Chapter 54: Tournament (4)
’This Crusher fellow’s stance is clear,’ Jess reasoned. ’Even without an advantage over his opponent, he’s confident he’ll come out on top.’
The beastkin’s confidence reminded her of a certain someone. ’Haa... I sure hope he isn’t dead.’ She could only hope, though reason told her otherwise.
Putting that thought aside, she focused on the arena as Elyndra solved the puzzle in record time. When it was announced that she was the winner, it came as no surprise to Elyndra.
What did cause her to raise her brows slightly, however, was what the host said about Crusher.
’I should have expected as much.’ Elyndra didn’t dwell on the issue as she waved her staff around, preparing for the real challenge.
"Now that that nonsense is out of the way, let’s see just how much your advantage will help you," Crusher said, unfolding his arms and lowering himself into a combat stance.
His fingers extended into sharp claws, and his muscles bulged slightly. His mana was blocked, but it didn’t matter—his raw power came from his body, and nothing could take that away.
"Your arrogance will be your downfall," Elyndra finally spoke, her voice calm but cutting. The environment shifted into a freezing tundra, the cold biting and relentless. "Let’s see how you fare against extreme cold."
Their feet sank into the snow, the icy layer reaching just above their ankles. Elyndra remained unfazed, her element now surrounding her. Her staff glowed brightly as she channelled her mana, a spell ready at her fingertips.
As soon as the host gave the order to begin, Crusher wasted no time. He bolted toward the elf, a savage grin plastered across his face.
In a split second, the beastman appeared before Elyndra, his spine-chilling claws glistening in the sunlight as he swiped at her with his right hand.