Xiang Yu delivered a punch that sent Meiling sliding several meters backward. He felt a surge of satisfaction at how he was completely overwhelming her in terms of raw physical strength now. Yet, even as this thought formed, his instincts screamed danger. He barely managed to twist his body, evading an incoming attack by mere millimeters.
Meiling appeared before him in a blur of movement, her sword already swinging downward. The blade pressed against him with tremendous force. Though he managed to resist the pressure, his arms trembled with the effort. With a heave, he threw her off, creating momentary distance between them.
She recovered instantly, spinning gracefully like a dancer before executing a perfect sword technique. The edge sliced straight for his neck. Xiang Yu concentrated his dragon essence on the threatened area, scales forming rapidly across his skin. The blade rebounded off the hardened surface, but not before leaving a deep cut.
