Chapter 21: "The Celestial Trial"**

In the grand hall, a stifling sense of anticipation weighed on the air as the mistress issued the initiation of the challenge. Stage one began, thrusting disciples into a grim contest against one another, a ruthless display of combat that left a haunting impression.

Now, the focus shifted to Sterling and Ignatius, lifelong companions thrust into a heart-wrenching confrontation. The gravity of the situation bore down on them; in this merciless arena, the prize was survival itself. Ignatius grappled with the cruel truth of his own nature, and this realization cast a somber shadow over Aurelian, their mentor and guide.

For Sterling and Ignatius, the moment hung heavy with the weight of an impossible decision. Should friendship yield to necessity? Ignatius, burdened with the knowledge of his disadvantage, launched the initial attack, propelling them into a fierce clash of martial arts and magic.

Blows were exchanged, leaving behind a trail of wounds and a dance of dazzling magic. Sterling's aerial maneuvers, akin to a hawk in flight, added an element of surprise to his assault. Ignatius fought valiantly, but Sterling's counteroffensive drew first blood, a sign of the grim path the duel would follow.

Ignatius, battered and drained, struggled to keep pace with Sterling's relentless assault. Summoning the last reserves of his strength, he managed to anticipate Nathaniel's movements, temporarily gaining an advantage. The moment arrived when Sterling, momentarily vulnerable, fell prey to Ignatius's final, decisive blow, his life and cultivation snuffed out in an agonizing breath.

Ignatius's anguished cry echoed through the hall, the raw pain of losing a student reverberating in the chamber. Sterling's soul and body were claimed by the celestial sect, vanishing into the dragon core, a stark and haunting reminder of the trials they all faced in their relentless quest for power.