Edric sent the challenge before I reached dinner.
The notice did not ask whether I wanted to fight. It challenged my claim to the additional Silver practice allocation, named a sponsored opponent and gave me until the next evening to answer through the resource committee.
I could surrender the allocation. I could accept the contest, subject to medical clearance. Or I could establish suitable standing and recognized backing before the committee ruled.
Bastian's withdrawal had left a space. Edric had put his name into it.
The Ledger appeared as I read the opponent's name.
SLOT #13: SILVER TIER COLLAPSE - ACTIVE
SPONSORED CHALLENGE: REGISTERED
CLOSURE: NOT MET
Dain Corven.
I remembered the name now. A spear user who liked to shorten the weapon's reach after forcing his opponent backward. Cedric had expected a contest of impressive techniques. Corven had driven him into close exchanges until the damaged core failed under repeated strain.
