The referee's call for the next representative from Gloria Academy hung in the air only briefly before a new figure stepped forward from their ranks.
It was none other than Adrian.
A 2nd-year, the same as Gray.
The moment his name and face registered across the projection screens, a fresh wave of recognition and commentary swept through the stands.
"That's Adrian!"
"Lyra's brother… he's still in?"
"He's one of Gloria's strongest 2nd-years if not the strongest. He's an elemental swordsman; he practically uses the sword like a focus for multi-element casting."
Adrian walked onto the elevated platform slowly.
His usual sharp presence was still there, but something about his posture carried a heavier, more restrained weight than in earlier stages of the Exchange.
He stopped opposite Gray and raised his sword, the blade already faintly shimmering with the layered glow of multiple elemental affinities.
The crowd instantly leaned in with renewed interest.
