Natalia moved slowly through the mist until she could make out the fire snake. Without a target, it had started spitting in random directions, no doubt seeking her position. The flames that erupted from the creature's mouth now acted as a beacon. She concentrated on her spell and fired off an ice streak at the summoned beast, striking it dead centre, obliterating it with her magic.

Nezerov Sartellian, not to be outdone, gesticulated again, releasing even more power. A ring of fire appeared around him, expanding outward in a circle, evaporating the mist as it went. Natalia felt the warmth as it passed her position, but it did no damage.

With the mist dissipated, she spotted Athgar and the enemy knight locked in a struggle, but she could tell that Athgar was being overpowered. Calling forth her power once more, she sent a controlled blast their way, taking the Cunar in the arm, failing to penetrate his armour, but causing him to at least release his grip on her companion.

Athgar staggered back as Morvus released his hold on the Therengian. The struggle in the mist had somehow reversed their positions, and now Athgar stood, with his back to the open door through which his enemy had so recently emerged. He glanced back at Natalia, and, noting her fight with Nezerov, he chose to fire off a shot at the other Fire Mage, as he had so far been unable to penetrate the armour of his own adversary. Flames streaked from his fingers, hitting the green-robed mage just under the armpit, the man's robes bursting into fire, and knocking him to the side.

Nezerov turned in fury, unleashing a stream of his own fire, striking Athgar full in the chest. The Therengian felt the burning, smelled his flesh bubbling away as he was forced back through the open doorway behind him.

Morvus moved closer, stabbing out with his sword, pressing his advantage.

Natalia saw the flames drive Athgar back and cried out in alarm. This mage was killing him and must be stopped! Heedless to her own danger, she pointed her hands at her opponent, unleashing all the power she could. This time, she completely opened herself. There was a strange sensation as if water was being channelled through her, pulling her inside out as it rushed across the distance like a giant wave, to strike Nezerov.