The arena gleamed beneath the night sky—perfectly smooth stone flooring, reinforced magic barriers winking into place, air crisp and alive. This was no ordinary bout. Tonight's duel held the eyes of the entire academy.
Headmaster Silas Vaunt stepped forward onto a newly conjured dais at center stage. No fanfare, but the hush in the stands felt heavier than any roar.
"Tonight," Vaunt began, voice rich with anticipation, "we gather to witness not just two students, but two paths of power. One, precise and composed. The other, unpredictable and raw."
He paused, scanning the crowd. "Both had remarkable victories. But this—this is the one everyone has whispered about. The duel of destiny, intent versus instinct." His words held quiet authority. "Let this be not merely a contest of strength, but a clash of will."
