In that very moment, Howard's sword slashed through Ankurei's shield!
With no time left for thought, Ankurei instinctively sidestepped, his long sword sweeping upward from below, aiming directly at Howard's wrist.
Although Howard was faster, Ankurei's distance was shorter; if Howard insisted on slashing down, his wrist would be severed before his attack could land.
After quickly calculating the outcome, Howard immediately changed his move.
His muscles, as if needing no rest and defying their structure, exerted force continuously.
Howard made a phantom-like dodging maneuver, narrowly avoiding Ankurei's subsequent attack and retreating to a safe distance.
Ankurei casually tossed aside the compass, gripping the long sword in one hand and drawing a dagger from his waist with the empty left hand.
It was different, completely different from before.
Although there was no increase in speed, the movements were entirely different!