Alectra's invitation hung in the charged air of the training dome like a gauntlet thrown. "Let's dance, little star."
I took her hand, and the world narrowed to the point of contact.
Her grip was firm, familiar in its strength, yet demanding absolute precision.
No room for the reckless surges I'd relied on in past battles.
This was control at its most unforgiving—a superhuman waltz where one misstep could shatter stone or unravel flesh.
Kent, Rentt, and Solvane watched from the benches, Sasha purring contentedly in Kent's lap.
Their presence added quiet pressure; failure here wouldn't just sting my pride.
I centered myself, drawing on the dual currents within. Death energy stirred in my lower body, cool and pruning, while Life bloomed warmer in my core, ready to mend.
Violet soulflames flickered at the edges of my perception, waiting to manifest as platforms.
Alectra matched me effortlessly, her own crimson mana weaving in subtle counterpoint.
We began.
