Suddenly, Elowen Voss's amplified voice rang out once more, crisp and authoritative, cutting through the lingering buzz.
"Next duel: Arisha Nightshade versus Calantha Cutlass!"
The reaction from the crowd was immediate and starkly divided.
On the noble side, frustration boiled over. Whispers turned into muttered complaints and outright groans. Faces that had once been smug now wore tight, irritated expressions.
"This is getting ridiculous..."
"How many of Nightshade's women are going to humiliate proper nobles today?"
"Calantha better end this quickly. We can't keep losing face like this."
A few nobles crossed their arms, scowling openly. One young lord even slammed his fist beside him. "This tournament is supposed to showcase bloodline superiority, not... whatever this circus is."
In contrast, the commoner section erupted with growing enthusiasm. Their cheers were louder now, bolder, carrying a note of defiance and pride.
"Show them what a real fighter looks like!"
