Jiro leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "So, what now? We came here to prove the Akaru Clan's strength, but we're up against people who have controlled everything for years."
Yokudo, despite his injuries, smirked. "So what? I lost, yeah. But I made that noble sweat. That means something."
Rajiv nodded. "It means they're not invincible."
Anil scoffed. "Not invincible, but damn close. Callum's skill was on another level. And don't forget—he's not the only noble in this tournament."
The room fell silent.
Rajiv set his sword down. "Then we get stronger." His voice was steady, determined. "This fight isn't over. If we want to take them down, we need to learn everything we can about the nobles, their strengths, their weaknesses."
Jiro exhaled. "You're talking about infiltration."
Rajiv met his gaze. "Exactly."
For the first time since the competition started, they weren't just fighters. They were strategists.
The next phase of their mission had begun.