The Tower of the Spheres’ amphitheater buzzed with anticipation, its ancient stone tiers packed with initiates in blue cloaks, magi in vibrant robes, and nobles draped in silks. Sunlight glinted off the central arena’s enchanted barrier, a shimmering dome meant to contain stray spells. Magus Edric, his emerald robes billowing, raised his hands to quiet the murmuring crowd. “Honored guests!” he boomed, voice amplified by a whisper of air magic. “The 95th Annual Initiate Dueling Competition beg...