She was surprised to learn he was also athletic, but missing such a thing felt silly. Perhaps it was knowing that the measure of a man rarely laid so close to the surface. Samuel was built like a sculptor who took their time with him, all chiseled lines and angles. Themis hadn't known he was an athlete, but it did further raise her estimation of her new colleague.

Ending the magic flowing through her sounded like punishment, but the slight quiver in her arms spoke of the strain the magic was taking. She listened intently, knowing that he wasn't warning her lightly. He had been clear about the dangers ahead, and she took the risks willingly. She would not turn coward now. She would not disappoint. Themis met his gaze, and what he spoke took no words. She understood her role in this and would play it well.

"I understand, and I am ready." Taking strength from his determined expression, she nodded decisively before leaning into the magic and, to the best of her ability, calling the magic back to herself. She was hyperaware of the weight of his magic, the now opposite force in her circle. She could not be distracted, could not falter.

"I won't let you down. I can hold it." Despite the burn in her muscles, she intended to hold her own.

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