Alice dashed forward, slicing through the air.
Fireballs closed in from every direction—she met them head-on.
Her sword danced, each swing tracing an arc of light that cut through the burning orbs, extinguishing them before they could touch her.
The wind roared, fire hissed, and ice cracked under her feet.
Yet, through it all, Alice advanced—step by step, closer to Velra.
Velra's grin widened, excitement flashing in her crimson eyes.
"Yes… show me that will of yours, little warrior. Let me taste your resolve."
Alice lifted her blade, its aura flaring once more.
"I'm not the same girl you defeated before, Velra," Alice said, her voice low but steady.
For the first time, the vampire's laughter faded—replaced by a faint, curious smile.
"Oh?" Velra tilted her head, crimson eyes glinting with amusement. "Then prove it."
Snow fell thicker now, swallowing sound and light until the world seemed to narrow to just the two of them—blade and spell, vengeance and pride.
