A tense silence takes hold of the place, and the healers quickly rush to attend to Kus. However, Félix, with his unique energy, descends swiftly and begins to mend the wounds of the defeated knight.
"Nya! You could have restrained your strength; this man is severely wounded," Félix exclaims, his concern evident.
The purpose of my fight was to silence the arrogant knights, but the issue lies in the fact that this victory does not unequivocally prove me as the author of such a feat. I shouldn't have to explain myself to anyone, but if I don't, the impact of my victory in Lugunica could be compromised.
If I can't claim this battle, it could be dismissed as a falsehood, and that is not my intention. A name is forged through achievements, and both Emilia's and mine are at stake.
Now that the warm-up has concluded, it's time to face the true test. I infuse my voice with mana to ensure everyone hears me clearly.
"This bout has not demonstrated my capacity to defeat an archbishop, hence I have a proposition," I direct my gaze towards Julius, who returns a serious expression.
Yes, this is the only way to truly showcase my abilities.
"I challenge Julius Juukulius, the great spiritual knight, to a friendly duel," I announce, sensing the surprise and amazement filling the stadium as all eyes turn toward Julius, who maintains his unflappable demeanor.
Anastasia, watching us with an enigmatic smile, addresses me.
"If that is your wish, I suppose I can lend you my knight," she says, pleased.
Upon Anastasia's words, Julius bows respectfully.
"As you command."
The challenge has been accepted, and the atmosphere is thick with palpable anticipation. It will be a duel, a contest where I can gauge my strength.
Julius gives me a determined look and, ignoring the others, gracefully leaps into the arena. His choice to participate in this confrontation is solely his decision, and I appreciate the favor.
I asked him to inform Emilia about the fight.
In a fight to the death, I cannot predict who will emerge victorious between the two of us. I have a few surprise cards up my sleeve, but Julius's impeccable mastery of fencing makes him a formidable opponent.
Without my rifle, I am likely lacking the capacity to inflict significant damage upon him.
I know Julius could handle the bullet, which is why I won't use it. I don't need others to know the full extent of the weapon.
He has many years of experience in the art of the sword, and at this point, it seems unlikely that I can defeat him. Nevertheless, I must prove that I am up to the challenge.
"Before we begin the battle, I would like to ask you something," Julius approaches me, positioning himself face to face. "Do you have any particular reason for challenging me?"
If there is a reason, it is that I cannot find anyone else to engage in combat with. It would be unwise to choose to face Reinhard, and I do not know anyone else at this moment.
"I know this may seem disrespectful on my part, but I have heard that you are a spiritual knight, and I would like to become acquainted with your abilities,"
I smile with confidence while attempting to maintain a cordial tone.
"Normally, it would be unfavorable to face someone who is not a knight, but the situation calls for it, so it seems perfect to me."
I do not wish to make an enemy of Julius, even though eventually, Anastasia and I will have to face him.
He is so blinded by his path, so immersed in his own world, that he cannot see beyond what is right in front of him.
However, I do not believe he is a bad person in and of himself.
"But you have no mastery in fencing. Do you underestimate my skills?" Julius' voice turns sterner, revealing his wounded pride.
Undoubtedly, his ego dictates his words.
"If I underestimated you, I would not have challenged you. I said I need to verify that I can defeat an archbishop, and the only way to do so is by fighting someone stronger than me."
It is undeniable that asserting Julius is capable of defeating an archbishop is not an exaggeration.
His renown echoes in every corner of Lugunica, lending credibility to that bold statement, even if he may not reach the power of Gildark, Reinhard, and others of his caliber.
"I see your initiative and your motivation. We shall have a fair battle," Julius affirms, handing his sword to the knight judge.
On the other hand, I decide to hurl my weapon toward my soldiers for safekeeping. The concerned gazes of Emilia and Beatrice fix upon me, but my mind is calmer than expected.
I perceive no sinister intentions in Julius, only a genuine curiosity for combat.
A wooden sword is handed to Julius, while I request a dagger. The truth is, I lack experience in fencing. Though I have trained in martial arts, I have never wielded weapons.
"I have no experience in fencing, so I apologize if I play dirty," I caution Julius, who smiles with a mixture of eagerness and composure.
"They have deprived you of your weapon; it was a splendid demonstration, but without it, you are at a disadvantage," he comments as he examines his wooden sword. "Do you still think you can win?"
