231: Nothing Is Perfect
Half of an hour later Alex woke up feeling refreshed. He sat down before glancing at the hovering Silveria.
''I thought you wouldn't show up,'' he said.
Noticing the displeasure in Alex's voice, Silveria chuckled and apologize.
''My bad, I don't want to scare the little rabbit that was trying to become a wolf. I was watching everything from afar, just that I have concealed my presence.''
Alex didn't say anything as he understood her reasoning. Silveria smiled after she noticed that Alex wasn't really angry.
''By the way congratulations on completely unlocking the second seal. With this seal unlocked you have now become more powerful. Well, the road is still long.'' Silveria congratulated him, she didn't forget to warn him to work harder as the road ahead is still long, it is just the start.
''I know. I shall check my status to see what I have gained.'' Alex said, eager to check his new status after he managed to kill the Big Boss of the Endless Forest.
''Status,'' Alex called out, and automatically his status' window appeared right before his eyes.
『[Alexander Kael Touch]
Class: Magic Gunslinger
Age: 17
Male
Race: High Human
「 Rank 7」
Level 66
Experience Value (XP): 0/18900
Magic Power: 5020 (+50) ✒ 5070/5070
Magic: None
Attack: 1500 (+50) ✒ 1550
Defense: 1400 (+ 50) ✒ 1450
Agility: 1530 (+50) ✒ 1580
Intelligence: 1400 (+50) ✒ 1450
Luck: 1180 (+50) ✒ 1230
BP: 20
SP: 0
Gift: Two Guns * Semi-sealed*
Skills: [Advanced Appraisal Level 1] [Item box Level 2] [Swift Fingers Max] [Divine Sense Level 4] [Throwing knife Level 5] [Dark Vision Level 2] [Dual Wielding Level 2] [Accel Level 3] [Knife Art Level 4] [Link Level 3] [Gun Art Level Level 10] [Normal Regeneration Level 5] [Mana Recovery Level 5] [Synthesize Level 3] [Shadow Shift Level 1] (New)
Special Abilities: [Language Comprehension][Danger Sense] [Overdrive] [Death's Eye] [Envisage] {Erase} {Magic Bullet} {Snatch} [Hellsing] [Xerox]
Titles: [Otherworlder] [The one who can't use Magic] [The one whose fingers are faster than Flash] [Goblin Slayer] [The Reborn] [Shadow Nemesis] [The Slaughterer]』
Alex was pleasantly surprised to see that, unlike the previous times where he only gained stats points after killing the boss, this time not only he gained some stats points (30 points), he even levels up once. He couldn't help but be pleased as one should know that when one's Rank becomes higher leveling up isn't a joking matter, therefore every level became precious.
''Well, it should be expected. Ceros isn't an easy opponent. He should have given that much benefit after successfully killing him. I'm more interested in the new skill you have acquired.'' Silveria said prompting Alex to turn toward his new skill.
From the name alone you could see that it was a pretty nice skill.
[Shadow Shift: Ability to freely switch place with anything within your sight.
Current level: 1
Range: 20 meters
Cost: 300 MP]
''Wow! What a pretty nice skill. Now I have finally understood why he was able to switch place with my attack back then.'' Alex said while recalling how Ceros escaped danger by switching place with his Flame bullet.
''Why not trying using it to see how it works?" Silveria suggested, she couldn't hide the shine in her eyes. This skill was the reason why she suggested to Alex to use 'Snatch' to finish Ceros.
Without being told Alex had already moved to test his new skill.
Launching one of his throwing knives in front of him, Alex executed his new skill, the target of his skill was naturally the knife he had just thrown.
''Shadow Shift.''
Alex felt his body blurred and in the next instant, he appeared in the spot where the knife should have been. Meanwhile, his knife took his place before falling to the ground.
''Awesome.'' Alex honestly praised. This is a godly skill. Used wisely you can do a lot of damage to your enemy.
''Indeed. It was an awesome skill. It was because he possessed this skill that I found it to be a waste to kill him, the reason why I keep him.'' Silveria explained the reason why she kept Ceros instead of killing him.
Alex couldn't help but pity Ceros, if only he knew why he has been kept alive, he would have died of a heart attack as he never knew that it was because of this particular skill he possesses that Silveria chooses him among the other captives.
''Well, I'm happy to have acquired this skill. I wonder what happened back then? What war did I saw when I used my death eye on him? Did my predecessor participated in this war?"
Curious Alex couldn't help but raise a bunch of questions.
Silveria couldn't only sigh helplessly as she had expected this question the moment Alex fought Ceros. Smart as he is, he must have noticed few things. Silveria started to recount what happened.
It was the first war, Alex's predecessor participated in. He fought against the army of an ambitious Overlord that wanted to dominate the other races out of blue.
Enraged the other races sent their champions, Alex's predecessor was one of those champions, it was a tough battle as that Overlord was like the God of an entire race. It wasn't easy to take him down.
Thinking about it now, it was after that battle that thing started to go awry. Someone, who was living harmoniously with the other races turned violent all of sudden and shouted dominance.
