[Samael Ashwood's POV]
Eveline was the first to stir, gritting her teeth as she slowly pushed herself up from her kneeling position. Her legs trembled beneath her, but her resolve was unwavering. Despite the fatigue weighing her down, she refused to give up. She clenched her fists, and I saw the faint shimmer of magic still pulsing around her. She had some fight left, and the audience could feel it.
Alex, lying on the ground, groaned as he turned his head toward her. His body was spent, but I could see the fire in his eyes. He wasn't ready to surrender either. Summoning what little strength he had left, he planted his hands on the ground and tried to lift himself. But his arms shook, and he collapsed back, gasping for air.
"Stay down, Alex," Eveline called out between ragged breaths, her voice strained but firm. "You've pushed yourself far enough."
