The arena was still recovering from the impact of Vaen's performance when Professor Kaelen returned to the center platform.
His tone was solemn but resolute.
"We now have our final three: Eryon Solaris, Alice Dawnmere, and Vaen Solarius."
A respectful murmur passed through the spectators.
"This final phase," Kaelen continued, "will be a round-robin trial. Each of you will face the other in single combat. The one with the most victories shall be declared champion of this year's First-Year Tournament."
He gestured, and once more the glowing orb spun in the air, displaying the first match:
Match One: Alice Dawnmere vs. Vaen Solarius
The crowd hushed. The most anticipated clash was now the first.
Both Alice and Vaen gave a small nod before turning to leave the arena, heading to separate chambers to prepare. No words were exchanged—but the tension between them crackled like a silent storm.
Later that evening, in the dormitory garden, Eryon sat beneath a hanging lantern with Kael and Ryn.
Kael leaned back with a sigh. "I can't believe they're starting with those two."
Ryn crossed his arms. "It's the right call. Better to see if anyone can even scratch Vaen before he walks through the rest."
Eryon stared into the firelight. "Alice won't go down easily. She's disciplined. And she's seen his strength firsthand now."
Kael shrugged. "Still, if he doesn't draw his weapon again, that'll say everything we need to know."
The conversation shifted into silence. Each of them lost in thought—strategies, observations, and possibilities.
When dawn broke the next day, the arena was already alive with tension.