''We were too blind back then if not we must have noticed that something was awry or some had noticed but choose not to do anything because human nature is and will remain unpredictable. When there's a common enemy they will join hands and fight, however, after it's done they will turn against each other. I wonder why the creators created us to be like this.''
From Silveria's words, someone seemed to be in the shadows, controlling that Overlord to act as he did. It was scary to think that there was someone powerful out there that can control an Overlord without the other being able to resist. One should know that being Overlord is not an empty title, a weakling will never get that title, only the strongest of the strongest, someone that stands at the Apex of his race will receive that title. And to think that person was easily controlled.
Just by imagining who should be powerful, crafty enough to control an Overlord, Alex felt a chill crawling up his spine and his face turned ashen.
'What can he do if one day he were to face such enemy?' Alex started to think about a possible way to deal with such an enemy as it is pretty clear that strength alone wouldn't be enough to deal with such an enemy. You need to be crafty, scheming as your enemy, or else you will lose.
Seeing her master so concentrated that he lost track of time, a smile blossomed on Silveria's face.
Few minutes passed before broke free from his thoughts, he sighed before saying.
''I do not know what I will face, no, we will face but I hope with your experience you will help me, help us to not make the same mistake as our predecessor. I'm not ashamed of begging for help but I will ashamed if have not tried when I can because I believe that there is no medicine for regret no matter how powerful you are. Even if you are powerful enough to control time as there are some things you can correct even if you go back in time.''
Alex was too focused on what he was saying if not he would have seen the mysterious glint that passed through Silveria's eyes when he talked about time.
''Indeed. You said something profound there. If I don't know I would have said that you are some thousand years old monster. Don't worry, we will try to help you to the fullest of our capacity. Sorry, if there is something we can't tell you right now. Smart as you are I believe that you know that there are some things better left unsaid until it's the time is ripe.''
Alex nodded his head as he believes that as well.
Recalling something Alex said, ''You said that you wonder what the creators were thinking for creating us as we are?"
Silveria nodded her head wondering why Alex brings this out.
''Well, I believe it is because the creators are imperfect, to begin with as there is no perfect thing in this universe. Maybe we have been created as an experiment.''
Intrigued by what Alex was saying, Silveria inquired.
''How so?"
''Well, maybe the creators want to become perfect through us. He wanted to learn through our mistakes.'' Alex said.
Silveria's eyes were widened opened, she had never thought of such a possibility, she couldn't help but be dumbfounded at the prospect that what Alex said held some truths to it.
Even the stoic Big sister was surprised by Alex's hypothesis.
Only if they knew that at the moment somewhere, extremely far were a group of people shrouded by a mysterious light, making it impossible to see their features.
When they heard Alex's hypothesis, they all chuckled finding Alex amusing.
232: Ready For Tomorrow
Only if Alex and Silveria knew that at the moment somewhere, extremely far were a group of people shrouded by a mysterious light, making it impossible to see their features.
When they heard Alex's hypothesis, they all chuckled finding Alex amusing.
While the words he said held some truth, they still found it amusing.
''Let's hope he will be different than the others.''
Someone among them said it was hard to identify this person's gender.
The others did not answer the voice's ow only nodded as if to say 'We hope so.'
•••••
Back to Alex's side.
Seeing that Silveria seemed to be thinking about what he said Alex chuckled at how serious she appears.
''Well. Do not take what I said seriously. I'm just speculating. Only the concerned party will say if it's true or not. Just know that there is nothing perfect in this world.'' Alex announced.
Breaking free from her formulating thoughts, Silveria nodded in understanding.
''Time to check the second seal.'' Alex declared and checked his death's eye.
『[Death eye: A special eye with numerous abilities.
1st lock: Fear: You will be able to induce fear into your enemies just by looking at them in the eyes. Makes them relive their deepest fear.
Create an illusion and makes your enemies experience hell.
Cost: 500 MP.
Note: Does not work on enemies two Ranks higher.
2nd Lock:
✒ Foresight: Able to predict some of your opponent's actions.
Cost 20 MP per second.
✒ Premonition: Ability to predict the future to some extent.
Random
3rd Lock: Sealed 』
''Wow! I finally understood why I was able to calmly deal with Ceros' attacks after I stood up back then. However, there is something I'm curious about.'' Alex said after looking at his death's eye.
''Well, I'm listening,'' Silveria responded. She had more or less guessed what Alex would ask.
''I have noticed that when I combine my death's eye with my domain, my opponent's speed seems to reduce. I want to know if this ability is related to my right eye. The ability to control time.''
As expected Alex's question confirmed her guess.
''I will not answer this question you will have to find out on your own. Better experience it yourself.'' Silveria said.
Alex was not surprised by her answer as he had expected such an outcome, however, Silveria's last word can be interpreted as an answer.
