It was time for the final match. Sirius and Raiden faced each other, their gazes locked —Sirius's eyes cold, Raiden's indifferent. Despite their contrasting expressions, there was a shared intensity between them.
Teacher Julius stepped forward, calling out, "Alright, it's time for the final match. Are you two ready?"
Both boys glanced at him briefly before turning back to each other. There was a strange, unspoken understanding between them. Raiden broke the silence first, speaking in his usual flat tone. "Teacher, will you allow us to have a real battle?"
Julius frowned, confused. "What do you mean by that?"
This time, Sirius responded. "He means we want to raise the stakes. We'll use weapons and push our soul weaves to their limits."
"Injuries are most likely guaranteed," Raiden added, his tone as dull as ever.
