"Clang—!"
Swords clashed mid-air, sparks scattering in sharp bursts.
In the castle's training grounds, two figures closed in on each other. Each clash rang out, sharp and piercing, cutting through the open space.
The afternoon sun hung high above, its light reflecting off the blades as they swung.
One stepped forward, striking down with force.
The other raised his sword, catching it just in time, the impact pushing him back half a step before he steadied himself. He twisted his wrist, sliding the opposing blade off to the side, and immediately moved in.
Another clash followed.
The exchange quickened.
Steel met steel again and again, each strike faster than the last. Their movements tightened, closing the distance between them as neither gave the other room to breathe.
A second blade cut across, aiming for an opening, but it was blocked midway. The force of it carried through, dragging both weapons slightly off line before they broke apart.
