*****
(Lyrium's POV)
Nox lunged forward, his sword slicing through the air with precision.
The sharp glint of steel reflected in my eyes as I stood motionless, my hands empty.
No weapon, no armor—just my instincts and my body.
'This guy… He has sky-high potential, but right now, he's still an amateur—just like me.'
I stepped back, tilting my head slightly as his blade narrowly missed my cheek.
The wind from his strike brushed past me, rustling my hair.
He was fast, but not fast enough.
His footwork was solid, his intent was sharp, but he still hesitated between his movements.
A fraction of a second, but enough for someone like me to notice.
Clank—!
His sword came down again, but this time, I caught his wrist mid-swing.
My grip tightened, and his eyes widened in shock.
"You're relying too much on your sword,"
I muttered, twisting his wrist slightly.