Meanwhile, Lucian closed his eyes briefly.
He inhaled slowly.
The lightning crackling along his arm receded, stabilizing under firm willpower.
When he opened his eyes again, his gaze was steady.
"You won," He said, voice firm despite the tremor in his muscles. "But do not mistake this for superiority in swordsmanship. I will return."
Zion gave a simple nod before stepping back and turning toward Kiara.
Lucian retrieved his fallen sword this time and walked toward the carriage. Once inside, he leaned back heavily, clutching her forehead for a moment as he forced his breathing to slow.
He lifted his right hand.
Controlled sparks danced between his fingers.
A small, satisfied smile curved at his lips.
"It has been a long time," He murmured quietly, "since someone forced my lightning to surface on its own."
His eyes sharpened.
"Perhaps he is the catalyst."
Outside, Stephen handed Kiara the pouch containing two hundred gold coins.
