Stories of Acoptia

Ch. 15 Leodore Crownstone #6 - The Monster amongst men

Disclaimer: The following chapter contains strong language and violence

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Emerick waved as he approached, squeezing through the sitting spectators. But after noticing Berteram his lips curved into a smile, and he spoke, "Sir Berteram Singlestrike! It's a pleasure to meet you, I've wanted to for as long as I can remember."

Emerick extended his hand to Berteram, who smiled before shaking Lauremont's hand. "Is that so? I'm flattered that even men like you wish to meet me," Berteram let out a hearty chuckle.

"Please, anyone who knows anything about history, wishes to meet you and knows not to cross you," Emerick sat down next to Berteram.

Leodore clenched his fists, staring at the board. "Arnet is up next," he spoke through gritted teeth.

Emerick lifted an eyebrow "You mean the Mr. Blonde prince? There are thousands like him." Lauremont chuckled. "So much so, that I don't know if I'm talking about him or you."

Emerick burst into laughter before Leodore shot him a cold glare. Throwing up his hands, he added "I'm only kidding. I've heard his skills are exceptional and some other rumors." His face twisted into a serious stern look when he spoke the last sentence.

"And by the manner, you reacted to his presence, I will assume those rumors might be true," Lauremont leaned back in his seat.

Berteram looked onto the arena, his brows furrowed in annoyance as he seemed to be in deep thought.

The announcer stood up, "Ladies and gentlemen, we will be moving on to our next battle. I know this is another exciting! So don't blink!"

The crowd erupted back into life as the announcer's words rang around the arena.

"Finally we will get to see Arnet Lionheart fight."

"This one is gonna be good."

Leodore could hear the crowd whispering amongst themselves.

"Now! Introducing the combatants! On your right, Rick Silverbrace!" The announcer pointed at the right side of the arena, as the metal gate lifted and Rick stepped out. "With a record of 24 wins and 2 losses! Give it up for him, ladies and gentlemen!"

Rick Silverbrace - the younger brother of Clark Silverbrace, the man Berteram had slain just yesterday - he stood at 190 centimetres tall.  Wide build and a visible belly poking out of the light armour he was wearing. His bald head had a giant scar running across the entire scalp. The most unusual part was his weapon of choice - a giant steel shield. It was almost as big as him and thicker than any normal shield. In the middle was a spike.

Leodore scratched his head. "That must weigh at least 100 kilograms. Seems way too unconventional to be an effective choice."

Emerick shrugged, crossing his legs. "Physical strength is certainly his strong suit, what a peculiar way of using it though."

Berteram stared at Silverbrace, his eyes betrayed a twinge of sadness.

The crowd clapped as Rick dragged his shield alongside him with one hand, before stopping near the middle of the arena. Looking towards the entrance on the left side of the arena.

"Now, introducing the one all of you have been waiting for! The one and only, Arnet 'The Pride of Lion' Lionheart!" announcers voiced pierced the air, as the gate opened.

Stepping out of the darkness - loud cheering and screaming of women as they swooned over him along with loud clapping from the rest of the audience burst out - Arnet looked around, his chin high in the air and his chest puffed out. Living up to his nickname he seemed to be full of pride, as his gaze seemed to be looking down on everyone.