The arena buzzed with energy. Despite being buried beneath the mountain, the noise from the crowd echoed clearly across the stone walls.
Noel stood calmly, gripping Revenant Fang with one hand. His gray uniform with red trim was neat, but practical. Across the arena stood his opponent—Tamira, from Luceria Grand Academy, wearing the signature all-purple uniform. She was massive, close to Garron's size, but her stance was relaxed, precise.
Shadows curled around her feet, while thin cracks in the ground revealed signs of earth mana building below.
'Big, but she's not a brawler. Shadow and earth magic, huh?'
The announcer's voice rang out from above.
"Next match: Noel Thorne of the Imperial Academy of Valor versus Tamira Vael of Luceria Grand Academy!"
Cheers followed.
Noel let out a slow breath and tightened his grip on the sword.
"Ignition Surge."
A wave of fire burst from his hand, coating Revenant Fang in flames. The black steel shimmered, heat rising around him.
