The arena had not yet settled, even after the thunderous conclusion of the semi-final battle. The echoes of Aether's decisive victory over Valen still lingered in the air, not as sound, but as a lingering pressure that seemed unwilling to fade. Dust had only just begun to settle, and fragments of cracked stone still marked the battlefield, serving as silent reminders of the intensity that had just unfolded.
Yet despite the end of one battle, the atmosphere remained charged.
The audience did not relax.
The instructors did not lean back in satisfaction.
No one left their seat.
Because deep down, every person present understood one simple, undeniable truth.
One battle still remained.
The final.
The match that would determine the strongest student in Skygate Academy.
It was supposed to be the culmination of everything—the ultimate clash that would decide who stood above all others. However, as the moments passed, something began to feel… off.
