120: Almost done- Part 4

The battle resumed in an instant.

Auriel surged forward, golden energy surrounding her as she struck at Minerva with divine force. 

Minerva countered with ease, her shadows twisting around her like living armor, absorbing most of the damage before lashing out in retaliation.

The village square became their battleground.

Auriel weaved between the black tendrils that Minerva summoned, dodging with practiced precision. 

She retaliated with divine blasts, each strike pushing against the overwhelming darkness that threatened to consume her.

Every attack was met with equal force, their powers clashing and creating shockwaves that shattered the ground beneath them.

But Auriel could feel it.

Despite her efforts, Minerva was pushing her back.

Her corrupted magic was slightly stronger here, her power given an unnatural boost by the human realm's unstable energy.

Auriel wasn't losing—yet—but she wasn't winning either.