The roar echoing through the dirt arena made the wooden stands tremble, sending a wave of panic through the thousands of spectating citizens. In the center of the pit, young Leo stood alone, his small frame wearing a faded linen tunic while holding nothing to defend himself against the beast. His father, a humble blacksmith named Marcus, gripped the stone railing in the nosebleed section, his knuckles white as cold sweat dripped down his nose.

Marcus: Stand up, Leo! Run to the gate!

Leo: I can’t run, Father. It won't work.

Marcus: Please! Lord Cassian won't stop this mad game!

High above in the gilded velvet box, Governor Cassian leaned forward, a glass of expensive wine balanced in his manicured hand while his cruel mouth twisted into a lazy smile. Beside him sat Lady Serena, clad in blue silk, her eyes fixed on the helpless child below.

Governor Cassian: Let us see if his ancient lineage saves him today. A boy who claims nobility should easily command a monster, don't you think, my lady?

Lady Serena: He is just a child, Cassian! This is murder, not sport!

Governor Cassian: It is justice. His father defaulted on the royal grain tax. The law is absolute in my province.

The iron portcullis slammed upward with a deafening rattle of heavy chains. Out from the dark subterranean holding pen bounded an enormous white lion, its fur scarred from years of forced combat and its golden eyes glowing with pure, unbridled fury. The crowd gasped in unison as the beast locked its gaze on the small, solitary boy.

Leo: You don't have to fight me.

Governor Cassian: Shoot him a bow if he tries to climb out, guard!

Guard: Understood, My Lord.

Marcus: Take me instead! He's only twelve years old!

Leo reached beneath his tunic and pulled out a heavy golden lion pendant, ancient and tarnished, hanging from a thick leather cord. As the monster lunged forward, teeth bared, the sun hit the metal crest, reflecting a brilliant golden beam directly into the creature's blazing eyes.