The cheers of the Imperial Arcane Arena thundered as Ethan and Dragan stepped onto the
floating marble platform in the center of the colossal coliseum. Magical barriers shimmered
around them, humming with power. Above, ethereal sigils hovered, casting shifting lights onto the
combatants.
Dragan rolled his shoulders and cracked his neck, flames flickering along his massive biceps.
"Hope you're ready, twig. You're about to see how real men fight."
Ethan didn't say a word. His eyes remained cool and unreadable, arms loose at his sides.
The crowd buzzed with anticipation. In the Dark Tower's viewing section, Kaeron leaned forward,
his mouth tightening into a grim line. Lysena hovered close beside him, eyes wide with worry.
"Why's Ethan just… standing there?" Lysena hissed. "He hasn't even drawn his sword yet!"
Velexaria's eyes narrowed, a faint line creasing her brow. "Something's wrong."
