The applause still echoed when the arena sigils dimmed, marking the end of the Magnus cousins' duel. The announcer's voice rose over the noise, steady but unable to hide his astonishment.
"Team Magnus—victorious! Proceed to the next stage."
Below, the cousins stepped back from the dueling circle, breathing hard but standing straight. Their violet aura faded in unison, replaced by quiet composure. Amanda stretched her arm, rolling her shoulder with a small grin. "Not bad for a warm-up."
Maxwell chuckled under his breath. "Don't get cocky. This was just the first round."
Sylens gave a short nod. "We stay together. They'll study our coordination now."
Sophia lifted her shield and slung it across her back. "Then let them. We're not hiding what we are."
Lia said nothing, her eyes fixed on the next arena as new names flashed across the sigil boards. "Watch," she murmured. "We're not the only ones worth noting."
