All across the world, people watched with excitement. On every screen—from the smallest village pubs to royal viewing halls in gleaming skyscrapers—the same scene unfolded.
"Ladies and gentlemen, what an electrifying showdown we have!" the commentator roared. "On the left, the fiery genius Alden von Crestvale! To the right, the radiant sword of light, Ethan Williams! And in the center—who is this silver-haired candidate keeping up with the legends themselves?!"
The crowd went wild.
Across the battle-scarred arena, blades clashed and elements flared. Alex's blade sparkled with lightning, each step charged with electric arcs, as he matched the rhythm of the prodigies step for step.
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Far away, in a dark room lit only by a massive screen, ten figures cloaked in shadow observed the feed with unnerving stillness. The symbol of a broken crown flickered on the wall behind them.
"Who is that silver-haired kid?" a deep voice asked.
