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Another team approached Alden, who was barely clinging to life, and carefully carried him away.

Once the arena was cleared, the Duke rose from his seat and addressed the crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen, I deeply regret presenting you with such a disturbing and gruesome performance. I failed to take into account the troll's savage nature, and for that, I offer my sincerest apologies."

He paused, looking at the uneasy faces around him. "I know that words alone can't make up for the shock of what you've just seen. So, to help ease your minds, I've prepared something special. Originally, this was meant as a parting gift, but it seems far more fitting to present it now. Please welcome the Priestesses from the Church of Grace and Blessing!"

The nobles, still shaken and distressed, barely registered the Duke's words, and their applause was sparse and half-hearted.