The spectator stands were bustling with noise during the Black Tower of the Forge's annual grand event, the "Black Tower New Star Cup."
A circular, floating spectator platform hovered a hundred meters in the air, where nearly five hundred apprentices whispered and chatted among themselves. Directly below lay a massive simulated ruins battlefield.
The competition grounds of the Black Tower of the Forge were open to the public. Junior apprentices and members of other schools could also come to watch. In the very center of the spectator stands, a massive Magic Light Curtain displayed the scene below.
The best seats in the front row were reserved for several professors from the Alchemy School. Mercer Iron Star was prominently seated among them. He leaned back in his chair, his brass mechanical arm looking quite conspicuous, his face expressionless.
"Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to this year's most thrilling 'Black Tower New Star Cup' finals!"
