Bab 315: A Request

"I don't get it...Aiko is definitely the better martial artist; she's much faster and unpredictable, right…?"

Iris commented as she reluctantly watched the duel between her two companions, keeping her hand close to her mouth. 

"It's pretty simple actually; this is just a difference in shear reinforcement--Macheo is the superior mage at the end of the day. He hits harder, and she can't take nearly as much punishment as him. This match was over the moment Macheo decides to indulge her. And...I wouldn't discredit Macheo...his technique hasn't failed yet." 

Letting out a heated breath, Valerie answered for Iris, though it wasn't pleasant to hear. 

Stay strong, Aiko! Iris thought. 

"...I think this is enough, Aiko."

Catching his breath, Macheo looked at the girl with eyes that weren't pleased with the actions he had to execute.