Leighton tugged his hair back and tied it in one motion, his voice calm but steady. "I'll draw its attention. Vivi, you focus on Zoe. Get her ready for the strike."
Vivi frowned, her daggers catching the glow of the storm overhead. "Why don't I distract it instead? I'm not great at… convincing people. That sounds more like your job."
Leighton gave her a side glance, the corner of his mouth twitching. "And hand the heavy lifting to someone younger? Not a chance. I won't dump that burden on you."
Vivi let out a long sigh, muttering under her breath. "Ugh… why's it always so hard to argue with old men?" Then, louder, she added, "Fine. But don't you dare get yourself killed."
With that, they moved.
Leighton stepped forward, boots grinding against the cracked earth, his eyes locked on the lightning lion. He crouched low, then launched forward with a burst of speed so sharp it split the air. His skill [Speed] ignited, his body blurring as he surged straight at the beast.
