The arena began to change. The ground split, creating raised areas and deep depressions, while stone pillars and lakes of magma emerged. It was a chaotic battlefield, designed to punish any mistake.
On the other side of the arena, figures began to emerge from red portals. They were elite fighters, chosen to test the competitors. Each of them was a combat specialist, with unique skills that guaranteed a prolonged and deadly fight.
The sun shone brightly over the arena as the audience roared with excitement. The names announced by the master of ceremonies reverberated like thunder:
Alrik walked to the center of one of the rings with his confident posture. His armor gleamed in the light, and his flaming sword seemed to pulse like a burning heart. On the other side, Darya approached calmly, her eyes fixed on Alrik. She wore a dark blue robe adorned with aquatic symbols, and an aura of serenity surrounded her movements.