Dahlia stepped to the edge of the arena, then paused and turned back toward the God Gym side.
She placed one hand on her hip and smiled brightly.
"Alright," she said loudly, her voice carrying clearly through the arena. "Dear junior brothers and sisters."
A few of the disciples straightened instinctively.
"I'll show you," Dahlia continued, "the strength of the eldest disciple of God Gym."
She lifted her chin slightly.
"So open your eyes," she said. "And watch carefully."
Rynor laughed. "Damn, she's fired up."
Rynar crossed his arms. "About time."
Clara grinned. "Ooo, this is gonna be good."
Seira said nothing, but her eyes followed Dahlia closely.
Garion watched without interrupting.
Dahlia turned back toward the arena and walked forward at an unhurried pace.
Her steps were light, relaxed, like she wasn't about to fight the strongest opponent Solmira had brought.
She stopped a short distance from Sindral.
Then she smiled.
"Long time no see, Sindral."
