Karl's heart had nearly leapt out of his chest when he saw the final strike Tressa unleashed at Adelyn.
He was already half a step inside the ring, ready to throw himself between them even if it cost him his life.
But at the last second, Pier grabbed his arm.
"Brother Karl, you can't go in there."
"Let me go," Karl snapped, struggling against his grip. "I can't let Sister-in-law face this alone. I—"
"But if you interfere, she'll lose by default," Pier said hurriedly.
"Then let us lose!" Karl shot back without hesitation. "I don't care about this stupid bet anymore."
Just as he was about to wrench himself free—
Clang!
The sharp collision of metal echoed across the arena.
Karl froze.
And Pier instinctively looked toward the ring as well.
Their eyes widened.
Instead of Tressa's sword forcing Adelyn back, Adelyn's blade had met it head-on.
