The sun rose high over Arcadia, casting golden rays across the vast tournament grounds. The arena walls shimmered with mana-imbued wards, their glow reacting to the influx of early crowds. Today was no ordinary day. Today marked the beginning of the Quarterfinals—where prodigies would either ascend to glory or crumble under pressure.
The nobles arrived first, escorted in rune-etched carriages and gliding beasts of prestige. From one of the entrances, the Starwind family stepped out—Noah Starwind in a deep navy cloak, his wife Emily beside him, graceful and serene. And Lilith Starwind walking at the front.
At the same time, the Smith family approached from the opposite direction.
Emily offered a warm smile. "Mrs. Smith."
Alice nodded, a rare softness in her eyes. "Emily… thank you. For healing my son. I heard how you took care of him. I mean it."
