Chapter 25

Dominic lunged first, his movements quick and precise as he tested her reaction time with a calculated jab toward her left side. Zoe sidestepped just in time, the tip of his staff grazing her ribs. She countered with a swing aimed at his midsection, but he deflected her strike effortlessly, blocking her with a twist of his wrist.

“Nice reflexes,” he remarked with a smirk, clearly enjoying the challenge.

“Just warming up,” she shot back, her heart racing as she prepared for his next move.

Dominic came at her again, his attacks faster now, forcing Zoe to move quickly to avoid being cornered. His strikes were steady, each one meant to push her back or catch her off balance. Zoe felt herself fall into the rhythm of the fight, instinctively dodging and parrying his strikes, but she could tell Dominic was still holding back - testing her limits without giving away his own.

She wasn’t having it. Taking a deep breath, Zoe decided to turn the tables. She feinted to her right, then spun to her