Power gap

The explosion temporarily blinded half the arena. The energy barriers didn't just crack—they shattered along the top edge, fragments raining down on the hastily evacuated front rows. Raw energy spilled into the upper levels, scorching seats and melting handrails.

"Holy shit!" Kelvin shouted, ducking instinctively though they were well outside the danger zone. "Are they trying to kill each other?!"

Sophie's eyes were wide. "They're just testing each other's limits."

"Those are third-years for you," Cora whispered, awe in her voice. "Different level entirely."

When the light faded and vision returned, both fighters stood on opposite sides of a blackened, smoking divot that split the arena floor. Neither looked particularly winded. Lucas rolled his shoulders. Zahir rotated his neck, joints cracking audibly.

"Not bad," Lucas said, genuine respect in his voice.

In response, Zahir sank into his own shadow and disappeared completely.