Clang. Clang.
The sound rang out again and again, sharp and violent, echoing through the trembling domain.
Edward reached the Duke's level, landing on the last floating stone block just as the Duke lunged forward. The flame sword swept toward Edward's neck in a wide arc, trailing blazing heat that warped the air itself. Edward met it head-on. His blade rose, steel striking fire in a clean parry that sent sparks bursting outward like fireworks.
Clang.
The force of the collision pushed both of them back. The Duke slid through the air, boots skimming against nothing, while Edward was forced to step back once on the stone beneath him. The block cracked slightly under his weight but held.
The Duke's breathing had changed. It was heavier now, sharper, no longer calm. His eyes burned with frustration as he stared at Edward.
"You're still standing," the Duke growled. "How many times do I have to kill you?"
