The duel didn't stop.
The world around them blurred as Raguth swung again and again, each strike heavier than the last.
But no matter how hard he hit, Xu Huan didn't break. She didn't stumble. She didn't even flinch.
She kept moving.
Smooth. Calm. Like a river sliding through rocks.
Every time he tried to get a clean hit, she'd twist, block, or redirect it just enough. Just barely. But it was enough.
And that's what got to him.
He growled, his eyes wide with frustration. "Why aren't you fighting me properly?! Use your strength!"
He tried to use these taunts to rile his opponent up, as he could tell that this match would not be something he could win with force.
And Xu Huan didn't say anything. Her sword flicked forward and left a shallow cut across his shoulder.
Raguth roared and slammed his weapon down with both arms. The ground cracked beneath them.
But she wasn't there anymore.
She had already moved behind him, talisman glowing in her hand.
