Battalion Commander Seris entered the arena floor, her lean frame belying formidable strength and speed. The only female officer among Alex's chosen opponents, she had risen through Éclair's ranks through a combination of tactical brilliance and technical perfection, her bladework often described as mathematically precise.
Alex bowed with slightly deeper respect, acknowledging Seris's reputation without words. She returned the gesture with professional courtesy, her calculating eyes already assessing angles and distances.
"Begin."
Their blades met in a complex opening exchange that demonstrated technical mastery on both sides. Seris fought with analytical precision, each movement executed with perfect economy of motion. Under normal circumstances, her style would have provided significant challenge even to exceptionally talented opponents.
