Chapter 165: Duel End

I let go of my saber, the weapon clattering unceremoniously to the ground as I drop onto my behind, utterly exhausted. My entire body feels like it's been put through the wringer, every muscle aching from the relentless sparring. Despite the bruises and the fatigue, a sigh of contentment escapes my lips.

"This day was a lot of fun," I admit, looking up at Ayame with a tired smile.

She raises an eyebrow, clearly surprised by my reaction. "Fun? I thought you'd be beyond furious with me after all that."

I shake my head, still expending great effort to catch my breath. "I did kind of know that your retribution was coming after those comments I made earlier, but you definitely surprised me with that ridiculously condescending bandage get-up. That was… a bit much, even for you."