The blazing sun cast its golden hue across the arena floor, warming the stone tiles and igniting the tension in the hearts of the gathered crowd. Excitement buzzed in the air.
Then—
The announcer's voice echoed powerfully,
"The first match—Rio Bladecrest versus Ryun of Redstone Village!"
A wave of anticipation swept over the crowd.
From one end of the arena, Rio Bladecrest stepped forward.
His deep red and silver combat uniform bore the flaming sword crest of his family, swaying lightly in the wind.
His eyes were calm, confident, but serious. He held his sword firmly, his footsteps light yet steady—like someone who had walked countless times into battle.
From the other side, his opponent emerged—Ryun, a simple-looking but firm young man, lean and sunburnt. His uniform was clearly worn out, and his sword had visible marks on its blade.
