Flames of Defiance

The forest was alive with the clash of weapons, the rustle of movement, and the heavy breaths of warriors locked in battle. Moonlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting long shadows that danced across the battlefield.

Luo stood firm, his wooden staff gripped tightly in both hands. Opposite him, the Wu family elite moved with calculated precision, his twin sabers reflecting the pale glow of the moon. Each attack he launched came with speed and intent, forcing Luo to react instantly.

The elite swung, a horizontal slash aiming for Luo's side. Luo twisted his body, narrowly avoiding the sharp edge before stepping back to reset his stance.

"You're quick," the Wu warrior observed, his gaze sharp. "But speed alone won't carry you through this fight."

Luo smirked, rolling his shoulders. "Good thing I have more than just speed."

---

### **The Battle Intensifies**

Nearby, Meilin moved with agility, her twin daggers flashing as she countered an opponent's strike. She deflected an incoming blade, stepping into the opening and delivering a precise counterattack that forced her opponent to retreat.

Wei Fang used sheer force, his powerful swings keeping multiple attackers at bay. He parried a blow before stepping forward, forcing his opponent to give ground.

Lin Zhi remained composed, his swordplay fluid and efficient. He sidestepped an attack with minimal effort, countering with a quick strike that sent his opponent stumbling.

Despite their skill, the Wu fighters held their ground, their coordination keeping the fight evenly matched.

Luo refocused on his own opponent just as the elite warrior advanced again. His twin sabers moved swiftly, each strike carrying enough power to make direct blocking a risk.

Luo maneuvered carefully, using his staff to redirect the attacks instead of absorbing their full force. However, the continuous pressure was wearing him down.

*I can't stay on the defensive forever.*

---

### **Finding an Opening**

The system's voice chimed softly in Luo's mind.

**"Attitude Points: +10 for maintaining composure in battle."**

Luo's smirk widened. *That's more like it.*

The Wu elite narrowed his eyes. "You're still smiling?"

Luo spun his staff in a loose grip. "I'm just getting started."

Annoyed by his confidence, the elite pressed forward, launching a flurry of rapid strikes. Luo sidestepped, weaving through the attacks with sharp movements. Then, in a brief moment of overextension, an opportunity appeared.

Luo reacted instantly.

With a swift motion, he struck the elite's wrist with the end of his staff. The impact disrupted the warrior's grip, sending one of his sabers tumbling to the ground.

The Wu elite's eyes widened, surprised by Luo's precise counter. Before he could fully recover, Luo pivoted and delivered a forceful push, creating space between them.

**"Attitude Points: +15 for turning the momentum of battle."**

Luo exhaled, feeling the growing energy coursing through him. The balance of the fight had shifted.

---

### **Ending Hook**

The Wu warrior steadied himself, his expression darkening. The remaining saber in his hand emitted a faint glow, an indication that he was preparing something stronger.

"Enough playing around," he muttered.

Luo's grin didn't fade. If anything, it grew.

*Now things are getting interesting.*