Chapter 19

The field was packed beyond limits. Latecomers had to stand or climb elevated surfaces if they wanted to get even a glimpse of the event. Today was the annual duel of the Claws, and the whole tribe was drawn to the epicentral field to witness the strength of youth. Inside the main arena were arrangements upon arrangements of the various competitive stages the contestants had to go through: the mandatory start race, the jungle gym, archery, spear throwing, swordplay, and finally, hand-to-hand combat.

As he fastened the customary fur underpants used for the games, Jun debated whether or not he was being sensible. His entire body was alight with pain from the severe whipping Diachi had given him the previous day. He’d finally mustered the courage to stand up to the man and call him out on his mistreatment. He maintained that everyone would have to live with his decisions whether they liked it or not. Diachi, however, would have none of it, not even when Jun used his princely auth