"I do not crave victory; I merely wish to demonstrate what I am made of. My goal is simply to silence the malicious tongues," I confess.
I must be cautious and not reveal all my abilities, as doing so would leave me at a distinct disadvantage. Showing all my cards now would only bring me problems in the future.
Will I be able to win this contest?
Julius points his sword at me.
"Lying is not honorable," he remarks, his smile hinting at anticipation. "As a spiritual knight, I can glimpse many things, but I will only reveal them to you if you manage to surprise me."
I assume a combat stance, but it seems Julius still expects something more from me. Perhaps he notices the absence of Beatrice by my side, which is unusual.
"Well, I have my ways of utilizing spiritual magic, so you need not worry. If you defeat me, I shall explain," I assure, and my statement seems to strike him, as he momentarily averts his gaze towards Beatrice. After closing his eyes for a brief moment, he takes his stance.
A tense silence envelops the surroundings. This battle is not based on enmity like the previous one; it is a formal confrontation. The knight judge observes both of us, and we nod in acknowledgment, indicating our readiness.
While I was trained to fight with knives in the army, those battles were against opponents armed with knives as well.
Combatting against a sword is an entirely different matter, especially if the opponent is an expert in its handling.
Was it a hasty choice to face him?
But something within me refuses to back down; something within me yearns for this encounter.
"Begin!" the knight judge announces.
Julius closes the gap between us with a quick step, swiftly assuming an attacking position. His wooden sword, though conventional, is nimble, and his movements are rapid.
He executes a swift swing that cuts through the air, targeting my side. I quickly position my dagger to block the blow, but Julius's strength is overwhelming.
A piercing pain shoots through my wrist, threatening to make it shatter. Julius's strength is on another level.
With a single strike, I feel my wrist on the brink of collapse. Yet, I had anticipated this; I have my ways to counter.
Julius changes his position and attempts to pierce my chest.
I harness gravity with Murak, leaping backward to create a safe distance. I need to compose myself and channel mana through my core, so it courses throughout my being.
I envision mana as electricity, increasing its voltage to amplify my strength. My muscles are imbued with mana, and even my eyes are infused with its power.
Now, I stand ready to confront Julius with my utmost potential, something Emilia wields unconsciously but I must maintain focus.
My reserves are depleting, allowing me to maintain my special ability only momentarily. I dash toward Julius, the weight of my body reduced by Murak. In the blink of an eye, I am before him. Dust rises forcefully in my wake as I aim my dagger at his wooden sword.
It's a simple wooden sword, but my objective is to avoid a fencing match at all costs. The instant I strike, I release Murak, returning to my normal mass, for employing it in the attack would diminish its potency.
Julius's speed increases, and his strikes come swiftly.
I block them with my dagger, but one of his blow's lands on my side. Pain courses through my body, sending electric signals to my brain, yet I strive to maintain an unwavering expression.
I have endured more intense pain and worse injuries in the past. I can withstand this; I must remain composed.
The cheers and jeers fill the arena, with praise for Julius and eager anticipation of my downfall. However, Julius does not seem content with this.
"It's a bit disheartening when people fail to grasp the value of a battle," he murmurs with a barely audible sigh, watching me intently as he readies himself once more. "Let's increase the tempo."
His attacks quicken, and despite my attempts to defend, several find their mark. Pain intensifies as I strive to fend off his powerful strikes.
The disparity in skill between us is evident, but it does not bother me. I've only lived a few months in this world, yet I've climbed far enough, and I am resolute to keep climbing.
Regardless of the ultimate outcome, I must strive to win.
Julius attempts a thrust toward me, and I swiftly position my dagger to block the attack, but he shifts and launches a vertical strike.
With no time to react, I grasp his wooden sword, causing a dry sound that hushes the entire stadium. Julius regards me with some surprise as droplets of blood begin to fall of my hand.
"It's just a wooden weapon, it won't cut me if I seize it," I assert with a defiant smile. Julius appears satisfied with my declaration and remains steadfast in his stance.
"I knew it from the start; your style of combat and mine are different, yet I see it in you," he states with conviction.
The pressure on his weapon becomes evident as he struggles to force me to yield. In response, I channel more mana, feeling the veins in my arms bulge as I attempt to withstand the force of his assault.
"You are much like me; you are not content with who you are. You seek improvement every day, finding ways to better yourself regardless of the sacrifices you must make," his words resonate in my mind as I strive to stand my ground.
