Kitasan Black laboriously raised her head and, her gaze still somewhat unfocused, looked once more toward the massive display board in the distance. She stared fixedly at her own name on the first row for several seconds, as if confirming that it was not an illusion.
Only then did she instinctively look around.
As far as her eyes could see, there were almost no opponents left who could still stand steadily.
One by one, the Horse Girls who had been fighting her to the death only moments ago were now sprawled gracelessly across the grass, gulping for air just like her. Some were so utterly spent that their breaths came in ragged gasps.
As if sensing her gaze, the Golden Figure nearby was the first to stir. Then, very slowly, she struggled to her feet.
California Spangle braced her hands on her knees, her chest still heaving violently as sweat continuously dripped from her chin.
She raised her head and looked at Kitasan Black. Grinning, she showed a smile that held extreme exhaustion, exhilaration, and unreserved admiration. Then, with difficulty, she raised a thumbs-up high in Kitasan Black's direction.
On the other side, Adayar also struggled to her feet. Her breathing was just as heavy, but her gaze swiftly regained that deep sea calmness, though complicated emotions now mingled within it.
There was the most direct acknowledgment of a Strong Individual, a trace of irrepressible regret, but more than anything, Fighting Spirit that had been thoroughly ignited and burned even fiercer.
She suddenly took a deep breath, adjusted her breathing, and started walking toward Kitasan Black.
As though they shared the same thought, California Spangle straightened up as well and dragged her exhausted body over with her.
Just as the atmosphere gradually shifted from a fight to the death into