Astana rolled the sword in his grip, testing its balance before stepping into the sparring ring. Damian, ever the predator, watched him with that same calculating intensity, measuring his movements before they had even begun. Astana wasn't foolish enough to believe he could win, but victory wasn't the point.
The surrounding training grounds had become quieter. Soldiers and knights, some in the middle of drills, others resting after their own spars, turned their gaze to the ring. It was not just because the Emperor was fighting; Astana Blake's approach drew their attention as well. The son of Paul Blake and brother of Gillian, Lothar, and Daniel, all of whom had earned their own legends on the battlefield. His name carried weight and expectations. Some watched with open curiosity, while others examined him quietly to see if he lived up to his family's reputation.
"Before we start, I want a rule," Astana said, keeping his tone light but firm.
