A boy can become a man, become something that every soul on the land admires, a walking legend.

However, that very man would turn into an armourless child before his mother, that’s how sacred the bond between the two is.

For those who have lost their mothers, they have no one to show their inner child to and that’s tormenting.

Every memory becomes an irreplaceable treasure and when recalled, a tear or two may be shed.

That’s exactly what happened to Hawk and Maximilian, they lost their mothers and now their memories made them weep.

Max couldn’t even remember his mother, all he had were pictures and tales told by his uncle, grandma and occasionally, his father.

Hawk continued. "When you were born, I became the first one to hold you as if you were my little brother. I apologise for this rudeness but please, let me speak my heart."

Max silently stood still and gulped. "After Madam Reina left this world, I swore to protect you and pledged my loyalty to you.

Not because I was ordered to but for my own happiness."

He looked at Max and spoke. "You are my only family left, Master. I hid my heinous past because I thought it was over, until you stepped into Gambit Grounds where Vidu was building his new empire. 𝐟𝚛𝕖𝚎𝕨𝗲𝐛𝚗𝐨𝐯𝐞𝕝.𝐜𝗼𝗺

I knew our confrontation was imminent, so I planned everything. To end him and gulp down his kingdom.

I am deeply sorry, I should’ve informed you but it never mattered to me. I left my past to become a part of my new family."

Max took out a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his face dry, he sniffed before he spoke. "You were always like a big brother. However, I won’t forgive you for hiding it unless you treat us with your handmade curry."

Hawk laughed, tears fell. "I surely will, Master."

"Now, let’s go kick that guy’s ass," Max said, punching the air.

Thane gazed at Hawk and spoke. "Don’t lose to him, Hawk, even a novice like me won a fight."

Hawk nodded, John then clapped his hands. "Let’s go then, I’ll hop into the carriage first."

Thane limped his way out, the house was good but not in the slightest comparison to what he saw at Ildiem’s party.

With the help of Hawk and Max, the gentle giant entered the carriage, the same one that took him from Gambit Grounds to the capital.

The carriage moved with a heavy neigh from the horse, every sound of hoof hitting the ground dampened the mood.

The pressure was building up, their hearts raced, beating like drums of ritual.

The only man who looked calm was, surprisingly, Hawk.

And soon, the destination arrived. It was a bit away from the capital surrounded by hills.

Made by none other than Reginald, there are only two such arenas available in the capital, firm enough to keep up with blessed attacks.

The other was where Edniot Quintess and Willa Martinez fought, under the supervision of academies.

It was forged into the heart of cliffs, from the sky it looked like a wound upon the land.

Thick rough walls rose in layered circles around the battleground, etched with glowing silver runes, pulsing like veins beneath the skin.

Unlike the arena Thane saw before, this was a terrifying sight as if it was not meant for normal combat but to lock cursed beasts inside.

A dome of translucent blessing veiled the arena, it served only one purpose, to survive beings capable of destroying towns.

Thousands of spectators filled the towering stands, some felt distant under the pressure of the arena.

Nobles, mercenaries, merchants, kings of underground empires.

All had gathered to witness what was once a dream. A fight between Vidu Morris and Diamond Head.

At the centre of the arena stood the battleground itself, a vast circular floor of obsidian stone.

Every scar across the surface carried a memory of legendary fighters who had shattered bone, steel and whatnot upon it.

At the very centre and top, were big screens powered by V.A.E.T.B, capturing every corner of the battleground.

Thane and company entered the arena, following the lead of John Prada. However, their entrance was halted.

Two people came, all dressed the same, mantles of black. One looked at Hawk. "Sir, you may follow me."

"And you, Sirs, kindly follow me to the VVIP lounge," said another to the remaining three.

Hawk nodded. "I will be on my way, wish me luck, Master," he said to Max.

"Come back with victory," Max replied.

Both parties went their separate ways. Thane and the rest followed the men through tunnels and stairs until they reached a certain room.

The door was knocked on before it was opened.

The room was draped in dark velvet and black marble, lit by lanterns that burned with smokeless blue flame.

Massive glass panes overlooked the battlefield below and a big screen projected the fight onto the wall.

Soft music lingered beneath the distant thunder of the crowd.

Servants moved soundlessly across the crimson carpet, pouring aged wine and aromatic tea into crystal-like goblets.

Yet, despite the luxury, the room carried unsettling feelings.

Seven guests could be seen sitting on sofas, whispering as if their bets were worth castles.

Their muttering ended with the appearance of the trio.

Among them was Ildiem Zenonar, he turned his gaze upon them, smiled and said in a welcoming warm voice. "We have been waiting for you."

Then, the gates opened. The eyes of everyone turned towards the battleground. The gates had opened.

On one side, Vidu emerged from darkness, broad and wearing loose trousers that looked extraordinary from every angle.

The scars across his face looked deeper beneath the silver glow of the arena runes, his eyes calm in the way only true killers could remain calm before violence.

Opposite him came Hawk. Wearing the mask he threw away eighteen years ago, he was silent and expressionless.

The moment both men stepped onto the battlefield, the runes around the arena ignited violently, reacting to the pressure radiating from them.

Blessing hissed through the air. The audience fell silent almost instinctively.

Even the arena itself seemed to brace and between them walked Reginald Seraph.