The Knight of Steel
Walton's voice sliced through the silence like a sharpened blade.
"Prepare yourself, Prince Victor."
The first runic circle ignited.
Golden sigils bloomed across the arena stone, crawling outward in sharp, mechanical patterns that vibrated with power.
"The First Knight Test begins… now."
Victor inhaled slowly through his teeth.
And nodded.
Walton's hand rose.
His voice thundered.
"FIRST TRIAL — THE KNIGHT OF STEEL!"
The air pressure shifted.
The arena answered.
"Theme: Raw Strength. Endurance. Bearing weight without breaking."
Victor's fingers flexed once at his side.
He gave a silent nod.
"If you would step aside, my prince," Walton said, gesturing calmly.
Victor moved without hesitation.
To the left.
Walton brought his hands together.
One clap.
Two.
The sound cracked through the air like thunder.
The arena shuddered.
