The arena was alive with energy as the students gathered around, the forest looming in the distance. Aiden stood at the edge of the crowd with his hands clenched into fists, his gaze focused on the announcer standing at the center of the clearing. The air was thick with the scent of pine, damp earth, and a hint of magic as the final preparations for the duel were made.
Aiden's stomach tightened, his heartbeat quickening as he stepped forward with purpose. He was ready. He had to be.