Your home greets you with familiar smell of coffee. Apartment is a bit messy - seems like Blaze got a bit lazy to the weekends, but that's not a news for you. Blaze sits in the kitchen in her usual outfit—red top and skirt, thoughtfully chewing on a slice of pizza while admiring the lights of night Oak Wood City through the window. Her long brown hair falls on her face, covering part of it. She hears your entrance and turns her head towards you with a smile, her lips stained with some bits of onions and sauce. Evening, hotshot. How's your day been? Blaze nods towards the pizza box containing an already started pizza and lifts her cup. This is for today, consider it a treat from me. Hurry up and come eat before I finish it. Blaze smiles and takes a sip of coffee, before fully turning her attention back to you, crossing one leg over the other and putting her half-eaten pizza slice back at the box.
upon entering, Dante gives Blaze a smile as a greeting, he had already gotten used to her carefree presence, and while he talks to her he approaches her and gives her a napkin so she can wipe the food off her lips
Thank you, you are very considerate of me
he made a small sarcastic joke when he saw that she had eaten a large part of the pizza, but he doesn't get upset, he takes the half-eaten pizza that she left and begins to eat it
it was an intense day, during practice dogs and runners crossed where we practiced, and it was difficult to force everyone to move away
Dante works in an archery club, instructing the enrolled students and preparing the next competitors
And how was your day? Don't tell me that you spent the whole day warming up the sofa for my return
these sarcastic jokes had become part of the routine, and a sign of the coexistence that these two have
Hah! No, no... I wouldn't be that lucky. You know me too well, hotshot. She chuckles and takes the napkin from you, using it to wipe her mouth and hands clean before tossing it back at you as a challenge. I've actually been looking for some fresh meat for practice... you wouldn't mind if we sparred later, right? Just like old times. *Her eyes light up in anticipation of some good, old-fashioned brawl.
Of course, if you don't want to get all bruised and bloody, I can always find someone else. But where's the fun in that, huh?
So knowing that you could find a better training partner, you still prefer to have me under your shoes, you flatter me
eats the pizza that Blaze left half-eaten and finishes the other few slices of pizza, since she ate almost the entire box by herself
Dante practices Krav Maga, but he is still a beginner, his punches are strong but his technique still needs a lot of improvement
Why do you want me to always accompany you?
Well if it isn't the modest one today! She grins sarcastically and takes another sip of her coffee before leaning back in her chair, stretching her arms above her head as she pretends to consider your question for a moment. Maybe because you make good practice... or maybe I just enjoy your company, Melgaz. You're not so bad after all. Plus, who else is gonna put up with my bullshit? She giggles and nudges you with her elbow before taking another piece of pizza, making sure to save some for you. Don't forget we have a deal here!
Dante takes the pizza that Blaze was about to eat to eat it himself, since she already ate enough pizza
A deal... I forgot, what was it?
He says comically while he leans against the table and eats the last two and a half slices of pizza
A deal? The one where I teach you some judo moves, and in return you get to stay at this piece of shit apartment... with me. You've already forgotten? Or just trying to weasel out of it again, huh Melgaz? She tilts her head curiously, studying your expression. The coffee is giving her some energy, making her more alert and ready for another fight, even though she knows the one she should really be wary of is always lurking in the back of her mind. That stupid incident... She shakes the thought off and continues with renewed determination Anyway, come on! It'll be fun, I promise!
With you? I remind you that this is my apartment, and I only let you stay here because I knew you would make my life impossible
he says as a humorous reply, Blaze knows that he appreciates her after a while of living together, being the reason why he is so relaxed with her and constantly jokes with her with those sarcastic comments
Blaze has helped him a lot, both monetarily and personally, because her presence was what he needed after a season of depression in his life, besides being the only person he feels has supported him in some way or another, being the wrestling practices one of them
okay, but we both know that you will beat me again, I'm going to change and follow you, okay?
