The training chamber dimmed as runes across the walls flared to life, sealing the space in a pale glow. Noel stood at the center, Revenant Fang held low in his grip, shadow mana pulsing faintly at his feet. Across from him, Selene raised her wand, her posture calm and poised, icy mist curling around her.
No words were exchanged.
Selene struck first. "Glacial Thrust!"
A sharp spear of ice tore through the air toward him.
Noel vanished instantly. "Shadow Step!" The icy projectile shattered against stone as he reappeared at her flank, Revenant Fang slashing down with fire coating the blade. "Ignition Surge!"
Selene spun, her wand intercepting the strike as frost burst outward, repelling the flames. Shards of ice cracked against the ground. Her eyes flicked toward him—cool, controlled—but a faint crease at the corner of her brow betrayed surprise.
'He's faster. Stronger. More precise than before…'
Noel didn't let her recover. He thrust his free hand forward. "Voltage Needle!"
