The air crackled as Lefyr skidded back, boots carving trenches in the stone floor. Lightning rippled off his body in bursts, illuminating the dim chamber with violent flickers. His breathing was heavy, but steady. Sparks danced along his arms, each twitch a reminder of Belo's presence burning through him.
Belo's voice echoed in his mind, calm and deep. "Stay sharp, Lefyr. The swordsman's charging again."
The swordsman came first—again. Fast. Heavy. Direct. Steel sang, dragging demonic energy behind it like a scream. Lefyr side-stepped, barely. A current of wind carried him clear as the blade carved a crater where he'd just stood.
He retaliated with a burst of flame, laced with lightning, that exploded at the swordsman's feet. Not enough to stop him, just slow him.
The mage raised both hands, whispering something foul.
