Damien’s final match with Lyra had left him exhausted but victorious. Yet, he knew the most difficult challenge lay ahead: his battle against Cassian Nightraven. Cassian’s mastery over shadow magic was unparalleled, and Damien would need every ounce of his strength and skill to face him.

The arena was silent as Damien stepped into the dim light. The air was heavy with anticipation, the crowd waiting in hushed silence. Across from him, Cassian emerged from the shadows, his dark robes billowing around him like a living extension of the night.

Cassian raised his blade, a thin, dark weapon that seemed to shimmer with an unnatural light. “Are you ready to face the darkness, Damien Ashenblade?”

Damien raised Ebonfang, his resolve unwavering. “I’m ready.”

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The referee raised a hand. “Begin!”

Cassian vanished into the shadows, his form disappearing from sight. The arena darkened, the light dimming as shadows coiled and writhed around Damien. He tightened his grip on Ebonfang, his senses on high alert.

A sudden movement to his left. Damien spun, his blade meeting Cassian’s in a shower of sparks. Cassian slipped back into the shadows, his laughter echoing through the arena.

“You’ll have to do better than that,” Cassian’s voice called from the darkness.

Damien steadied his breathing, his eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of movement. He knew this battle would be unlike any he had faced before. Cassian’s mastery over the shadows gave him a distinct advantage, but Damien was determined to prove his strength.