(Time Stilled World, Isolated Training Arena, Leo's POV)
The metallic scent of water and blood hung faintly in the air as Leo stood bound in the middle of the training arena, his wrists and ankles chained, while a thick blindfold remained wrapped tightly around his head.
The faint drip of condensation rolled down his forehead, only to be absorbed by the fabric of his blindfold, as he felt the dampness touch his skin.
*Pant*
*Pant*
His chest rose and fell unevenly, his breath rasping against the cold air that surrounded him now.
The numbing potion he had swallowed earlier still coursed through his veins, dulling every sense he relied on— sound, touch and smell until the world around him felt like nothing more than haze and vibration.
*Step*
*Step*
*Step*
Somewhere to his left, he felt the referee's presence approach as a faint brush of movement disturbed the air around him, however, he couldn't be certain someone was there until the referee touched his shoulder.
