Elara's steps faltered as she entered the locker room, her legs trembling from the exertion of the intense battle. The roaring crowd outside seemed distant now, the adrenaline that had carried her through the fight dissipating rapidly. She barely managed to reach a nearby bench before her vision blurred, her body finally giving in to the strain.
"Elara!" Cruzer's voice cut through the haze, sharp with alarm. He was by her side in an instant, his arms steadying her before she could collapse completely. Her staff clattered to the floor as she leaned heavily against him, her breathing ragged.
"I'm fine," she whispered, though the paleness of her face and the sweat dripping from her brow told a different story. "Just... tired."
"You're not fine," Cruzer said firmly, his worry evident as he carefully eased her onto the bench. "That fight pushed you way too hard."
