Gasps broke out among the onlookers.
From a distance, Mr Halven, who had been watching, stiffened at the turn of events. Without another glance, he quietly slipped away, unwilling to be caught in what was to come.
Kyren, however, remained where he stood.
A faint smile ran on his lips.
"Go ahead."
In the meantime, Noah at the back tensed and moved instinctively, ready to step in—but Eric caught him by the shoulder.
"Don't," he said quietly. "Our captain won't be harmed. We've seen him in the Arena. That man is only inviting trouble upon himself."
Noah hesitated, concern still evident, but he held back, trusting Eric's judgement.
The man with the fireball magic stepped forward, drawing in his breath as flames began to gather once more in his palm.
"You asked for it," he sneered. "You arrogant fo*l!"
The attack came.
