From one of the upper balconies, Isabella leaned forward, her gaze sharp as she scanned the formation of the crowd. "Look at them," she said quietly. "They're not here just for entertainment. They're here to witness maybe history."
Girika smirked faintly, finishing her drink before replying. "Witnessing the rise of something they don't understand. That's how it always begins."
"You sound worried."
"I am," Girika admitted. "Because what happens here doesn't just stay in the academy. Every single faction has eyes here today. The nobles, the demons, the sea clans, the lords. Even the upper planes will feel the tremors if he wins."
"And if he loses?" Isabella asked softly.
Girika's expression turned dark. "Then the myth will shatter… but so will the balance we've been holding."
