The crisp air in the courtyard was suddenly split by the sound of rushing feet. Without any more warning, Emma lunged, her fist wreathed in a controlled aura of fire, aiming a powerful jab straight for Julian's torso.
Julian brought his forearm up to block, but the impact was far stronger than he anticipated. A sharp thwack echoed, and he was forced back two steps, his boots scraping against the gravel. A flicker of surprise crossed his impassive face.
Emma bounced back, a triumphant grin spreading from ear to ear. "So? How's that? I've improved, right? My power control is way better!"
Julian flexed his wrist, a slight, approving smirk touching his lips. "Not bad. The power is more concentrated. Less wasteful."
But before Emma could preen further, Julian vanished. He didn't run; he simply closed the distance in the blink of an eye, his movement a blur. He feinted a low sweep, and Emma, predictably, dropped her guard to block it.
It was a trap.
