Well, it's taking long. Let's finish it," Leonel said, his voice carrying a note of finality.
Hearing this, Liora knew what he meant. She readied herself, her eyes fixed on Leonel.
"Graythorn Sword Art: Second Form—Gale Shadow Strike!" Leonel declared.
This time, it was different. Liora could feel the threat from it. She steadied herself, gripping her sword with confidence. "Moonlit Elegance: Third Form—Snow Wheel!" she called out.
The arena was enveloped in a clash of wind, shadow, snow, and moonlight. The temperature plummeted, and the audience could feel the chill in the air. The two forces collided, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.
When the dust settled, Leonel was standing, and Liora was kneeling. She looked up at him, a mix of frustration and admiration in her eyes. "Monster," she muttered.
Leonel grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "How can you call me a monster in front of everyone?"
Liora was speechless for a moment, then thought, What the hell do you mean by that? Everyone knows you're such a monster!
The referee stepped forward. "The winner is... Leonel Graythorn!"
The crowd erupted in cheers as Leonel helped Liora to her feet. "Good fight, Liora," he said, his tone sincere.
Liora huffed. "Yeah, yeah. Just don't get too cocky."
Leonel chuckled. "Wouldn't dream of it."
Meanwhile, in a different arena, Thaddeus Graythorn faced off against Lucia Blackthorn. After being healed by the medics, Lucia was back to her normal self, but the situation was dire. She was competing against Thaddeus, and the fight had just begun. Unfortunately, it didn't last long; Thaddeus knocked her out with a single sword strike.
"You main family members are all monsters," Lucia grumbled, rubbing her head.
"Come on, don't call me a monster," Thaddeus chuckled.
"You didn't even use any sword art! How are you even cultivating? It's really impressive to be in the main family," Lucia said, exasperated. "And you're even more monstrous than your brother, Leonel."
Thaddeus grinned. "You really underestimate Leonel. That guy hides even more than you think. Even I can't see through what his power is."
Lucia was dumbfounded. "What am I? Where am I? Who am I?" she muttered, bewildered.
The referee announced the winner. "The winner is... Thaddeus Graythorn!"
The crowd roared with approval, their excitement palpable. The elders, too, looked forward to the final with keen interest.
In the waiting area, Leonel sat calmly, hearing the announcer's voice. Suddenly, he heard familiar footsteps.
"Well, well, look who's sitting here," said Thaddeus.
Leonel turned around and grinned. "You're still alive?"
Thaddeus's face darkened. "Of course, I'm alive, you idiot!"
"Oh, sorry. I thought you lost," Leonel replied innocently.
"How can I lose when my dear cousin is still here?" Thaddeus retorted, trying to keep a straight face.
At that moment, a voice interrupted their banter. "You two brats fighting before the finals?" Eamon Graythorn, Thaddeus's father, walked in, his presence commanding.
Leonel greeted him warmly. "Good evening, Uncle."
Eamon beamed. "Ah, it's my nephew Leonel! You've done incredibly well today."
Thaddeus's face twisted into a mock scowl. "Am I your son, father?"
Eamon laughed heartily. "Sorry, son. I got carried away by Leonel's performance. How could I forget you?"
Thaddeus grinned. "You better not forget, or I might start charging for lessons."
The room filled with laughter, the tension easing as they shared the moment. Eamon gave them both an encouraging smile. "Good luck to both of you. Give it your all."
"Ready for the final, cousin?"
Leonel looked up, a small smile on his lips. "Always."
Thaddeus chuckled. "Let's give them a show they won't forget."
Leonel nodded, his determination unwavering. "We will."
The referee announced, "The final will commence within an hour. Competitors, please be ready."
The arena buzzed with excitement as the final match was announced. "Leonel Graythorn vs. Thaddeus Graythorn!"
Both fighters stepped into the arena, the crowd roaring with anticipation.
"Finally, we meet here, cousin," Thaddeus said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Yes, we meet," Leonel replied calmly.
Thaddeus sighed dramatically. "Cousin, you're no fun. I expected some reaction from you."
Leonel suddenly threw his hands up, feigning shock. "Oh my! It's you, Thaddeus! I'm so surprised to meet you here!"
Veins popped on Thaddeus's forehead. "You really are..."
The crowd and elders burst into laughter, including Lady Seraphina and Eamon, who shared amused glances.
"Those two never change," Seraphina remarked, shaking her head with a smile.
Eamon nodded, chuckling. "Indeed, they're quite the pair."
Thaddeus's grin returned. "Let's start, cousin. Let's see how powerful you really are."
Leonel's eyes gleamed with determination. "Bring it on."
The two clashed their swords, the impact echoing across the arena. The crowd's cheers grew louder, knowing they were about to witness a battle for the ages.
As Leonel and Thaddeus prepared to clash, their swords gleamed under the arena lights. The intensity of their gazes spoke volumes about their determination.
Thaddeus smirked. "You know, Leonel, I've been waiting for this match for a long time. Finally, I get to see what you're really made of."
Leonel's expression remained calm, but a flicker of amusement danced in his eyes. "I hope you won't be disappointed, cousin."
With a swift motion, Thaddeus lunged forward, his sword aiming for Leonel's shoulder. Leonel parried the strike effortlessly, his movements smooth and calculated. The clash of their blades echoed through the arena, and the audience watched in awe.
"Is that all you've got?" Leonel teased, a playful grin on his face.
Thaddeus chuckled, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I'm just getting started."
They exchanged rapid strikes, their swords moving with incredible speed and precision. Each clash of their blades sent sparks flying, and the intensity of their duel captivated everyone watching.
As they continued to fight, Thaddeus couldn't resist throwing in some banter. "You know, Leonel, if you keep smiling like that, people might think you're enjoying this too much."
Leonel laughed, his eyes never leaving Thaddeus. "Maybe I am."
Thaddeus's grin widened. "Well, in that case, I guess I'll have to wipe that smile off your face."
Their playful banter added an element of light