The sun was bright in the clear blue sky, its warmth spilling over the wide arena. A light breeze carried the sound of footsteps, laughter, and chatter as people filled the stone stands.
Colorful banners hung high above, fluttering proudly in the wind—red for Runbound Academy, blue for Eitherveil Enclave, green for Aegis Academy, and black for Blackthorn. Each banner bore its crest, easy to spot from anywhere in the venue.
Merchants called out from the aisles, selling food, drinks, and small flags for cheering. Children ran between the rows, waving their academy colors.
The air was thick with excitement. Old friends greeted each other, rivals exchanged tense stares, and strangers debated over who would win. The final round of the tournament was about to begin, and no one wanted to miss a single moment.
The important figures from every nation had gathered except for, naturally, the Rulers who never actually joined the event.
