Ethan's heart pounded as Vex's black Radiansaber crackled against his neck. The cold, dark energy emanating from the blade was suffocating, pressing down on his mind like a vice. Vex's crimson eyes glowed with satisfaction, his lips curling into a twisted grin.
"You underestimated me, Ethan Warren," Vex growled, his voice filled with malice. "And now you shall… DIE!"
Before Vex could strike the final blow, a deafening explosion ripped through the command center. The ship shook violently, and the ground beneath them trembled as sparks erupted from the damaged consoles. For a brief moment, Vex's concentration faltered, the hum of his saber dimming.
Seizing the opportunity, Ethan summoned every ounce of strength he had left and deflected the dark saber with a quick upward slash. The blades clashed, sending a shower of sparks into the air. Ethan rolled to the side, barely escaping Vex's reach as he scrambled to his feet, his breathing ragged.
