As Jace and Lucian stood momentarily locked in combat, their weapons clashing together, the training ground seemed to pulse with the energy of their struggle. The moment of stillness shattered as they disengaged and moved once more, their eyes never leaving each other.
Lucian struck first, his movements a blur of speed and precision. He advanced with a flurry of attacks, his fists and blood whips striking from all angles. Jace parried and dodged, his muscles straining with the effort of keeping up with the relentless onslaught.
Lucian's smirk returned as he noticed Jace's slight hesitation, a flicker of doubt crossing his features. He pressed his advantage, pushing Jace back step by step. "Impressive," Lucian said, his voice a low growl. "But can you keep up?"