After finishing the pizza and cleaning himself with a napkin, he throws the box in the trash and goes to his room to get ready. Each of them has a private bedroom, facing each other on opposite sides of a hallway. In fact, they have often run into each other in the mornings when leaving their rooms.
You think so? You know what they say about giving someone a second chance... but just remember, once I decide you're ready to face the real deal, there won't be any more holding back! So get those skills up while you can, hotshot! She grins and watches as Dante disappears into his room. With a satisfied sigh, she stretches her long legs out and finally gives in to exhaustion, falling asleep on the couch with coffee still in her hand...
He leaves his belongings in his room and changes into more comfortable sports clothes, he was ready for a practice session with Blaze, but when he goes to look for her he finds her asleep on the couch
... Oh Blaze...
He whispers when he sees her exhausted, but he is not disappointed, but happy about the irony of the situation, a moment ago she was ecstatic for a fight, but now she is asleep on the couch
Without making any noise, he approaches to carefully take the coffee from her so as not to wake her up, and with no other choice, he carries Blaze in his arms with great care, and slowly carries her sleeping body to her room and lays her down in her own bed
Good night, Blaze
He whispers to himself when he sees her sleeping so peacefully
"Good night, Melgaz..." Her voice is barely audible, the words slurred with sleep as she nestles deeper into her bed. Even in her restless state, her instincts tell her that this warmth and comfort aren't entirely undeserved. A faint blush stains her cheeks at the memory of how protective he was earlier, carrying her like some fragile flower... She would never admit it out loud but... it feels nice knowing someone cares enough to look after you. With a content sigh, she drifts off once more, the sound of his steady breathing lulling her back into sleep.
He gently brushes a lock of hair away from her beautiful face, which he admires for a second, but he doesn't want to disturb her, so he leaves his room to let her sleep, without having heard her last words before going to sleep
The next morning, Dante is in the kitchen preparing breakfast for both of them, a nutritious breakfast according to Blaze's demands, but delicious to start the day
You already started breakfast? That's sweet, man... She yawns widely and stretches her arms over her head before slowly sitting up in bed, rubbing the sleep from her eyes I overslept! Gotta thank you for that, Melgaz. How long was I out?
I think around 14 hours
answers with a smile while serving Blaze breakfast along with a cup of tea, a mixture made by Dante
Do you want me to take you to work? I have my class later
says casually while they eat breakfast together, Dante sketches a smile when he sees the image of Blaze disheveled, her hair disheveled, without makeup and with her clothes disheveled
Eh, I can manage on my own today. Thanks anyway, though! Finish your breakfast and get to class on time. Don't want you getting into trouble with that sensei of yours again. She grins over the edge of her mug before taking another sip of tea Today I think we should practice some sparring. Just to keep things interesting. What do you say?
Sounds good to me, see you at the gym when I finish my work?
he has to attend the archery club to help teach the lessons, which is where he gets most of his salary
We'll both be paid soon, do you want to go shopping when that day comes?
dante and blaze finish their meal while talking, and dante as usual gets up to wash the dishes
Ugh... Yeah, shopping is alright... I think we're both due for some new gear anyway. But first, let's get that practice out of the way! We wouldn't want to show up looking like amateurs now, would we? She gives him a mischievous grin as she finishes her breakfast and stands up from the table, stretching again See you at the gym, then!
Good luck at work, see you later
I kindly say goodbye to Blaze before each of us leaves for our respective jobs
Hours pass and Dante finally leaves work, since he is already dressed appropriately for the combat practice session with Blaze, whom he sees in the gym where she works
Did you miss me?
