Chapter 203: Start of the fight

The arena itself was massive, a circular space with a dirt floor and high walls, designed to keep the combatants in and the spectators out. In the center of the arena stood the Council of Ten, their imposing figures a stark contrast to the chaos around them.

They were dressed in their formal robes, their expressions serious as they watched me approach.

At the head of the group stood Zaya, her presence commanding as always. She caught my eye as I approached, giving me a small nod of acknowledgment. I could feel the weight of her gaze, the unspoken expectations hanging in the air between us.

Next to her stood the council member I had chosen to challenge a tall, lean woman with sharp features and cold eyes. She looked at me with a mixture of disdain and curiosity, as if she couldn't quite believe I had the audacity to challenge her.