The sky above the academy pulsed with shades of deep amethyst and bruised lilac, painted in colors that whispered of Aether storms long faded. Beneath that purple canopy, the coliseum stirred with life.
A broad circular field of pale crystal stretched at the center—flawless, gleaming, and cold. Intricate lines etched into its surface pulsed faintly with Aether, reacting to the tension that always preceded a duel. The platform was surrounded by sleek, soft seats arranged in high tiers, each one cushioned and enchanted for comfort, embedded in the crystal walls with impossible grace.
Nearly the entire academy had gathered.
They lounged in floating rows of gold and silver, gossiping behind hands, pointing down at the arena, making silent bets with gleaming coin slips that represented the academy credits. Some laughed. Others whispered. Everyone watched.
From one end of the arena, a boy stood motionless beneath the purple sky.
