Omar glanced at Julio, his eyes narrowing briefly as though considering whether the man before him was worthy of even that chance. After a long moment, he waved a dismissive hand, lips curling into a sneer. "Fine. Do it quickly. Don't embarrass the Thunder Monarch Hall."
Julio nearly shivered with relief and excitement, turning back toward Max, lightning swirling ever more violently around his arms. He planted his feet in a solid stance, jaw tight, eyes blazing with determination. He was no longer simply battling a stranger; he was fighting for his future, for his dreams of stepping into the inner circle of power.
But all Max did was tilt his head slightly, a cool, dismissive light in his eyes, as if he were staring not at an opponent, but at a child throwing a tantrum.
