The battle between Aihenhart and Leona, which unfolded after the embarrassment of their earlier exchange, was intense and captivating. The largest magical display overhead broadcasted their duel, and the audience, especially those from Laila Academy, watched with bated breath.

Even though Leona had to limit her power, the fact that their academy’s top student was holding her own against the Hero of Light was a matter of immense pride for the Laila Academy students.

“Haaaap!” Aihenhart’s shout echoed as her rapier flashed multiple times, each strike deflected by Leona’s holy sword. The force of the deflected blows left craters in the ground, each large enough to fit a person.

As their exchange continued, the pace quickened, and the mana radiating from their blades became so intense it looked like rivers of light. The audience gasped in awe. Despite her earlier defeat by a mere flick to the forehead, Aihenhart clearly possessed remarkable skill.

Leona suddenly dodged to the side, sensing something. A small hole appeared in the rock behind her, which promptly exploded, reducing the boulder to dust.

Aihenhart lowered her rapier slightly, an expression of admiration crossing her face. "You truly are the Hero. If you weren’t limiting your power, I would have been defeated long ago."@@novelbin@@

"Uh… thanks for the compliment?" Leona replied, though she seemed a bit unsure.

"I would love to ask for your guidance, even briefly, but this is the battlefield. Unfortunately, one of us must fall today. The time of destiny approaches."

Isn’t it embarrassing to say things like that out loud?

Leona’s awkward smile suggested she shared my sentiments, but everyone else seemed genuinely inspired by Aihenhart’s words.

Given her status as the next head of the Renitus Duchy, it was no wonder she drew such admiration. Especially when she was holding her own against the Hero.

"And so, I’ll put everything on the line," Aihenhart declared, raising her rapier in front of her chest. A tremendous amount of mana flowed from her body, concentrating in the blade.

Leona’s smile faded, and her holy sword began to glow with a light as brilliant as molten sunlight. She was preparing to take this seriously.

Aihenhart, recognizing Leona’s intent, nodded slightly. "I appreciate that you’re taking me seriously, Hero."

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