While the forest around them roared with the noise of battle, two figures stood apart from the chaos. Raymond and Samuel faced each other in the middle of a clearing, calm yet alert, their focus locked only on one another.
Both had already earned more than enough points to qualify. But this wasn't about the exam anymore. It was personal. They wanted to see who was stronger.
Their weapons were drawn—Raymond's daggers shimmered with golden light, while Samuel's spear was wrapped in deep shadows, glowing faintly with a dark purple hue.
Their mana pulsed in the air, thick and steady, each waiting for the other to make the first move.
The rules of the entrance exam didn't allow the use of bloodlines, advanced techniques, or special weapon arts.
It was meant to keep things fair—to test only raw talent, combat sense, and elemental control.
Which was fine by them.
Raymond's eyes narrowed slightly, his grip firm.
