Aelith, still kneeling, breathed deeply, feeling her spiritual energy nearly depleted. Her "Crown of Eternal Winter" floated above her head, but now it emitted a fainter glow.
On the other side, the undead knight remained standing, albeit unsteadily. His cracked armor released a black mist, as if his very essence was escaping.
"Still standing?" Aelith muttered, clenching her fists as she felt the coldness of his domain slightly reinvigorate her strength.
"You too, girl..." the knight replied, his voice filled with respect. "But don't think you'll stop me."
He raised his sword again, now wreathed in black flames mixed with the shattered ice from his body, a fusion of his own powers with Aelith's domain.
Aelith closed her eyes, connecting more deeply with the Dao of Ice. In his mind, he visualized a scenario that only those with a higher understanding could access. The Dao was not just a manifestation of powers, but a path. An absolute concept.