Chapter 85: The Audacity of South Heaven City

In a sprawling courtyard filled with representatives from various cities, the attendees' attention was suddenly drawn to the horizon by the rhythmic clopping of hooves. As the dust settled, the grandeur of a magnificent carriage, unlike any seen before, came into view. The exquisite craftsmanship was evident in its golden embellishments, intricate designs, and the proud horses that pulled it. This was the delegation from South Heaven City, making a late but unforgettable entrance.

Leading the group was **Lord Cedric**. A tall, regal man with sharp features, his piercing eyes scanned the courtyard, and his mere presence seemed to command the attention of everyone present. His reputation preceded him – a strategist, a leader, and not one to be easily trifled with.

Behind Lord Cedric were his three chosen representatives, the pride of South Heaven City:

1. Lysandra - Known as the "Luminary Priestess", her affinity was with the light attribute. A crown of golden rays perpetually hovered above her head, casting a soft glow around her. Her card beast, the Radiant Pegasus, was a magnificent winged horse with feathers that shone like polished gold. With its ability to manipulate light, it could blind opponents or weave protective barriers.

2. Maelon - Representing the ice attribute, he had an air of serene coldness about him. With alabaster skin and icy-blue eyes, every step he took left a trace of frost behind. His card beast was the Crystal Wyrm, a dragon carved from the purest ice. It could unleash chilling blasts capable of encasing enemies in blocks of ice.

3. Talina - Agile and swift, she was attuned to the wind attribute. Her raven hair constantly flowed as if caught in a perpetual breeze, and her presence was always accompanied by a soft whispering wind. Her card beast was the Whirlwind Harpy, a creature with the upper body of a woman and the wings of an eagle. It could conjure powerful gusts, disorienting and repelling foes.

The moment they descended from the carriage, Lord Cedric exchanged warm greetings with the representatives of Liu Li City and Sky Wind City. Their interaction was filled with camaraderie, shared tales, and laughter, indicating longstanding bonds of friendship.

However, the atmosphere shifted palpably when it came to Infinity City and Xuan Cliff City. Lord Cedric's gaze glided over them, dismissive and slightly contemptuous, as if they were barely worth his notice. The intentional oversight was a clear affront, an assertion of South Heaven City's perceived superiority over them.

Whispers filled the air as the attendees processed the glaring snub. Some were taken aback by the audacity, while others seemed unsurprised, hinting at a history of tension between the cities. The political and personal dynamics between these city representatives were like a complex dance, and it was evident that the next phase of their stay at Central City Academy would be fraught with intrigue, alliances, and rivalries. The games had just begun.