Forged Destiny [Book 4: Ch. 7]

I brought my sword around to the side, but rather than block it, the person kicked it aside viciously, leaving me open as they slammed the hilt of their weapon into my nose. Stars danced before my vision, but I ducked anyway – knowing the opening would be taken advantage of. I heard the whistle of steel above, and the irritated "tut" of the individual who would have beheaded me.

I took Crocea Mors with both hands and thrust up and under their guard, knowing they'd be over-extended after their miss. To my joy, it was proven so – and I could a flash of pale skin and grit teeth beneath the hood as the tip of my sword arched towards their throat.

—Forged Destiny [Book 4: Ch. 7]