Noa now understood why the black armor looked so detailed and flawless when she entered the arena—it wasn’t just any prop. The real deal was here.  

Though she had no idea why her father had infiltrated the exam, now that he was here, Noa wouldn’t let such an opportunity slip away.  

From the earlier exchanges, it was clear her dad wasn’t holding back too much. He was far more serious now than during their playful games back in Sky City, like the final round of the bell-grabbing challenge in their werewolf party game.  

This was her chance—a long-awaited moment to spar with her father for real. She had been waiting for this day for what felt like forever.  

Noa understood she wasn’t yet at her father’s level, but how could she know her limits without testing herself against a true master?  

---

“Well done. Quick adjustments mid-fight, clever and versatile,” one instructor commented.