Shattered Innocence: Transmigrated Into a Novel as an Extra

Chapter 223: The Beastkin (4)

The boy crouched low, his claws flexed and ready, his breaths coming in steady, focused draws. He met the gaze of the pink-haired knight before him—this Valeria—and felt an unexpected stillness in the air.

Her stance was solid, that big sword gleaming with mana, yet her expression was unreadable. He

Their attacks met in a burst of energy, the force of their clash sending a shockwave rippling across the arena. The boy felt his body shudder as her blade cleaved through his defenses, the impact overwhelming him, his own strength faltering against her refined skill.

He staggered back, his vision blurring as the energy within him began to wane, his transformation receding. His body trembled, exhaustion seeping into his bones, his breath ragged as he struggled to stay on his feet.

Valeria lowered her sword, her gaze softening as she looked at him. There was no triumph in her eyes, no trace of cruelty—only a calm understanding, a quiet respect.

The boy swayed, his body heavy, his strength spent. He looked at her one last time, his fierce gaze dimming, and in that moment, he understood.

He had given everything, and still, it hadn't been enough. But for the first time, he felt a strange sense of peace, as though he had fought with everything he was, and that… was enough.

With a quiet sigh, he collapsed to his knees, his gaze lingering on her as the world faded around him.