Chapter 168. Alethea

Streaks of blue and violet zipped around the battlefield, raising dust along their path as they collided like lightning bolts. Each collision sounded with a loud metallic bang, releasing heavy circular waves that spread across the battlefield momentarily before fading out.

Desmond and Arthur circled each other, utilizing speed, power, and technique in a desperate attempt to outmatch one another. Desmond swung his blade at Arthur’s head in a horizontal slash. Arthur leaned backwards and, in the same instant, thrust his right foot at Desmond’s stomach. Desmond swiftly sidestepped to evade Arthur’s attack, and Arthur slammed his lifted foot onto the ground, springing back up with a dagger aiming for Desmond’s throat.

Desmond caught his hand, gripping it tightly, the dagger hanging in front of his blank face as their eyes locked momentarily. Desmond pulled Arthur’s hand to the side and slammed his left fist into his cheek. Arthur spat a mouthful of blood onto the sand. Desm