An orange light emerges, a small luminous sphere that courses through Julius' body. It's a manifestation of the spiritual power that flows through his veins. The atmosphere crackles with energy as Julius and I engage in this momentous duel.
"This is In, one of the companions who has walked alongside me, and it is irrefutable proof of my status as a spiritual knight," he says as the spirit melds with Julius, triggering an overwhelming surge of strength. I slowly kneel, subdued by his superhuman power.
He smiles with satisfaction and adds, "It's also a testament to my respect for you as an opponent."
The oppressive force pushes me back in this battle. It's time to turn the tide.
"Well, in that case, I regret to inform you." I swiftly gather mana in my hand and with a defiant smile exclaim, "Goa!" A fireball erupts from my hand, instantly incinerating a portion of Julius' wooden blade.
He steps back, looking at me in surprise, but his smile endures.
"You are stronger than I am, so I must resort to less orthodox tactics. I suppose it's a fair trade."
The audience watches in astonishment as Julius' weapon is rendered completely useless. It's evident that this event is only possible because it's a wooden sword. Otherwise, my chances of victory would have been nil.
Julius seeks to test my abilities.
"I apologize for underestimating your power, Marco. From now on, I shall fight as a true spiritual knight."
Another of the spirits accompanying Julius manifests. Without hesitation, I hurl fireballs in its direction. The field becomes enveloped in stifling heat, but Julius gracefully evades each of my attacks.
His steps are elegant and precise, revealing his combat experience.
"Fu Murak!" In an instant, a wind wave propels me towards him. As we face each other, he delivers a side kick towards my flank. "Vita!" I use my elbow as a shield to block his attack, remaining immobile thanks to the increase in my bodily density.
Julius is surprised by this maneuver, which I seize as an opportunity to throw a hook towards his face.
"That was a good attack," Julius remarks, effortlessly holding my fist.
When he used In, Julius must have employed Yang magic. He likely boosted his strength beyond the current limits of my abilities. If I wish to face him, I must think differently.
Julius tries to pull me, expecting me to use Vita to hold myself. However, I employ Murak, allowing him to lift me with ease. He releases me, and in mid-air, I execute an axe kick towards him.
"Fū Vita!" A wind wave unleashes from the increase in my weight.
The air flows perfectly, enhancing the momentum of my attack.
A crisp sound resonates as Julius blocks my kick with one of his arms. But in that very moment, I create an upward wind wave, reducing the air pressure.
The earth and dust rise in a tumultuous cloud. Julius looks down, thinking it's an attack, but there's something he hasn't yet considered: I haven't fallen.
Whenever I practice switching between Murak and Vita, I must take into account the momentum I carry with me. My body and mind are in perfect harmony, executing movements that defy the laws of gravity.
In the air, my kick heads towards Julius, but just before impact, I halt the mana flow, undoing the spell, and in an instant, I strike his face forcefully.
"Fura!"
A sharp crack reverberates throughout the place. Julius's head turns with the impact, preventing him from succumbing to the gravity exerted by my body on him. Quickly, I create distance by propelling myself off his shoulder.
It's the first blow to Julius. My intent was to hit his jaw, but I couldn't quite achieve that. However, I made a clean connection with his cheek.
Despite Julius enhancing his senses with Yang magic, my heart is pounding. The rapid shifts between different spells are taxing my gate, so I must bring this to a swift conclusion.
I have no desire to soar or use more ostentatious spells. I don't wish to reveal too much in this fight.
The dust disperses, and the voices of the crowd shout all sorts of things. Some support one contender or the other, while others simply encourage the confrontation.
Julius remains in place, touching his cheek. A small drop of blood appears to well up in his mouth, but he wipes it away with water magic.
"Fell Goa!" Julius exclaims with determination.
In an instant, a whirlwind of air forms around me. When I attempt to escape, a sudden firestorm rises out of nowhere, preventing my retreat.
The tension in the air is palpable, and an intense excitement envelops the arena. Julius's magic materializes in a mysterious and menacing dance, while the wind contorts to his will.
A fiery vortex surrounds me, consuming all the oxygen in my vicinity.
For a moment, my mind is clouded by the intensity of the situation. The dance of fire and wind seems to have a life of its own, enclosing me with overwhelming force.
"Fura!" I exclaim, creating a stream of wind to counter Julius's fire, attempting to open a gap for escape.
