Chapter 124: Knight of the High Elf (2)
In a clearing within the forest, some distance away from Arkemis’s house, Ketal and Parco stood facing each other. Ketal spoke first.
“Let’s keep it simple. If you defeat me, I will no longer get involved. I’ll disappear from your lives entirely. Arkemis will also give up alchemy.” Ketal glanced over at Arkemis. “Are you okay with that?”
“Sure, no problem,” she replied calmly.
“Thank you,” Ketal continued. “Conversely, if you lose to me, you won’t interfere with Arkemis practicing alchemy—even if she returns to your holy land.”
“Do as you wish,” Parco said confidently, as though it were inconceivable for him to lose. He intended to show this barbarian clearly the difference between their strengths.
Parco glanced at Arkemis skeptically. “Are you certain this is acceptable, Lady Arkemis? Leaving something you cherish to the mercy of this barbarian?”
He wanted confirmation. If Ketal lost, Arkemis would have to abandon alchemy, effectively surrendering her cherished dreams into another’s hands.
“Yeah, I don’t really care,” Arkemis murmured indifferently.
Parco’s eyebrow twitched at her nonchalant attitude, irritated that she behaved as though she had no doubt Ketal would win.
“Tch, then let’s begin. Make your declaration,” Parco snapped roughly at Ketal. “I Parco Venecia Kelt, pledge my honor that should I lose this duel, I will no longer interfere with Lady Arkemis’s pursuit of alchemy, and instead become her shield.
“And I, Ketal the Barbarian, pledge my honor that if I lose this duel, I will no longer interfere in your affairs,” Ketal said calmly.
With their declarations, the atmosphere shifted instantly. A sharp wind brushed Ketal.