Chapter 84: Village of the Blacksmiths
Ikazuchi's POV
Ikazuchi stood in his black tank top, his yellow hoodie tossed aside. The veins in his biceps pulsed like tiny thunderbolts waiting to strike. Across from his stood a black-haired man – broad-shouldered, smug-smiled, and equally drenched in sweat.
They were in the gym, surrounded by tension and testosterone.
This was one of Ikazuchi's task.
Beat Someone in Arm Wrestling.
Their elbows were planted firmly on the table, muscles taut like drawn bows. Palms clapped sharply in the centre, fingers locking in a grip that felt immovable. Around them, a crowd of gym-goers leaned in, eager to witness the match.
The table creaked under the pressure of their grip.
"You sure about this, boy?" the man grinned, flexing confidently.
Ikazuchi smirked. "Let's hope your wrist is stronger than your ego."
A gym staff member – acting as referee – stood between them, hands hovering over theirs.
The ref glanced at both competitors, gave a subtle nod, then shouted.