The entire table, along with the tea bowl and teapot, was sent tumbling through the air towards the shadowy figure with a whoosh.
The figure's eyes narrowed at this unexpected move, and a moment later, felt a sharp pain across the face.
To defend themselves, the figure had no choice but to alter their attack path, using the long sword to deflect the table, tea bowl, and teapot away, all of which clattered to the ground in front of them.
As the tea hit the ground, creating a distinct, shallow groove on the surface, the shadowy figure turned to find Stephen still seated, exuding a calm demeanor.
"I had no intention of killing you," Stephen began, "for if I had, you would have been dead the moment you entered this room. I spared you so you could relay a message to your master: if he desires my life, he must come for it himself."
With that, Stephen turned to face the shadow, his eyes filled with disdain.
