Blade and Barrier

Arthur stood at the edge of the arena, the underground air thick with the scent of damp stone and oil-fed torches. Across from him, his opponent stepped into the light, a woman clad in the distinguished navy and silver of Glaucus' army.

The crowd shifted, whispers rippling through the gathered spectators. A known name, a force of reputation.

The announcer's voice rang out, cutting through the murmurs.

"From the windswept halls of Glaucus' elite, the mistress of earth and storm, mage Valeria Kael!" A cheer rose, eager and expectant. She was a master, if not an expert, of several magic elements, and in these underground pits, her presence alone carried weight.

Arthur rolled his shoulders, stepping forward. His crimson hair caught the flickering torchlight, his dragon eyes sharp as they met hers.

"And facing her, the rising storm of the pit, the albino lizard of Varem, mage White Wing!"