Chapter 117: Talent

'Even if it's scary… Even if you're a better swordsman than me… Even then, I'll beat you!'

With so many people watching, she shut off all the thoughts that urged her to surrender. All those little niggles that warned her of how uncomfortable she was. She freed her mind, and focused on defeating the enemy in front of her.

Agility was her most powerful weapon. She had an athleticism and energy that was rarely seen. And so, she cast away the formal movements and steps that she had practised for so long, and she leapt.

She leapt with her blade poised, instantly closing the gap, and slashing at him wildly, with ferocity.

He blocked firmly, without flinching. He was far stronger than she, and it became apparent that she would never win a contest of strength. She had to overwhelm him.