The tension in the pavilion was thick, but it wasn't the kind you could fight with fire or magic. Elreth felt a familiar itch under her skin, an annoyance at Azalea's calm and knowing smile. Talking in circles was getting them nowhere.
"You know what?" The princess said, suddenly standing up. "Let's play tennis."
Azalea's smile didn't falter. If anything, it widened just a fraction. "A wonderful idea. A little physical activity might clear our heads."
They changed quickly into athletic shorts and tops, both tying their long hair back into practical ponytails—Elreth's a fiery red cascade, Azalea's a sleek blonde tail. The unspoken rule was clear the moment they picked up their rackets: no Laws, no prana needed. This would be a test of pure, raw physical skill and will.
The first serve was a rocket from Eltreth, a statement of her aggressive intent. Azalea met it not with power, but with perfect, graceful precision, returning the ball deep to the corner. And so the match began.
