Temporary 1st Place
Exhaustion had finally claimed its due. Noah, his body a tapestry of aches and his mana reserves depleted, collapsed onto the scorched grass. Sleep, heavy and dreamless, descended upon him. He slept for what felt like an eternity, the silence broken only by the rustle of wind through the tall grass.
When he finally stirred awake, the sun was high in the sky. He sat up slowly, wincing at the sharp pain that bloomed in his side, a lingering reminder of the brutal fight. Taking a deep breath, he surveyed the aftermath of the battle.
The once pristine clearing was now a scene of devastation. Craters marred the ground, testament to the raw power unleashed.
Aiden was strong and Noah feel a new found respect for him.