Three days later, the Great Arena of the High Academy was packed to absolute brim. Tens of thousands of spectating noblemen, grand elders, and powerful mages cheered, their voices shaking the massive enchanted pillars that held up the colosseum. Banners of deep crimson and gold flapped in the dry mountain wind, signaling the dominance of the Sun-Phoenix Faction.High upon the central balcony, the High Elders sat in a row of heavy velvet thrones, watching the final rounds of the tournament conclude.Down in the blood-stained ring, Ares stood with his head held high, a broad, arrogant grin plastered across his face. Sweat glistened on his broad shoulders, but he barely looked winded. At his feet lay the battered, unconscious body of the Academy’s top champion.Beside Ares stood Molly.She wore a gown of fine silk, her cheeks flushed with pride as she soaked in the roaring adulation of the crowd. A shimmering golden aura radiated from her body, pulsating in perfect harmony with Ares’s roa
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