A collective shiver ran through the group, and even Trisha, who was still new to this life, felt a sense of dread at the mention of the Queen's wrath.
She had heard whispers of the Queen's punishment, but no one dared speak openly about it. The mere thought was enough to make her heart race with fear.
"It's not just about winning anymore," Aeloria continued, her voice steady despite the fear in her chest. "It's about survival. We can't back out now. Not unless we want to face the consequences of forfeiting this game."
Theron, Liora, and Trisha exchanged uneasy glances, their minds racing. Aeloria's words weighed heavily on them, but none of them could deny the truth of what she was saying. There was no turning back now. They were too deep in this to retreat.
"It's either fight or face the wrath of Cedrick and the Queen," Aeloria said, her tone cold and resolute. "So we fight."