''Let's go back but first I'm must allocate my BP,'' Alex said while allocating his BP on his
『[Alexander Kael Touch]
Class: Magic Gunslinger
Age: 17
Male
Race: High Human
「 Rank 7]
Level 66
Experience Value (XP): 0/18900
Magic Power: 5070/5070
Magic: None
Attack: 1550
Defense: 1450
Agility: 1580 (+20 BP) ✒ 1600
Intelligence: 1450
Luck: 1230
BP: 0
SP: 0
Gift: Two Guns * Semi-sealed*
Skills: [Advanced Appraisal Level 1] [Item box Level 2] [Swift Fingers Max] [Divine Sense Level 4] [Throwing knife Level 5] [Dark Vision Level 2] [Dual Wielding Level 2] [Accel Level 3] [Knife Art Level 4] [Link Level 3] [Gun Art Level Level 10] [Normal Regeneration Level 5] [Mana Recovery Level 5] [Synthesize Level 3] [Shadow Shift Level 1]
Special Abilities: [Language Comprehension][Danger Sense] [Overdrive] [Death's Eye] [Envisage] {Erase} {Magic Bullet} {Snatch} [Hellsing] [Xerox]
Titles: [Otherworlder] [The one who can't use Magic] [The one whose fingers are faster than Flash] [Goblin Slayer] [The Reborn] [Shadow Nemesis] [The Slaughterer]』
''I can't wait to explore the dungeon. I wonder how much stronger I will be once I left the dungeon.'' Alex murmured before he was brought to the Illusionary Battlefield.
Silveria did not immediately follow him. She stood hovering in for a moment before letting out a chuckle. Looking in a certain direction she snapped her fingers and a cloud of black smoke was caught. This black smoke was hiding in the ground, Alex didn't even notice that there was something under him.
''Well, what should I do about you my dear Ceros?" Silveria wondered while looking at the struggling black smoke.
If Alex was here, he would be shocked speechless as the one he thought he killed was somehow alive. Well, technically it was not the case, the current Ceros is different from the real one as he none of the memories of the truth Ceros. He was like a newborn, before dying Ceros had split his soul into two, one was destroyed while the other, the new one went into hiding.
Unfortunately, Silveria had seen through Ceros's scheme, therefore she waited to take care of this hidden threat.
With another flick, Silveria crushed the black shadow, forever erasing him from this world.
Smiling as if she was just done something trivial, Silveria disappeared.
•••••
Back in the real world, Alex woke up to find out that it was already evening.
After freshening up, Alex stepped into the hall for dinner as he was feeling rather hungry, few hours may have passed outside, however, for him, days have passed.
Just as he stepped into the dining room Alex saw Luna placing foods on the table. It seemed that she knew he would be waking up soon, therefore with Gracier's help she cooked something for him.
A gentle smile found his way on Alex's lips when he saw the girls.
''Evening girls. How was your day?" He asked.
''Evening Lex.''
''Evening brother.''
''Please take sit. Let's not talk about us for now. You must be hungry just eat.'' Luna forced him to sit and eat.
Alex nodded his head before taking a sit between the two girls.
After his first spoon, he couldn't help but gobble everything as the meal was too delicious.
''Delicious. I will not say thank you as we are already a family. There is no need for a thank you between us.'' Alex said while wiping his mouth.
Luna and Gracier smiled pleased that their efforts had paid.
After dinner and a light dessert, the tree played for a while, a card game. Alex won most of the matches. Silveria who had joined them midway couldn't help but comment.
''You should allow women to win," She stayed silent for a moment before adding "That's a gentleman thing to do."
Alex looked at her and replied, "The gentleman thing is to treat them as equal challengers and enjoy the game, instead of patronizing them."
"He is so different from the rest! Always treating everyone equally with respect!"
Gracier thought with admiration.
After spending another hour with the girls Alex retreated to his room after whispering something into Luna's ears.
Later, she joined him to spend some time with him. It was then he learned what happened to the girls. He vowed to make the culprit pay but for now, he must think about tomorrow's match, Leon will not be an easy opponent.
Thinking about his friend, Alex couldn't help but smile. ''I hope you will not disappoint me.''
He then closed his eyes to sleep.
....
At the same time elsewhere, a figure could be seen fighting against a giant monster shrouded in black inside a forest illuminated by blue crystals on the ceiling.
Everything was happening at speed impossible to describe, with an exploding dash the giant monster instantaneously reached Leon. Despite this, he smiled and said, "You are fast indeed but I can see you."
Turning around in a flash, he fiercely smashed the hammer in his hand onto the ground.
BOOOOM
A world-ending blast occurred, turning into a gigantic mushroom cloud. Simultaneously, black flames swirling with golden lightning rippled outwards as shockwaves.
The giant monster staggered back, its eyes reflecting the incredible sight of Leon's towering body.
Leon was rushing through the mushroom cloud, splitting the mushroom cloud apart. His speed wasn't less than that of the monster.
In a flash, he was already before the monster. He smashed his hammer on the monster's head, however, instead of feeling the sensation of crushing ahead, Leon felt nothing. He had hit empty air, only an afterimage.
The monster appeared behind him, grinning Leon let go of his hammer, his fists became covered in flame.
Bang! Bang!
He punched the hell out of the stunned monster who was not expecting such a move.
Bang! Boom!
Joining his two hands together, Leon smacked the head of the giant's monster onto the ground.
A big crater was created and the monster lay there unmoving, his head had been crushed by Leon's flame hand hammer.
Heaving a sigh Leon felt extremely tired but happy nonetheless as he had achieved his goal. He had level once bringing his level at the same level as Alex.
