The words that came out of Helena's mouth turned the arena silent. It stayed several seconds until the stillness was broken by a thundering clap from the spectators who witnessed the intense battle.
Rika loosened her grip on Helena's neck and stood up. She looked down at her lying opponent. The girl was a bit hesitant but reached out her hand in the end.
Helena parted her lips, and she grasped the extended hand. The red-haired girl pulled the senior to her feet. They stood eye-to-eye for a moment.
The two of them held still for a few seconds until Rika bowed her head, then released the grip on her joined hands. She moved her place, leaving Helena standing alone in the center.
From the earlier battle, Rika learned a lot about how to conserve her power and avoid being baited by the enemy. Her earlier battle was also a test of her wits in facing another sniper like her.
