Chapter 165: Duel End

I let go of my saber with 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 as each and every single muscle of mine aches from the relentless sparring. Despite the bruises and the fatigue, a sigh of contentment escapes my lips.

"This day was kinda 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."