The duels continued.
I watched a spearman dismantle a dual-wielder using reach advantage. I watched a gravity mage crush a swordsman into the floor tiles. I watched Mariella struggle against a rogue-type student, barely winning by blinding him with a [Flash] spell and whacking him with her staff in a panic.
It was a display of raw talent. These were the elites of the Empire, the future heroes and generals.
Ariana watched with wide eyes, clutching my sleeve every time someone got hit.
"That looks painful," she whispered as a student took a mace to the ribs.
"It's combat," I whispered back. "Pain is the tuition fee."
Finally, the ring was cleared of the last pair.
Instructor Samantha stepped back into the center. She looked at her clipboard, then looked up. A rare, anticipatory glint appeared in her eyes.
The crowd quieted down. They knew the big names were left.
Samantha cleared her throat.
"Next match."
"Cadet Lucien Ashborne."
I stood up, buttoning my blazer.
"Vs…"
