The next morning, the air was thick with anticipation as Damien prepared for his first duel. The entire estate buzzed with energy, soldiers and attendants bustling to ensure everything was in place for the day’s events.

Damien woke early, his mind already focused on the task ahead. He spent the first hour in quiet meditation, centering himself and visualizing the battle. Ebonfang rested across his lap, the blade’s runes faintly glowing in the morning light.

His door opened, and Selene entered, carrying a tray with a simple but hearty breakfast. “You’re going to need your strength,” she said, setting it down on the table.

Damien nodded, grateful for the gesture. “Thanks.”

Selene sat across from him, her expression serious. “Roland’s no joke. He’s like fighting a walking fortress. You’ll need to outmaneuver him.”

Damien took a bite of bread, considering her words. “I know. I can’t overpower him, so I’ll have to be smarter, faster.”

Kael entered next, leaning against the doorway. “Focus on his timing. Roland’s strength is in his defense, but even walls have cracks. Find them.”

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Damien absorbed their advice, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. His siblings were right—he couldn’t approach each duel the same way. He would need to adapt to each opponent’s style.

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FINAL PREPARATIONS

After breakfast, Damien made his way to the training grounds. There, Alaric waited, his presence as commanding as ever. Without a word, Alaric handed Damien a practice sword, and the two began a sparring session. Each strike, each parry, was a lesson in precision and control.

“You’ve come far,” Alaric said between strikes. “But remember, strength alone won’t win these battles. You need to be patient. Let your opponents reveal their weaknesses.”

Damien nodded, adjusting his stance. He absorbed every piece of advice, every correction, refining his technique.

By the time their session ended, Damien was drenched in sweat but felt sharper than ever. Elira approached, offering a towel. “You’re ready,” she said softly. “Trust in yourself, and trust in Ebonfang.”

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THE ARENA AWAITS

As the hour of the first duel approached, Damien made his way to the arena. The crowd was already gathered, their murmurs of excitement filling the air. His opponents stood at the edge of the arena, each watching him with quiet intensity.

Damien took a deep breath, gripping Ebonfang tightly. The time had come. The battles that would define his future were about to begin.