The arena buzzed with anticipation as Victor stepped into the ring, the cheers of the crowd washing over him like a tide. He took a deep breath, his shadows flickering faintly at his feet. Nakia stood beside him, her crimson eyes glowing with an intensity that sent a ripple of unease through the onlookers.
"We've worked for this, Master," Nakia murmured, her voice calm and steady. "This fight will show them who we truly are."
Victor nodded, gripping his staff tightly. "Let's make it count."
At the opposite end of the arena, his opponent entered. A tall, muscular young woman with fiery red hair strode confidently onto the battlefield. She carried a long chain weapon with a bladed tip that gleamed in the sunlight. Beside her prowled a sleek panther bond, its black fur rippling with power and its yellow eyes locked onto Nakia.
"I'm Rowan," the woman called out, her voice carrying across the arena. "And this is Onyx. Hope you're ready, newbie."
