The assessments continued through the morning with each pair fighting while Reylan observed and identified specific areas needing improvement. When William's turn came, he was paired against Marcus Reid, the third-ranked Arcturus student.
Marcus was a fourth-year with earth and lightning affinities, built solid and compact. He fought with a defensive style that used earth reinforcement to absorb attacks while looking for openings to counter with lightning-enhanced strikes.
"Begin."
William drew his sword and immediately channeled fire essence into the blade, flames flickering along the edge as he closed the distance. He opened with a horizontal slash aimed at Marcus's midsection, testing his defense.
Marcus brought his sword up and blocked, his blade was reinforced with earth essence that created a visible layer of stone-like hardness across the metal. The impact sent sparks flying but Marcus's defense held firm, absorbing the fire-enhanced strike without taking damage.
