The entire academy buzzed with anticipation.
The Arena of Law—a coliseum reserved only for disputes sanctioned by the highest divine authority—had not seen combat in decades. But now, banners flew. Crowds gathered. Professors, nobles, emissaries from distant factions… all had come for one reason:
To witness the impossible.
Jiwoon vs. Aven.
The Day of the Duel
Kaelya adjusted Jiwoon's collar with a slight glare. "Don't die."
"Wasn't planning to," he replied with a small smirk.
Vera stood nearby, her silver-marked eye glowing faintly.
"If he does anything suspicious, I'll intervene."
Jiwoon looked between the two of them.
"You know… I was expecting encouragement, not a rescue squad."
Kaelya crossed her arms. "You're strong. But he's not like the others. Aven isn't just power—he's conviction."
Jiwoon's smirk vanished. "…Good. So am I."
The Arena of Law
The crowd silenced as Aven entered from the west gate—his coat flowing like a divine banner, golden sigil glowing behind him.
From the east gate, Jiwoon walked calmly, hands in pockets. No fanfare. No armor. Just presence.
"You came empty-handed?" Aven called across the field.
Jiwoon shrugged. "You'll regret that I didn't come armored."
The sky dimmed.
[Divine System Activation – Duel of Names]
Both parties have accepted. Divine interference suppressed. All consequences permanent.
Reason for Challenge: Violation of Sacred Registration & Possession of Anomalous Core.
Condition of Victory: Knockout, Death, or Surrender.
The bell rang.
Aven moved first.
A flash of golden light burst across the arena. His spear formed from thin air—crafted by his Oathbrand—and flew toward Jiwoon like divine judgment itself.
Jiwoon didn't move.
The spear stopped mid-air, inches from his chest.
"Too slow," Jiwoon whispered.
He stepped forward.
And the entire arena shook.