Demion's laughter echoed through the chamber, but it was cut short as I parried his next strike, the force of our clashing blades sending a jolt through my arms. He stepped back, his eyes narrowing as he reassessed me. I could see the dark amusement fading, replaced by a growing frustration.
"You are more resilient than I anticipated," he admitted grudgingly, his voice dripping with venom. "But it will only make your downfall all the more satisfying."
I tightened my grip on my sword, feeling the weight of it in my hand, a reassuring presence in the face of his malice. "You underestimate the power of hope," I replied, my voice steady. "Hope is not just a feeble sentiment. It is a force that can move mountains, topple tyrants, and overcome the darkest of evils."
