Chapter 99: after everything
Without further words, most of the spectators left the arena in a depressed state. A heavy silence hung in the air as disappointed aristocrats and commoners slowly dispersed. Some were despondent, others—devastated.
"My money... Why did I place that bet?! I could've just held back..." one of the spectators lamented, clutching his head.
"What will happen to me now...?" a young girl whispered, her trembling hands clenched. "My parents will kill me when they find out I took out a loan and bet it all on the prince's victory..."
"How am I supposed to pay this back?" another unlucky gambler muttered bitterly, sinking onto the steps of the amphitheater.
Similar complaints and groans echoed from all sides, painting a scene of utter misery. However, on the opposite side of the arena, entirely different cries could be heard. Those who had taken the risk and bet on Leon were now in high spirits, practically glowing with joy.
"My god! This much money... I've never seen so much in my life!" one lucky winner exclaimed, barely believing his good fortune.
"Now I can finally find myself a girlfriend!" another laughed, clutching a pouch full of coins.
"With this money, I can live like a true noble..."
"My father will be overjoyed when he hears how much I won!"
The triumphant conversations of the winners filled the air with an excited buzz, their sheer euphoria mixing into a celebratory atmosphere.
At that moment, Leon himself emerged from the arena. The instant he appeared, the barons and viscounts who had been waiting near the exit rushed toward him. They showered the young man with gratitude and congratulations, genuinely admiring his victory over the prince and his elite group.