The forest trembled.
Not from wind.
Not from nature.
But from the force of two beings clashing within it.
The battle between Karna and the Rakshasa continued without pause.
Blow after blow.
Strike after strike.
Each collision heavier than the last.
Each passing moment more dangerous than the one before.
The air itself seemed to vibrate with their movements. Leaves shook loose from branches, falling helplessly as the ground beneath them bore the impact of their struggle.
Karna's body ached.
Not in one place—
But everywhere.
His arms trembled slightly from the repeated shocks of blocking and striking. Each impact traveled through the wooden staff and into his bones, testing the limits of his strength.
His breathing—
Had lost its perfect rhythm.
It was no longer calm and even.
Now, it came sharper.
Heavier.
Yet his eyes—
Remained calm.
Unshaken.
Focused.
The Rakshasa lunged again.
Faster than before.
Stronger than before.
