Chapter 33: Are You Both Ready?
But Draven did not answer him. His expression was impassive as always, unwavering.
Old Master Lenort chuckled. He slanted his face close to his ears and whispered, "Do yourself some good and learn when to give up on certain things."
"I am not dumb, Père," Draven finally responded in a barely audible tone.
"Since the entertainment is over." Old Master Lenort abruptly pulled back and turned to face the crowd. "We will move on to the main reason for this ceremony."
"The duel will be taking place in the Arena," he announced. "So follow me."
He turned around and began to exit the hall toward the arena next door.
The guests got up from their seats with their faces brimming with excitement. Their smiles were broadened, leading to their eyes narrowing and their cheeks rising.
Some of them chuckled in anticipation and followed behind the royal family with rapid movements. The moment they stepped into the arena, the first thing they glimpsed was the circular ring situated at the center of the vast hall.
Draven, who had walked to stand beside Avelina, couldn’t help but notice her trembling hands which had accidentally touched him. He looked at her face filled with nervousness and blinked his eyes.
He slowly shifted his hand closer to hers and moved his fingers, unsure if he should do what he had in mind. He took a soft breath and quickly grabbed her hand, hoping to calm her down.
"It will be okay. I won’t let you die," he assured in a hushed tone.