Mariana dashed forward, her steel sword gleaming under the faint glow of the training ground's magical crystals. She moved with deadly intent, aiming directly for David's chest with precision and speed. Her fiery aura burned with determination, but David stood relaxed, one hand casually tucked into his pocket.
With effortless grace, he deflected her strikes, his obsidian blade moving like liquid shadow. Each blow she delivered was met with a parry so fluid and precise it felt as though David was mocking her. Sparks danced in the air, the sound of clashing metal reverberating through the empty grounds.
Mariana growled under her breath, retreating slightly to reassess. Her sharp eyes scanned David, who stood unbothered, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "I'll admit," she said, her voice laced with grudging respect, "you've got some skill to back up your words. But don't think for a second to let your guard down."
