Battle to Enter Round of 16

Elara sighed contentedly as she remained in Cruzer's embrace, the warmth of his body a stark contrast to the lingering cold of her magic. Her battle had been grueling, pushing her to her limits, but now, in this quiet moment, she felt safe—at ease.

Cruzer gently ran a hand down her back, his touch grounding her. "You really pushed yourself out there," he murmured. "I could feel the intensity from the stands."

She chuckled softly, her breath still slightly ragged. "Orion was no joke. He pushed me just as hard. If I had made even one mistake…"

"But you didn't," Cruzer interrupted, his voice filled with conviction. "You held your ground, adapted, and won. That's what makes you incredible."

Elara looked up at him, a glint of amusement in her tired eyes. "You always know what to say, don't you?"

Cruzer smirked. "I just say what I see. And what I see is someone amazing."