Chapter 47 - 44: Is This Training Or A Beating?
Ellen stood before the twins, her stance relaxed but exuding the quiet confidence of an apex predator. She raised a hand, signaling for them to begin. Without hesitation, Nova and Solis charged at her, moving in perfect sync.
Time stretched.
Colors drained from the room, leaving only the stark contrast of red and blue—Ellen's world, her perception of time bending to her will. To an observer, it would seem as if nothing had changed, but in Ellen's eyes, every movement slowed to a crawl, each detail becoming painfully clear.
She tilted her head slightly, assessing the approaching twins. They weren't fast enough—not even close. If she wanted to, she could end this before they even realized they had lost. But that wasn't the point of this exercise. She wanted to test them, to see how far they could go when pushed.
Her sharp eyes flicked to their weapons.
Nova wielded twin short swords, sleek and curved like fangs, crafted for speed and precision. They gleamed in the frozen air, their edges honed for quick, decisive strikes. Their design suggested a preference for agility, allowing her to weave in and out of combat like a dancer, her attacks relentless and rapid.
Solis, in contrast, carried a large battle axe with a weighted end that hinted at devastating power. It was a weapon meant for overwhelming force, for cutting down foes with sheer brute strength. Yet, Ellen noted the slight modifications to the handle, allowing for more flexible control—Solis wasn't just relying on raw power; she had some technique to balance it out.
Their strengths and weaknesses were as clear as day.
Ellen's mind flashed back to their earlier conversation.
The twins exchanged a glance before Nova stepped forward, her silver-blue eyes gleaming with an almost competitive edge. "I'm Nova," she said with confidence. "I specialize in speed and precision. I'm good at quick strikes and handling delicate tasks, but I still struggle with endurance."
The other twin, slightly more reserved, followed up. "I'm Solis. I have more strength than my sister, and I can handle heavier tasks. My endurance is better, but I lack the same finesse she has." Her tone was measured, her words carefully chosen, yet Ellen could sense the same determination as her sister.