A loud noise echoed through the arena as the ice user conjured a massive wall to shield the beast from the mage's follow-up attack. Jason raised an eyebrow, impressed. That was surprising. I didn't think his range extended that far.
I nodded. Yeah, I read up on him. Apparently, he comes from a family where both his parents had ice abilities. They guessed he'd inherit the same abilities, so they started training him from an early age to become one with the ice. At least, that's what I found online—it might not be true, plus they are actually big shots, like super rich millionaires.
The Frost Fang duo retreated to their corner while the Grim Reapers mirrored their actions. As the ice user whispered something to the beast, I tried to focus on their body language, but I couldn't make out what was being said. However, there was a noticeable glint in the ice user's eyes, sharp and determined.
Years of studying psychology—one of the few things I'd worked hard at—allowed me to read subtle cues in people. That glint told me something significant. I pulled Jason closer. This match is already over, I said quietly.
Jason frowned. What are you talking about? They haven't even finished yet.
I shook my head. The ice guy has already won. He's hiding a lot of his strength, but I'm certain he's far more powerful than he's letting on. If I had to guess, he'll make it all the way to the finals.
Jason's expression turned serious. If you're that confident, then we need to prepare ourselves. I trust your instincts.
The two teams returned to the battlefield, their strategies undoubtedly adjusted after the brief break. The energy in the arena shifted, tension mounting as the fighters prepared to give it their all once again.
And then, the fight resumed.
As the fighters squared off again, the ice user took the lead, his stance exuding newfound confidence. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a cluster of sharp icicles, sending them hurtling toward the skeleton. The Summoner, unfazed commanded his undead to charge through the icy barrage.
But this time, the beast wasn't idle. He darted forward with incredible speed, his claws out as he targeted the mage directly. The dark mage smirked, once again dissolving into shadows, but the beast was ready. Anticipating the move, he spun mid-air, slashing behind him as the mage reappeared. The blow connected, drawing a pained grunt from the mage as black flames flickered weakly in his hands.
Switching targets won't save you, the Summoner growled, sending the skeleton after the beast. However, the ice user had anticipated this. Slamming his palms into the ground, he created a frozen field beneath the skeleton, its movements slowing as ice crept up its legs. With the skeleton immobilized, he formed a massive ice hammer and smashed it into the undead warrior, shattering it into pieces.
The crowd erupted in cheers, but the Summoner wasn't finished. Chanting under his breath, he summoned another creature—this time, a hulking zombie dripping with venom. The Summoner grinned triumphantly. You think you've won already? Let's see how you handle this!
The ice user's eyes narrowed. He didn't respond with words but instead conjured a swirling storm of frost that engulfed the zombie. As the creature swung its toxic claws, the ice storm grew denser, freezing the air itself. Within seconds, the zombie was frozen solid, Like a popsicle.
While the ice user kept the zombie contained, the beast unleashed his fury on the dark mage. Claw strikes and punches flew, and though the mage tried to evade and counter, his shadows were no match for the beast's relentless assault. Finally, with a devastating uppercut, the beast sent the mage flying across the arena, where he collapsed unconscious.
The Summoner, now alone, glared at his opponents. His confidence wavered as the ice user stepped forward, frost swirling around him like a blizzard personified. It's over, the ice user said, his voice cold and sharp.
The Summoner hesitated for a moment before raising his hands in surrender. The barrier deactivated, and the announcer's voice boomed over the roaring crowd: "And the winners are... Frost Fang!"
I looked at Jason and said, "I told you he would win. And the scariest part? Even after that display, he's still holding back. We need to be more wary of him than anyone else in this competition."
Jason nodded, his eyes narrowing. Yeah, I see what you mean. His control is insane—he made that look effortless. If we end up facing him, we'll have to come up with a strategy that doesn't rely on brute force.
As we talked, a roar erupted from the crowd. Some were cheering wildly, shouting Frost Fang's name, while others booed in frustration. The betting crowd was especially vocal, and I overheard snippets of their complaints.
"I lost five hundred credits on those Reapers!" someone groaned.
"You should've known that ice guy was the real deal!" another argued.
Jason smirked. Looks like some people underestimated him too.
I glanced back at the arena, where the ice user and the beast were walking off, both looking calm and composed. As the announcer hyped up the next match, I couldn't help but wonder what their limit was, and whether we'd be the ones to find it.
Jason interrupted my thoughts. So, what's the plan if we face them?
I crossed my arms, deep in thought. I don't have one yet, but I'll figure something out. The beast is strong but predictable. It's the ice user who's the real problem. His control and range give him too many options.
Jason nodded, his tone unusually serious. Then we'll focus on exploiting their weaknesses. No one's unbeatable.
A loud bell signaled for a short break. Jason stood up, stretching his arms. Come on, let's go get something to eat. I replied okay then we went to a cafeteria, but in my mind I thought If we're going to win this thing, we need to study everyone.