When he sees Blaze he greets her comically, Dante leaves his archery equipment and backpack in a locker
Of course I missed you, you huge pain in the ass! She rolls her eyes and fake-punches him before taking a deep breath. Her black jacket flutters as she stretches her arms overhead, testing their flexibility So... ready to get your butt kicked again? Or do you want another rematch to prove yourself, huh? She grins challengingly, ignoring the tiny voice in the back of her mind that whispers about how much she missed him today. Acknowledging that feeling wasn't part of their deal anyway
You're going to beat me... again, but you know I'm going to keep getting up
he answers with a slight smile while Dante puts the bandages on his hands as Blaze taught him to avoid damage to his hands and puts on the light gloves
Do you want to fight to make up for the time lost yesterday? Haha
he says in a comical way while he goes up to the ring where they practice, standing in the opposite corner to Blaze
Pfft! I'd sooner give you points for showing up! But if it makes you feel better... Sure, let's play another round! It'll be fun to test out my new moves on you. She sizes him up, her red eyes gleaming with amusement. Ignoring the ache in her heart from being away from him all day, she readies herself for their bout Alright, Melgaz... Let's see what you've got!
As always, both begin the fight by bumping fists in a sign of respect
Dante's technique consists of blocking and deflecting the greatest number of attacks, then attacking with his knowledge of Muay Thai. Obviously, he's not an expert, much less next to Blaze, but he does his best. His technique consists of evaluating his opponent's movements and attacking at the precise moment, retreating and repeating on occasions when he lands a stunning blow, he attacks his rival with multiple attacks
The fight between Blaze and Dante continues
You're getting better, I'll give you that! But not quite there yet... Her movements fluid and precise as she feints and counters his attacks with practiced ease. A satisfied grin spreads across her face as he slows down, anticipating another strike from her Ha, thinking I'm so easy to read? Try again!
With a sudden burst of speed, she darts forward, her fist flying towards his face like a whip. It connects with an audible smack, rocking his head back against the ropes. He winces, blood dripping from his nose as he clutches it, coughing and wheezing from the impact of her blow.
Now it's your turn... show me what you've got!
He recoils from the blow and holds onto the ropes, feeling his blood, which he wipes with his arm and returns to the fight. Every time he tries to find an opening in Blaze's defense, she changes tactics, making him retreat with her strategy
In a risky attempt, he decides to stop a direct blow from Blaze with his elbow, which is more painful for the attacker than for the defender, and he takes advantage of that same moment to counterattack with a lateral elbow blow to Blaze's head
You're learning... but it still isn't enough! Her grin widens as she ducks under his next clumsy attempt to throw a punch, only for his elbow to graze her shoulder instead of hitting home Ow, nice try... But that's what happens when you underestimate me!
With lightning-fast reflexes, she sweeps one of his legs out from under him. He falls to the mat with a grunt, leaving himself wide open and vulnerable. Blood trickles down his chin as he stares up at her, dazed and winded. She tilts her head curiously, studying him for a moment before reaching down to offer him a hand up.
"Think you've had enough practice for today?" she asks with a teasing glint in her eye. "Or do you want another go at it?"
on the ground, clearly tired and thinking what he can do to beat her or at least land a hit against her
Dante takes her hand to get up, and after catching his breath he raises his arms
one more
he says determined and serious waiting for her to prepare, Dante decides on a risky and more offensive technique, he approaches quickly and attacks with a downward attack with his elbow to her head, followed by a lateral attack, he crouches to avoid an attack and gets up and attacks with an upward elbow strike with momentum, each of his attacks aimed at her head, and with a last hope of at least touching her, he does a front kick against Blaze's stomach to push her away and take distance
He's getting more reckless... but then again, so am I! She narrows her eyes and watches him warily as he closes the distance between them once more, unleashing a barrage of powerful strikes aimed straight for her head. She blocks most of them with ease, even managing to duck under the front kick meant to send her sprawling
Not bad... but you're still missing something. Her voice is light as air, almost teasing. With a fluid movement she steps inside his guard and throws a roundhouse kick that catches him square in the chest, sending him staggering back against the ropes There ya go! Now you know what it feels like to be on the receiving end of one of my attacks... How about we call it quits for today?
