Chapter 54: Awakening

Kalann threw himself to the side to avoid Xaran's slash. Wincing, he caught the fall with his forearm and shoved himself back onto his feet. "Could you consider moving a little faster?" he quipped, trying to hide his exhaustion. "I want this to be at least a bit of a challenge."

"Then I'll give you one!" Xaran sneered. He threw himself forward with a frenzy of rapid slashes, driving Kalann back to the edge of the platform. Grimacing, Kalann dropped and rolled away, standing up behind Xaran. The warlord spun around with his sword out, and Kalann barely brought his own up in time. The shock of the bow sent a ringing spark up Kalann's spine.