However, the wind alone is insufficient to halt the scorching flames that encircle me. The fire advances relentlessly, like a serpent seeking to entrap me.
The intense heat makes me recoil, but I cannot yield. I must find an exit, an opportunity to counterattack.
My eyes gleam with determination, and my mind races. I search for a solution, a crack in the sea of fire surrounding me.
Murmurs erupt among the crowd, filled with astonishment and anticipation.
Trapped in the midst of the scorching heat, the oxygen diminishes as time passes.
"By employing In and Aro, I can blend wind and fire magic, and in time, you will be left gasping for breath," Julius warns, likely wearing a smile.
There is only one way to counter his attack.
"Huma!" I create a water sphere that envelops me entirely, shielding me from the imminent tempest.
I hold my breath and focus.
"The only way to negate a tornado is to confront it with an equal and opposite force, which would halt its advance but also scatter the fire in all directions. Perhaps some noble foes will burn in the process," I ponder as I assess the situation.
I need to create an equal and opposite tornado.
In the atmosphere, when a mass of warm, humid air meets a mass of cold, dry air, instability arises.
The disparities in density and temperature between the two types of air create a front of upward gusts known as a cold front.
The variations in wind speed and direction at different altitudes create a horizontal rotation effect in the atmosphere.
This world is flat but adheres to the rules of a spherical world.
The water around me starts to dangerously heat up, but I have no margin for error.
Blending two spells requires a perfect understanding of both magics. Fire requires fuel to sustain itself, while wind demands a change in pressure.
"If I can generate enough vorticity and a sufficiently powerful updraft, I could conjure a descending funnel from the cloud, a true tornado.
With a clear mind, I unleash my mana and envision the wind swirling around me.
My vision clouds with the intensity of the battle, and the wind seems to whisper intriguing secrets as I face Julius, my valiant adversary.
I can see it, the gleam of determination in his eyes during the battle matches my fervent will.
"Fell goa!" My voice resonates with might, unleashing a maelstrom of fire that advances toward Julius's unleashed whirlwind.
Boom!
The titanic clash creates a formidable explosion, painting the landscape with the luminous flashes of the elemental duel.
Nevertheless, Julius's tenacity is admirable; he does not allow the chaos to weaken him and delivers a direct punch to my face.
But in the midst of the war's fury, an unexpected surprise lurks.
"Dona."
A stone pillar, in a stunning display of skill, rises from the side, striking me forcefully and hurling me to the ground roughly. Blood starts to trickle from my mouth, but the fire in my heart only intensifies.
With determination, I strive to rise, finding Julius approaching with martial grace.
"You countered my spell using fire and wind magic, and you even employed water magic," Julius remarks with seriousness, while another hook threatens my position.
Skillfully, I manage to evade it by leaning backward, and in response, I launch a fiery sphere in his direction, but he conjures a wind barrier to thwart my attack.
Spiritual magic grants your mastery over various elements, yet it doesn't equate to conventional magical arts in certain cases.
A new stone pillar emerges, but my will remains unshaken, and using Murak, I leap with agility, avoiding its impact.
"Spiritual magic allows you to unleash spells and combinations within your control, but it's the spirit that establishes the link with magic. Spirits grasp those connections," Julius continues, advancing cautiously. "You can control two elements on your own, but you've already utilized two additional elements."
Amidst the astonishing contest, the echo of his words melds with the roar of the wind, and the combat's intensity seems to resonate with every beat of my heart.
The battle between elements is a mystical dance, and I am but a mere participant in this cosmic symphony.
Can I bridge the chasm that separates us, or will I be consumed by the flames of defeat? Only destiny knows the verdict that awaits. No, there is nothing like destiny.
The crowd is overwhelmed by his words, which echo on the battlefield like an eerie refrain. Murmurs spread among the onlookers, filling the air with a blend of surprise and admiration.
Julius gazes at me intently, attempting to decipher the truth behind my seemingly inexplicable abilities.
"You claim to have practiced for a short time, yet your growth is exceptional," his voice resonates with astonishment and suspicion.
I offer a faint smile while gathering my strength to face what lies ahead.
"Spiritual magic allows you to master multiple elements without the need for a complete understanding," I calmly respond.
Indeed, for Julius, who has spent years perfecting the magical art under both self-guidance and tutelage, elemental mastery is more than acquired knowledge; it is an experience gained through time and tireless dedication.
