Elizabeth smiled, her frosty aura shimmering. "And you're as relentless as always, Clark. But I think we've tested our limits enough for today."
Clark nodded, lowering his VoidBlade. "Agreed. This was a good fight. We both have much to learn from each other."
Elizabeth retracted her Frost Wings, the icy blades dissolving into mist. "Until next time, Clark. Let's continue to push each other to new heights."
With mutual respect, they both sheathed their weapons, the private duel ending with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for future challenges.
"I'm glad we had this duel," Elizabeth admitted, her eyes meeting Clark's with sincerity. "It's always a pleasure to spar with someone who pushes me to my limits."
Clark nodded in agreement. "Likewise. It's good to have a rival who keeps me on my toes."
They shared a moment of quiet understanding, their shared passion for martial spirit cultivation bridging any gap that might have existed between them. In the world of cultivation, where strength and skill were paramount, friendships often blossomed through the crucible of combat.
"I look forward to our next duel," Clark said, breaking the silence with a grin.
Elizabeth's expression softened into a smile. "Me too. Until then, let's keep pushing each other forward."
With a nod of mutual respect, they turned and began to walk off the training field together, their martial spirits still humming with the remnants of their duel. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the field as they disappeared into the horizon, already strategizing and planning for their next encounter.
"Let's go back to our dorm"
Elizabeth nods.
__________________________________________________________
Dorm 7
Clark and Elizabeth walked side by side back to their dorm, the quiet of the night settling around them. The adrenaline from their duel still lingered, but exhaustion was starting to set in. As they entered the dorm, Clark stretched, feeling the strain of the fight in his muscles. "I think we both need a shower," he said with a grin.
Elizabeth nodded, her cheeks slightly flushed from the exertion. "Definitely. We don't want to smell like we just fought a battle."
Clark chuckled. "Agreed. I'll take the first bath."
He disappeared into the bathroom, leaving Elizabeth to prepare her clothes and relax on the couch. while Elizabeth sat on the couch, waiting her turn. She could hear the sound of the shower running and the occasional hum of a tune from Clark. She smiled to herself, appreciating the brief moment of calm after their intense duel.
A short while later, Clark emerged from the bathroom, a towel draped over his shoulders. His toned body, though still that of an eight-year-old, showed the early signs of the strength he would one day possess. Elizabeth glanced up and her cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink. She quickly averted her eyes, feeling a flutter in her chest.
"I'll be quick," she said, rushing past him into the bathroom.
Clark chuckled, amused by her reaction. He rummaged through their small kitchen area, deciding to make something simple yet hearty for dinner. As he gathered ingredients, he heard Elizabeth start the shower. The sound of water and the memory of their duel filled the small dormitory with a sense of familiarity and comfort.
A few minutes later, Elizabeth emerged from the bathroom, her hair damp and a fresh change of clothes on. She inhaled deeply, savoring the smell of the food Clark was cooking. "That smells amazing," she said, her stomach growling audibly.
Clark glanced over his shoulder, smiling. "I figured you might be hungry after our duel. I'm making us some stir-fried vegetables and rice."
Elizabeth took a seat at the small table, watching Clark move around the kitchen with surprising ease and skill. Despite their age, he seemed to have a knack for cooking. "I didn't know you could cook so well," she remarked.
Clark shrugged modestly. "I had to learn. Can't always rely on others to take care of us, right?"
As they ate, the warmth of the meal and the quiet atmosphere made the room feel cozy. Elizabeth savored each bite, appreciating Clark's efforts. "Thank you, Clark. This is really good."
Chapter Ends.