Rachel stepped forward slowly.
The younger fighters stepped aside without being told.
Rachel smiled gently as she looked at the elders standing across from her.
"So," she said softly, "you still wish to continue?"
One Vulkran elder stepped forward, jaw tight.
"We cannot accept this result so easily."
A Shivera elder added coldly, "The younger generation's failure does not represent the whole clan."
Rachel nodded once.
"That is fair."
She lifted her hand slowly.
A warm golden glow began to gather around her palm.
Several elders stiffened.
"What is that?"
Rachel's voice remained calm.
"[Love Energy]."
The light spread gently from her palm and began coating her arms, shoulders, and chest.
She looked at the elders kindly.
"Now let me see how strong you all are."
A Vulkran elder snorted.
"Don't underestimate us!"
He slammed his foot forward and activated [Flame Burst].
Fire surged toward her.
Rachel did not move.
The flames touched the golden glow... and slowed.