"You're a tough one," she says with a sigh, slipping her arms behind her head as she leans against the ropes opposite him. "I think we've both had enough practice for now." A wistful smile plays across her lips before it fades into something harder and less pleasant.
Damn it... why does everything have to be like this?
standing against the ropes, with his nose bleeding and his mouth red, panting from exhaustion and the pain pressing against his chest where Blaze kicked him, he nods defeated
I told you that you would win...
even though he is in pain he is still standing, he gets out of the ring and takes off his gloves, and uses the bandages to clean the blood
But it was fun, I still feel like my heart is going to explode, are you sure you weren't in the army?
he asks at the end with a humorous tone, perhaps in an attempt to make her laugh, or to forget the pain
Maybe... just maybe, I've been in some scuffles before. Doesn't make me invincible though, you should know that by now! She rolls her shoulders and cracks her knuckles, a familiar grin tugging at the corners of her mouth as she climbs out of the ring to join him So... want to get some food? Or go shopping or something?
Or we could just chill here, if you're feeling tired. It's been quite a day for us both.
Don't worry, I'm fine
still in pain, he puts away his fighting gear and throws the blood-covered bandages into the trash, and retrieves his belongings from the locker where he left them
drinks a bottle of water to cool off and regain strength, although in the process he drinks his own blood and slightly stains the mouthpiece of his bottle, which he puts back in his backpack
The winner chooses what to do for the rest of the day, it's only fair hehe
laughs lightly to relieve any tension
I guess I did kinda win... Well then, since you're feeling so generous today, how about we grab some dinner and then hit up that new clothes store I saw on our way to work? It's been forever since I treated myself to anything nice. What do you say?
Haha, sure, I think it would be good for us to treat ourselves to something delicious to eat
He takes Blaze in the car to the shopping mall to fulfill his wishes, first the food, on Dante's part, he orders a plate of Chinese rice with meat, shrimp and vegetables, a dish that looks simple but is certainly a delight after such a busy day
Blaze orders his food too, by the time they bring the food for the two, the bruises on Dante's arms and face become present, they are faint but visible, Dante doesn't seem to care
Do you want to try?
With his fork he points to his plate of rice to offer Blaze to eat from it if he wants
Thanks, but I'm fine with my own food for now. Besides, you look like you could use that extra bit of energy! She takes a bite of her pad thai and then glances over at him, watching as he devours his dinner with relish. There's something strange about the expression on his face... She chews thoughtfully, unsure if she should say anything or not It's almost like you were glad I lost today... Not that I mind, of course! It's just a weird vibe coming from you, is all.
I'm happy to be out of that hell
Dante chuckles at Blaze's comment, despite being defeated for the thousandth time by Blaze, he remains positive
I hope I was enough to satisfy your day of training
You know what they say... you can't really appreciate something until it's gone. I guess that means you should be thankful that I took the time to train with you today. Now, shall we head over to that clothes store? I'm itching to treat myself!
Follows Dante as he leads the way to the store, her eyes scanning the racks in search of something that catches her eye. After what feels like forever, she finally finds a pair of designer jeans and a cute fitted top, both in shades of gray to match her eyes. Slipping them on, she does a twirl for Dante's benefit
What do you think? Not too bad, huh?
As they spend the day together, there are some curious people who see Dante's beaten state, and there are mixed opinions, some murmurs about what the hero wanted to do with Blaze, but the vast majority saying that that girl hit him and is something like his slave, Dante doesn't hear any of this and doesn't realize it, but Blaze does notice
In the clothing store, Dante serves as a kind of judge to rate the clothes Blaze chooses, and he does so with a smile
You look splendid, it seems made for you
Dante genuinely praises Blaze's clothing, he just chooses a long blue and black coat that is quite striking and a bit geeky, but that exudes style
Well, thank you! I'm glad we could both treat ourselves today. And hey, maybe next time I won't have to fight so hard against you... she winks playfully Speaking of which, we should probably get back to training soon, huh? Can't let my skills get rusty now that I finally found someone who can keep up with me.
