Imogens tactics were more potent than even she likely realized. Nicoli had no way of knowing exactly how precise his opponent’s movements were. She proved a difficult one to close the gap with. That claymore would find its mark, likely breaking under the pressure of striking Nicoli in the back.

He staggered forward with the strike and decided to turn it into a headlong roll and carry himself out of harm’s way. Unfortunately for Nicoli his opponent had brought another sword forward and rather than find purchase on Nicoli’s hand it struck Nicoli as he rolled, coming down to crash on the back of his neck. While the force wasn’t enough to send his head rolling, it was enough to shatter the spine, killing him instantly.

When the fog cleared it would be obvious that Imogen had come out the victor with Nicoli’s lifeless form laying on the dirt, blood pooling around him.