A prodigy who had never really known defeat was more easily shaken than someone who had failed more times than he could even remember.
Magnus could only watch with trembling hands as Damon walked away from him, reaching the platform where he received a white flower.
Taking it into his hands, Damon paused.
"If I may... can I ask a question?"
The person who had given him the flower was an old imperial councilor. Stroking his beard, he nodded.
"Yes, you may, young one."
Damon's words brought the cheers down as the world was once again left to wonder what this person wanted to do.
"I can give this flower to whomever I please, right?"
The old man nodded, his robes fluttering in the wind.
"Yes, you may. It is tradition to give it to whomever you think is the fairest of them all."
Damon placed his hand on his chest.
"And no one would take offense... I am a commoner after all."
The old man raised an eyebrow.
