The night exploded into chaos.
Steel rang as the first assassin lunged, twin daggers flashing toward Adrian's chest. In a blur, Adrian twisted aside, his blade sparking as it deflected the strike. The force rattled through his arms, but his footing held firm.
Another shadow swept in from the left. Adrian ducked low, his sword cutting upward in a sharp arc. Blood sprayed across the moonlit ground as the man collapsed without a sound.
Selena's gasp cut through the night. Her hands trembled as she pressed herself against the courtyard wall. She had seen battles before—noble squabbles, hired guards—but nothing like this. Adrian moved like a storm, raw power pulsing with every strike.
The scroll at his side flared, its runes burning brighter with each clash. A surge of energy coursed through him, sharpening his senses, strengthening his limbs.
So this is the scroll's gift… he thought, parrying another blow. Then let me see how far it can take me.
The assassins attacked in waves, their movements disciplined, merciless. But for every blade that sought his life, Adrian answered with steel and fury. His sword carved through the shadows, his strikes growing heavier, faster—driven by rage and a vow carved deep into his soul.
Still, they were many. A dagger grazed his arm, drawing blood. Another blow slammed into his shoulder, sending sparks of pain shooting down his side. He gritted his teeth, refusing to falter.
"Adrian!" Selena cried, her voice breaking. She reached for him, but another assassin blocked her path, his blade raised to strike her down.
Adrian's heart lurched. His body moved before thought. With a roar, he unleashed a slash that cracked the air itself, energy bursting from his blade. The assassin was thrown back, crashing lifeless into the wall.
Selena froze, staring wide-eyed. That single strike carried more than human strength—it was the scroll's power unleashed.
But Adrian barely noticed her shock. His chest heaved, his eyes locked on the last wave of shadows as they tightened their circle around him.
From among them, one figure stepped forward—taller, his presence heavier than the rest. A crimson mark glowed on his mask, his aura sharp as a blade drawn under the moonlight.
The other assassins stilled. The leader had arrived.
"You've done well for a boy clinging to scraps of forgotten power," the masked man said, voice dripping with disdain. He drew his blade, the steel gleaming like ice. "But playtime ends here."
Adrian's grip tightened on his sword. His breath came ragged, but his spirit burned hotter than ever.
"Then step forward," he growled, his eyes fierce. "Let's see whose shadow fades first."
The leader's blade shimmered as he lunged, the air itself tearing in his wake.
The true battle had begun.
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✨ Author's Note:
Adrian is finally testing the scroll's power in full combat! 🔥 Do you think he can stand against the leader of these shadows, or is this a fight he isn't ready for? Thank you again for 5.5k+ views and 7 collections — your support means everything! Drop a comment with your theory before the next clash!