Arthur dashed forward, sword raised, ignoring the sting in his muscles. His feet hit the cracked stone floor, and [Shadow Step] triggered mid-movement—his figure flickering briefly before he reappeared just off to Alex's right.
Alex reacted instantly, pivoting with a tight parry, his blade slamming into Arthur's with a metallic clang. Sparks flew.
Neither spoke.
Arthur pressed forward with a short burst of [Blade Dance]. Three rapid slashes—low, mid, high. Alex blocked two, redirected the third, and immediately spun with a precise counter aimed at Arthur's side.
Arthur gritted his teeth, calling [Arcane Shield]. The glowing barrier absorbed the hit but cracked on impact. He felt the force rattle through his arm.
Alex moved in again, fast. He went for a feint—a raised slash toward the head before dropping low for a sweeping leg strike.
Arthur saw it coming, thanks to [Foresight].
