At this moment, the midday sunlight filtered through the wooden windows and fell across the slightly dusty floor, spreading a dim golden glow.
A gust of wind swept through, rattling the venue's doors and producing a series of creaks.
Beside the beams on the left side of the venue was a somewhat worn-down practice area. It contained a large sparring platform that, after years of use, had grown rather dilapidated, pocked with dents and cracks bearing the weight of time.
Several Martial Artists stood atop the practice area, their imposing presences sharply opposed.
"Although we'll take this duel seriously, there's no need for me to bully you by crossing two tiers."
Cerveny pointed at Frei and spoke with righteous indignation.
As one of the top powerhouses among the third-years, no matter how much she wanted to win, she would never stoop to bullying a newly enrolled first-year student and disregarding martial ethics.
Then.
Cerveny beckoned, and a burly fighter behind her stepped forward, looking as though he couldn't wait to start beating Frei senseless.
"He's our vice minister, a Tier 5 second-year student. Let him teach you a lesson."
After saying that, Cerveny folded her arms and retreated beyond the dueling area.
In the silent open space, the light and shadows were dim and yellow, while the tense air rapidly churned.
The two Martial Artists facing each other had solemn expressions as they conducted their initial warm-ups and preparations.
Simple, slight hops produced faint sounds when they landed.
Their eyes were resolute, as though the entire world contained nothing but the opponent before them.
Observation was an important step in close-quarters combat.
Frei loosened his coat, casually twisting his neck and rolling his shoulders. He faced his opponent with confidence and composure.
Everyone else gradually retreated.
They made sure the