A Contest Also Tests the Heart

"Magnificent!"

Applause rang out from the Airship above.

Corva clapped from up there. He did not seem the least bit distressed by his partner's miserable state; his face was full of excitement.

In truth, he had nothing to worry about. It was clear Chen Chuan had held back at the end. Such minor injuries would recover in minutes.

That was indeed the case. After only a short wait, the bruised swelling on Scarlson's face rapidly subsided, and his shattered teeth grew back. He then rose to his feet again, while the damp patches on his body were quickly evaporated by his scorching body heat.

He stood silently for a moment before saying, "Director Chen, since I lost, I will honor my promise. What is it that you want?"

Chen Chuan said, "Mr. Scarlson, what weapon are you most skilled with?"

Scarlson said, "My pair of gauntlets."

Chen Chuan said, "Those, then."

Scarlson nodded solemnly. He instinctively raised a hand to tap his World Token, but all he touched was the smashed pendant. He tore it off and shouted upward, "Corva, give me a hand."

Corva indicated that he understood. "Third crate from the top, right?"

"Yes, the green one. Don't get it wrong."

Corva made an acknowledging gesture and turned to leave. After a while, he returned carrying a pair of gauntlets. He waved them at the people below, then tossed them down.

Scarlson caught them in one hand. After taking a look, he threw them toward Chen Chuan.

"These were a gift from my teacher when I became a Fighter. They have been with me for nearly twenty years. Now, they are yours."

Chen Chuan caught them. "Mr. Scarlson, thank you."

Scarlson said in a deep voice, "They are spoils you earned."

He felt some regret. He had failed