The sparring arena was silent, save for the gentle hum of cicadas in the distance and the sharp clink of your blade meeting his. The air was charged with tension, the faint scent of incense from nearby temples mixing with the sharp tang of sweat and metal.

"You’re holding back," Jing Yuan said, his voice calm but with a faint edge of amusement. His golden eyes gleamed under the dappled sunlight, as though he found the entire situation more entertaining than threatening.

The general’s expression didn’t waver. He stood there, relaxed yet poised, his massive sword balanced effortlessly in one hand. Despite the casual demeanour, you knew better than to underestimate him. Jing Yuan’s reputation wasn’t built on idle boasts.