The guardians surged forward, their stone feet striking the practice yard like thunder. Sparks of flame dripped from their weapons, each swing promising bone-crushing force even if conjured by magic.
"Line up!" the instructor barked. "Front and rear guard—shields and ranged!"
Kael and Thalren moved instantly, their dragon-born instincts snapping into place. Kael conjured a shimmering shield of wind along his arm, while Thalren's skin rippled faintly, scales pushing through his forearms as he braced for impact. Serya's hands glowed with a soft emerald light as roots cracked through the stone beneath her, ready to restrain enemies.
Lira fell in just behind them, her mind alive with wind and earth, ready to respond. She glanced to her side, seeing Maelin mirrored her stance, focused and steady.
But Veyran…
He smirked, fire already blazing in his palms. "We don't need all this defense," he scoffed. "I'll take them head-on!"
