Hanae stood relaxed for the time being with her feet set and hands resting near the hilt, watching Ayame and Black Fang settle into position. Her gaze carried approval rather than concern, waiting for them to make their moves.
Ayame moved first.
She closed the distance fast, using her Skysplitter class to the maximum as she cut upward in a clean diagonal meant to test timing. Black Fang did not mirror her. She disappeared sideways instead, with her body folding into motion as her curved blade aimed for Hanae's flank.
Hanae stepped between both attacks.
Steel met air.
She turned Ayame's strike aside with a small rotation of her wrist and slid past Black Fang's blade with a half step that placed her just outside killing range. Her sword never fully left its sheath. The movement alone forced both women to adjust.
They pressed harder.
