Marcus and Arnold's weapons clashed in a burst of heat and light.
Clang! Boom!
Sparks scattered through the air as fire and starlight collided, painting the forest in silver-white and crimson.
Marcus grinned fiercely, his violet hair whipping in the hot wind. "Finally… someone worth my time!"
Arnold's expression remained calm, though a faint smile tugged at his lips. "Careful what you wish for. You might regret getting it."
He swung his sword, and a trail of silver light followed the blade. A gleaming arc that sliced through the air toward Marcus.
Marcus spun his spear, intercepting it with a blaze of fire. The two forces collided. Crack! and the shockwave rippled through the clearing, scattering leaves and smoke.
"Ha!" Marcus laughed, pushing forward. "That's more like it! Don't hold back, Arnold!"
