The Hollow Nexus was quiet — a brief pause in the storm of war. Minwoo and Kael faced each other, weapons ready, tension crackling like static.
Kael cracked his knuckles, spear poised. "Ready to prove that Nexusblade isn't just a legend?"
Minwoo nodded, gripping the Nexusblade. "Let's see if you can keep up."
Just as the first clash rang out, a shadow swept overhead.
A roar echoed through the sky.
Kinro, Minwoo's loyal dragon, descended with powerful beats of his massive wings. Scales glinting like molten mythsteel, eyes burning with fierce intelligence and loyalty.
Kael's eyes widened. "You bringing a pet to a duel?"
Minwoo smirked. "Kinro's no pet. He's family."
The fight escalated instantly.
Kael darted between Kinro's fiery blasts and Minwoo's shadow-warped strikes, spear clashing against Nexusblade. Kinro roared, unleashing a torrent of blazing flame that carved arcs of fire across the battlefield, forcing Kael to dodge and weave.
But Kael wasn't just fighting Minwoo — he adapted, shifting tactics.
He hurled his spear in a precise throw at Kinro, forcing the dragon to twist mid-air and catch it with a claw, snarling.
Minwoo used the moment to strike, weaving Chrono Veil around himself and Kinro, slowing time and giving them a synchronized advantage.
The battle became a dance of fire, shadow, and steel.
Kael pushed harder, launching himself in a flurry of spear strikes, managing to land a glancing blow on Minwoo's arm.
Kinro roared in defiance, baring sharp teeth as he swooped down, forcing Kael to retreat.
Finally, Minwoo called Kinro back with a whistle.
Breathing heavily but exhilarated, Minwoo faced Kael with a grin.
"Guess it's not just me getting stronger."
Kael laughed, wiping soot from his face.
"Alright. Next round? No dragons."
Minwoo chuckled. "No promises."