The Arena of Embers was full.
Not of cheers—
but of silence.
Every citizen of Emberlight, every warrior, scholar, and priestess knew what was at stake:
Not just the throne,
but what kind of world would follow.
Two flames stood at the center of the arena:
Ryon, reborn, bonded, chosen by will.
Vireya, noble-born, temple-backed, crowned in corrupted light.
Between them: the broken crown.
Above them: the System's invisible eye, calculating every move.
> System Engagement:
FLAMEBLOOD TRIAL – FINAL SEAT INITIATION
Duel Type: Sovereign vs. Challenger
Support Links: Active (4 Pillars)
Wild Disruptions: Detected
System Loyalty Bias: Vireya – 83%
Public Support: Undetermined
Bonded Power Channels: 4/4 Active
Combat Conditions: Lethal Allowed
Vireya raised her hand. From her palm bloomed a black lotus of fire—unnatural, System-modified.
"This kingdom was never meant for you," she said. "You corrupt everything you touch."
