A new wave emerged—more this time. Twelve total, coming in from the forward corridor and two side crevices that hadn't been there seconds ago.
"Spread is increasing," Astron observed. "They're adapting. Stay tight."
Layla stepped forward again, knees bracing, shield held high. "Ready!"
Jasmine grunted, "More than ready," and surged slightly forward—but just to the edge of her zone.
Irina lifted both hands, and heat flooded the tunnel. Her fire didn't blast forward yet—but hovered in orbit, waiting. "This next burst is mine," she said. "You'll feel the air drop right after."
"Noted," Astron replied, his stance lowering.
Sylvie's mana shimmered again, this time latching onto Irina's flames—not with raw power, but control. The spiraling fire tightened, became denser, as if molded through glass.
"Second pressure point locked," Sylvie announced.
Then the wave hit.
