Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

The royal viewing box at the arena was loud and full of cheers and excitement in the aftermath of Grim’s match. Chancellor Levenhart’s face had grown progressively redder as he watched the events unfold.

"This display is completely unacceptable," he hissed, keeping his voice low enough that only those in the royal box could hear. "Mutilating opponents, marking himself with blood. This isn’t a tournament, it’s barbarism."

Alexia remained silent. The three vertical lines of blood on Grim’s face carried meaning that had been forgotten by most of the imperial court.

"The competitor was poisoned," Archmage Marcus noted quietly. "His movements showed clear signs of poison, particularly in the early stages of the match."

"Speculation," Chancellor Levenhart dismissed. "What isn’t speculation is that Lord Van Ambrose has now maimed two opponents in as many matches."

"It’s all in the rules Chancellor. We want strong people to come foward."

"The strange gesture with the blood," Marcus mused. "Does anyone know its significance?"

Alexia finally spoke, her voice barely audible. "It is an Ambrose blood debt. An ancient custom, rarely invoked even before House Ambrose fell from prominence."

Both men turned to her, confusion evident on their faces.

"By marking himself with his opponent’s blood while facing Lord Luminaris in the stands," she continued, "Grim has declared formal intent to claim his life outside the bounds of the tournament."

A shocked silence fell over their corner of the royal box. Chancellor Levenhart paled visibly. "A sanctioned assassination? And this is permitted?"