The coliseum's arena was shrouded in a cold mist, the aftermath of Agust's last attack. Ice spread in jagged lines across the cracked ground, while the prince knelt, gasping for breath, blood trailing from the corner of his lips.
In front of him, Tony stood tall. His chest heaved, his skin marked by the battle, yet his eyes burned with unyielding determination.
"You're… strong," Agust admitted through gritted teeth. "But this time… you win."
The elf did not reply. There was no arrogance in his gaze, only respect. Moments later, Agust collapsed onto his side, unconscious.
That was when the sound of footsteps echoed.
Emma came running, her purple robe billowing behind her, her violet hair gleaming beneath the coliseum's magical light. At her side walked Ares, his face stern, his eyes sharp as they searched for any sign of Liana or Dana.
Emma knelt beside Tony and raised her staff. A soft glow of green and violet emerged from her palm, wrapping Tony in a warm, soothing mantle.
"You'll recover completely in just a few minutes," she said gently, while Tony closed his eyes and breathed calmly.
"Thank you… Emma."
Ares watched in silence, then turned his gaze toward Agust.
"Is he alright?"
"Just unconscious," Tony answered. "I respected him until the very end."
Emma rose to her feet, and Ares stepped forward, moving to the center of the arena. The silence grew heavy, thick with tension.
"Then… it's just the three of us now."
Emma and Tony took their positions in front of him, ready for the final clash.
"Are you sure about this?" Emma asked with a faint smile.
"More than ever," Ares declared, a spark of blue flaring in his fist. "This battle will decide more than you think."
Tony's eyes ignited as well, the magic of earth vibrating beneath his feet.
"If I lose… I'll speak to my family about Emma," he said with firm resolve.
A faint blush colored Emma's cheeks, but she did not look away from Ares. Both of them knew this fight was far more than just a final.
Ares raised his hand to the sky… and a blue flame danced upon his palm. Small. Steady. Dangerously beautiful.
"Then…
let the final battle begin!"