"The second trial is a duel."
"A duel?"
"That's right. Each faction will send one person to fight in a duel. The faction with the most victories will win the trial."
A duel where victory counts the most, Justin thought. That meant there was no immediate danger of dying for good. Many of the participants looked relieved as they processed the information.
"But," the Dark Elf added, "the duel is to the death. Whether your opponent lives or dies is entirely up to the victor."
"...!?"
"The loser's life rests in the hands of the winner. If you want to spare them, do so. If you want to kill them, go ahead."
"W-Wait a second!" one of the leaders stammered, his face pale with panic. "Didn't you say the side with the most victories would win? What happens if someone dies early on? Does that mean it's over for them?"
"No. The duels will continue. You'll simply have to send someone else to fight in their place," the Dark Elf replied coolly.
