Part-221

  But even with **Sloth Vision**, Goni’s movements were fast—blindingly so. James barely had time to process his first strike. Goni lunged, his wooden sword a blur as it came down toward James’s shoulder. Instinctively, James raised his bde to block. The wooden swords cshed with a sharp *thwack*, the force of the blow reverberating up James's arm.

  Goni didn’t let up. He was relentless, attag with precise, calcuted strikes. Each ssh and thrust was delivered with expert timing, leaving James no room to terattack. He was forced onto the defensive, his sword stantly moving to block Goni's rapid assaults.

  *He's fast*, James thought, his mind rag to keep up. In **Sloth Vision**, he could see the attacks ing, but his body struggled to respond in time. Every time he tried to ter, Goni was already pulling back, anticipating his move.

  As the fight progressed, it became clear that Goni was no ordinary student. His footwork was impeccable, and his attacks were methodical, as though he’d been practig for years. In trast, James felt clumsy and out of sync, relying more on raw instinct than teique.

  For what felt like ay, they traded blows. Go pushing, pressing his advantage, but James mao block every attack. His muscles ached from the effort, his arms growing heavier with each swing. Sweat dripped down his face, his breathing being more bored with every passing sed.

  *e on, there has to be an opening*, James thought, searg fap in Goni’s defense. But Goni was fwless, his form disciplined and tight. James could see the admiration in Goni’s eyes, even through the haze of battle. Despite Goni’s clear advantage, he was impressed by how James mao block each attaever allowing a hit.

  Minutes passed, aher side had nded a decisive blow. James's **Sloth Vision** was wearing on him, draining his mental stamina with each passing sed. His muscles were screaming for rest, and his reflexes were slowing. Oher hand, Goni, though still standing strong, was beginning to tire as well. His attacks came a little slower, his breathing med.

  Finally, Carlos called the match to a halt. "Enough," he said, stepping forward. Both James and Goni lowered their ons, breathing heavily. James's entire body ached from the iy of the fight. He could barely keep himself from colpsing, his muscles screaming in protest. Goni, while still posed, looked worn out too.

  Carlos observed them both, his expression unreadable. After a long pause, he turo James. "Not bad," he said, surprising James. "You’ve got no formal training, but you blocked every siack."

  James, still panting, nodded, unsure how to respond. He was exhausted, barely able to stand, but there was a small flicker of pride in his chest. He had held his ground.

  Carlos crossed his arms, studying James with newfound i. "Why do you want to learn the sword?" he asked, his voice calm but probing.

  James didn’t hesitate. "Self-defense," he replied.