Here, there are no skilled notions of physical laws or conventional scientific principles.
In this world we currently inhabit, the act of casting a spell involves visualizing the underlying processes and interpreting how each specific element functions. From there, we channel our magical energy into that particular element to manifest it powerfully in our world.
In contrast, I comprehend the notions of the three ways to perceive the world—chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Each of them studies the world's principles differently.
With these, I can grasp some of the governing principles and employ mana to control them. In a nutshell, we use our mana as an unlimited reagent to shape the surrounding world.
"The way you wield your mana can only be acquired through years of experience," Julius continues, his voice filled with a blend of admiration and doubt. "For a moment, I even considered that you might have been dishonest about the time you've dedicated to this discipline."
Could it be that spirits possess a unique way of perceiving the age of the magical bond?
The question hangs in the air like a dense and mysterious mist, enveloping both Julius and me in an aura of uncertainty. The hidden secrets within spiritual magic seem as deep and inscrutable as the darkest abysses.
Only those with true devotion and unwavering perseverance can hope to unravel its most intimate mysteries.
"Your gate took shape just over two moons ago," Julius asserts, his voice tinged with astonishment and a hint of disbelief.
The news spreads through the surrounding crowd like a wildfire. Shouts of surprise are followed by whispers laden with various emotions: admiration, envy, and even fear.
People are born with a gate, yes, but through training, you can shape it, make it more efficient. The more you use it, the better it becomes.
The protagonist discarded that possibility, surrendering to the challenge by possessing miasma, whereas I trained to overcome it, and that's why I stand here now.
I survey my surroundings, and the gazes have shifted. Some are filled with fear of the unknown, while others impatiently await the outcome of the confrontation. Gildark, with intense scrutiny, shoots me a glare as he analyzes my every move.
Only a few short months have passed since I embarked on this journey toward mastering the art of magic. I have already vanquished a mere common knight, albeit with the aid of the powerful rifle in my possession.
I am inwardly certain that even without the rifle, I would have been equally capable.
But now, I stand before Julius; he represents another rung I have yet to ascend.
"Did you ever think I was lying?" I ask, a subtle but unwavering conviction in my tone. "I have never lied about the time dedicated to this discipline. Even Reinhard and Crusch can confirm it."
Julius gazes at me intently as he summons all his spirits to further fortify his resolve.
He seems engrossed in some profound thought, while I can only pant, attempting to recover from the intense battle that preceded this moment.
I know my chances of victory are slim, but this battle is just a small chapter in my journey. I do not surrender easily.
"I apologize for doubting you," Julius responds with a voice filled with respect and determination. "Now, it is time to bring this to an end; Miss Anastasia must be waiting for me."
Julius imbues himself with Yang magic, using In as his primary tool, while the rest of his spirits concentrate in his hands.
A luminous flash begins to emanate from his palms, generating an intense heat that distorts the very shape of the surrounding air.
Despite knowing I have no chance against him, I assume a defensive posture, ready for any eventuality.
It's time to conclude this spectacle with style and grace.
"And I shall do it in grandeur! EL MURAK!" I exclaim vehemently, unleashing a shockwave from the very ground that lifts everything before me. The earth violently rises several meters into the sky, as if I were manipulating the winds themselves to achieve such a feat.
But this goes further...
Julius remains suspended in the air, powerless to stop it, as he is drawn upwards by the supernatural force generated by my spell.
By using Murak to reduce gravity's influence, I can exert an immensely powerful effect upon him.
Yet, that is not all; if I employ the same technique to drastically reduce atmospheric pressure within a rectangular area on the ground, I can achieve something even more astounding.
The surrounding air desperately attempts to rise due to the decreased pressure.
By diminishing the pressure to such an extent and combining this effect with a rapid upward air velocity, lifting the eighty kilograms that Julius should weigh becomes a tangible possibility.
Perhaps he realized it when he set foot on the ground, but it was already too late to react.
The scene appears as if taken from a surreal dream as Julius helplessly ascends several meters into the air.
His expression conveys a mixture of disbelief and resignation in the face of my masterful demonstration of control over the very laws of nature.
"But that's not all," I declare with determination, "I shall exert all my strength at this moment."
I dispel the spell, and Julius, devoid of any magical support, begins to plummet rapidly. His body trembles with an unsettling energy, but I find it impossible to discern exactly what he is plotting.
