A split-second opening appeared, and Liam moved before he could think. He swung forward with a punch, but Victor sidestepped, grabbing his wrist in a swift counter.
"Got you."
Victor teased.
That single moment of imbalance sent a jolt of frustration through Liam's body. His magic reacted before he could stop it.
A sudden surge of energy crackled through the air.
Asger's voice rang in his ears.
"Liam! Control yourself—"
Too late.
A powerful spell erupted from Liam's palm—a roaring surge of energy barreling straight toward Victor.
Victor's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but his reaction was immediate. With a flick of his wrist, he conjured a barrier just in time.
The force of Liam's attack slammed into it, shaking the very walls of the dungeon.
For a moment, everything was still.
Then—
Crack.
The barrier shattered. The remaining force of Liam's attack sent Victor skidding backward, his boots digging into the ground as he barely managed to hold his footing.
