His thoughts flickered back to earlier days, when Arthur's support for Nnenna had been hesitant, almost reluctant. Back then, he had only stepped in because of his connection to Somto and Carl.
But now… that was clearly changing.
Good.
The judges paused, Arthur's words hanging in the air like a blade.
Indeed… such a rule existed.
It was in the handbook, plain as day, yet the referee had let it slip from his mind in his rush to please Stephanie. And now, under Arthur's icy gaze, that oversight felt all the more embarrassing.
"A thirty minute break is to be given," the referee announced stiffly, his tone subdued. "Student Nnenna, would you like to accept? It is, after all, the student's choice whether to rest or proceed."
Nnenna wasn't foolish. She could feel the strain in her body, her stamina drained from the match with Nicholas. Facing Stephanie without recovery would be suicide.
"Yes, I accept," she said firmly, her voice steady despite her injuries.
