The Grand Arena hummed with anticipation, its tiered stone seating filled beyond capacity as Éclair's entire complement abandoned routine duties to witness Alex Lionhart's unprecedented challenge. Officers occupied the front rows, their rigid postures betraying professional interest beneath skeptical expressions. Behind them, regular soldiers jostled for better views, wagering among themselves how many duels the young Lionhart would survive before inevitable exhaustion claimed him.
Sunlight filtered through gathering storm clouds, casting dramatic shadows across the arena floor where servants made final preparations—checking the boundary markers, sweeping away debris, ensuring the ceremonial challenge platform remained perfectly centered. The five challenged officers stood in a separate alcove, isolated from the crowd's energy as they mentally prepared for the confrontations ahead.
