The rocky amalgamation that had been vulnerable to Serena's strikes was now replaced by a formidable, armored warrior. His arms, once bearing the marks of Serena's precise slashes, were now sturdier and smoother rocks, reflecting a meticulous design that showcased both strength and resilience.
The intricate design continued onto his torso, where a massive piece of rock formed a protective chest plate. The rocky surface had undergone a transformation, resembling not a chaotic arrangement but a purposeful and refined armor. John's legs, too, had experienced the same metamorphosis, now appearing more solid and defined, contributing to his enhanced stability and mobility.
As John stood in the arena, the newfound strength emanating from his transformed golem form was palpable. The audience, initially unsure of his chances against Serena's agile swordplay, now witnessed a warrior ready for battle.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause at the spectacular display of transformation. The visual contrast between his initial rocky form and the current armoured golem left an indelible impression on the spectators.
Up until this point, John had been predominantly on the defensive, struggling to evade Serena's swift strikes. However, as he completed the transformation, a notable shift occurred not only in his defence but also in his agility. The smoother joints and enhanced movement allowed him to manoeuvre his rocky form more precisely, giving him newfound control over his offensive capabilities.
Now, instead of merely dodging and hurtling smaller stones in Serena's direction, John found himself capable of launching a true offensive. Although being in close proximity to Serena provided her with additional opportunities to counter-attack, it was a risk he was willing to take.
With a surge of determination, John propelled himself forward, closing the distance between him and Serena rapidly. The arena's atmosphere became charged with anticipation as the dynamics of the match underwent a significant transformation.
The arena crackled with energy as John surged forward with newfound agility. Serena, her katana drawn and the blade enveloped in an ethereal energy layer, braced herself for the impending clash. The audience leaned in, eager to witness the intense showdown between the two skilled combatants.
As John lunged forward with a powerful right hook, aiming to capitalize on his enhanced agility, Serena swiftly sidestepped the attack, the wind brushing against her as she elegantly evaded the rocky fist. Sensing an opening, Serena countered with a fluid motion, the energy-infused blade of her katana slashing through the air in a precise arc.
John, however, was quick to react, retracting his extended arm and leaning back to avoid the deadly swipe. His rocky form allowed for flexible and adaptive movements, and he responded with a swift retaliation – a left jab, which Serena narrowly evaded by leaning backwards. The exchange unfolded seamlessly, a dance of offence and defence in the confined space of the arena.
With each strike, Serena demonstrated incredible agility, her movements resembling a carefully choreographed routine. The energy blade of her katana gleamed in the arena lights as she executed precise slashes, attempting to find an opening in John's rocky defences. However, John's adaptive golem form absorbed the impacts, the rocky exterior absorbing and dispersing the force of each blow.
The intensity of the battle heightened as John, determined to press the offensive, initiated a series of rapid punches. Each rocky fist aimed at Serena with calculated precision, creating a barrage of attacks that forced her to continuously dodge and weave. Serena responded with acrobatic manoeuvres, gracefully sidestepping, ducking, and leaping to evade the relentless assault.
In a surprising twist, John altered his strategy, unleashing a powerful uppercut aimed directly at Serena. The energy-infused blade clashed against the rocky fist, creating a dazzling display of sparks and energy discharges. The collision sent shockwaves through the arena, eliciting gasps from the spectators.
As the clash reached its crescendo, both fighters momentarily disengaged, gauging each other's next move.
"How do you like my new look, Serena?" John grinned, his voice projecting confidence. "Think you can still win against this?"
Serena, undeterred by the formidable appearance of John's transformed golem, replied with determination, "I'll take my chances and continue to attack."
With swift movements, John dodged Serena's strikes and countered with massive punches that left impactful traces on the stadium floor. As he moved with newfound agility, Serena couldn't help but acknowledge the growth he had displayed.
"You've grown stronger, John," Serena remarked, a hint of admiration in her voice.
John, appreciating Serena's acknowledgement, replied, "Thanks. Now, give me your best shot. I won't accept anything less than your full strength."
Serena, narrowing her eyes, agreed to the challenge. "You asked for it."
The battle raged on, each exchange of blows resonating through the stadium. Amidst the intensity, Serena found a moment to ask, "What do you call this form, John?"
John, mid-punch, chuckled, "Well, it's the first time I'm using it against someone, but I'm thinking of calling it Armor Golem."
Serena laughed in the midst of the battle. "Typical you to name it something like that. It suits you, though."
The stadium was abuzz with excitement as John's intense battle with Serena unfolded on the stage. In the stands, Ahiro, Melvin, Emily, Sia, and the others watched with bated breath. The transformation in John's golem form had caught everyone off guard.
Ahiro, his eyes fixed on the arena, couldn't contain his amazement. "Did you guys see that? John's new golem form is incredible. I didn't expect this level of improvement."
Melvin, always analytical, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's like he's taken his golem ability to a whole new level. The refined structure and increased agility—it's like watching a completely different fighter."
Sia chimed in, her eyes glued to the battle. "But Serena isn't holding back either. Her energy blade attacks are as precise as ever. This is turning out to be a real clash of titans."
Emily, fascinated by the dynamics of the battle, added, "John's decision to go for a more compact form seems to have given him an edge. He's not just defensively strong but also more mobile. It's a smart move."
As the friends continued to discuss the match, the stadium erupted with cheers and gasps at each powerful exchange between John and Serena. The dazzling display of abilities kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
John's punch echoed through the arena, and Ahiro couldn't help but voice his excitement. "This is insane! I never thought John would become such a powerhouse."
John's punch met Serena's defence, creating shockwaves in the air. Emily grinned. "Serena isn't backing down either. She's holding her ground against those rocky punches."
Sia, always competitive, joined in. "Well, I hope John knows what he's doing. Serena is no pushover, and she's not one to be underestimated."
To which Melvin said "It's hard to predict who will win. John has the advantage in terms of raw power, but Serena's agility and precision might just give her the upper hand."
The friends exchanged speculative glances, their excitement palpable. Emily leaned forward. "I just hope they both give it their all. It's not every day we get to witness a match like this."