Grace stood a short distance away, her golden eyes shining with confidence as she planted her feet firmly.
"Are you ready, Jake?!" she shouted, her voice filled with eager determination.
Jake drew his sword in one smooth motion.
He gave it a few light swings through the air, feeling the familiar weight settle into his grip, then smiled at her enthusiasm.
"Whoever gets real damage hit first loses, okay!"
From the side of the training ground, Vivian watched the two of them with a faint, amused smile.
After a brief moment, she raised her hand and gave a clear signal.
"Begin!"
The moment Vivian's signal rang out, Jake's figure exploded forward.
BOOM!
His enhanced speed kicked in instantly as he closed the distance in a blur, sword angled low and ready to strike.
But Grace remained calm.
With a smooth motion, she pulled out her rifle and raised it in one fluid movement.
A soft golden light gathered at the tip of the barrel as she aimed directly at the charging Jake.
