The thunder of cheers surged as Orion stepped into the arena, sunlight streaming down like a divine spotlight.
Across from him, Skylar Blood stood proud, his cloak fluttering and arms folded, his serpent tattoo twitching like it was alive beneath his skin.
The announcer's voice boomed over the arena:
"Round 16: MATCH ONE: ORION vs SKYLAR BLOOD!"
Skylar's crimson gaze scanned Orion from head to toe. "So," he started with a scoff. "Lord Azrael's son. My entire life, I kept hearing your father's name. The strongest being on this planet. The one who is so powerful that despite having two Supreme realm experts in our clan, neither of my masters could even object to his ruling." He took a step forward. "You know my father always wanted to fight your father, but he never got the chance. But I get a chance to fight his son. Unfortunately, you weren't strong enough to earn a seed, though. What happened? Daddy didn't believe in you? Or is it because you truly don't have an Arcana spirit?"
