The applause still echoed when Tariq, calm as ever, raised his voice:

  

  — Kyros, Patriarch… — he said, turning toward his elder brother. — We’ve just witnessed the strength of the Palmares’ heart. But the Black Sun does not live on display alone. How about one of your sons facing Akemi — to prove the main Fernandes lineage before the people?

  A murmur swept through the plaza. The name Akemi rolled like thunder.

  Kyros folded his arms, eyes like sharp blades scanning his children.

  

  — One of my sons, against the Black Sun? — he repeated thoughtfully. — Let’s see if the blood of our clan can rise to the challenge.

  He took a step forward, instinct leading him toward Luiz, the prodigy. But before his voice could echo, the crowd erupted on its own.

  

  — Lukas! Lukas! Lukas! Lukas! — the people shouted without pause.

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  Kyros raised an eyebrow. Dariam exploded with fury.

  

  — How dare they?! Who are these peasants to choose in the Patriarch’s place? Lukas is a failure! He has no right!

  The chant didn’t stop. Children, farmers — even warriors — clapped their hands, chanting the name of the most unlikely brother.

  Kyros lifted his hand, and silence fell instantly. Yet, a small smile escaped him.

  

  — Once, someone told me… — his voice carried like iron — that the voice of Smile is my voice. And if the people cry out for Lukas… then Lukas shall represent the Main House.

  The plaza shook. Some laughed in disbelief, others screamed even louder.

  Kyros locked eyes with his son.

  

  — My son, you now carry my pride. As the master of both arts, I entrust this to you. That’s why I allow it to be you.

  Lukas’s heart froze. Why me…?

  Inside him, the voices began:

  

  — They’re throwing you into the abyss, boy! But if you fall, fall on your feet! — roared Caesar.

  — Ahh, sweet chocolate… I told you family is a sweet poison. Now taste it. — purred Morgana.

  Lukas drew a deep breath, eyes fixed on the arena circle. The world seemed to sway, but one thing was certain:

  He could not back down from the people who had chosen him.

  End of chapter 13