Emperor's Reckoning

In the midst of the fierce confrontation, Kesya stood as a formidable force, handling all of the elders by herself. Her smug expression told a story of her confidence and superiority in this battle.

The elders, each with tough, serpent-like skin that had instilled fear in others, now found themselves severely outclassed. Despite their formidable appearance, Kesya's blows landed with precision and devastating impact, their tough skin offering them no advantage against her skills.

Kesya's movements were a mesmerizing dance of grace and power, a display of martial prowess that left the elders in disbelief. Their once-confident expressions turned to astonishment as they struggled to keep up with her blinding speed and unmatched technique.

Kesya shook her head, "This is greatly disappointing. Is this all of the clan that you have, or do you have yet an older being that acts as your shadow guardian?"

The surviving elders frowned as they struggled against Kesya's overwhelming might, a clear indication that even at their level, they were finding it challenging to contend with her. The thought of the younger warriors behind them facing a similar fate left them with a growing sense of dread.

Then, to their surprise, the patriarch Ardan returned, seemingly unscathed, with his hands casually tucked behind his back. The sight of their leader's return sparked a sense of relief and curiosity among the elders.

Kesya couldn't hide her surprise at Ardan's resilience despite her powerful kick, and she gave him a single, respectful clap. "Impressive, you came back unscathed. Well done."

Ardan, in the midst of the confrontation, began to describe the specialties of the dark elves, particularly those of Kesya.

"A dark elf, great strength and incredible agility to boot. Feared and respected, unlike the usual elf, their limbs are their weapons."

Kesya, though surrounded by adversaries, responded with a hint of sarcasm. "A lecture, I see."

Ardan, undeterred by her response, continued to speak, delving into Kesya's unique heritage. "However, in your normal state, your hair was half blonde and half black. You're the breed of an elf and a dark elf."

Kesya revealed her tiny claws, acknowledging her mixed lineage. "I am."

Ardan's expression turned more serious as he questioned, "But why? Why protect him? You're stronger than him!"

The air was filled with tension and questions as Kesya's motives and allegiances were brought into the spotlight.

As Kesya closed her eyes, she was transported back to a time when Lyon was not just a master but a friend, a companion in her childhood adventures. The images of a younger Lyon, a fearless and spirited youth, played out in her mind. She remembered the countless times they had laughed together, shared secrets under the moonlight, and faced challenges as a team.

A fond smile tugged at the corner of her lips as these cherished memories flooded her senses. The warmth of their camaraderie, and the echoes of their shared laughter, all danced before her closed eyes, filling her heart with an unspoken understanding.

When Kesya finally met Ardan's intense gaze, her eyes sparkled with the weight of her unwavering loyalty. With a knowing glint, she spoke softly but firmly, each word a testament to the depth of her commitment. "Because he is my master."

Ardan and the remaining elders had their eyes widened, taken aback by Kesya's revelation and found themselves grappling with the notion of how someone seemingly weaker could be her master. The revelation had sparked a profound sense of curiosity and intrigue, leaving them with lingering questions and uncertainty.

Ardan, after swallowing the fact that Kesya's loyalty to Lyon ran deep, made a resolute decision. "Very well..."

He turned to the remaining elders and issued a directive, his tone firm and unwavering. "You all will aid Drako. I will face her alone."

Kesya raised her brows and was evidently surprised by the brash decision that Ardan made.

One of the elders couldn't help but voice his defiance, suggesting that they should stand together to face the formidable dark elf. "But, patriarch..."

But Ardan's determination was unwavering. "No. I will face her alone."

His resolute stance made it clear that his decision was final, and the elders, though reluctant, began to comply with his command, their roles in the unfolding battle shifting in response to the changing dynamics of the confrontation.

Cecile, with a keen eye and a watchful presence, observed the scene unfolding above her. As she watched Ardan's resolute decision to face Kesya alone, a subtle caution hid beneath her discerning gaze. The crease in her brows conveyed her unease, and she remained vigilant, prepared to respond to whatever challenges lay ahead in this pivotal moment. 

Drako's smirk grew as he anticipated yet another source of support to tip the scales further in his favor. Selena, occupied by the five elites, and Karina, dealing with the others, left the final line of defense in the capable hands of Cecile.

Cecile couldn't resist a teasing comment as she addressed Selena. "Selena, do you need help?"

Selena, with her back straight, suddenly paused and scowled at Cecile. "Meddlesome."

As their exchange continued, one of the elites saw an opportunity from a blind spot and attempted to punch Selena's face. However, their fist was abruptly blocked by an invisible object. "W-What?!"

Selena leered over at the bewildered elite before a translucent sword materialized above her head.

"S-Sword Hymn?!" Drako exclaimed in horror. It was the true testament of peak sword mastery.

The sword plunged down to the widened eye of the elite, piercing its head.

The elders and Ardan stood stupefied, their expressions a mixture of astonishment and disbelief as they witnessed the incredible display of Selena's power. The manifestation of the Sword Hymn had left them in a state of shock, as they struggled to come to terms with the unexpected turn of events on the battlefield.

Kesya, always quick to seize an opportunity, couldn't resist the temptation and unleashed a powerful kick on Ardan once more.

"Guh?!" The impact of her kick sent him hurtling to the ground, leaving him momentarily defenseless.

"Sorry, you were wide open." Her words, laced with a touch of playful sarcasm, marked yet another turn in the ongoing battle.

However, Lyon's attention was elsewhere. His gaze was directed towards the forest, where he sought to catch any signs of Liu, the missing piece of the puzzle.