Derek met him. Their swords clashed with a sound like a thunderclap. Sparks flew, illuminating their faces. Malakai was strong, brutal in his attacks, swinging the greatsword like a hammer but Derek was faster.
Malakai swung high, aiming for Derek's neck. Derek ducked, the heavy blade whistling over his head. Derek slashed low, his sword biting into the gap in Malakai's leg armor.
Malakai grunted but didn't stop. "You were sold, Thompson!" Malakai taunted, pressing his advantage. "Sold cheap by your own people!"
Derek was momentarily distracted and Malakai's sword slashed his back in one strike.
Derek groaned in pain, his blood dripping, staining the white soft snow.
"Then I will make them pay," Derek said. "But first, you!"
Malakai roared and lunged. It was a clumsy move, born of overconfidence. He raised his arms high for a killing blow, exposing his chest.
Derek saw the opening.
