The courtyard had turned into an arena.
Nathan stood at one end, gripping Moonlight. The silver bow glowed softly in the dull, grey light. At the other end stood General Kael, resting a massive, rune-covered warhammer easily on his shoulder. Hundreds of Iron Court soldiers formed a tight, silent ring around them. The tension in the air was so thick you could choke on it.
"Rules are simple, Climber," Kael called out, rolling his massive shoulders. "We go until somebody quits or dies. And just so we're clear—I don't quit."
"Good to know," Nathan said, adjusting his stance. "Because neither do I."
Kael didn't waste time talking. He moved.
