The sun loomed high over Aetheris Academy, its golden light cascading through the grand glass ceilings of the Coliseum of Ascendance—a vast arena designed for battle. Towering walls inscribed with celestial runes crackled with barrier magic, ensuring the safety of spectators while allowing combatants to fight without restraint.
The stands were filled with students, their gazes fixated on the combat stage below. Today was not a day for lectures or introductions—today was a test.
A trial of strength.
Lilith and Liz stood among the gathered Elite Students, waiting for their names to be called.
Liz smirked, stretching her arms. "First-day combat trials, huh? They really don't want to waste time."
Lilith remained silent. Her crimson eyes scanned the names displayed on the floating crystal above the arena.
First Match: Seraphiel Zorathian vs. Darius Vaelthorn.
At the announcement, the crowd buzzed with excitement.
Seraphiel stepped forward, his golden hair catching the light. His presence alone commanded attention—a royal, an angel, the youngest son of the Zorathian Emperor. Yet, he did not carry himself with arrogance. Instead, there was an air of composure, a quiet confidence that made him all the more dangerous.
Darius Vaelthorn, his opponent, was no weakling. A towering young man with ashen-gray skin and glowing blue eyes, he bore the features of the Drakhan Clan—a race known for their dragon lineage. He cracked his knuckles, flames flickering between his fingers.
The instructor overseeing the match raised his hand.
"Begin."
Darius moved first, his fist igniting with dragonflame as he surged forward like a meteor.
But Seraphiel did not move.
As Darius's attack neared, Seraphiel merely raised a single hand.
FWOOOOM!
A blinding light erupted from his palm, forming a radiant barrier that absorbed the dragonflame completely. In the next instant, the barrier shattered outward, sending a shockwave that sent Darius skidding across the arena.
The crowd gasped.
Liz whistled. "Damn. That was clean."
Darius coughed, rising to his feet with gritted teeth. He refused to concede. With a roar, his body shifted, scales forming across his arms as he activated his draconic transformation.
But it didn't matter.
Seraphiel extended a single finger.
A spear of pure divine energy formed in the air—so fast, so precise—that before Darius could react, it was already hovering at his throat.
"…I yield."
The instructor nodded. "Winner—Seraphiel Zorathian."
The crowd exploded into cheers.
Lilith, however, remained unfazed. She had already assessed his strength. Strong, yes, but predictable. His control over divine energy was impressive, but he was still just a student.
Liz nudged her. "Looks like he's going to be your competition."
Lilith didn't respond. She had no interest in titles or rivalries.
But then—her name appeared on the crystal.
Next Match: Lilith Nachtmere vs. Orion Kallidus.
The arena fell into silence.
Even Seraphiel turned his gaze toward her.
Liz grinned. "Well then, Lili. Let's see what you've got."
Lilith stepped forward, her crimson eyes burning.
She had no interest in entertaining the crowd.
She would simply end it.