Chapter 56. First Stage (Part 6)

"I didn't know I will have the opportunity to clash swords with the Great Duke Liam Kobach, at least not this fast."

Ilian was surprised when the staff of the tournament called him to fight without previous notice. He was even more surprised when the Duke was announced to be his contender. It was his usual routine to prepare himself in silence before the combats, and he thought that like in the previous years, the top rankers would be the lasts to pass. However, he didn't imagine that he will be the first sacrifice of the mighty Duke of Avalor.

"Don't worry, little boy, I won't be that hard with you," Liam smirked, but the taunting words came as a wonder and at the same time, a bad omen for Ilian. It was not the first time they exchanged fists on a fighting platform. They had met in the same tournament many years ago, but the Duke had never spoken any unnecessary words during the battle, he was fast and clean with his moves. No mercy nor playfulness hid in his eyes.<