The atmosphere inside the coliseum simmered with anticipation, the cheers of the crowd swelling like a tidal wave as the commentator's voice rang out once more.
"And now, without further delay, let us proceed to the next stage of this unforgettable tournament!" the commentator bellowed, his voice infused with excitement. "We once again have a vampire—though this one hails from origins unknown!"
The gate on the right side of the arena rumbled open with a slow, deliberate creak. From the emerging fog stepped a tall, statuesque man who appeared to be in his mid-thirties. His long blonde hair cascaded neatly past his shoulders, framing a sharp, pale face with crimson eyes that glowed faintly under the arena's magical lights.
