The clash of steel echoed through the forest as Cale engaged the bandits. His blade moved with precision, each strike a calculated effort to subdue without unnecessary cruelty. The assailants, though numerous, were disorganized—driven more by desperation than skill.
A burly man swung a rusted sword toward Cale's side. With a swift sidestep, Cale deflected the blow, the force reverberating through his arm. He retaliated with a sharp thrust, forcing the attacker to retreat with a grunt.
Behind him, Althea remained in the carriage, her knuckles white as she gripped the edge of the seat. Fear flickered in her eyes, but she held her composure.
"Stay down," Cale commanded without looking back.
Another bandit charged, his movements wild and erratic. Cale ducked under the swing and delivered a swift kick to the man's knee, sending him sprawling to the ground.
The remaining attackers hesitated, glancing at each other nervously. Cale seized the moment.
"Leave now," he ordered, his voice cold and commanding. "Or face the consequences."
The bandits wavered before turning and fleeing into the shadows, their resolve shattered.
Silence fell over the forest, broken only by the ragged breathing of the defeated men scattered on the ground. Cale wiped his blade clean and sheathed it, his gaze sharp as he surveyed the scene.
"Cale!" Althea's voice trembled as she stepped out of the carriage. "Are you hurt?"
He shook his head, his expression softening. "I'm fine, my Lady. And you?"
She took a steadying breath. "Thanks to you, unharmed."
The driver, regaining consciousness, groaned as he sat up. Cale helped him to his feet.
"We need to move," Cale said firmly. "This area is no longer safe."
The driver nodded weakly. "I'll manage the reins."
As they resumed their journey, Althea sat close to Cale, her expression thoughtful.
"You were incredible back there," she said quietly. "I've never seen anyone fight like that."
He met her gaze. "It's my duty to protect you, my Lady."
Her lips pressed into a determined line. "I won't be a burden, Cale. Teach me."
He blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Teach you?"
"Yes," she insisted. "If this world is as dangerous as it seems, I need to learn how to defend myself. I can't rely on you for everything."
Cale admired her resolve. Lady Althea was no wilting flower; she had a strength that belied her noble upbringing.
"Very well," he agreed. "We'll start with the basics when we return to the manor."
A flicker of relief crossed her face. "Thank you."
As the carriage rattled along the dirt path, the weight of recent events settled over them. Danger lurked in every shadow, but Cale knew one thing for certain—he would not falter. The path ahead was uncertain, but together, they would face whatever challenges awaited.
And perhaps, just perhaps, Lady Althea would become stronger than anyone ever anticipated.