The crowd roared as the announcer's voice boomed across the arena.
"Next match, Noel Thorne of the Imperial Academy of Valor… versus Anastasia de Ravienne of Luceria Grand Academy!"
Cheers erupted from the Valor side, Charlotte's voice ringing the loudest. "Go, Noel!!! KILL HER!!" Elyra and Elena joined in with quieter encouragement, their voices calm but certain.
Anastasia stood at the far end, wand in hand. Her eyes locked on Noel as a faint smirk curved her lips. "Did you tell them?"
Noel frowned. "Tell them what?"
"That you cheated on them with the short-haired blue girl," she said, her tone sharp but casual, as if it were a known fact.
Noel's brows drew together. "It's not what you think. She's just a friend. I'd never do something like that."
"Mm." Anastasia tilted her head slightly. "We'll see."
They both raised their weapons — Noel gripping the black blade of Revenant Fang, Anastasia lifting her wand with practiced precision.
The signal horn blared.