ORIGIN

As it turned out, like so many things in his life, even a contest to demonstrate the depths of honed magical talents couldn't result in a simple but satisfying end. Back within the persistent crush of the audience and away from the center of their attention, the iguana had watched the following competitors, hopeful his talent would be recognized. He'd also prepared for potential disappointment, should anyone erase the memory of his showing with one far outstripping the spectacle he'd crafted. Not once, however, had he anticipated the emotional whiplash the proceeding events subjected him to. Full credit for that had to be given to the raving monstrosity that'd closed the performances and seemed intent on veering from friendly competition, catapulting herself straight into wanton violence.

Tectus' acknowledgement and the title of ultimate victor had brought a pleased curve to Fahl's lips. Despite the pain gripping his throat anytime he spoke, it'd appeared worth the effort to endure and express wholehearted intentions to enter combat instead of coming across as aloof in his success. Therefore, upon hearing the judge's closing statement, his jaw had fallen in anticipation of making these desires clear. That agape mouth formed into an o of horror once he processed the release of claws on Oil-weeping stone and the gigantic shape hurtling from it. Scales rippled into alarmed hues of orange and yellow, and stark white bled between the colorful blotches blooming upon his hide.

Coherent thought was impossible amongst the haze of cusses flying through his mind. There was no plan of action to seize upon, only the urge to push back screeching danger. Most of his spells more offensive than not, desperate reaches for a proper defense mainly resulted in his inner flame twisting away from claws, elusive in the face of demands it couldn't fulfill well. Fahl sucked in a deep, shuddering breath, plunged a mental grasp once more into a chest ablaze with panic, and seized it at last.

That tight grip didn't remain for long. The flame seared its captor, and a hiss heralded the release of his magic. As always, weakness would not be tolerated or obeyed; in this very moment, the terrified spellcaster exemplified the quality to a concerning degree.