In the stands…
As the fierce battle unfolded on the platform below, in the spectator's section, Azzy sat on the edge of his seat with his eyes fixed on Affea as she stood in the center of the arena, still unmoved despite being targeted by three competitors.
He narrowed his eyes and murmured to himself, "Come to think of it, I never heard about her awakening…"
He turned toward his father, Vesyrn, who sat with his arms folded and his gaze on his two daughters.
"Dad," Azzy asked quietly, "do you know what Affy's Arcana spirit was?"
Before Vesyrn could answer, a cold voice snapped from the side.
"What would he know?" scoffed Izora with her eyes flashing in anger. "He was already gone by then. Busy with his new family."
The words cut deeper than she may have intended. Vesyrn, however, said nothing. His face twitched faintly, but he didn't respond.
Azzy let out a tired sigh. "Mom… please. We've already gone through this."
Izora fell silent, crossing her arms and looking away.
