The Colosseum of the Sky hummed with anticipation, the very air seeming to crackle with the residual energy of Houdini's reality-bending card trick.
As the glowing names of the chosen combatants faded from view, a hush fell over the assembled crowd.
Beings from across Naaim leaned forward in their seats, eyes fixed on the arena floor where Houdini stood, arms spread wide, his showman's grin impossibly bright.
"Ladies, gentlemen, and esteemed entities of all realms!" Houdini's voice boomed, carried by magic to every corner of the vast space. "Prepare yourselves for a clash of titans, a battle filled with history and legacy!"
With a flourish of his hand, Houdini produced two shimmering orbs of light.
As he spoke, each orb pulsed in turn, growing larger and more defined.
"In this corner," he announced, gesturing to the orb on his right, "a man whose name has become synonymous with revolution and the relentless pursuit of equality.