Honkai Impact: Road To Nagazora

Chapter 27: Lamented

[Flashback: One Year Ago. A week before the Valkyrie Exams]

"Hm? You wanna spar with me?"

"Yes please. I'd really appreciate it."

Within the halls of St. Freya, Alex had been walking about minding his own business until he had received a tap on the shoulder from Mei as she had asked for a quick sparring match as she bowed.

"Um, I don't necessarily mind but care to answer why? This is pretty sudden."

"I wanna make sure my swordsmanship is the best it can be for the exams next week. Unfortunately no one back at the dormitory uses swords and training dummies don't do much for me. I figured that since you also use a sword that you could help me improve somewhat." She said.

"Me help you improve? Uh, I'm flattered but I doubt I could help. You've been at it longer than me so you're probably better and know more."

"That doesn't matter. I know that there must be a few things I'm lacking in. I'm sure you'll be of great help."

Alex knew that he couldn't really decline Mei's offer.

"Alright then let's do it."

"Thank you Alex."

Mei would lead Alex to the training grounds as Alex stood around watching Mei fiddle around with the settings.

"Okay. We'll go for three minutes. Whoever gets pushed out of bounds or is pinned loses."

"Understood."

The two would stand across from one another, withdrawing their respective blades as the countdown begun.

Once it hit zero, the two would dash at one another.

For the next three minutes, the two would go back and forth trading blows as the they would consistently manage to block and parry the others attacks.

They were evenly matched and neither could get the edge.

As the battle went on, it was clear how different the two approached combat.

While Mei aimed for quick and precise strikes, Alex sort of went for a middle ground, striking quick and fast when needed but also knowing when to go for the home run shot and hitting strong and hard.

The three minutes would eventually run out as the two panted a little before putting their weapons away.

"How was that? We were pretty even so I doubt I helped you all that much." Said Alex.

"No that's okay. That was a lot of fun. I really appreciate your help." Confidently said Mei.

"No problem." Said the boy who was about to leave the training grounds before stopping at the door.

"Hey Mei. One last thing." He said.

"What is it?" She asked as Alex turned back to face her with a smile.

"Let's have a rematch one day. I'd rather not let things end on a tie."

[Back to the Present]

The tension was extemely thick in the air as the two stood there, not uttering a single word.

After all that had happened, never could Alex have imagined that this would be the situation he was in.

Here he was having to battle Mei who was now suddenly defecting to the World Serpent.

The boy knew how devastated Kiana would be if Mei left so he had no excuses.