"You don't actually need such a ward," Owen told Laubus.
"Let go of the cowardice in your heart. In real combat, no one cheers for you, nor do you need anyone to. Relying on Hajir, you'll never be able to exert your full strength because he's just a part of you."
"You're right, thank you." Laubus, utterly drained, walked off the arena.
Rose, witnessing the scene, chuckled and spoke to the air beside her, "Your doppelganger just said something quite philosophical."
"After all, he is part of me." Owen, invisible, laughed softly, adding, "But such a technique really does take a toll on oneself."
For the quarterfinals, Owen was scheduled for the last match.
The seven who had advanced were Skes, Moxis, Jolna, Elvan, Goden, Laine, and Hammer.
Their strength was indeed a notch above the rest.
It's worth noting that Moxis was injured in the hand by one of the masked knifemen during the match.
