Chronicles of Aetheria

Chapter 44 - The Intruders III

Chapter 44 - The Intruders III

"You've got spirit, I'll give you that," Kitbushi said, smirking as he steadied his breath. "But spirit alone won't save you."

He lunged again, this time feinting to the left before striking from the right. Kael was caught off guard, his block a fraction too slow. The edge of Kitbushi's blade nicked his arm, drawing a thin line of blood. Kael winced but didn't falter.

Kael retaliated with a quick series of slashes, his movements growing more desperate but no less determined. Kitbushi deflected each strike with practiced ease, his eyes never leaving Kael's. He could see the frustration and fatigue beginning to set in.

Kitbushi pressed his advantage, launching a high attack aimed at Kael's shoulder. Kael parried, but the force of the blow sent vibrations through his arm. Kitbushi immediately followed with a low sweep at Kael's legs. Kael jumped to avoid the attack but landed awkwardly, losing his balance for a moment.

In that split second, Kitbushi saw his