Chapter 50: Raj Collapsed
"Ladies and gentlemen!" the host’s voice rang out, amplified by the arena’s magic-bound acoustics. "It’s time for our third match of the day! A battle of strength versus finesse, power against precision! Raj Shekhawat versus Meera Gouri!"
The crowd roared, a wave of sound that shook the arena. Spectators leaned forward in their seats, eager to witness this much-anticipated clash.
Raj entered the arena first, his towering figure exuding calm and confidence. His movements were steady, deliberate, as though the earth itself supported his every step. He rolled his shoulders, flexing his muscles, and assumed his position, his face a mask of focus.
On the opposite side, Meera Gouri emerged with quiet grace. Her expression was serene, her sharp eyes scanning the arena as if it were a battlefield map. Her sword rested lightly in her hand, its edge glinting in the light. She seemed completely unbothered by the roaring crowd, her focus razor-sharp.
From the challengers’ waiting area, Aamir leaned forward, studying both fighters intently. "This will be fascinating," he said, his voice low. "Raj is a mountain of strength, but he’s no fool. And Meera—she’s a strategist to her core. A perfect match."
The referee raised his hand, signaling the fighters to take their positions. Raj settled into AnchorStance, his legs planted firmly like roots digging deep into the earth. Meera responded by activating Ethereal Step, her feet moving lightly as though she were skating on air.
Their auras began to radiate, the sheer force of their presence making the crowd hold its breath.
"Begin!"
Raj moved first, stomping the ground with Earthshaker Stomp. The ground quaked violently, a shockwave rippling toward Meera with destructive intent. But Meera was already airborne, her Ethereal Step carrying her above the tremor with effortless grace.
Raj didn’t hesitate. He surged forward with surprising speed, closing the gap in an instant. His fist, glowing with the force of Titan’s Slam, came crashing down.
Meera twisted mid-air, narrowly evading the blow. As she landed, her blade slashed in an arc, activating Wind Shear. The slicing force rushed toward Raj like a gale, but he planted himself firmly, using Anchor Stance to absorb the impact. The wind parted around him, harmlessly dissipating.