Rune didn't hesitate. He clenched his fingers tighter around the jade ring and his power surged instantly.
It wasn't just a flicker, or just a threat, but a full, controlled flare of energy that wrapped around his hand like a living storm. The faint green glow of the ring turned unstable, pulsing erratically under the pressure.
Across from him, Carter's expression sharpened instantly.
"Enough," Carter said, his voice carrying a warning edge. "I already told you-I no longer have the book."
Rune didn't respond. Didn't even acknowledge him. His gaze remained locked on Carter, unblinking, unwavering.
And then, he pushed more power into the ring.
The air cracked and a sharp ripple spread outward as the energy intensified. To everyone watching, it looked exactly like what Rune had threatened... destruction.
The ring trembled faintly under the strain.
"Rune-" one of the Magik warriors muttered under his breath.
