Throughout the tournament, Ilyan's gaze often drifted toward the omega seated beside the High Priests.
Only then did he realize that Raniel, too, held the title of High Priest—at least in name. Despite occupying one of the seats reserved for the Temple's highest authorities, the young omega barely uttered a word. Whenever he did, the others either dismissed his opinions or continued their discussion as though he hadn't spoken at all.
Ilyan couldn't understand why.
Was it because of Raniel's age? Or was there another reason hidden beneath the Temple's polished facade?
"All the best, Archmage!"
The cheers from the crowd pulled him away from his thoughts.
Ilyan glanced toward them and offered a gentle smile, earning even louder applause from the spectators gathered around the arena.
He had already won his first match and now waited for his second opponent to be announced.
The tournament followed a simple system.
