The mocking laughter of the men failed to discourage Ilya, nor did it earn them so much as a reaction from her.
She held her ground, waiting with quiet patience until their amusement had run its course.
Regath studied her for several moments before finally speaking.
"The little fox has grown up and now speaks for you, eh, Kalish? What next? Are you going to send her to fight me?"
Ilya hummed softly. "I would have loved to fry a bear, but I hardly believe you would be foolish enough to offer yourself up for a death match."
The laughter died instantly.
Regath's eyes narrowed as he regarded the woman before him. The pressure of his magic intensified, turning colder and heavier, weighing upon those who lacked the strength to resist it.
Ilya did not so much as flinch.
She met his gaze without hesitation and spoke calmly.
