An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

With a swiftness that was almost impossible to track, Aldric's blade sliced through the air, leaving only a fleeting glimpse of its sharp edge. Everywhere it went, raindrops evaporated instantly, creating a void in its wake.

Miles's eyes narrowed as he swiftly raised his sword to defend himself.

The clash echoed through the air.

Aldric's blow landed heavily against Miles's blade. It sent Miles stumbling backward, and his grip wavered for a moment.

"That power..." Miles' expression turned grave.

Aldric's last attack had been unexpectedly strong. Miles might have been seriously injured if he hadn't reacted in time.

Aldric sheathed his blade decisively, his expression cold as he spoke. "You're no match for me. Move aside," he said firmly, showing no concern for Miles' presence.

Miles, undeterred, raised his sword defiantly. "Hmph! Don't get too cocky," he retorted.

of the Sword Union. Maybe I'm not as gifted as Dustin, but I'm no ordinary fighter. And you?

alone didn't guarantee victory. Some individuals possessed natural strength but

Union disciples were like you, it would be

fury burning inside him, Miles advanced and brandished his sword. "Such arrogance! How dare you look

fierce intensity. The blade trembled slightly, hinting at its

yourself!" Aldric scoffed as he unsheathed his long blade with a

forth and enveloped Miles like a sudden avalanche.

repeatedly to fend off the relentless blade aura. But with every block, he was pushed back, and his movements became

Aldric's voice pierced the air as he swiftly closed

sent flying several feet away. He crashed heavily

expression changed as she rushed to his

he forced himself upright, but

remnants of his meal in a messy splatter. In

as he looked at Miles with contempt. "Can't even