章 364: Almost doesn't count

"It's not arrogance if I win!"

Cael grit his teeth, in part because of the cuts left by Dieter's sword, and in part because of the sheer desire to punch that shit-eating grin off the man's face.

With a powerful swing of his bloody blade, Cael pushed away from Dieter, landing in the snow several meters away. Clouds of snowflakes rose, only to be blown away by a gust of wind.

Dieter didn't follow his opponent. Despite his smug smirk, he was panting. Clearly, moving quickly enough to catch up with Cael's speed took a toll on him.

Nevertheless, Dieter's form was still sharp. His fencing stance didn't waver, and his sword, although pointed low, didn't shake in Dieter's hand.

Although it was a long broadsword, Dieter held it as easily as he would a slender rapier—something Cael noticed earlier as well. Was that the result of Dieter's enhancing magic or of the blade's own enchantments?