The arena had not stopped applauding for several minutes.
What began as cheers had evolved into something greater.
Respect.
The name of Thane echoed from every corner of the grand arena.
"THANE!"
"THANE!"
"THANE!"
The chants rolled like thunder across the stands.
Bentram's citizens rose to their feet. Even many foreign spectators found themselves applauding.
The giant had done what everyone wished to see.
He had upheld Bentram's honor, successfully answered Donovan's insults, and he had done so in the most direct way possible, by beating him senseless.
Thane stood awkwardly in the middle of the arena. He was covered in blood.
Bruised from head to toe and breathing heavily.
He scratched his injured head. "I'm getting a headache. Stop shouting my name!"
The crowd laughed at his straightforwardness.
From the crowd, Max nearly jumped over the railing. "THANE!"
His voice was somehow louder than thousands of people. "YOU DID IT!"