If you want to go shopping, you don't need to win every fight, much less knowing that you're going to crush me again
He says in a comical way, but also expressing that he only needs to ask to simply pass the time
But it's okay, I'll try to be useful to you
They both leave the clothing store to return to the car with the purchases, Blaze hears negative comments again, saying that Dante must have done something very stupid against Blaze to end up beaten, others call him a coward for letting a girl hit him like that, but Dante is still not aware of those comments
You're really sweet to put up with all that crap, you know. Most guys would just leave me alone and pretend they never knew me. I don't know what I did to deserve someone like you in my life... We should get together more often. She gives him a warm smile before shrugging it off Now let's head back, huh? There'll always be time for practice later.
You're my friend, it's that simple
responds to Blaze, once again showing his appreciation for her
they both get into the car with the groceries and Dante drives back to the apartment where they live
Aww, you're too good to be true... She rolls her eyes but can't quite hide the smile tugging at the corners of her mouth But I guess that's why we get along so well. Here we are at the apartment complex. Let's go up and get these groceries unpacked, huh? Then you can show me your 'magic trick' that you promised earlier...
Magic trick?... I think the blows turned me into an idiot, because I don't know what you're talking about, hahaha
They leave their purchases in the department and Dante humorously responds to Blaze that he wants to see that supposed magic trick
Well then, I guess it's about time you remember your promise, huh? You didn't think I'd let you off that easily, did you? Fine, fine... after we unpack these groceries, we can head back to my room and I'll show you. Just don't make fun of me too much, okay?
Oooookay...
Dante puts what he bought away in his closet, and takes a shower to cool off and wipe off the sweat
Now fresh and recently showered, he knocks on Blaze's bedroom door
Just a moment, I'm almost done! She gives him a small wave before slipping on her new jeans and buttoning up the fitted top. Finally satisfied with how she looks, she turns to face him with a sly grin. Her red eyes sparkle with mischief as she motions for him to follow her back into the living room Alright then... are you ready to see my 'magic trick', Dante Melgaz?
You seem eager to show me what you have up your sleeve
Dante walks Blaze into the living room and stands in front of the couch
You look really good in those clothes, in practically everything actually, but seeing you in new clothes, I don't know, nice
He compliments Blaze's appearance again kindly with a sweet smile, his lower lip seems split due to the fight they had previously
You're just saying that 'cause you like me in them! She laughs, pretending to bat her eyelashes. Taking a deep breath, she focuses on the task at hand and slowly raises one leg, bending it so that her knee is pointed towards the ceiling Now... this is where things get interesting.
Tightening her thigh muscles, she starts to shake her leg back and forth, faster and faster, creating a hypnotic rhythm with her movements. As she watches Dante's eyes widen in amazement, she feels an invisible force building up inside her. Her heart is racing, her breath coming in short gasps as she focuses all of her energy on this one movement.
Finally, with a mighty thrust, she pushes off the ground and launches herself into the air, spinning dizzyingly before landing in a graceful crouch next to Dante. He stares at her, his mouth hanging open as sweat trickles down his brow. For a moment, there's silence between them as they both catch their breath.
Then she grins.
Dante's expression betrays how impressed he is
Haha, you're amazing Blaze
He smiles gently while giving him some soft applause for the execution of his movements
Well, I'm not amazing... just well-practiced. It took me years to learn how to control my body like that. But thank you! You know... it's nice having someone to practice with who actually appreciates the effort that goes into it. I think we make a pretty good team, don't you?
Yes, you practiced it, and it took you a lot of time and effort to get it right, that's why you're amazing
He sincerely praises Blaze, she is without a doubt an exceptional person and practically perfect, at least that's Dante's vision of her
Yes, we are a team, you the invincible bully and I your punching bag, haha
She says mockingly and sarcastically while laughing a little, Dante seems happy with her company
Hey, you're not so bad yourself! And it's not like I enjoy hitting you that much... most of the time. Besides, we make a pretty good pair. You could always ask to train with me again sometime, if you want to get even better at taking my punches.
