Long shadows stretched across the hard dirt floor as the Academy's arena glowed in the warm afternoon sun. There were only a few bronze-class students in the stands.
Rin Valarune stood in the middle of the arena, encircled by fifty light mana-powered swords that glowed like bright stars, poised to strike.
Lucian Caulem turned to face her, his gray eyes gleaming with wonder and intense concentration.
Professor Gidon, his rough face red with effort, approached the railing where Professors Avoor, Vaelm, and Isolde stood as heavy footsteps echoes the arena's stands. After catching his breath, "I apologize for the wait." He was perplexed as Avoor and Vaelm gazed at the arena in shock.
Isolde turned to him, her blue hair catching the sunlight, eyes twinkling with fun. "You've arrived just in time for the show, Gidon."
