"No buildings to hide behind now," she said, her voice cold and controlled despite her earlier rage.
"No civilians to use as shields. Just you, me, and the question of whether your arrogance is backed by actual skill."
Jolthar rolled his shoulders, feeling his body settle into combat readiness.
"You really want to do this?"
"You mocked me," Tamnarasi replied flatly.
"You challenged the authority of the empire and the Dreadmarchen. And worst of all, you were stupid enough to do it to my face."
She shifted into a combat stance, her blade held with perfect form.
"Now I'm going to teach you the consequences of disrespecting those stronger than you."
"Stronger?"
Jolthar's hand went to the sword at his hip.
"We'll see about that."
He drew his blade in one smooth motion.
