With one sharp, crimson stare from Elias, and release of a burst of his mental strength, the onlookers looked away. The fox lord only warned once, and then he attacked.
Meanwhile, Benita's face twisted in rage. She lunged again, but she was weak and shivering. Her claws missed, slowed by venom and blurred vision. Sienna slammed the pan into her side with a resounding clang.
The crowd roared.
Sienna leaned close, whispering slowly so only Benita could hear. "You lost before I even stepped into the arena. Not because I am stronger, but because I fight without shame. You care about appearances. I care about winning."
Benita staggering, clutching her ribs.
Sienna sprayed another burst of pepper, then swung the pan upward. knocking Benita flat onto the sand.
Silence fell. The council ladies stared in disbelief. Elias's tails twitched, betraying amusement.
