Michael was ridiculously strong.
Juliana had known this.
She had seen him fight during the Massacre. She herself had fought him during the Entrance Exam. She had heard of what he did to Samael and his gang back on the final day of high school.
Not only was he blessed with a battle IQ that nearly rivaled Samael's own, he was also naturally versed in hand-to-hand combat and swordsmanship.
Yes, it was clear he had learned a thing or two from somewhere — or someone — but his inborn talent was undeniable.
Talent…
That was a word Juliana had a very close relationship with.
She was not modest enough to pretend she wasn't talented.
She was.
She was talented. That was also undeniable.
Aside from perhaps two or three Cadets back at the Academy, no one her age could best her in swordplay.
She also knew she was highly intelligent, and just crazy enough to use whatever tactic necessary in order to win.
…But was that enough? Was her talent enough here?
