However, it was clear after a few more exchanges that Jay had the edge. His flames were gradually burning hotter, fiercer—his control of the Flame Concept deepening as he fought.
Each swing of his sword grew more precise, more forceful, while Gillian's movements began to slow, ever so slightly, weighed down by exhaustion. Then came the turning point.
As Gillian charged in with both blades ready to slice diagonally across Jay's sides, Jay suddenly stomped down, unleashing a circular burst of flame that sent Gillian off balance. In that instant, Jay surged forward, roaring, and brought his broadsword down with a flaming arc.
Boom!
Gillian crossed both his swords to block, but the overwhelming force sent him crashing to the ground, his weapons flying from his hands. Dust clouded the stage as silence overtook the arena. When it cleared, Jay stood panting, flames still licking the edges of his sword, while Gillian lay sprawled, unable to rise.
