With the Rhyner Team gone, the Rot Team gathered around Oli.
The team that had been ambushed was eyeing Oli and the others with a strange gaze. There was a hint of fear and confusion in their eyes. But their team leader just smiled and offered a quick bow. "Thank you, Rot Team."
"You're welcome, Permafrost Team leader," Oli replied while briefly bowing his head and picking up his spare mace.
Accepting the bow, the Permafrost Team leader stood up straight and motioned to the young lady Oli had originally taken hostage. "This is Young Mistress Crystal. She's the daughter of the kings of Permafrost Region, niece to King Jeerda of Permafrost Province."
"A human? … Did King Jeerda marry a human?" Oli asked.
Nodding, Crystal answered, "Yes. I'm her husband's niece. My goal was to experience the qualifier for myself so I might be better prepared for the next Mortal Championship. Thank you for holding true to your word, and for saving us despite our complicated encounter."
