The spear shot forward.
The sound of tearing air rang out—
sharper than any clash between the iron and steel in the arena.
Moments before the spear was released, at the same time the raven had just arrived on Matruska's shoulder,
Lucas was driven back.
His body was forced half a step backward by Aldric's brutal slash— an attack with no elegant technique, only raw power, pressure, and murderous intent.
"Kh—!"
Lucas's breath caught.
His legs were barely able to support him anymore.
At the same moment Matruska had just received the report,
Lucas still forced himself to raise his Great Hoe.
He attacked with a reckless, wild swing.
I won't lose… I will win!!! he screamed in his head, trying to convince himself that he could still fight.
At the same moment Matruska glanced toward the Baron and Baroness for confirmation,
Aldric curled his lips into a thin grin.
"It's over," he muttered.
His sword gleamed.
He stepped forward, pressing in with another slash—
deeper.
