People often predict winners based on objective power, past records, and rising trends. However, there are intangible factors like mental strength, willpower, and experience that can greatly influence outcomes.
As a champion, I've come to realize that these non-numerical factors are crucial.
Mental strength keeps you from being swayed by the atmosphere, and strong willpower helps you find countermeasures even when things seem bleak.
Experience is perhaps the most important, as it often comes with age and maturity.
In the world of martial arts, being older can be a disadvantage, but it also brings valuable experience.
"Ugh...!"
The knight before me was inexperienced and had already lost his composure.
He swung his sword wildly, not considering his next move.
This was a waste of turns in combat, which is like a turn-based system.
"Damn it!"
He charged without thinking, and I dodged his attack, moving closer to him.
I landed a light uppercut on his jaw, and he stumbled backward.
The force of my punch was evident from the shock on his face.
"What...?"
He tried to defend himself with his wooden sword, but my kick was too fast.
The recruit was caught off guard, unable to counter my speed.
Fernando observed the fight, intrigued by my unconventional fighting style.
He noted that I was using martial arts instead of magic, which was unusual for a mage.
The white horse, still unchosen, watched the fight with interest.
The sparring match was a test of my abilities, and it seemed to have piqued Fernando's interest.
Philip's plan to humiliate me backfired, showcasing my unique skills.
The recruit was no match for me, and his attacks were easily dodged.
Fernando's eyes sparkled with understanding, recognizing that my approach was different from typical mages.
The white horse, still unchosen, seemed to be observing me with curiosity.
This encounter might have implications for my future interactions with Bahl's family.
As the fight ended, Philip's anger was evident, but Fernando intervened, emphasizing the importance of experience and learning from mistakes.
He encouraged the knights to gain more experience, as it was crucial for growth.
Suddenly, a commotion erupted from the stables.
A white horse, named Jinju, had broken free and was running wildly.
The horse was performing a ritual to attract a master, which was a unique behavior.
Fernando explained that Bahl's white horses choose their own masters, and this horse had finally chosen me.
The knights were shocked, as this went against tradition.
Philip was outraged, arguing that only Bahl knights should ride these horses.
Fernando remained firm, asking me to accept Jinju as my companion.
I agreed, and the horse seemed to acknowledge me.
Fernando's decision was met with resistance, but he stood by his word.
As I prepared to leave Bahl's estate, Philip's anger was still palpable.
I decided it was best to depart, given the tension.
With Jinju, I set off towards Prilda, feeling a sense of freedom and speed.
The horse was intelligent and responsive, moving as if it had autonomous navigation.
I felt exhilarated by the speed and control Jinju provided.
As we rode through the dark forest, the combination of the blue-eyed horse and the red-eyed mage seemed unusual yet harmonious.
This unlikely pair cut through the darkness, symbolizing an unexpected alliance between Bahl and Arahan.