Sword God in a World of Magic

Contestant 12 never stood a chance.     

After contestant 12's Mana Shield was deactivated, he only looked at the ground with an expression of melancholy and acceptance.     

"It was a good fight," contestant 31 said.     

Contestant 12 didn't immediately answer. "You know, I've never been truly talented."     

Silence.     

"I've taken it easy during my earliest years. I couldn't imagine dedicating so much of my time to becoming more powerful as the truly outstanding people on my level."     

"I never gave it my all."     

"And then, my wife was killed by a beast that had been just a bit more powerful than me."     

"If I had just put in a bit more effort, I could have protected her."     

Contestant 12 sighed again.     

"That's when I actually started trying, you know?" he said as he looked at contestant 31.