Aengus and Hugo stood face to face, their tall figures commanding the attention of the growing crowd.
"Inspector, is killing allowed?" Aengus asked, his deep, calm voice startling the audience.
The Inspector, an experienced overseer, raised his brows at the unusual question. His eyes flicked toward Hugo, who was holding a weapon, while Aengus remained unarmed.
"No, new student. No killing is allowed," the Inspector replied firmly. Then, turning to Hugo, he added, "And you should know better, Hugo. Throw that weapon. The Academy regulations strictly prohibit the use of weapons unless the other party consents."
"Fine..." Hugo muttered, tossing the sword to the side with annoyance. Despite this, he remained confident, believing that Aengus, at best, was only at the Beginner or Adept phase.
Hugo mirrored Aengus' unarmed stance, assuming a casual posture as if to mock his opponent.
The Inspector raised his hand. "Fight!"
