The subterranean training chambers echoed with the sharp report of steel clashing against steel. Aria whirled and parried with a graceful ferocity, sweat glistening along her bare arms as she pressed her attack.

"Harder!" Ryker's baritone sliced through the din of ringing blades. "You pull your blows, min árrakin. Face me as you would any opponent bent on your demise!"

With a wordless snarl of effort, Aria redoubled the blistering cadence of her sword forms. Each blow fell heavier, more vicious against the whistling arc of her mate's deflecting blades.

Ryker grinned savagely even as the punishing exchange pushed him back across the scuffed floor. "Yesss..." he hissed in approval....