Dawn crept over Celestial Brook City like a slow breath, brushing soft gold across the rooftops and thinning the night's lingering chill. The first rays caught the tiled roofs, the stone walls, and the flags hanging limp from tall wooden poles—little by little waking the city from its restless sleep.
This morning was different. Everyone felt it. Today was the day the Top Five would fight. Today was the day the city would learn who deserved to stand above all others.
By the time the first sunlight touched the Osborn lodging, the small courtyard was already full. Robert stepped out of his room just as Essie arrived from the opposite side, both looking refreshed despite the pressure waiting for them today.
Essie grinned the moment she saw him. "Good morning, brother. You look… bright." Robert nodded lightly. "You too." She did not know about his breakthrough last night. No one did.
