Robin snapped out of his daze.
"Servants!" he barked.
"Help the Crown Prince—now!"
His voice broke the trance.
Suddenly, the entire courtyard seemed to exhale.
Nobles stirred. Guards moved. Whispers bloomed like wildfire across the marble floor.
"Was Sir Kaelion always this strong?"
"The Prince didn't stand a chance…"
"He must be favored by the gods…"
"Elara knew—she had to know. That woman is terrifying…"
"She's not just beautiful—she's brilliant. She bet on the right horse."
Near the edge of the arena, Elara remained still.
Her eyes tracked Kael like he was no longer a boy—but a storm she had just glimpsed the edge of.
She had always known he was unusual.
But this?
This was beyond even her darkest predictions.
And yet…
A smile curved her lips.
Quiet.
Knowing.
"So… you really are him," she whispered.
Robin cleared his throat and stepped forward, bowing slightly.
"Young Lord Kaelion," he said carefully.
