Ji Xuan vanished.
Qing'er barely had time to react before he reappeared in front of her—too fast!
Her instincts screamed—block!
She raised Yao Yan just in time.
CLANG!
The impact sent her skidding backward, feet digging into the earth. Her arms trembled from the force.
Ji Xuan hadn't even used his full strength.
His sword hummed—a sharp, elegant sound. He studied her with calm detachment.
"You're weaker than I expected," he said.
Qing'er's eyes narrowed. "Then you should've won already."
She dashed forward—a feint. Her real attack came from the side, a precise strike toward his ribs.
Ji Xuan tilted his head slightly.
CLANG!
He blocked it with one hand. Effortless.
Then—counterattack.
His sword blurred—a dozen slashes in an instant!
Qing'er's body moved on instinct, blocking, dodging—but too slow!
A thin red line appeared on her cheek.
Yao Yan's voice echoed in her mind.
"You can't match his speed. Find another way."
Qing'er exhaled sharply.
Speed wasn't the answer.
She closed her eyes for half a second—sensing.
Ji Xuan lunged. His sword aimed for her throat.
Qing'er's eyes snapped open.
She shifted her stance—not retreating, but stepping forward!
CLANG!
Ji Xuan's blade missed by a hair.
Qing'er's sword flashed—striking at his exposed side!
For the first time, Ji Xuan blocked with both hands.
Their swords locked, power clashing between them.
His gaze flickered—mild surprise. "You adapted."
Qing'er smirked. "I learn fast."
Ji Xuan's expression shifted.
And then—he smiled.
"Good," he said. "Then let's get serious."