A sudden tremor shook the clearing. Flames spiraled from the ground, forming into a fire elemental—its shape fluid, unpredictable, and crackling with raw energy. The Fénix shrieked in recognition, flapping in tight formations around Lira for protection.
"Stay calm," she whispered, focusing her own fire affinity. Her energy intertwined with Maelin's and Patricia's, creating a circle of warmth and control. Serelyth rose above them, wings spreading wide as scales shimmered with protective heat. Flames licked at the ground, but the trio's combined power pushed the elemental back without harming it.
The fire elemental paused, as if testing their intentions, then slowly dissipated, leaving a smoldering mist behind. The Fénix chirped approval, settling again on branches and rocks, their golden light dancing across the clearing.
Maelin let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "That was… intense. But together, we can handle it."
