Gangster Hybrid

Lyriana's gaze lingered on Aldric, a faint frown creasing her brow. But… he seems so set on this.

Draven, however, was already eyeing Aldric, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Well, since you asked so politely—and I'm in a good mood—I guess I don't mind sparring with you."

Aldric gave a respectful nod.

"Thank you, Your Highness. I'd appreciate it if you didn't hold back."

Lyriana blinked, a touch of surprise flickering across her face. I didn't think he'd actually agree to spar…

Meanwhile, Draven's smirk deepened.

What the hell are you yapping about, dude? Why would I hold back when I just spent two hours getting my face smashed in? Even if you begged me to, I wouldn't.

He hopped back, landing lightly a few paces away, his grin stretching with anticipation.

I'm gonna enjoy every second of this.

"Alright then," he announced, voice brimming with mischievous energy. "Come on—let's play."

Aldric heard the word play, and a faint, knowing smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

'Play,' huh? He's just like His Highness...

His competitive spark flared. Fine then—okay, brat. Let's play.

He took a firm step forward.

Just as he did, Lyriana stepped in.

"If you don't mind, young master..." she said calmly. "I'd also like to request a spar."

Both Draven and Aldric turned toward her. A brief silence followed.

"Hmm?" Draven tilted his head, curious. "You wanna spar with me too?"

Aldric's eyes remained fixed on her. She wants to spar with him? What's she thinking?

But before the thought could settle—

Draven's grin sharpened into a full, challenging smile.

"Why don't you both come at me, then?"

Aldric blinked, his thoughts grinding to a halt.

He wants to fight both of us at once? Damn cocky brat...

Lyriana looked genuinely startled. He really expects us to attack him together?

Stretching his arms over his head, Draven added with that same confident grin:

"I won't go easy just because you're a girl—so you'd better go all out."

"Young master, forgive me," Lyriana said, a trace of concern in her voice. "I did request a spar, but taking us both on doesn't seem necessary."

"Yeah, Your Highness," Aldric chimed in. "You can spar with me first if you'd rather."

Draven's internal voice flared in frustration.

What the hell? You got me all hyped up, and now you're backing off? Hell no.

He forced a wider, almost persuasive grin.

"Relax—it's fine! It's not like you'll be using mana. And you won't be fighting me as a team, right? I never said I'd take you both on together."

Aldric and Lyriana exchanged a brief, uncertain glance.

Then, after a short pause, Lyriana nodded.

"Then... we'll do as you wish, young master."