Lara charged at Kaden, her sword a blur of flames. He barely dodged in time, drawing his own blade to meet hers. The clash of steel on steel echoed through the forest.
Their duel was intense, sparks flying as they exchanged blows. Kaden was skilled, but Lara's fire-powered strikes pushed him back. He stumbled, and she landed a hit on his shoulder, sending him to one knee.
As he caught his breath, Kaden noticed something odd—the flames on Lara's sword seemed to be responding to his own blade. He recalled Zeno's words: "The elements recognize their own."
With newfound insight, Kaden focused, letting his connection to the earth guide his sword. The ground beneath him trembled, and a surge of energy flowed into his blade. His next strike met Lara's, and their swords locked, flames dancing along the metal.
Lara's eyes widened in surprise. "You're more than just a guardian," she said, backing off. "You're a conduit."
The air grew quiet. Kaden stood, his chest heaving. "What do you mean?"
Lara sheathed her sword, a nod of respect. "Let's talk. The shadows are listening."
Suddenly, the forest went dark. A cold wind swept through, and a voice whispered, "The Serpent's mark... is near."
Kaden's instincts screamed. "What's happening?"
Lara grabbed his arm, pulling him into a run. "We need to move. Now."
What happens next? 😊