They chose a wide patch of open grass ringed with stones, often used by students for practice. The air shimmered faintly with suppression wards woven into the ground—a safety measure that dulled the worst of impacts.
The group spread out, forming a loose ring around Merlin.
Nathan cracked his knuckles theatrically. "Rule one: no killing blows."
"Rule two," Liliana cut in, "no Nathan-making-stupid-rules."
Nathan frowned. "…That's unfair."
"Fairness is irrelevant," Dorian muttered, daggers already drawn.
Seraphina, calm as always, brushed her hair back. "Focus. He will not hold back just because we are his friends."
Merlin raised an eyebrow. "…Actually, I was planning to."
Nathan pointed at him, eyes wide. "See? He admits it! Disrespect!"
Ethan groaned. "Just get it over with."
Elara's gaze lingered on Merlin, cool and sharp. "Show us, then."
Merlin exhaled. "…Fine."