''Your highness you must return. Her majesty is furious that you came back so soon.''
A butler appeared in the forest where Leon was fighting against a monster. He kneeled and reported.
''Tch! The old man is annoying as always. Tell him that I'm already going back as I have achieved my goal. I must give my friend a good fight if not I would be letting him down. He must be trying his best knowing him and as his good friend I must do the same.'' Leon said while putting on a shirt because he was topless, his previous shirt got destroyed in his fight.
Before the butler could say anything Leon added before vanishing.
''And do not come asking me if he is worth it. He worth everything things I did. He is the friend whom I have selected after all.''
The butler couldn't help but sigh unaware that the ruler of the Lionheart empire, his emperor was watching everything from the shadow. He laughed when he heard his son's words.
''Son you have matured. I'm proud of you. Do as your heart dictate you to do.'' He said before turning around and left.
He couldn't help but become curious about the man his son values so much. He even thought for a moment that maybe he should slip away and go watch tomorrow's match. However, in the end, he decided against it as that blue head might think that he was planning something.
'Hah! It's rather bothersome to be emperor. I wish I can be free like a bird, go where I want, do what I want.' The Emperor lamented.
233: Men Talk With Their Fits First
After the blackness of night, Mysthia's star rises on the horizon, spreading her gold in every direction. She comes in the way that natural forces do, needing not invitation yet feeling her welcome. The light is her gift, bold and free, for anyone who cares to open their eyes in the dawn and watch the world awake.
Today her light was brighter than usual as though to show her that seemed to announce today as a great day.
Blue Haven Villa, Alex was already up and with a fond smile on his face, he took breakfast with his family. After they were done with the girls he left for the academy.
••••
Imperial Magic Academy's Stadium.
Today it was fuller than usual because of the semifinal.
When Alex and the girls arrived they saw a fully packed stadium, Alex couldn't help but whistle.
''Wow! All of this just to watch the semifinal?"
To Alex's question, Luna smiled before answering.
''It was to be expected. You are both celebrities. While you may not be a crown prince of one of the strongest empires in this world, your status isn't less than his. Besides people are more interested in something foreign. Also, this match will be like the otherworlder and Mysthia's native. They would like to know who's stronger.''
''I do also share the same feeling. Both of you have been awesome in the mock battles thus far. I believe in my brother but even so, you should not take Leon too lightly as I believe that he is more formidable than the like of Leonardo and Damien.'' Gracier said while glancing at her brother.
Two pairs were locked, both heterochromia. one golden as pure as the finest gold and the second as red as the most beautiful ruby in the world. The second pair boasted a mix of beautiful green and the most perfect blue chilling eye ever seen, both looked at each other in silence without saying a single word. But although none of them said anything, it seemed that they both communicated silently since they seemed to be able to sense each other's thoughts through their eyes. No other words were needed after what she said.
Today the two were not wearing their eye patch as they have learned to control their eyes. No need to conceal it behind an eye patch any longer.
Alex's lips curved to form a reassuring smile.
Suddenly, Luna felt jealous of the chemistry between the siblings and as if he could sense her mood, Alex took her hand in his. Luna's heart skipped for a bit before a smile blossomed on her face and he interlocked her fingers with the man she chose, the one she would be spending eternity with. They will be some ups and downs on the road but she was prepared for it. Love is like a challenge, the winner wins everything while the loser ends up heartbroken. She doesn't want to be a loser.
Gracier watched the two entered their world, it was unknown if they were doing this intentionally or not because too far from them were Leonardo, his crew, and Damien. The two, especially Damien's eyes turned ugly when he saw how lovely dovey Alex and Luna appeared, he almost spurted when he saw the engagement ring on Luna's finger.
Leon was standing with others (Maria, Sakuya, Eris, Ferris, Kuina. Lilith, Artemia).
''Morning my friend. Congratulations.'' Leon said the moment Alex appeared before them.
''Morning everyone. Thank you, Leo, I hope you will present to me your future empress.'' Alex greeted everyone, he did not forget to tease Leon.
While the others greeted Alex back, Leon's face stiffened when he heard Alex's words. His words seemed to have brought back some unwanted memories.
Not being the one to miss out on the opportunity to tease the oversized lion, Kuina announced.
''Don't worry Alex because I think you will have the chance to know her soon and I'm sure you will like her.''
''Shut up kuina,'' Leon said while rubbing his forehead.
Kuina only chuckle in response, the four can be considered as childhood friends, so they knew why Leon was reacted like this. It was because of his fiancée.
Alex was curious about his friend's fiancée, he wanted to inquire about her but seeing now wasn't the time for such a thing, he postponed it for not.
''Alex congratulations.''
Like Leon, Artemia congratulated him before adding.
''I hope to face the best in the final.''
She left after saying these words, naturally, Lilith followed, she stopped for a moment and flashed a smile at Alex before resuming.
For a moment, Alex had the feeling that the one who smiled at him was the plain-looking Eleonora, not the cold Lilith. He wondered which one was the real her. Shaking his head Alex decided to focus on what is about to come.
Chris their teacher appeared and announced.
