The first light of dawn was just about to hit the Holy Grail dimension.
But before that, the selected champions of Dragonhold had gathered in their hall and were battle ready for the last day of the first stage.
Oberon stood before them. "This is it. Stage One ends today. Win, and we move forward. Lose, and everything we've fought for means nothing."
He paused, then added, "Stay together. All thirty-six of you will move as one unit. No spreading out. No individual engagements unless absolutely necessary."
The champions nodded.
On the Xathia side of the fortress, Syra had also been selected today to be among the champions, and though she said nothing, the other Xathian mages seemed relieved to have her with them.
In Elandria's section Queen Arnarra herself was also dressed for today's match in combat robes. Her long light-green hair was tied back, and her pointed ears were adorned with simple silver rings. She carried a staff carved, and a sword was strapped to her side.
