Nara remained quiet, his eyes looking around for an opening to escape. Ryker's gaze lingered on Nara for a moment longer.
"I have heard of your family," Ryker said at last. "They say you carry yourself well."
His fingers adjusted slightly on the grip of his sword.
"Let me test if that is true."
He moved without warning.
The distance between them collapsed instantly as Ryker stepped forward, his blade rising in a clean, direct arc aimed to pierce Nara's chest.
Nara reacted on instinct.
His body shifted sideways, his dagger rising to intercept. Metal struck metal, the impact sharp as he absorbed the force and redirected it away from his center. The strength behind Ryker's strike traveled through his arm, heavier than he had anticipated.
Ryker did not pause.
