Kevin and Ray stood resolute, their unwavering fighting spirit on full display. Yet, in the realm of combat, sheer determination alone does not guarantee victory. External factors such as experience, environment, and timing also play pivotal roles in determining the outcome.
The question arises: Does time truly determine the winner and loser? The answer is not so simple. It could be measured in hours, minutes, or even seconds—the smallest units of time that can make or break a battle.
Returning to the duel between Ray and Kevin, Ray had emerged victorious against his fellow soldiers, but Kevin remained his esteemed trainer. It was akin to a young cub challenging a powerful lion for dominance. The outcome seemed inevitable, given their disparate strengths.
This time, it was Kevin who initiated the attack. Both combatants assumed stances designed to strike the body and cleave it in two. Kevin closed the distance with a strike, utilizing a mere fraction of his power without the assistance of mana, relying solely on his honed skills.
Ray, quick to react, didn't block the attack, but instead evaded it with agility and grace. Seizing the opening, he launched a counterattack from the bottom up, executing a controlled strike poised to adapt to any situation.
Unleashing 50% of his power, Ray aimed to cleave Kevin's body in half. Yet, to his astonishment, he found himself faced with emptiness—no blood, no body, no evidence of his strike. Kevin had vanished, seizing the opportunity to launch an ambush from an unexpected angle.
Rapidly assessing the situation, Ray adjusted his grip on the sword, preparing to fend off an attack from any direction. But what if Kevin struck from behind?
Unbeknownst to Ray, his instincts guided him to assume an unfamiliar stance reminiscent of a legendary swordsman he had seen in his memories. Crouching with his face lowered, he wielded his sheath as a makeshift blade, stopping it a mere inch away from Kevin's neck.
The entire sequence unfolded within a matter of seconds, leaving Kevin astonished at Ray's ingenuity and resourcefulness.
In the midst of their banter, Kevin conceded with a mix of surprise and admiration, "You never fail to astonish me, Ray."
Ray responded with a confident, even cocky, smile. "It's all part of my charm, Kevin. Just make sure not to fall for me. I prefer the company of the opposite gender."
Kevin chuckled, playfully tapping Ray's head with a karate chop. Decreeing the duel a draw, he promised that their rivalry would continue once Ray reached his level of skill.
Ray's resolve grew stronger as he declared, "Next time, it won't be so easy. I will defeat you without leaving a single scratch."
Having secured his victory, Ray wasted no time in claiming his owed favor from Kevin, their friendly banter a testament to their growing camaraderie.
Kevin smirked, acknowledging Ray's ambition. "Oh, I see. You want me to be indebted to you. It's a draw, and yet you couldn't even manage to scratch me."
Ray quoted a popular saying, his voice laced with determination, "You know what they say: 'Give an inch, and next thing you know, they'll want your life.'"
Kevin nodded approvingly, recognizing Ray's growing wisdom. "Good, good. It seems you've become more than just a muscle head, Ray."
A bulge formed on Ray's forehead in response to the playful remark, but he accepted it in good spirits.
With their duel concluded, Kevin offered his final instruction. "Now, go. The Marquis wishes to see you in his chamber."
Ray nodded, bidding farewell to Kevin and setting off toward the Marquis' chamber, his heart brimming with anticipation for the next chapter of his journey.