Jae's Dragonfire Blade erupted to life, molten flame burning along the edge as it met the spear with a sharp clash. Sparks jumped, arching toward the stands in miniature fireworks that drew gasps from the crowd.
Each blow reverberated across the ring, ringing against the stones in a rhythm that could have been mistaken for music if one ignored the tension in the air.
The other three on Veylan's team coordinated without hesitation. One lifted his hands, projecting shimmering barriers that pulsed in time with his heartbeat.
Another sent jagged wind projectiles hurtling toward Elise and Tirel, twisting unpredictably to make them difficult to intercept. The third flanked from the side, blades tipped with a faint green sheen that spoke of poison and intent.
