That knowledge changed nothing about the way Renan fought, but it clearly changed the way he read Lancet. His next attack came sharper, not just harder, aimed at Lancet's centerline in a way designed to force a choice between defense and retreat.
Lancet was the one who had attacked first, but Renan had a counter.
He activated Phantom Mode. His body flickered, becoming translucent. Lancet's next slash passed through him, there was no resistance, no contact.
Then Renan solidified behind Lancet and stabbed.
Lancet's Phantom Ring flared. "Radiant Cross Shield!"
The golden barrier erupted around him, angled backward. Black Gale's tip struck the shield and skidded off, throwing sparks. Renan recoiled from the backlash.
"You're using defensive skills offensively," Renan said, almost impressed. "That's risky."
"Everything's risky when you're fighting a Heavenly Knight."
