As the battle reached its climax, Xia and Lord Jiao clashed in a fierce exchange of swordplay. Each strike was met with equal force, but Xia's determination began to tip the scales in her favor.
"Your time is over, Jiao!" Xia shouted, her voice carrying over the sounds of battle. "You will not conquer this kingdom!"
With a powerful strike, she disarmed him, sending his sword clattering to the ground. Lord Jiao stumbled backward, momentarily stunned by the sudden turn of events. The fierce determination in Xia's eyes was unwavering as she stood ready to end the confrontation.
"Yield, Jiao!" she commanded, her sword pointed at him. "Your forces are breaking, and your ambitions will lead to nothing but destruction. There is still a chance to save your remaining soldiers from further loss."
Lord Jiao, panting and cornered, looked around at the battlefield. His troops were indeed faltering, struggling against the combined might of the Crimson Shadows and their allies. He weighed his options, realizing that the tide had irrevocably turned against him.
"Very well," he said, his voice low and filled with bitterness. "I yield. But know this: I will not forget this day, Xia. You may have won this battle, but the war for power is far from over."
Xia lowered her sword slightly, sensing that the immediate threat had been neutralized. "You may have fought bravely, but the kingdom will not fall to those who seek personal gain over the welfare of the people. Let this be a lesson."