Darius's every nerve burned with a fire he couldn't quench. The energy of the battle surged through him like a storm, his mind working at a pace that far exceeded his body's ability to keep up. Lucien, now undeniably stronger, was a force in and of itself. The Eye of Dominion's power was everywhere. The air vibrated with its weight.
Darius darted to the left, his footwork flawless. He phased, using his ability to become intangible, moving like a shadow. The ground beneath him shimmered, his body half-fading from view. Lucien, however, didn't flinch. He simply watched Darius's movements, his red eye flickering, adjusting.
Before Darius could complete his attack, Lucien moved—a swift flick of his wand, a casual motion like he was swatting a fly. Darius's arcane bolt veered wildly off course, its magic evaporating before it could make contact.
"Did you really think that would be enough?" Lucien's voice was calm, almost bored, as if it was a simple inconvenience.
