Cain's words echoed throughout the still arena. All eyes gathered on him as he returned to the centre, rotating his left shoulder. The cadets' mouths were agape, some even blinked several times to ensure the thing before them was real.
He stood still before Oliver, whose expression was hardened, watching his opponent still hold composure despite receiving his attack. The crimson-haired senior had held back, but he wasn't one to deliver a half-hearted strike to an opponent.
Oliver had exerted more than half his power in that last attack, the one that sent the grey-haired boy flying. However, the reality crashed upon him like a splash of cold water on his head, instantly cooling his heated mind.
The boy loosened his grip, lowering his sword and straightening his posture. He hesitated for a while, then opened his stiff lips.
"Don't force yourself to stand. What good is keeping your arrogance? You did well enough, and everyone around you became a witness to your bravery."
