36 The Lord Of Ember City

In the dimly lit head office of the Dalma family, Iron, the patriarch, sat stoically behind his desk, his face betraying no emotion, with a letter in his hands. On the opposite side, Montaser, the bearer of the letter, stood his expression calm yet hidden with a hint of unease.

"Fray and Suezel, huh? This seems interesting," Iron mumbled, his penetrating gaze fixed on the contents of the letter.

"Partraich, can I add my opinion?" Montaser inquired with a respectful and calculated tone, seeking permission to speak.

"What!? Are you interested in this duel?" Iron, surprised by Montaser's intervention, questioned sharply.

"Well, actually, I think that Fray has proved that he's very valuable. After his move on the cursed lands, it will be a loss for the family if we lose him in this duel," Montaser explained.