The morning sun painted golden arcs across the Academy's sparring coliseum, where a rare inter-class friendly duel was about to unfold. Word had spread like wildfire—Ned Myrkwyn, the silent juggernaut of Class Imperium, was set to face Oberyn Marazai, heir of House Marazai and prodigy of the rival elite class.
The arena was packed, with students from both classes present. Among the crowd stood Serenil, arms crossed and calm as ever, observing with keen interest. Beside him, Peter grinned wide, excited by the sheer level of power about to be unleashed. Robert, ever analytical, had already begun taking notes. Jon, quiet but alert, watched the two boys with a sharp gaze.
When Ned stepped onto the stone-tiled arena, the crowd went respectfully silent. Clad in his dark training gear, his presence was a calm storm—heavy but still. He said nothing, just activated his Soul Gear.
> "Abaddon Divider: Kronoz the Horned Usurper."
A towering, regal demonic avatar emerged behind him, radiating an oppressive aura. Its glowing runes flickered to life as the air grew dense.
Then came Oberyn.
He walked in like he owned the coliseum. With grey fox ears twitching atop his head, a swishing tail, orange predatory eyes, and a smirk that could slice steel, Oberyn radiated crude confidence.
> "I hope you're stronger than you look, Ned," he sneered. "It'd be a waste of my time otherwise."
> "You'll know soon enough," Ned said simply, voice firm.
> "Soul Gear: Spear of Aeonic Ruin – Endbringer Thanatos."
A pulse of temporal energy echoed as a crimson-black spear formed in Oberyn's hand. Time seemed to slow around it, distorting light and sound. He twirled it once, casually aiming the edge at Ned.
The judge raised his hand.
> "Begin!"