As the gruesome three-way battle continued in the arena, the tension in the spectator stands was equally palpable.
Lockwood, the Chancellor of the Dawning of Magic Academy, observed the battlefield with an amused smirk before leaning back in his seat.
Then, in a mocking, condescending tone, he remarked,
"How fascinating. The Pacesetters and the Valen Military Academy have actually decided to work together against us… and yet, even with their combined efforts, they're still struggling. How pathetic."
His words cut through the air like a sharpened blade.
Immediately, both Lysander and Castaneda turned their gazes toward him.
Their expressions darkened.
Cold.
Icy.
But—
They had no words to refute him.
Because—
It was true.
Despite both academies directing their attacks at the Dawning of Magic, the deadlock remained unbroken.