He parried one strike, then another, but the third slipped past his guard, grazing his armor and leaving a faint burn. Aurelya quickly stepped back, her rapier glowing brighter as mana gathered at its tip.
A split second later, a beam of condensed light burst forth. Lumberling planted his spear and spun it in a defensive arc, forming a circular barrier. The blast struck with a deafening crack, forcing him a few meters back before he steadied himself.
He exhaled sharply, lowering his weapon. "Long-range now? You're cheating more by the second."
Aurelya smirked, her golden hair fluttering as she tilted her head. "There are no rules in a real fight. If you want to survive, you have to use everything you've got," she said, her tone firm but teasing. "This is how you use your elements properly."
"I'm really trying, alright!" Lumberling replied, thrusting his spear forward.
