Chapter 20: The Warrior's Crucible

The midday sun bore down on the training grounds as Ren stood before his opponent—a seasoned swordsman from Lady Kagura's inner circle. His name was Daigo, a warrior known for his merciless precision and unparalleled control over Soulfire.

"Do not hold back," Lady Kagura instructed. "This duel is not a simple spar. It is a test of your mastery over the blade and your spirit. If you fail, you will have learned nothing."

Ren tightened his grip on his katana. His recent training had granted him newfound control over his Soulfire, but facing Daigo was different. The air around the warrior crackled with power, his blade wreathed in a ghostly golden flame.

Daigo wasted no time. He lunged forward with terrifying speed, his strike carrying the weight of experience. Ren barely managed to parry, the impact sending a shock through his arms. He retaliated, channeling his Soulfire into his katana, but his opponent evaded with ease, countering with a sharp strike aimed at Ren's shoulder.

Ren twisted away, his blade humming as it deflected Daigo's attack. Sparks erupted as their swords clashed, the heat from their Soulfire intensifying with each exchange. Sweat beaded on Ren's forehead, his breathing steady but labored.

"Your power is strong," Daigo admitted, circling him like a predator. "But you hesitate. Your flame wavers."

Ren grit his teeth. He knew Daigo was right. The precision Lady Kagura had demonstrated still eluded him. His fire was potent, but it lacked refinement.

Summoning his focus, Ren took a deep breath. He let go of unnecessary thoughts, feeling the blade as an extension of himself. He moved—swiftly, decisively. His katana cut through the air in a seamless arc, its flame burning steady.

Daigo's eyes widened slightly before parrying, but this time, Ren pressed forward. Strike after strike, he pushed his opponent back, his attacks fueled by an unwavering will. His Soulfire no longer flared wildly—it flowed in perfect sync with his movements.

Then, in a single decisive moment, Ren pivoted, feinting left before delivering a strike to Daigo's side. The seasoned swordsman barely managed to block, stumbling backward.

Lady Kagura clapped once, signaling the end of the duel. "Enough."

Ren lowered his blade, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. Daigo studied him for a moment before nodding in approval.

"You've taken a step forward," Kagura said. "But your true trial is yet to come."

Ren sheathed his sword, determination burning in his eyes. He was ready for whatever lay ahead.