After informing the maids, Sophia arranged a guest house for Julia to rest. She then went to speak with Ethan in private.
"Ethan, about the challenge… are you really sure?" Sophia asked softly. Her tone carried both worry and hesitation.
"If they keep pressuring us too much, we can just concede. We could lower the prices or find another way," she continued, holding on to Ethan's arm with a weary grip.
Ethan looked down at her, gently patting her head. "Don't worry. I have thought this through," he said in a calm voice.
His eyes were firm, carrying a quiet confidence. "I can already break through to the Late Intermediate Knight stage. That will make me the strongest in the arena."
Sophia blinked at him, still unsure.
"And besides," Ethan added with a small smile, "I was waiting for this chance."
Sophia stared at his expression for a moment, then slowly released a deep breath. The warmth in his voice made her heart ease.
Finally, she calmed down and nodded.
