Lightbearer vs. Stone Reaper — Round Three

"So, how long have you been waiting for me?"

Under the crimson sunset, Aimer approached me as I sat by the fountain. The confident glow once shining in her bright eyes had faded after hearing about my upcoming fight with her brother.

"I just got here."

"Don't lie to me, Atheron." Her voice cut like a blade. "I heard your sister—mistress—explicitly forbade you from taking part in the duel. Knowing you, I doubt you talked her into anything.

Don't tell me you've been sitting here since the last class?"

I remained seated, watching the birds bathing under the fountain's spray. She sat beside me.

We silently watched the students exiting the academy, one by one.

"Still, thank you for coming. I thought you'd be furious. I spoke with my brother—told him everything—but clearly, he still doesn't approve of your company."

"Aimer. Give me one good reason I should fight him."