

You should be able to pull your punches easily!

Why did you do this!

I won't forgive you if you don't have a good reason!"

Gilbert, out of habit, didn't hold back and delivered knee strikes to Leoard. And he did it in front of Olivia, who loves Leoard dearly. This leaves Gilbert flustered.

Gilbert was about to apologize to Olivia, but Leoard, who had regained consciousness, stops her.

"Mother, please forgive Gilbert. Gilbert and I always practice like this. It's a daily occurrence. So, please don't blame Gilbert."

"But there are limits! What if something happens to you!?

You're only injured now, but it will be too late if it becomes serious!

Please... don't worry me like this."

Olivia, who is crying and worrying about her beloved son, makes Leoard deeply regret his actions.

(Ah... She loves me so much. I didn't take enough care... )

"I'm sorry, Mother. I was wrong. But please forgive Gilbert. I was the one who pushed him too hard."

"...Alright. But be more careful next time, okay?"

"Yes, I understand."

Leoard feels guilty for making her cry again. He had decided not to make her cry anymore, but he ended up making her cry over something like this. Leoard vows to be more careful from now on.