This time I do scream. For how long, I don't know; I seem to slip out of consciousness for a moment or two as I struggle. As I look out at the sea of onlookers, I can't make out their expressions. I can't tell if they are happy to see me beaten, or astonished that I've lasted this long, or appalled that I won't just submit already. Then, out of all of them, I notice one face I recognize... "HJ..."
I stand at the edge of the arena, forcing myself to look passive even though I was brimming with emotions. Slowly, I give Ava a nod.
Closing my eyes, I lower my head to the pavement. "I yield." I say quietly, then louder. "I YIELD!!" At the announcement, there is an uproar from the gathered Mando'ade. The voices are neither joyous or saddened or angry; They just are. Out of the chorus of voices comes a single word. it starts with only a few in the crowd, but slowly it grows into a unanimous chant. 'Mand'alor! Mand'alor! Mand'alor!'
But they aren't calling for me anymore.