The cheers refused to die down.
Wave after wave of voices rolled across the arena like thunder.
"XAVIER!"
"XAVIER!"
"XAVIER!"
The name echoed beyond the arena walls and into the streets of the capital.
Lucas remained standing where he was.
He did not acknowledge the chants.
Instead, he turned toward the imperial platform where the Empress remained seated.
Their eyes met.
For several moments, neither of them spoke.
Then Lucas slowly bowed.
"Your Majesty."
The entire arena immediately became quiet once more.
The Empress rose from her throne.
Her long robes flowed gently as she descended the steps toward the center of the arena.
The kings followed several paces behind, while the girls watched with quiet smiles.
When the Empress finally stood before Lucas, she looked at him for a long time.
Then she looked toward the lifeless body of her son.
A deep breath escaped her lips.
"My son chose ambition over duty."
"He chose betrayal over honor."
