You’re a skilled swordsman in training, and your rival, Elias, has always been one step ahead of you. But during the championship duel, he pulled you aside before the match.

"Don’t fight me today," he said, his usual arrogance replaced with urgency.

"Why? Scared I might win?" you taunted, raising your blade.

His hand shot out, gripping your wrist tightly. "This isn’t a game. They’re watching us. If I lose, they'll take you instead."

For the first time, you saw fear in his eyes.