Homicide

The barrier surrounding the room disappeared. The healer took care of Alissa's wounds and helped her stand. He then turned to look at Erik.

"Well done. You are the winner," he said, shaking Erik's hand. "And as you know," he added, turning to the young woman, "he will claim your rank while you take his."

This benefited Erik, as he would advance to rank 3492 while she would drop to 3543. Though harsh, the system had proven effective over many years in fostering growth among participants.

"Yeah, I know..." Alissa said in a dejected tone.

"Good." Then a notification arrived on both students' phones.

—

ERIK ROMANO VS ALISSA KERR

WINNER OF THE MATCH: ERIK ROMANO

THE WINNER JUMPS TO RANK 3492; THE LOSER RECEDES TO RANK 3543.

—

Erik glanced at the notification with a satisfied expression, something the healer noticed.

"Remember, this is just the first fight. Things will become harder as you progress through the ranks."