章 164: Recruiting (3)

Accidents were not unheard of in the arena, and sometimes they resulted in fatalities. The air thickened with the tension of impending doom as the spectators watched, some with bated breath, others with eyes averted, fearing that this confrontation might end in tragedy.

In a protective gesture born of sisterly concern, Arale blocked her brother's gaze by placing her hand over his eyes, not wanting him to witness what she feared might be a gruesome end. 

Art bristled at the restriction. He did not consider himself a child and was eager to see the outcome, regardless of its nature. Yet, despite his attempts to wrest free from her hold, Arale's strength proved insurmountable, and his view remained obscured, his curiosity unfulfilled.

Meanwhile, in the heart of the arena, Valerius faced the charging beast with a tranquility that belied the danger.