"Is that really all you've got?" the boy with dark green hair sneered, his piercing gaze locking onto the kneeling figure before him. The other boy's face twisted with frustration—his broken sword lay in shards on the floor, its blade cracked and chipped.
A hush fell over the training hall, and everyone was stunned by the intensity of the confrontation. Whispers rippled through the crowd, captivated by the fierce scene unfolding before them.
"How did I lose?" the boy with the broken sword whispered, his voice trembling with shock and shame.
The green-haired boy turned, a cold smirk curling on his lips, and began to walk away. "Give it a few more years," he called over his shoulder. "Then maybe you'll stand a chance."
Sunlight streamed down the corridor, illuminating his every step. His silver hair shimmered in the glow, catching the light as his brown-gloved hands reflected brilliance. His sleek black suit emphasized his confident, commanding stride.
KIRU, you're nothing but a commoner," the boy spat, eyes blazing with contempt.
Kiru straightened, meeting the other boy's fiery gaze. "That may be true, but if that makes me bad, then I guess you're worse."
The tension thickened, and silence descended on the arena as everyone was stunned by the ferocity of the clash.
The noble turned away slowly, head bowed low as he exited the arena.
"Well, that should stop him from bothering you again," he said softly to a smaller, frail-looking boy.
"Thank you for stepping in," the boy replied, gratitude and fear flickering across his face.
Kiru looked away thoughtfully. "What did you say you can do again? I have a terrible memory."
A small smile touched the boy's lips. "I can use spatial magic, but I'm not very proficient yet." He looked down, shoulders slumped. "That's why the other nobles always pick on me—they know I'm weak and can't fight back."
"Well, then we'll work on improving your skills until you're on par with the others," Kiru said seriously, a stern look settling on his face. He hesitated before asking, "Uh, what was your name again?" He chuckled awkwardly.
"My name is Nale. It's a pleasure to meet you properly," the boy said with a warm smile. "And thank you again for today—despite just arriving, you were willing to fight for me." He looked down, beginning to tear up.
Kiru noticed the sorrowful air. "Honestly, I hate when the strong pick on the weak, so I just thought I gotta help you." He smiled at Nale wholeheartedly. "Let's go to the cafeteria—I'm starving, man."