Aurora stood across from him on the ancient stone battlefield, her red dress fluttering lightly in the breeze.
The vast training ground stretched around them.
She held her elegant sword in a relaxed guard, her red eyes glowing with excitement and a hint of challenge.
"Remember," she said softly, "only the first three moves. No other techniques. No raw power. Pure sword art."
Gray nodded, rapier held loosely at his side.
"Then let's begin."
The moment the words left his mouth, Aurora moved.
First Step: Approach.
Her left foot glided forward with effortless grace, Soul Chasing Qi flowing smoothly through her meridians.
The movement was light, almost weightless, yet carried undeniable intent.
Gray mirrored her instantly.
First Step.
He stepped forward, his body lowering slightly as the qi circulated perfectly.
He had already internalized the feeling from her demonstration, whether that was the anchor, the resonance, or the weight shift.
Aurora smiled, clearly pleased.
