Arin strode confidently towards the platform at the center of the grand hall, his posture upright and purposeful. Beside him, a young man with striking blonde hair stepped forward, his every movement radiating a poised assurance. The air was thick with tension, and as they walked onto the platform, an unusual warmth enveloped them both.
It must be the array, Arin thought, focusing mana into his eyes to analyze the faint energy swirling beneath the surface of the platform. A faint, silvery web of protection lay there, pulsing like a living thing.
"Prince Arin," the blonde boy, Kevin, spoke up with a smirk, his tone a blend of respect and challenge. "I've heard tales of you—the Digmun Family's rising star. I always hoped we'd get a chance to spar. Didn't expect it to come this soon."