''Welcome to all of you. As you may know today we will hold the semifinal. Without wasting more of your time let's immediately started the match.''
The audience cheered when they heard Chris's words.
Elseria and Freya were both presents. In another pavilion, Zero and Alpha were also present, Alpha had already recovered from her injuries against the black entity.
''Who do you think we will win?" Alpha asked to fight the boredom she was feeling.
Without looking at her, eyes focused on the arena where Alex was facing Leon, Zero answered.
''The best will win.''
''Tch! You are no fun at all. I thought you will say yo-"
Alpha stopped right away as Zero was glaring at her. The temperature inside the Pavillon plummeted to an alarming degree.
Even though she had stopped talking, a smile never left Alpha's face. She knew the outcome of her action and yet she still did it. It was because she had finally found something to tease the all serious, the perfect killer.
Love can change people, Alpha thought. Should I also try to experience it? Maybe my life will become more colorful, more fun.
Zero ignored Alpha who was lost in her little world. It was because she didn't what the other party was thinking, if she knew hell would have descended upon Alpha.
~Back on the arena.
Alex was facing Leon. Neither of them said anything after the signal to begin has been given.
Five minutes passed before both chuckled.
Leon was the one to break the ice and said.
''I'm happy that you don't plan to hold back. By the way, beautiful eyes even though the blue one looks a bit frightening.''
Alex smiled at his friend's praise. ''Thank you. I have promised to not hold back and as a good friend, I ought to keep my promise. May the best win. Well, I'm the best.''
''Hahahaha! That's some nice confidence you have there. Indeed may the best win.''
As if this was the signal for them. Leon sprung forward his fist aimed at Alex's temple. He stepped back, balancing his weight on his left foot, and threw his right fist out in a curved punch at Leon's temple. Turning ninety degrees to the side, he brought his right forearm up to counter the blow, formed a fist with his left, and threw it at Alex's outstretched jaw. Alex was in trouble.
It was mostly what people thought, not Leon though as he knew his friend was resourceful.
And Alex did not disappoint him, he let himself fall toward the ground before using his right arm to pivot himself while sending a kick at Leon. Everything happened too fast, Leon crossed his arms to kill some of the force behind Alex's kick. He was pushed a couple of steps back.
Leon grinned before disappearing in flash, he left afterimages behind.
Bang! Bang! Boom! Boom!
While most people had trouble following what happens in the arena as Alex and Leon were moving at extremely fast speed. The powerful individuals had no troubling watching what was happening.
Like a child that just found some interesting game, Alex and Leon were exchanging moves at fast speed. None of them were using any weapon, just pure brute strength, fists, and kicks were flying here and there.
Their physical strengths were so advanced that their punch and kicks create a shockwave in the air.
What most of those watching were surprised about was that Alex was able to keep up with Leon. Let's not forget that Leon was a beastman, known to have the most powerful physical among the races. And yet a human was able to fight on par with a beastman, a pureblood lion.
After exchanging more than hundreds of punches and kicks, both got separated to appear opposite of each other.
They were gasping from breath, Alex's left cheek was swollen, proof that he had received a powerful punch there.
While on the other hand Leon's right cheek was swollen as well.
Both wiped away the blood on their lips. Their regenerative ability kicked in to heal their injuries.
''It was a draw it seems,'' Leon said while looking at his friend. He had expected such an outcome nonetheless he was still surprised by Alex's physical strength.
Nodding his head Alex said, ''Indeed. Shall we continue?"
Leon's answer was a smile before he disappeared. To them, real men talk with their fits first.
234: The Second Round
Leon's answer was a smile before he disappeared to reappear before Alex with a splitting kick.
Swooosh!
Alex sidestepped on his left dodging Leon's kick before performing a spinning hook kick.
Bang!
Leon knew he screwed up the moment Alex evaded his kick, so he was prepared, guarded against Alex's next attack. Even so, he was still pushed a couple of steps back.
Alex wasn't the one to miss an opportunity, he decided to try something he had seen in a movie, a kick he loved so much that he tried several. Leaning back in a proper hook position after taking a little bit of distance, he executed the cheat 720 hook kick.
Leon was mesmerized by this kick so he was caught off guard. He was sent flying back before crashing against the ground. He quickly rolled on the ground to avoid a splitting's kick.
Like a flash of lightning, he disappeared, taking a proper distance.
Both looked at each other while wearing a smile on their lips. To them it was not about the competition but about having fun, learning more about each other through this fight, this will strengthen their bond.
''That was a nice kick. I hope you will teach me later.'' Leon said he couldn't hide the yearning in his eyes. He loves to learn new things, especially if it's about martial arts.
''I will,'' Alex answered with a smile.
Leon's face turned serious all of sudden, golden lightning started to dance around him. Extending his hand a golden spear of 3 meters long appeared inside his hand.
The moment the spear appeared in Leon's hand, the golden lightning around him became chaotic, Leon whole person seemed to have been transformed into a golden lightning person.
Whoosh!
One word came to Alex's mind, it was how fast Leon has become.
Leon thrust his spear forward, Alex jumped back while looking at the small cut on his right cheek. He couldn't help but be shocked.
It wasn't the only one, most of the spectators didn't understand what just happened. One of them asked.