"I cannot defeat you right now," I confess with unflinching sincerity, "but I can surprise you before you do."
Just as his voice threatens to erupt into a deafening cry, I proceed with my action without hesitation:
"Fu vita!" In that fleeting moment, I create an area saturated with intense gravity that exerts an unrelenting pull on the surrounding air.
Julius is irrevocably ensnared by this gravitational force and descends rapidly towards the earth as if being drawn by a cosmic whirlwind.
BOOM!
The thunderous impact resonates in every fiber of the environment as his body violently collides with the ground.
The earth shatters under the force of the impact, and dense clouds of dust obscure my vision as a creeping dizziness gradually envelops me.
The excessive use of Yin magic has proven to be too much for me; I have not yet become accustomed to handling such powerful magics, but they are the best means of attack I possess.
The only thing that matters is their ultimate effectiveness against the adversary.
The crowd erupts in eager cheers, though this time their voices are filled with anticipation rather than jeers. Everyone longs to know the ultimate outcome of this battle to which they have been drawn as witnesses.
"Cease your machinations," I assert courageously, though my eyes can barely penetrate the dusty veil hanging in the air.
"I am well aware that you remain unscathed despite it all. " Any ordinary person would have succumbed to such a charge, but he is no ordinary individual, that much is evident to all in attendance.
Julius, imbued with complete mastery, murmurs, "Aro," unleashing powerful waves of wind that forcefully sweep through every corner of the area, dispersing the thick mist and revealing his upright figure, devoid of any trace of weakness.
However, this was not as simple as it may appear.
"Incredible!" exclaim numerous astonished onlookers as they witness Julius standing undisturbed within the vast crater formed by the initial impact's devastating explosion.
The ground has yielded beneath his feet, and fractures menacingly meander everywhere, bearing silent witness to the overwhelming extent of the received assault.
Julius directs his gaze towards the ground, momentarily immersed in profound contemplation before approaching me resolutely with an unyielding gleam in his determined eyes.
"I shall never surrender," I affirms with indomitable ferocity.
As Julius draws near, I attempt to launch a precise hook toward his face, but my strength betrays my intentions. A sharp pain pierces my heart, and my body burns with exhaustion accumulated from the constant use of diverse magics. Unable to summon Beatrice for assistance, I must push my physical limits even further.
The sensation differs from an excess of miasma, where recovery is slow and tedious. However, this is the sole recourse available to me at this moment.
"The fact that you refuse to surrender speaks volumes about your character," Julius expresses with a faint smile as he approaches me.
I look at him, pained, as I struggle to stay on my feet.
If I don't concede defeat, nothing can halt me. Something within me yearns to forge ahead; I know I must push myself to the limit to surpass it.
That's how I have grown throughout my life: only in extreme situations that demand the very best of me.
Nothing weakens you more than peace. Yet, peace brings happiness. Life is so incongruous.
Julius seizes an opportune moment and delivers a direct blow to my stomach. I try to block it with all my remaining strength, but to no avail. The impact penetrates unimpeded, and a searing wave floods my entire abdomen as I stagger back, attempting to regain control of my labored breathing.
I grasp his hand, preparing to use vita on him.
"Marco!" Beatrice cries with evident distress in her worried eyes, her urgent call briefly diverting my attention toward her.
There she stands, observing me from afar with a gaze brimming with concern and affection. In that moment, I realize I have veered off the path I wished to tread.
There are still aspects of myself that require enhancement and refinement.
Nevertheless, I harbor no frustration or vexation regarding this; on the contrary, I am content with all that I have achieved thus far.
The mere ability to face someone of Julius's caliber speaks volumes about my progress and personal development. This battle, even in its amicability, has enabled me to recognize the areas in which I can further grow.
And that is all I can do for now.
I offer a slight smile at this internal revelation as I turn my gaze back to Julius. "I concede," I declare with a determined smile, meeting Julius's gaze unwaveringly. "If I endanger myself, it will only bring him sorrow, and I cannot allow that."
Yes, there is no other choice.
Julius returns my smile, and it seems his attitude toward me has noticeably shifted after this battle.
Undoubtedly, he is an extraordinary individual; his immense strength sets him apart from the rest.
"The winner is Julius Juukulius!" the announcer proclaims with enthusiasm, inciting a deafening wave of cheers throughout the arena. Everyone appears swept up in the excitement of the bout, celebrating the victor with great fervor.