Haha, I'll try, if you need anything else from me, just say it
Dante was always respectful and kind to Blaze, maybe the first few weeks together were a challenge, but he never made a single attempt to overstep his boundaries with her
Now they seem to be quite close
Tomorrow is the weekend, so I'll be free for whatever you need
The bumps and bruises seem to have mostly disappeared, but he still has a split lip, but he's still willing to be there for her
Well... maybe we could do something fun together tomorrow? You know, like go to the beach or check out that new amusement park that just opened up on the outskirts of town? It'd be a shame not to take advantage of our day off. Just as long as you don't mind getting sand in your hair and the occasional sore muscle from all that roller coaster riding, of course.
She pauses, considering her options before grinning mischievously Or... we could always have another sparring session! What do you think?
I think I'll take a break from sparring, but I'll make it up to you, hehe
He certainly doesn't want to end up hurt two days in a row, so he just agrees to one day of relaxation
Are you interested in the park? I think it's the safest option, hehe
A scenario of Blaze hitting him for seeing her in a swimsuit for too long crossed his mind, so he wants to avoid it if possible
I'm not made of money, you know! And I could really use some new rides on my wishlist... but if that makes you uncomfortable, we can always do something else. There are other things to do besides amusement parks, after all. We could go shopping or check out a museum or something. Just name it, babe, and I'm there.
The park would be fun, at least I'll be able to get my revenge if there's a shooting attraction
says comically considering that he teaches archery classes and has participated in a couple of competitions
Well, I think it's too late, the best thing would be to rest, although I doubt you're tired after today's fight, hehe
I could always go another round... But alright, if you're sure you want to take it easy tomorrow, I guess we can hit up the park. There are plenty of rides that even someone as big and strong as you should be able to handle. And who knows? Maybe there'll even be a ride dedicated to me! Hahaha... We could call ourselves "Team Titan" or something.
Oh, hey, speaking of teaming up... maybe we should plan on entering that martial arts tournament together again next year. You know, now that you've gotten a chance to practice with someone who actually knows what they're doing, you could finally win something! Imagine the glory, huh? It'd be like the cherry on top of our partnership sundae. Yum yum.
Hahaha, me in a martial arts tournament? I can help tire out the other opponent so you can give him the finishing blow
laughs at the idea, because he doesn't consider himself fit for a fighting tournament, knowing that he's not even capable of touching Blaze in a sparring
We'll see, we'll see, hehe
before Blaze, he had depression problems, which led to belittling himself on many occasions, nowadays he doesn't seem to continue doing it, and that joke is difficult to determine if it's another act of belittling himself, or if it's just a simple joke
Hey, you never know! Maybe next time we train together I'll teach you how to give someone a real fight. Just don't forget, practice makes perfect. And who knows? We might even surprise everyone in the tournament next year. It could be our chance at true greatness... or at least second place. Ha!
Well, it's still a year away from that happening, but yeah, it would be great to win first place as a couple, hehe
affectionately strokes Blaze's arm to say goodbye
I'm going to sleep, I'm glad you had fun today, let me know if I can do anything for you
smiles sweetly at him and turns around to walk to his room
Goodnight, Dante! Thanks again... See you in the morning. She smiles over her shoulder as she heads down the hallway to their shared bedroom And hey... maybe next time we'll actually train instead of playing around all day. Who knows? You might surprise me with your abilities after all. Hahaha!
Shuts the door behind her, feeling a warm glow in her chest as she slips between the cool sheets of her bed. Today was... surprisingly enjoyable. Maybe there's more to this 'friendship' than she originally thought. Or maybe she's just getting used to having someone who actually cares about her around. Either way, tomorrow promises to be another interesting day together. And as long as Dante Melgaz is by her side, it doesn't seem so bad after all.