The Celestias Academy Training Grounds had never been this crowded before.
The massive circular arena was overflowing with students.
Every seat had been occupied long before sunrise.
The first years had come to watch one of their own challenge a third-year monster.
The second years wanted to witness the arrogance of the infamous Arthur.
The third years had gathered simply because no one believed the duel would last longer than a few seconds.
Even dozens of professors and academy staff stood around the edges of the stadium, watching with interest.
The entire academy had gathered.
Some students laughed as they discussed how Arthur would be humiliated.
Others argued that someone as crazy as Arthur surely had a hidden trump card.
Several betting circles had even formed around the arena, with Layla's victory being the overwhelming favorite.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement.
Near the very front row sat four familiar faces.
Julia.
Evangeline.
Isabella.
Aaron.
