"I officially challenge the Firestarter to a duel in exchange for Ares."
---
Axel had taken everyone by surprise with his boldness and audacity. It wasn't just because he challenged a Fern to a duel, but because he challenged seniors. No sane human, in their right mind, would outright challenge a senior who also turned out to be a Firestarter. But then again… Axel wasn't exactly human.
For a moment, nobody reacted, then the room exploded. Gasps rippled through the crowd of first-year students. Some froze where they stood. Others turned their heads frantically as if they had misheard him. A few laughed nervously, waiting for someone to say this was a joke. But Axel wasn't telling a joke.
"Are you sure about this?" Aurora asked.
"Am I sure?! Axel was almost mortifed by that question. "This was your bloody idea!! Why are you asking me if I'm sure?"
Drax Tan stared at Axel in silence for a full second. Then his expression went dark.
