Chapter 31: Akane
Breathless, his body trembling with exhaustion but still full of wild adrenalin, Mordred was escorted by two dragon-guards to his cell, to the still-exhilarated roar of the audience. As he made his way down the dark corridor towards the gaols, he could hear the announcer continuing to shout, inflaming the crowd with insane enthusiasm.
- What an incredible turn of events!" he shouted hysterically. Mordred the human, our unexpected new gladiator, has survived his first fight against the dreaded vouivre! We’ll meet him again in two days’ time for a new, even more perilous challenge! But in the meantime, my dear friends, the show must go on!
Mordred gritted his teeth as the dragon-guards ruthlessly shoved him back into his dark cell. They violently slammed the metal door behind him, locking it heavily. The sound resounded like a death knell.
Exhausted, Isaac dropped heavily against the cold wall, feeling every muscle in his body protest painfully. Dried blood and sweat still covered his face, his clothes clung to his skin in permanent discomfort, but despite the pain, he had survived. That was all that mattered at the moment.
Through a small, narrow window, secured by thick, rusty bars, he could see inside the arena, where the announcer was excitedly continuing his speech:
- Mordred will be back in two days’ time for another battle! But now, dear viewers, the evening is just beginning! Get ready to admire the next fighters who risk their lives for your exclusive entertainment!
Isaac, curious despite his exhaustion, straightened up slightly to get a better look through the bars.
A new man was pushed ruthlessly into the arena. Tall, imposing, his torso covered in scars, he seemed experienced but exhausted by too many fights. The crowd cheered briefly, obviously knowing his name.
- This is Jorgan the Devourer, a veteran of the arena with five victories under his belt! But can he survive today against... THE ASH BEHEMOTH!
A huge metal door opened slowly, releasing a gigantic monster resembling a monstrous bull, its skin covered with black patches and glowing embers. As soon as it entered, the beast roared ferociously, spitting a jet of burning flames skywards.
The crowd roared its approval, thrilled by the savagery of the spectacle.