The Ice Warrior slowly sheathed the Ice Sword, stepped before Orlando, and held out his right hand.
Seeing this, Orlando extended his left hand and clasped it tightly.
Then, with a slight pull, the Ice Warrior hauled Orlando up from the ground.
"Karnus. That is my name," the Ice Warrior said, straightening his body.
Orlando placed his right hand over his chest and replied respectfully, "Lord Karnus, you may call me Orlando."
Upon hearing this, the Ice Warrior removed the Ice Sword from his waist and held it out before Orlando. "Orlando, warrior I acknowledge, please accept this weapon."
Orlando shook his head and firmly refused. "How could a defeated general accept a weapon bestowed by you?"
"Please accept it." The Ice Warrior's two crystal eyes fixed tightly on Orlando as he repeated himself.
After a brief stalemate, Orlando ultimately yielded. He offered his thanks and accepted the Ice Sword from the Ice Warrior with both hands.
"Orlando, you are very strong. My companions and I acknowledge your strength."
"Lord Iredis told us that you had to lose this battle."
"Then, Orlando, warrior I acknowledge, farewell."
After saying that, the Ice Warrior resolutely turned and left.
The Contract Channel quietly appeared, sending the eight Ice Warriors back to Element Space.
Velin came to Orlando's side, placed a hand on his shoulder, and said, "Go rest!"
"Master, I lost."
"So what if you lost? Aren't I still here?" Velin comforted him with a smile. "No one wins forever. What matters is that you do not lose confidence."
"Go get some proper rest. Leave the rest to me."
After saying that, Velin took out a bottle of Glowing Wine and stuffed it into Orlando's arms.
Seeing this, Orlando bowed, returned Anansi's Sword, then turned and slowly walked toward the resting area.
"Oterness,