CHAPTER 44
The Viper faces his opponent, drawing out his rapier and matched long dagger.
He didn’t wait, launching into attack, keeping the tip of the crossbow pointed away from him with his dagger. With his rapier, he fought Myran’s dagger. The world receded until it was just the two of them and the beam. Footwork careful, precise. Moves faster than wind, clearer than glass. No mistake possible.
The Viper knows no fear. He has no sister — he only knows of targets and opponents. Opponents that can be killed. Opponents that can be poisoned.
“Are you silent to keep yourself from stuttering, Longinus?” Myran’s voice was like a rusty saw against a nail.
He faltered ever so slightly, made a small mistake.
The crossbow swung to face him. Myran hesitated for a split second, and he slashed
