The Dragons Heir

Arc 3/part 4: A Regretful Duel

ALEX

I stepped back into the grand royal palace, the echoes of the earlier meeting still resonating in my mind. The opulent halls adorned with intricate tapestries and gilded decor felt both familiar and foreign as I tried to process the tense discussions that had taken place. Upon entering, I noticed the royal guard had returned to their posts, while the atmosphere buzzed with laughter and chatter. A lavish buffet was laid out, the aroma of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filling the air, creating a warm and inviting ambience.

Just as I was about to make my way over to where Emilia and Puck were animatedly discussing something, I felt a presence beside me. It was Julius, his imposing figure shadowing me, with Anastasia hurriedly trailing behind him. Her voice was marked with urgency as she implored him, "Julius, do not do this." Her eyes darted between him and me, worry evident in her expression. However, Julius remained resolute, glancing back at her with unwavering determination. "I am sorry, my lady, but I cannot stand by and allow the disrespect shown to you today."

With that, he turned his full attention to me, stepping forward with an assertive demeanor. "You," he said, jabbing a finger in my direction, "come with me to the arena now." Confusion washed over me as I tilted my head, processing his command. "Why would I do that?" I queried, my brow furrowing.

His expression soured momentarily, rage flickering in his eyes before he forced himself to regain composure. "While I understand your reasoning, you still insulted Lady Anastasia, and that is an affront I cannot let go unpunished," he stated, the accusation lacing his words like poison. "Seeing as you are Lady Emilia's knight, I won't end your life, but we will duel. Whether here or in the arena is your choice."

I paused, contemplating his words, then shrugged nonchalantly. "Sure, I could use a good fight to clear my head anyway." His expression shifted, a mix of surprise and approval flickering across his face. Nodding curtly, he turned on his heel and began striding towards the exit of the throne room. I cast a glance back at Emilia, who wore a concerned look, her brow slightly furrowed. Offering her a casual shrug, I followed Julius into the unknown.

Upon entering the arena, I found myself awestruck by its grandeur. The structure resembled the ancient gladiator arenas of Rome, a colossal white edifice with an opulent open roof that allowed sunlight to stream in, creating a divine ambiance. Inside, the circular dirt fighting ring lay majestically at the center, surrounded by tiered seating that could accommodate hundreds. As I stepped forward, I noted the multitude of knights from the royal guard occupying the seats. Many regarded me with pity, likely expecting me to be swiftly overpowered by Julius's prowess. I couldn't help but smirk inwardly at the thought. 'Heh, time to shatter their daydreams,' I mused, my confidence surging as I strode into the ring.

As I stood a few meters away from Julius, his gaze scrutinized me with calm contempt. "So, how do you want to do this? Swords only, or everything goes?" I asked, attempting to clarify the terms of our duel. His confusion was palpable for a moment, but he quickly composed himself, bowing his head slightly in acknowledgment of my question. "I'll leave that decision to the weaker party," he shot back, a hint of frustration lacing his voice. I could sense an adrenaline rush begin to build within me; the underestimation in his tone was apparent. 'Weak? Oh, I see I've been underestimated...' I thought, excitement bubbling just beneath the surface as I prepared for the duel that lay ahead.

I smirked at the purple-haired knight standing across from me, feeling a rush of adrenaline surge through my veins. "I hate holding back in a fight. Use whatever is necessary to defeat your opponent," I challenged, my voice low and confident. He paused, an air of contemplation surrounding him, before he finally nodded, determination flaring in his eyes. "Very well, I accept those terms."