21

The anticipation in the arena was palpable as the announcer introduced me, the champion of Qarth, and my opponent, the formidable champion of House Lionheart. Stepping into the arena, my heart pounded in my chest, a mixture of adrenaline and nervousness coursing through my veins. I scanned the crowd, their eager faces filled with anticipation for the upcoming fight.

My opponent towered over me, his imposing presence casting a shadow on the ground. As the fight commenced, he unleashed a flurry of strikes, each blow landing with precision and force. I found myself on the defensive, desperately trying to evade his relentless attacks. The crowd roared with excitement, reveling in the display of raw power and skill.

With a swift motion, my opponent reached for a mace, a weapon capable of inflicting serious damage. As the deadly weapon came crashing towards me, I braced myself, but could not fully avoid the blow. The mace pierced my lower abdomen, causing searing pain to shoot through my b