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"Hahaha," Rowan laughed out loud, his voice ringing with genuine amusement. "You really fooled us all, Junior."

Everyone blinked in surprise, the tension in the atmosphere easing slightly. Rowan extended his hand, his smile sincere and dazzling.

"Congratulations on your victory," Rowan said warmly, his eyes shining with awe and intrigue. "You and your team did an incredible job. You truly earned this win."

Adrian stared at the extended hand for a moment, then slowly reached out and clasped it. The arena erupted in cheers, the crowd's admiration for both teams clear.

"You were amazing too," Adrian replied, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "I thought I was done for several times."

Adrian didn't lie, if Rowan hadn't controlled the power of his last move, he would have really been gone. Well, the instructor would have probably intervened, but it would result in their defeat.

"I was wondering why Aria stepped down from being the leader," Rowan said looking at Aria who was the only one among the five that wasn't surprised by his change. "Now I know the answer."

"Well, since the match ended, we'll take our leave."

Adrian and his team watched as Rowan and his group began to leave the arena, their expressions a mix of caution and exhaustion. The tension that had gripped the battlefield moments ago had dissipated, replaced by a sense of mutual admiration.

Rowan turned back once more, his eyes meeting Adrian's. "I look forward to our next encounter," he said, his voice steady and sincere. "Until then, take care."

"You too," Adrian replied, nodding. "We'll be ready."

Rowan's team exited the arena, leaving Adrian and his friends to catch their breath. Instructor Darius approached, his calm demeanor unchanged.

Darius said, his gaze sweeping over Adrian and his team. "Do you wish to continue?"

Adrian, still breathing heavily and feeling the weight of his injuries, shook his head. "No, Instructor. I think we're done for today."

Darius nodded approvingly.

With that, Adrian and his team exited the battlefield, the cheers of the crowd still ringing in their ears.

"Good job, you made us all proud." Instructor Valerie said proudly, her eyes shining brightly. She still couldn't believe her students had won, against the famous Grey Serpent, the second strongest second year and his team.

But the proof was right in front of her eyes.

"You guys were awesome."

"Yeah! I didn't know Aria knew swordsmanship as well!"

"Did you see how Adrian fought with Senior Rowan? They were nearly equal!"

"Yeah!"

Their classmates were all gathered around them, their faces alight with excitement and admiration. Adrian's team basked in the praise, the exhaustion from the battle momentarily forgotten and replaced by this one.

Adrian held the urge to tell them to shut up. He knew they were probably feeling excited after all those losing matches.

"Now everyone, take your seats. They are tired and need to rest. Some of them need healing as well," Instructor Valerie said, stepping in to disperse the crowd. Her authoritative tone left no room for argument, and the students reluctantly began to move back to their places.

"Student Aurelius." She then faced Aurelius and his group. "It's your turn now. Do your best. Remember to be careful."

Aurelius exchanged a nod with Adrian who was taking his seat and turned toward her. "Yes, instructor, we will do our best."

With that, they headed to the stage, gaining the spectator's attention.

On the other side, Rowan took his seat with his other teammates whose heads were down. Instructor Merel briefly glanced at him and her niece Reine, her expression unreadable. But she didn't do or say anything.

"Guess you are gonna wash our shame." Rowan smiled looking at Ceil who was preparing to move.

Ceil stopped and turned toward him. "I wanted to fight with them but you took my chance. And as I thought, they were really something. And... I have a feeling the other team won't be that easy as well. So, I can't guarantee it."

"What? Is our confident battle queen losing confidence?" Rowan teased Ceil his brows furrowing.

Ceil turned her gaze back to Rowan, her eyes narrowing slightly. "It's not about losing confidence," she said, her voice calm but firm. "It's about recognizing worthy opponents. And from what I saw, that boy you l.o.s.t and his team have set a new standard. The next team will be trying to prove themselves, and that makes them more dangerous."

Rowan nodded, understanding her perspective. "You're right," he admitted, his smile fading into a thoughtful expression. "Underestimating them would be a mistake. We are the proof of it. But I have faith in you, Ceil. Show them what the battle queen is truly capable of."

Ceil gave a small smile, appreciating the vote of confidence. "I intend to."

As Ceil and her team headed to the stage, the crowd's excitement grew palpable. They were eager to see what the next match would bring, especially after the intense battle they had just witnessed.

Meanwhile, Adrian and his team finally took their seats, the adrenaline slowly leaving their bodies. They could feel the aches and pains from their injuries settling in, but the sense of accomplishment was undeniable.

Aria leaned over to Adrian, her voice low. "Shouldn't you get healed first?" Her eyes landed on the injuries Adrian received in the battle just now. Though they weren't severe like last time, they were still injuries. "I will take you to the infirmary, let's go."

Adrian was startled by her sudden actions. 'T-Too close...'

Hearing her voice so close, Adrian felt his cheeks flush slightly. "I'm fine, Aria," he said, trying to keep his composure. "Let's go after watching their fight."

"Why, are you worried about your sister?" Aria asked slowly distancing herself.

"No," Adrian muttered.

'It's because the Main Cast has taken the stage. And...'

"...I just don't wanna miss it."