The Lich's crimson eyes narrowed as Valdris surged forward, his form blurring with impossible speed. The Light Core artifact blazed on his chest, a brilliant crystal that pulsed with each heartbeat, flooding his body with enhanced reflexes and acceleration.
"Futile," the Lich murmured, already weaving defensive magic. A shimmering barrier of darkened air materialized before him, layered and dense.
Valdris's light-blade descended in a blazing arc with a cascade of them, each flowing into the next with the fluid grace of someone moving faster than thought. The first slash tested the barrier. The second probed for weaknesses. The third, fourth, and fifth struck the same point in rapid succession, each impact weakening the magical defense.
"I'll make you regret ever showing your face in my kingdom!" Valdris's voice rang with royal fury.
The barrier cracked.
Reinfort moved.
