Infinite Mage

Thanks to the spectacle of Neid and Sabina’s fight, even more people had gathered than the previous week. Many expected an even fiercer battle this time, especially since if Iruki lost, the third duel would be canceled.

Even the teachers, who had claimed no interest in "children’s fights," were awkwardly smiling and lingering around.

While Ethela, the referee, checked the rules, Shirone and Dante’s group waited on the sidelines.

Sabina’s expression was grim. The trauma from the beating she’d suffered in the forest still haunted her—no, it had only grown worse, tormenting her with nightmares every night.

As the match time approached, Closer warmed up. Performing stretches uncharacteristically complex for a mage, he loosened his muscles before jogging in place and glancing at Dante.

"I’ll finish this. No need for you to step in, right?"

In team battles, the first side to secure two wins would end the match. But Dante knew that as long as Olivia was involved, that wouldn’t happen.

"Even so, the duel won’t be canceled."

"Huh? Why not?"

"Our teacher wants Shirone crushed. He’s already applied for special observers from the faculty. The school won’t want this event canceled either."

"I see. So even if I win, you and Shirone will still fight?"

"But the stakes will be different. If we take two wins, we can humiliate Shirone even more. That’d be the best outcome."