As the excitement from Julian's duel with Linus began to settle in the coliseum, the Vice Chancellor leaned back in his seat in the VIP section, his gaze narrowing as he observed the young man who had just dominated the battle. There was something off about Julian — not just his overwhelming skill, but the aura he carried. It wasn't the typical confidence of a talented participant; it was more... calculated, more refined than the other rookies. It was as if Julian wasn't here to simply compete, but to prove something far more sinister.
Turning his head slightly, the Vice Chancellor called over to Vlahiç, who was seated nearby. The Fleeting Spear had been unusually quiet throughout the tournament, his eyes often drifting to the duels with a disinterested air, but now the Vice Chancellor needed his insight.
"Vlahiç," the Vice Chancellor said in a low, measured voice. "That boy, Julian. Do you know anything about him? He doesn't seem to be from any of the factions in this academy."
