Despite Aurelia's cold tone, Malakai saw the faint shock behind her eyes.
He understood instantly. The battle wasn't supposed to last this long.
One node versus four. The gap should've been insurmountable.
So why was he still standing?
Still, Aurelia was only shocked, not merciful. She had no intention of letting him go.
"Ninth Vein!"
Renlo's voice rang out. Malakai turned, shooting the boy a hard glare that froze him in place.
Renlo gripped his spear tightly, unable to speak.
From a safe distance, the Seventh and Tenth Veins, Maximus and Octavia, still watched on.
Maximus wore a calm, surprised expression. While Octavia's eyes had lit up like twin suns. She was clearly enjoying herself.
Malakai rose. Despite the tremble in his limbs, he stood tall.
His breath was labored, sweat beading across his skin. He had pushed himself and his abilities to their limits.
He could feel his vita draining rapidly, he was using far more than his body could passively absorb.
