Who Goes First?

The crowd was still trying to recollect their thoughts from what had just transpired. Drako smirked disdainfully in the direction where the insane beggar had fled, "What a waste." He stepped forward before reaching for the mallet.

But just as he was about to grasp it, Liam, sharp-witted and not one to back down, interrupted him, "Who said you get to go first?"

The tension became palpable, a thick cloud of uncertainty hanging in the air. The onlookers were on the edge of wondering how this power struggle between the young masters would unfold. Drako's arrogant smile faltered as he shot a fierce glance at Liam, sparks of rivalry flashing between them.

Drako, clenching the mallet tightly, sneered, "Are you trying to challenge me, Stormrider?"

Liam's gaze was steady and piercing. "I'm suggesting a fair chance for each of us. Let's determine who rings the gong based on merit, not arrogance."