The flaming clouds expanded rapidly, growing denser and more potent with each passing moment. When Gladius's lightning spirit sword struck again, it managed to pierce deep into the inferno but failed to break through entirely.
These exchanges, while lasting only moments, were a whirlwind of violence and power that would have left lesser mages utterly drained.
Kaltharius was panting heavily, sweat rolling down his face in rivulets. The exertion of maintaining such a powerful defense was clearly taking its toll.
But Gladius, despite the intensity of his attacks, seemed barely winded. A cruel smile played across his lips as he regarded his struggling opponent. Even if this defense bought Kaltharius a few precious seconds of respite, Gladius knows he simply needs to unleash even greater strength to overwhelm this arrogant genius.