''What just happened?"
Sighing a veteran adventurer explained.
''You see Leon sent five consecutive thrusts with that attack. It was too fast why it looked like it was one thrust.''
''What?" The youth who asked that question was shocked. He couldn't believe what he just heard.
''What is more shocking it's that black-haired man being able to dodge with almost no injury. Both of them are something.'' the veteran adventurer said while looking at Alex and Leon.
Back on the arena.
Leon was not surprised when he saw that Alex was almost unscathed his attacks.
Whoosh!
He vanished again and when he reappeared again it was in form of numerous spear thrusts.
Alex was prepared, his heterochromia eyes moved at fast speed, he was able to perfectly follow the spear trajectory and with minimal movement, he dodged. He then counterattacks by hurtling seven knives at Leon.
Clangs! Clangs! Clangs
Spinning his spear Leon deflected all the knives before he sidestepped to the right just enough and Alex's knife passed a hairs breath from his face.
Alex didn't show any expression even when his attack got easily avoided, he punched Leon in the stomach with his free hand. The latter staggered.
While he was caught off guard by this attack, Alex's next attack was avoided. Leon caught Alex's leg, the one he used to send a kick toward him. Leon spun and tossed Alex in the opposite direction, he followed by hurtling his spear toward Alex who was still in the air.
Alex saw a flash of golden lightning coming toward him, he knew that he couldn't perfectly dodge Leon's spear, he left the spear to come close to him before firing a bullet against the spear shaft. The spear was deviated from its original position thus making it easier for Alex to dodge.
Everything happened in the blink of an eye. Alex landed on the opposite side.
Leon was already before him with his arms raised high. Alex almost asked why empty-handed, however, in the next moment he got his answer.
A black hammer appeared in Leon's arms, he swung the hammer toward Alex, golden lightning was wrapped around the hammer increasing his falling speed.
Normally, one should have been caught off guard by this attack, however, even though surprised Alex's brain reacted faster, then his left hand moved.
Bang!
A piercing bullet was fired toward the incoming bullet stopping it in its fall.
Leon's eyes widened as he almost let go of his hammer, however, his surprise did not end up there as Alex followed with his next attack.
Making use of Xerox, he created a second gun which he used to shoot toward Leon's stomach.
Once again, if it was a normal person he would have been caught off guard. Unfortunately, none of them were them were normal. Freeing one of his hands holding the hammer, Leon summoned another hammer from his space ring and the flat side of the hammer to defend against Alex's sneak attack.
Boom!
Like a leaf in the middle of a storm, Leon was sent spiraling into the air while he grunted in pain because the second hammer clashed into his stomach due to the recoil produced when Alex's bullet collided with the hammer.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Leon quickly wrapped golden lightning around himself in form of a protective shield to decrease the bullets' speed before dodging them.
Just as he landed, Leon summoned his Gift, the golden spear appeared in his hands, using it he swept away the incoming bullets.
Both looked at each other before grinning at the same time.
''Lightning descent,'' Leon announced, arm pointed to the sky.
Boom! Boom! Zila~ Zila~
The sky rumbled, turning dark before bolts of lightning descended toward the arena, to be more accurate, descended upon Leon's body.
Instead of showing an expression of fear, Leon's expression was like that of a child in his mother's embrace.
''Oh! He activated it. The Lionheart's special ability. I wonder how the boy will deal with it.'' Elseria said as she watched more and more golden lightning descend on Leon's body making him glow in a golden hue.
Freya didn't say anything as she was also curious about how Alex will deal with the current Leon as compared to the previous one this one was stronger, faster, and more deadly.
In another location, Luna and the others leaned forward when they saw what happens to Leon, somehow he was giving them a dangerous feeling, as if twice stronger than he used to.
''Sigh! Leon is getting serious, the current him is almost twice stronger than his normal self.'' Kuina said with a sigh.
The girl's eyes widened. It would a tough battle for Alex, however, Gracier, Luna, Maria, Sakuya, Artemia, and Lilith knew that Alex would not lose.
~Back on the arena.
Alex could have disrupted Leon's transformation but he didn't do such a thing as he wanted to experience how stronger the transformed Leon would be.
After five minutes Leon's transformation stopped, his golden hair elongated, an Illusionary golden armor appeared on his body. Golden lightning was dancing around him. Holding the golden spear he looked like the God of thunder, it would have been perfect if he was holding a hammer instead of a spear. Alex thought.
''Thank you,'' Leon said because Alex did not attack him while he was transforming.
Most may think that his current form was unusable in a fight as it takes time to transform, your enemy may attack during this time. While it's true, there is a shortened version of this ability, it takes no time to use, however, compared to the one Leon used, the power is halved. Knowing that his friend wouldn't attack him, Leon opted for the full version of the Lightning descent.
Alex only smiled while getting ready for Leon's attack.
The golden lightning dancing around Leon suddenly disappeared into his body.
Crack! Boom!
The floor under Leon's foot cracked and he shot forward and sent ten spear thrusts in one attack.
Alex knew he would suffer if he didn't make use of his eye, his blue eye shined and he was able to follow Leon's movement. Responding to his command, his body rapidly moved left and right to dodge the spear thrusts.
