The masked swordsman adjusted his stance, wrapping both gloved hands firmly around the hilt of his blade. The residual mana radiating from his steel spiked, heavy and suffocating, as he lowered his center of gravity.
"Your arrogance ends here," the swordsman declared, his voice cutting through the tension like cold iron.
Lexel didn't flinch. He casually raised his chin, tossing back his auburn hair as a wolfish, unbothered grin spread across his face.
"Many have claimed to be able to teach me a lesson in humility," Lexel replied, his tone dripping with effortless swagger. "But so far? Only my masters and my family are capable of doing so."
The masked man froze, his blade wavering for the briefest fraction of a second.
"Your... master?" the swordsman echoed, the deep suspicion in his voice palpable.
The quiet tension shattered instantly as the arena erupted once again. Whispers, roars, and wild theories rippled through the audience like wildfire.
