Ela Voss stepped off the arena stairs and reached the highest gallery, her lavender hair slightly tousled from the fight, cheeks still flushed with exertion and adrenaline. The amethyst glow of her wand had dimmed, but her eyes—bright, shining—found Aiden's group and walked toward them.
As she reached them, Liana launched herself forward like a missile.
"Elaaaa!!"
She collided with Ela in a full-body hug—arms wrapping tight around her waist—cheek smashing against Ela's collarbone.
"That was awesome!" Liana squealed—voice cracking with pure joy. "You froze her wand, caged her like a hamster, then—boom! Ice spear! She went flying! You were so cool, Ela!"
Ela stumbled back half a step from the force—then laughed softly, arms coming up to hug Liana back.
"T-thanks, Liana…"
Liana pulled back just enough to grip Ela's shoulders—eyes sparkling, grin wide enough to show teeth.
"You totally owned her! That crystal cage thing? Chef's kiss! I'm stealing that move next time!
