Panting hard, I did my best to run faster.

Where is he?

"Cayden!" I yelled as I glanced around where I was. People. So many people, here to see the games. I then felt guilt creep over myself as I heard people applauding as the announcer made his way up to the speaker along with his assistant. "Cayden!" I yelled louder this time. "Cayden—"

"Aleron, what are you doing over here?" I heard a voice behind me. I whipped my head around to find my dad.

"Dad, where's Cayden?" I asked panicked.

"Aleron, what—"

"Where is he?" I yelled. My dad looked at me with concern. His eyes then softened.

"He's by the benches—"

I immediately sprinted over to a door and twisted the handle as quickly as possible, revealing Cayden inside.

"Cayden," I said out of breath. Cayden didn't even look in my direction as he laced his metal boots. "Cayden, I am so sorry," I said as I walked over to him.

"So am I," He mumbled sarcastically as he grabbed his helmet.

"Cayden—"

"What are you doing here?" Cayden asked.

"I... wanted to... I guess—"

"Calling leader apprentices to the arena," The announcer called over the speaker. I watched as Cayden put his helmet on and adjusted his armor. He then reached his hand out to open the curtain—

"Cayden, stop! Please listen to me. I didn't mean to... I kinda just..." I stumbled. What was I supposed to say? Cayden turned around to face me. He just looked at my face, his eyes filled with confusion, anger, and longing all at once.

He opened his mouth to say something—

"Cayden Apolline, on team Thundervile, please step out onto the arena!" The announcement was called over the speakers. Cayden then turned away from me, opened the curtain, and stepped out onto the arena.

I'm too late.

No... not on my watch.

"Fight, stay fighting, and be fought," I whispered to myself as glanced at the weapon wall behind me.

I have to end this once and for all.