Blind confidence in his own strength led many to keep rushing forward even as blood turned the steps crimson, hoping against hope.
But slowly, as blood spread, the cold reality reminded everyone that the young man moving slowly ahead was utterly different from any other student Cold Crow Sword Master had taken in over the last few decades.
More cruel, and much more powerful.
Besides the first young man whose arm Roger had severed, all who challenged him afterward were decapitated.
Often, slaughter is the most straightforward and brutal solution.
To avoid facing endless challenges, one must demonstrate forcefully to everyone who the real prey is.
The figures that had previously appeared slowly retreated into the nearby bushes, and even if someone occasionally seemed eager to try, they'd lose their courage instantly under Roger's icy gaze.
And under that probing question that seemed to pierce directly to the heart.