Not the Hero, Not the Villain — Just the One Who Wins

Cecilia Thorne, Princess of the Galat Empire, stepped forward.

"Hold on, you two. I’m curious... how did he do it? Is he bluffing?" she asked, genuine curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Please, just wait."

Nyx and Rin reluctantly lowered their weapons, watching me with caution.

Cecilia continued, "Now tell us, Ashen. How did you really reach here? Even if you used tricks... I’m all ears."

I smirked. "Fine."

"The Whitehounds — I beat them both. Took them head-on. First, I took down Eren fair and square. Loona? I was about to finish her too, but someone else swooped in and stole the elimination."

I pointed upward. "Seraphina. She was hiding in a tree, waiting for your battle to end. Planning to backstab the last one standing. I don’t like cowards."

[System: Hero... aren’t you going too far?]

I ignored the message and went on.

"She was strong, no doubt. Managed to land a few hits. But I overwhelmed her. She got eliminated, fair. Then came Liora—ambushed me, completely emotional. Like a virtual divorce drama when a wife catches her husband cheating."

I laughed bitterly.