The air in the arena hummed with energy as the crowd settled into their seats. The vast space, enclosed by shimmering magical barriers, was alive with anticipation. Lyra stood at one end of the field, gripping her greatsword with practiced ease. Sylvia crouched low beside her, feline eyes glinting with excitement.
"You ready for this?" Sylvia asked, her voice a purr of eagerness as her tail flicked behind her.
Lyra nodded, rolling her shoulders to loosen up. "Always." Her voice was steady, but her mind was racing. This was her first match of the tournament, and the stakes were high.
