>>6060064>>6060066>>6060076>>6060050# # # # # #
71, 34, 89
vs
107,53,156
# # # # # #
The first strike hits you like a slap from one of those monsters inside the Well.
Admitted, it does not throw you halfway across a room, but you feel the impact all the way through your wrists and up your shoulders. Your knees almost buckle, but you hold fast.
“I am going easy on you,” Salicera taunts. “But I know you can do better than this! Where is the sword that gave my blade scars, Argia?” She grins, stepping back and then going for a low strike, aimed at your legs.
You barely intercept it. Her sword hits yours with a resounding <span class="mu-i">clang</span> as Soralisa gasps from behind you.
“I-Is this safe? Salicera, she just woke up!”
“I know,” she replies, going for a quick jab towards your chest. A lazy swing which you still have just the time to block. But you don’t see her kick.
“Ow!” It hits you right behind the shin and you fall on your knee, with Salicera’s sword aimed at your throat.
“Perhaps I should give you more time to recover?” There is not even the faintest sheen of sweat on her forehead, even in the middle of the afternoon heat. You shake your head and push her sword away.
“I just need to get in the mood, that’s all.”
Behind you, Rubida coughs in her palm again. You hoe she’s not getting sick or anything like that, but you still keep your eyes trained on Salicera.
She strikes and ripostes far too quickly and with far too strength for you. It’s no wonder they called her a genius.
Wonder where all that strength comes from… perhaps the thing she wanted to tell you is where her.
Wait.
A dangerous thought takes shape in your head.
You heard the tales, how couldn’t you? It’s what Rubida had accused you of doing a few times, when you two first came to serve together. And what most people assume from looking at your hair.
That you had made. pact with the Stilladìa. With the Adversary.
Did Salicera—
You picture the scene inside your head, the younger brunette holding out a hand as a grinning figure takes it, promising all kind of boons in exchange for the simple place of a soul—
[cont.]
