After the matches, whispers spread through the arena.
A new participant had arrived—a young swordsman with a disciplined aura, standing tall among the crowd.
Kaelen observed quietly.
[STATUS WINDOW ALERT: Rival Detected – Skill Level: High – Aura Control Advanced]
He smiled faintly.
This was good.
A rival would push his disciples harder than Kaelen could alone.
The new swordsman's gaze landed on Rynor. "I've heard of you… Kaelen's disciple. Care to test your skills?"
Kaelen stepped forward to guide: "Rynor, this is an opportunity. Observe, defend, and adapt. Strategy first, strength second."
The duel began.
Rynor blocked and parried with care, occasionally countering, occasionally retreating.
The fight dragged on—each moment a lesson, not a victory handed freely.
[REWARD UNLOCKED: Rivalry Insight x1 – For Rynor]
The crowd cheered, impressed by the prolonged, careful fight rather than a one-sided victory.