Nathaniel's taunts faded into the background as my focus honed in on him. Every fibre of my being burned with purpose.
He thought he could manipulate me, wear me down, but he had underestimated how far I was willing to go.
This fight wasn't just about vengeance or reclaiming Aeliana it was about proving to Nathaniel, to everyone, that I was not someone to be trifled with.
The flames around me roared to life, casting an ominous glow across the room. Nathaniel steadied himself, his sword glinting in the flickering light. Despite the confidence in his stance, I caught the faintest flicker of doubt in his eyes.
"You've bitten off more than you can chew, Nathaniel," I growled, my voice low and deadly.
"Big words, Princess," he sneered, lunging forward, his blade aimed directly for my heart.