Bang!
''Gah!"
Alex was sent flying into the air by the butt of Leon's spear, somehow he was able to shorten his spear to strike Alex in the stomach. The blow was heavy, Alex felt like he had been hit by a heavy hammer. He coughed a mouthful of blood while feeling dizzy.
On the other side, Leon clenched his right hand into a fist, golden lightning wrapped around it before he jumped high into the air and arrived before Alex. The latter was still under the effect of Leon's previous attack so he couldn't dodge in time.
BANG! BOOM!
Alex was pummeled toward the ground, creating a big explosion.
Silence descended upon the whole arena.
People wondered if this will be the end.
However,
Kaboom!
In the next moment, the whole arena shook.
235: Third Round
People wondered if this will be the end.
However, Luna, Gracier knew Alex would not be brought down with something like this, and indeed it was as they thought.
Kaboom!
In the next moment, the whole stage shook because Alex who should be on the ground tapped his feet hard on the ground, and jumped back, a sharp blade made of lightning passed by. Alex was able to dodge this attack because he had used his skill Envisage.
After putting some distance between the two, Alex wiped away the blood on the corner of his mouth. Thanks to Loki killing most of the impact of Leon's punch, he had not suffered much damage, still, it hurts like hell. He decided to test something, aiming his guns at Leon and fired.
Bang! Bang!!!
Leon moved his spear and sliced the bullets into two before they could reach him.
''As I thought,'' Alex mumbled before his expression abruptly changed.
Leon got multiplied into three both came attacking him. Alex could feel a powerful pressure locking him into a place. He knew that this must due to Leon using his domain.
''Hellsing"
BOOM!
Two domains clashed, Alex didn't hesitate to activate his domain. He was able to see the three Leon sending their attacks toward him from different angles.
Due to the combination of his eye power and his domain, the three Leons' attacks had been slowed down, even so, because Leon had combined with his Gift (Spirit possession), his reaction was faster than that of Ceros even while being slowed down in Alex's domain.
The first two attacks were evaded, however, the last one injured Alex on the shoulder.
Fortunately, at the last moment, Alex shifted his body back thus making it impossible for the spear to penetrate deeply into his shoulder. His regenerative ability kicked in and stopped the bleeding.
Leon's eyes narrowed, he knew he couldn't overpower Alex like this, therefore he dismissed his two lightning clones. The two clones disappeared into his body doubling his speed. Then he disappeared, he shot toward Alex while riding on a wave of golden lightning.
Twenty-five consecutive thrusts were sent toward Alex, Leon was sure that his attacks would work. Not only him, outside most of the spectators, thought the same as not only Leon's spear thrusts were faster as lightning itself, but they also come from all sides thus making impossible to dodge them, Leon's attacks seemed to possess the property to lock space, so Alex couldn't use his movement skill.
For the first time, Luna and Gracier showed a little bit of worry on their beautiful faces, not only them Sakuya who was smiling since the start stopped, her expression turned serious, only Maria's expression remained the same, cold from the start until now, however, if you look closely you can see that she was clutching her hands into fists. They were all worried, wondering how Alex gonna deal with such an attack.
The concerned party wasn't worried as they are, he used Foresight to know from which angles the attacks would come from.
Closing his eyes for a second, he opened them again, however this time with unprecedented focus, Alex moved.
Under the astonished eyes of the crowd, the miracle happened. Alex something shifted to the side to let an attack pass him, or he would shot a bullet at the incoming attack to slightly change its trajectory before dodging.
Clank! Clank! Bang! Bang!!!!!
''No way.''
Someone among the crowd shouted this, it was unknown who said it. What is sure was that whoever might be, he/she couldn't believe what happens. However, the unbelievable what happened in front of them.
Alex dodged all of the attacks.
Maria and the others heaved a sigh of relief seeing that Alex was fine. Artemia on the other side couldn't help but focus on Alex as what he just did even she can't do it.
Freya couldn't help but praise Alex in her heart. Elseria had a smug smile on her face. Zero's face stayed impassive, however, her lips twitched for a moment. It seemed she was fighting against a smile. Alpha rubbed her eyes twice before smiling, she wondered how Alex was able to perform such action.
It was exactly what Leon was thinking, even though he knew his friend had exceptional talent, he was still caught off guard by what just happened. Coming out from his attacks with two or three injuries he would have accepted, however, the other was unscathed, not even the smallest injury could be seen on him, he had dodged all the twenty-five thrusts.
Leon was so surprised that he was momentarily immobilized.
Alex flashed next to him and said, ''It's not good to be stunned in a fight.''
Alex's voice brought the immobilized Leon back. Then came Alex's attacks.
Instead of using his guns, Alex attacked using Reaper, using his knife as a spear, he tried to execute ten thrusts, however, he was only able to execute five thrusts.
Seeing the five silver lights shot toward him at a frightening speed, Leon shortened his spear before spinning to deflect the five thrusts. Everything happened too fast, while Leon had successfully managed to deflect four of the five thrusts, the last one left a deep cut on his left cheek. Blood overflow from the injury, dying Leon's cheek red.
