Kapitel 380: Sheathed Blades (2)

Aeliana's gaze remained fixed on the figure of the swordsman, Luca, even as the tension in the air began to settle. The duel had been swift—brutally so. It wasn't a drawn-out battle of attrition but a precise, devastating dismantling of Cedric's skill and pride. The sheer efficiency of it had left her both fascinated and unsettled. 

'One clash,' she thought, her gloved fingers tapping against the armrest of her chair. 'Just one clash, and it was over. Is that normal?' 

Her curiosity brimming, she turned her veiled face toward Madeleina, who stood silently by her side. "Madeleina," she began, her voice calm but edged with intrigue. "What I just saw… is that common? Do duels end like that so quickly?" 

Madeleina's lips tightened, her expression pensive. "No, my lady. It is not normal. Most duels, even among skilled swordsmen, involve an exchange of blows—a testing of one's opponent, if you will. What you witnessed here is rare."