As the announcement echoed, a second stone disc detached from the central ring—this one covered in lush green moss, twisted roots crawling along its edges. Circle Five, known as the Verdant Hollow, was a mimicry of nature: raised stones, thick vines, and waist-high underbrush that obscured vision.
Rashira stood on the platform, pale but resolute. Her green eyes glinted, and behind her fluttered five beasts, partially manifested—among them, her Riverwake Serpent, swirling in spectral blue.
Aria cracked her knuckles beside her. Her Ironfang Panther prowled ahead, tail twitching. Her other two beasts—still unnamed—rumbled with anticipation.
Across from them appeared their opponents—Mira and Dain of House Velmora, a prestigious noble house known for precision and control. Mira was a beast tamer with two floating glass owls around her, while Dain was a whip-wielding tactician who commanded a Wraith Lizard, a creature of stealth and venom.
> "Begin."
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❖ Scene: The Opening Clash
