Vyrath's massive head tilted, his molten gold eyes gleaming with amusement. "Yo, tough lady," the dragon rumbled. "I respect that."
The magic circle formed beneath Lyra's feet, its intricate patterns glowing with a soft, ethereal light. She stood perfectly still, her back straight and her chin raised, refusing to show any sign of weakness. The children watched with wide, anxious eyes as Vyrath's massive claw hovered above her.
"Ready?" Vyrath rumbled, his voice a low vibration that seemed to shake the very ground.
Lyra gave a curt nod. "Do it."
Lyra's breath caught momentarily, but she remained standing, her jaw clenched with determination. Unlike Cedric and Elias, she seemed to weather the energy drain with more resilience. Her hands remained steady at her sides, and while a sheen of sweat appeared on her forehead, she did not waver.
"How are you feeling?" Alfraed asked, watching her carefully.
