You have Proven Yourself

Cheers echoed through the tavern as the tankards clashed, an air of celebration spreading throughout the place. The night was filled with laughter, singing, and camaraderie, stories shared, jokes exchanged, and heard outside the Tavern.

Amid the celebration, Theo took the opportunity to introduce Eran to his fellow mercenaries. The room was silent for a moment as curious eyes turned to Eran, intrigued by the presence of the skilled warrior who had played a crucial role in their recent victory.

But things were not as Eran had imagined. Uldor, Kain, and Catallina greeted Eran with sincerity. A visibly embarrassed Taneaya also welcomed Eran.

Gorstag voiced his disapproval, "This band is reserved for those who have proven their loyalty and fought on our side from the beginning. We can't just accept outsiders with open arms."

Eran, showing his typical confidence and wit, retorted in a mocking tone. "Ah, Gorstag, always quick to judge. Perhaps you're afraid I'll defeat you in battle, and your pride can't bear the thought."

Gorstag's face flushed with anger, his grip tightening around his tankard. He was ready to make a provocation, but before the tension escalated further, Theo intervened, stepping between the two enemies. "Enough, you two! This is not the time or place for such bickering. We are here to celebrate, not to engage in unnecessary conflict."

Reluctantly, Gorstag relaxed his position, his gaze fixed on Eran with a mixture of annoyance and curiosity.

Theo turned to Catallina, who was observing the conversation with keen eyes. Then he whispered, "Catallina, would you be willing to arrange a training ground where Gorstag and Eran can resolve in the issue?"

"Of course, Theo. I will ensure that a suitable training ground is prepared for their match. Let it be a show of combat rather than a clash of egos." Catallina agreed.

"Joining the Band of de Sun? Are we going to trust someone like him, Theo? He's just a careless bastard!" said Gorstag angrily.

"Never mind Gorstag," Taneaya tried to calm him down.

Eran's eyes narrowed, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Bastard, you say? Perhaps you should test your mettle against me, Gorstag, before passing judgment. I'm not one to back down from a challenge."

Gorstag's face flushed with anger, his hand instinctively reaching for the handle of his axe.

"Never mind Gorstag, you're such a child!" scolded Kain.

"What did you say?" said Gorstag unhappily.

There was an argument between them. But Theo, the voice of reason, stepped between them, his voice firm but soothing. "Gorstag, Eran we must settle this dispute in an honorable manner. If you want to challenge Eran, let it be a fair fight."

Catallina, who was observing the conversation with interest, stepped forward. "I can organize a warrior training ground for the duel, Theo."

His words brought a sense of change to the room, as Eran and Gorstag nodded in agreement. The tension began to subside, replaced by an air of anticipation for the battle to come.

Theo glanced at Eran, his eyes filled with a mixture of caution and trust. Then Theo whispered, "Eran, don't kill him."

Eran grinned confidently. "I'm not sure about that."

As the night wore on, plans began to unfold, and anticipation swelled among the Band of de Sun members. They knew that this sparring match would not only test Gorstag and Eran's skills but also serve as a symbol of unity and respect within the band.

Catallina led the way to the designated warrior training ground, a large area with soft ground and clear boundaries.

They formed a circle in the center of which stood Gorstag and Eran.

"Are you ready?" asked Theo.

As the two fighters prepared, Gorstag took out his two axes, the sound of his breathing could be heard billowing in the air, and the tension in the air was even more pronounced.

"Begin!" shouted Theo, giving the signal.

Without waiting for long the clash of iron and steel could be heard throughout the training ground as Eran and Gorstag engaged in a fierce duel. Each attack was met with skillful parries and calculated counterattacks.

As the duel progressed, it became clear that Eran's agility and precision gave him the upper hand. His quick movements and calculated attacks left Gorstag struggling to keep up. However, Gorstag's strength and toughness made him a formidable opponent, refusing to give up despite the mounting pressure.

"You haven't attacked yet, Eran!?" exclaimed Gorstag as he continued to swing his axe at Eran.

"Instead of talking, you should focus on a measured attack," Eran taunted.

"You son of a bitch! I'm going to punch you in the mouth until you can't say another word!" shouted Gorstag, getting provoked by Eran's provocation.

Theo and the other members watched in awe as the duel unfolded. Every swing and thrust revealed the depth of Eran's skill and the intensity of Gorstag's determination.

Everyone was silent for a moment as Eran made movements so fast that their eyes could not follow, Gorstag focused on trying to find Eran's whereabouts, and he was surprised when Eran was already in front of him, Eran took a swing at his right dagger right in front of Gorstag's eyes. The barbarian was startled and backed away, Eran's attack knocked out the axe Gostag was holding in his right hand.

"Damn!" screeched Gorstag.

Finally, after a series of skillful strikes and speed from Eran, he managed to disarm both of Gorstag's axes.

The mercenary circle erupted into applause, acknowledging Eran's victory and recognizing his skill as a warrior.

Theo stepped forward, extending his hand to Gorstag, who reluctantly took it. "Gorstag, you fought with honor and showed true strength. Let there be no ill will between us. Together, we are a united force, bound by our common cause."

Gorstag, though visibly shaken, nodded in agreement. "You have proven yourself, Eran. I will put aside my doubts and trust in your abilities. Welcome to the Band of de Sun."

"Ah yes, please forgive my words in the guild back then, I didn't mean to insult you guys, I was just replying to the provocation from the guild guard."

With those words, the tension that existed between Eran and the mercenaries disappeared, replaced by newfound respect and acceptance.

*****