The Fallen Fantasy: The First Arc

Chapter 44: Awakened - Jaes vs. Inara.

Inara: Before we continue, I need you to prove to me that it's worth it for me to fulfill this wish.

Jaes: Prove myself?

One of Inara's love maidens entered the throne room, carrying a beautifully crafted sword case adorned with intricate designs. The case, a vibrant shade of pink, gleamed under the soft light, capturing the essence of elegance and strength.

She opened the case, revealing Inara's exquisite pink katana, its blue handle beautifully complementing her master, Selene, the Celestial of the Moon. The blade bore two distinct symbols: a heart and a crescent moon, each intricately etched to reflect the harmony of love and celestial grace.

Inara: What do you say, Jaes?

Jaes stood up, his eyes radiating determination as Azael gasped, anticipating what Jaes was about to say in response to Inara's request.

Jaes: Your challenge, I accept, I am going to prove myself.

Inara: Good, I'm glad you have accepted.

Azael: [In his head with excitement] So cool, Jaes!

Eiravyn: [In her head] First Azael, now Jaes? Oh no.

Abigael: Let the fight begin. [Scoffs]

Time passed, and Jaes and Inara stood poised in the arena, preparing for their upcoming battle. Inara had changed into her fighting attire: a sleek black skirt paired with black boots that featured green socks, and a black open-top shirt adorned with Aphrodite's crest. A short pink cape fluttered behind her as she moved, adding a touch of elegance to her fierce demeanor. Her hair was tied back in a ponytail, and crescent moon-shaped earrings dangled from her ears, catching the light. With her sword resting confidently on her hip, she positioned her hands, ready to draw at a moment's notice. Watching from the sidelines were Azael, Eiravyn, Vidar, Iris, and Abigael, all eager to witness this epic showdown.

Inara: [To herself] Game on.

Jaes and Inara faced each other, the tension building as their explosive energy crackled in the air. In an instant, both launched forward with blinding speed, meeting in the center of the arena. A flash of sparks burst as their swords clashed. For a moment, time seemed to slow as they passed each other, ending up back to back, six feet apart.

Inara calmly slid her sword back into its scabbard. Suddenly, a deep wound appeared across Jaes' belly. He gasped, coughing up blood, before collapsing onto his knees. Azael's eyes widened in shock, his voice breaking through the silence, "No way, Jaes!" Even he, with his keen perception, hadn't seen Inara's sword move.

Eiravyn and Iris exchanged glances, equally stunned by the speed and precision of the strike, but Abigael, standing quietly, smiled knowingly. She was fully aware of Inara's unmatched skill.

Inara turned, her voice playful yet mocking. "Aww, are you done already?" Her words lingered in the air, a teasing challenge.

Jaes slowly pushed himself up, wiping the blood from his mouth. His eyes suddenly glowed crimson red, and before anyone could react, his wound healed itself in mere seconds. Inara's gaze flickered, recognizing the dangerous power in those eyes. Inside her mind, she thought, "The eyes of Lucifer... there they are, alright." The real fight was just beginning.

With a surge of energy, Jaes and Inara charged at each other once more, moving at incredible speed. Their swords clashed in a series of blinding strikes, the sound of metal ringing in the air. In a flash, they ended up back to back again, six feet apart, their movements almost too fast to follow.

Inara stood with a calm smile on her face, her sword once again resting in its scabbard. As she smiled, a thin cut appeared on Jaes' cheek, followed by several more slashes across his upper body. He winced as blood began to seep through his wounds, and with a grunt of pain, he dropped to his right knee, struggling to stay upright.