The arena fell silent the moment the last sigil finished shifting. A wide, circular pattern of bright violet lines spread across the floor, marking the final battlefield. Every spectator leaned forward. Even the guardians—usually calm, detached observers—stopped talking altogether. The air felt tight, like everyone was holding the same breath.
Team Magnus walked out first, stepping evenly across the violet-lit platform. Maxwell rolled his shoulders and swung his sword once to loosen his grip. Sylens settled into a grounded stance, his feet spaced evenly, calm and balanced. Amanda let her whip uncoil from her arm with a soft metallic flick. Lia drew an arrow and placed it lightly against the bowstring, her expression steady. Sophia planted her shield at her side, fingers curling around the handle.
