The Storm’s Arrival

The waiting chamber was quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling and quickly filling arena just beyond.

Lassim leaned casually against the cold stone wall near the corridor leading to the arena floor, his halberd resting across his back. Despite the tension of the duel about to occur, his demeanor was as calm and unshaken as ever.

Nearby, Dorian paced, a mixture of anxiety and disbelief covered his face. He paused every few steps, glancing toward Lassim as if searching for some reaction—any sign of the nerves or pressure Lassim should logically be feeling.

"Eighty-two companies," Dorian muttered, shaking his head. "I can't believe you convinced that many. Every single one of them is betting everything they have on you. Do you even understand the kind of pressure that puts on you? If you fail…"