Ackster stared straight ahead with blank eyes. He couldn't believe he had lost.
'Fuck.'
Obviously, it hadn't been part of his plan to lose to Dala and miss the opportunity to grab the trident with his own hands. But Dala had overwhelmed him. She had seen through his moves and weaknesses, easily playing with him like a puppet.
Ackster looked up at Dala's disappointed face. She furrowed her brow and retracted her trident.
"I thought you'd be better."
That was all she said before turning around and leaving the arena. Ackster continued staring without reacting.
It was an absolute loss. Other than being shameful, it was a devastating blow to the confidence Ackster had built up as he went undefeated in his pin-collecting journey across the islands. It was also a gut punch to his plan.
"...again."
Dala was one step away from leaving the arena when she heard Ackster's muted whisper. She stopped walking.
"Again."
