Silent strategies

Arthur straightened, his eyes narrowing as two figures stepped into the arena. They wore the dark blue robes of Glaucus soldiers, their hoods pushed back to reveal sharp, disciplined expressions. One, a lean man with silver-streaked hair and quick, restless movements. The other, a broad-shouldered woman with piercing green eyes, exuded a chilling calm.

"They are regulars here." Murphy commented, flipping a coin absently. "Even if this is just a warm-up for them, it'll be a show for us."

Arthur tilted his head slightly. "Just a warm-up?"

The announcer's voice carried over the din of the crowd again. "Introducing, from the East Battalion, Master Rael! And from the Northern Brigade, Master Elara!"

A murmur of awe rippled through the audience as a translucent barrier of shimmering energy sprang to life around the ring, enclosing the combatants in a protective, transluscent dome.