The mood in the research institute grew heavy after everyone heard Witch Macedon's words.
Witch Macedon said, "It doesn't matter. If Patrick fails to deliver, I'll make an exception and step in to put an end to Locke Augustine's victory."
"I'll go myself and clean up the mess."
A Star-Ring Wizard with the appearance of a middle-aged man spoke up, a thick cigar between his teeth. His wizard's coat resembled a military uniform and was pressed perfectly straight.
"What is there to fight over? Whether Patrick wins or Locke Augustine wins, will it raise the academic standards of anyone in this research institute?"
"If it changes nothing, then who wins or loses between them doesn't matter. Must we treat their duel as something so important?"
"Wizard Locke Augustine strikes me as an impressive man. I'd rather get to know him. I believe quite a few people here agree with me."
A number of wizards nodded instinctively.
Witch Macedon's lips curved. She looked at the speaker: Wizard Alexander of Winged Dragon Garden.
She met his gaze, then said, "Alexander, your refusal to fight shows great character, and I admire you for it. But that doesn't mean I'm wrong to fight."
"Gods fight for believers; wizards fight for their pride. I'm not fighting for myself. I'm fighting for the many wizards of Rain-Marsh. Just look at the expressions on some of the wizards here."
Alexander swept a disdainful glance around the room. "What about them?"
"They're beginning to doubt," Witch Macedon said. "They're wondering whether Rain-Marsh truly lags behind Cloud Marsh Wetland in Breeding Science. Otherwise, how could every wizard in the famous Swampfolk Club take part and still lose to a breeder from Cloud Marsh Wetland who never participated in Golden Crown Mountain's superproject? Once they begin to doubt, they'll hesitate