The air in the combat arena was thick with tension as students lined up, eager to show off their abilities in the one-on-one elimination matches. The crowd around the stage buzzed with excitement, each person waiting for the first battle to kick off. Several teachers, their stern faces set, surrounded the stage, ready to step in at the first sign of danger. The rules were simple: victory was declared when one student was thrown off the stage or surrendered. A match could end at any moment, but the instructors were there to ensure no one got seriously hurt.
William looked into the arena, his heart pounding in his chest. The combat stage was circular, the floor made of smooth stone, and elevated high enough to prevent any accidental falls from the platform. He quickly scanned the students already standing on two of the multiple stages. Liam and Eleanor were up first, and as expected, each dominating their fight.