The two combatants paused with only a meter of distance separating them.
Lokus' breaths were now just shy of heaving gasps, and even Endalia's breathing had become heavy and strained as they glared at each other. This was less due to her exertion and more because of Grimn's Mark.
With every passing moment, she felt her chest tighten and her limbs stiffen, but if anything, it only evened the playing field in terms of physical capability. When it came to skill, she was still far his superior.
"You're tenacious, I'll give you that," she said, her voice even despite the way she was breathing. "But that is all the praise I can muster. I am twenty years old, and still an Aspiring King. I have no black blood in my veins, no Egos or blood traits to assist me, and I am far from comprehending the secrets of Smoke.
