Kael watched the last battles, his expression serene, but his eyes sharp as blades. The competition so far had been dull—mediocre students facing each other, some with raw talent but no refinement. Nothing truly caught his attention, except for Amelia Valroth. But then, something changed.
The hall fell silent as firm footsteps echoed through the space. A woman with an overwhelming presence stepped into the arena, wearing a black robe with golden details, the imperial emblem embroidered on her chest. Her emerald-green hair swallowed the light around her, and her icy-green eyes swept over the students as if evaluating each of their souls.
Kael frowned for a moment. He had seen this woman before.
"Ladies and gentlemen," her voice was like restrained thunder—firm and full of authority. "My name is Hella Valroth. For those who don't know me yet, I am the Emperor's Advisor."
