The sun had barely begun to rise when Ares and Tony found themselves in one of the Academy's training courtyards. There were no students around yet—only the sound of trees swaying in the wind and the long shadows marking the start of a new day.
Both were training in silence. Ares launched bursts of blue fire with more precision than ever, while Tony shaped pillars of earth with almost meditative focus. Until, during a short break, Tony broke the silence.
—Ares… —he said, his brow slightly furrowed. —I need to talk to you.
Ares turned. From the elf's expression, this wasn't about magic or strategy.
—What is it?
Tony sat down on a rock he had raised from the ground himself.
—I… feel something for Emma. It's not just attraction, it's more than that. It's like something clicked in me the moment I saw her. It's never happened before. But…
He lowered his gaze, ashamed.
—My family. They only allow relationships with other elves—because of tradition, politics, honor. Call it what you want. They wouldn't accept Emma, and if they found out now, they might pull me from the tournament.
Ares listened without interrupting. Then crossed his arms.
—And Liana?
Tony nodded slowly.
—She was the only elf I felt a bit drawn to. And… it was easy to talk to her. She's strong, kind, beautiful. But it's not fair—to her, to me, or to Emma.
Ares remained silent. He felt a strange pressure in his chest at hearing Liana's name mixed into all this. But he also felt respect for Tony's honesty.
Then, with a fiery look in his eyes, he made an unexpected proposal.
—Let's do this. In the three-on-three group battle at the tournament… if I win, you'll tell your parents what you feel for Emma—with all the weight of your convictions. Make them face the truth. But if you win…
Ares took a deep breath.
—If you win, you can pursue things with Liana without me getting in the way.
Tony looked at him, surprised.
—Is this a bet?
—No, —Ares replied seriously. —It's a pact. Between you and me. An agreement of respect. Because neither of us wants to play with the feelings of the people we care about.
Tony watched him in silence for a few seconds, then stood and held out his hand.
—Deal.
Ares shook it firmly.
And so, under the light of dawn, a new chapter in their story began. One that wouldn't be measured by strength or magic alone… but by the choices that would shape the path of their hearts.