Justin had drawn upon his earth affinity and solidified the ground around him, creating a protective barrier beneath him that extended five meters in every direction. The rich, brown earth transformed into a sturdy, compact surface. However, he knew this temporary measure wouldn't hold against Tristan's red stalk for long—it was an insidious threat that lay hidden beneath the surface, waiting to strike. But he didn't need it to be permanent; he had a plan.
This solidified earth was more than just a protective barrier; it was his warning signal! Just as he predicted, Justin felt the pulse of the ground beneath him, attuned to the slightest vibrations. The blood-red stalk would have to shatter the solid earth to reach him. If it wanted to bypass the obstruction, it needed to emerge 5 meters away from him. By then he would be adequately prepared to defend against it.
