"No holding back?"
Marcus asked as he cracked his knuckles, the sound sharp in the hushed courtyard. His smile widened, sharp and effortless. Around him, reactions rippled like heat distortion: some students laughed at his cocky tone, others rolled their eyes, visibly irritated. A few, though—those watching more closely—seemed intrigued, even impressed.
Laurent slightly raised his head, posture still relaxed, the barrier in front of him shimmering with steady, magical force.
"Of course. The more you use your full power, the more accurate the assessment will be," Laurent replied, his voice smooth, unhurried, but not without edge.
Marcus laughed, shaking his hands loosely at his sides as if warming up before a performance. His bones popped softly.
"Then I suggest creating a bigger barrier," he said arrogantly, grinning as glowing runes began to flare up along his palm, spiraling outward in sharp, deliberate curves.
