Just as Elina's blade was about to strike the man, something unexpected happened.
Her body froze mid-air, suspended by an invisible force, as if time itself had turned against her.
"What?" Her eyes widened in horror. "Why can't I move my arms?"
She struggled with all her strength, but it was useless. Her limbs felt paralyzed—nerves and muscles locked—leaving only her consciousness free.
"Hahaha! Your Highness, you're truly naive," came a mocking laugh from the man's direction. He stepped forward and stopped right in front of her.
Taking the sword from her hand, he lifted his head to meet her gaze with a playful smirk.
"Did you really think I'd leave myself defenseless?" he said, gently brushing her chin with his fingers. "When I summoned my five clones, I made sure to stay perfectly still—just to make you think I couldn't move."
"Once you took the bait and attacked, I made my move and overwhelmed you. So, what do you think? Pretty flawless plan, wasn't it?"
