Avyn was genuinely surprised deep inside, not expecting Zara to challenge her openly like this. This put her in a situation she didn't like.
It was best for her to decline the challenge because if they truly fought, going all out, they might destroy everything around them. Even though she believed in having an upper hand against Zara, Zara, without a doubt, would give her a tough time.
However, it would hurt her pride if she declined the challenge because it might look like she was afraid of Zara. Especially after Zara revealed her true form like this. As a prideful dragon, she was not willing to be looked down on like this. It was not in their nature to decline a challenge.
"It's unsightly to bully your own people, and I can't stand this. So yeah, I will fight on her behalf if you still want to continue the fight."
Zara grinned ear to ear, but then the sky cleared out, the shadow that covered the ground dispersed, and she returned to her human form.