Gritting his teeth to fight against the intense pain he was feeling, Leon, elongated his spear before he swung.
Sidestepping to the opposite side Alex dodged Leon's spear because he swung it hastily, it was easy to dodge. Alex slashed the air three times, those who focused their attention would have seen that his attacks were aimed at Leon's wrists.
Having understood his friend's intention, Leon hastily let go of his spear and spun his body in a half cycle to dodge Alex's slashes.
Suddenly, the back of Leon's head numbed. His expression changed and he made lightning erupt below his feet to jump back to barely dodged Alex's second knife attack.
Those who think Alex is only deadly when using his Gift learned today that it was not the case. Because most of the time he uses throwing knives and his Gift, they have forgotten that he could also use a knife. Alex with a knife is deadly like a master swordsman with a sword.
After taking putting some good distance between them, Leon wiped his bloodied cheek before raising his arm to the sky.
Once again the sky rumbled, a bolt of golden lightning appeared in the sky and formed a gigantic lightning spear.
Before Alex could attack he found himself being locked, he couldn't help but wonder if Leon's golden lightning had the property to lock space around his enemy.
Leon swung his arm down.
The gigantic golden lightning spear rushed down to impale him. There was only one solution Alex could use in this situation and he believed that his friend knew.
To others, Leon might appear to have used all his strength to summon this golden lightning spear, Alex had the feeling that there was another surprise that awaits him.
He couldn't help but smile while thinking, ''You are not the only one who has prepared a surprise, my friend.''
Raising Silveria toward the sky, the incoming golden lightning spear Alex was ready to use Erase, he had no other choice. His magic bullets wouldn't work against the golden lightning spear as it was too enormous.
BANG!
The silver bullet tore through the air and collided against the gigantic golden lightning spear, normally it should have been the small silver bullet that vanished, however, it was the golden lightning spear that vanished as if he had never existed.
The audience was awestruck and at the same time, they felt chill down their spines when they saw what Alex could do. If previously they were skeptical about Alex's ability to cancel magic, this time, there was no doubt about it.
While Leonardo's and Damien's eyes were burning with jealousy, something astonishing happened in the arena.
As Alex predicted, Leon knew Alex could deal with his attack, it was what he wanted to prepare for his next attack. Having recently awakened this element, Leon did not have perfect control over it. He needed a diversion to use it.
A crimson flame appeared around Leon making him look like a human torch, kicking the ground he shot forward at alarming speed armed with his golden spear. At his current speed, Alex couldn't hope to dodge his attack after he just executed a rather taxing move.
''What? Since when the Lionheart's crown prince awakened a second ability?" Freya asked surprised.
Elseria shrugged her shoulders as if to say I'm perplexed as you are. Her focus was entirely on Alex, wondering how the latter was going to deal with Leon.
Back on the arena.
Like a missile Leon was shot toward Alex, the latter didn't show any signs of panic facing the human comet.
It was then Leon knew that Alex was waiting for him. Before Leon could open his mouth, he heard Alex says,
''Shadow Shift''
Then the world turned, Leon found himself in Alex's place. His brain paused, followed by his body.
Alex who appeared in Leon's place had his gun pointed toward the latter.
''Ice Bullet.''
BANG! BOOM!
Leon was blasted outside of the arena and got embedded in the wall on the opposite side, he vomited a mouthful of blood before passing out. His last thought was that it was a wonderful fight, Alex had used everything, even his new skill.
On the other side, Alex let go of Silveria and kneeled on the ground gasping for breath, he was out of MP. His eyelids felt heavy, he just wants to lay down and take a nap.
Silence descended upon the whole stadium, they couldn't believe that the match just ended like that.
It took some time before someone clapped.
Claps!
Then two clapped
Claps! Claps!
Claps!!!!
The whole stadium started clapping.
''It was a wonderful match.'' Freya who rarely praises couldn't help but said.
Elseria nodded her head, however, she was curious about the last move Alex used. Shaking her head she looked at Artemia to see the frown on the latter face. Elseria could guess what she was thinking. Alex was not going to be an easy opponent with so many unusual skills.
Even though Leonardo and Damien were displeased with Alex, they couldn't help but acknowledge that he was stronger than them. Both looked at each other before leaving the stadium.
Gracier, Luna, and the others joined Alex in the arena after Chris announced his victory. They helped Alex bring Leon to the cleric before passing out.
Tomorrow, the final will be held. After giving Alex one last glance, Artemia left with Lilith. As she had predicted, the final will be between her and Alex.
••••
A/N: Some of you may be wondering why Alex didn't use Shadow Shift on the gigantic golden lightning spear instead of using his trump card: Erase. Well, it is simply because he couldn't, the golden lightning spear lock space, so impossible to use certain skills such as Accel and Shadow Shift. To put it simply these skills have some limitations or else they will too OP.
If you like the novel, continue voting!
236: The Final 1
The next day, Alex and the others already arrived.
''Morning Leo. It was a good match I almost lost.'' Alex said the moment he saw his friend. Because yesterday both were extremely tired they didn't have the time to chat.
Wearing a bright smile Leon answered, ''Indeed, it was a good fight. I concede this defeat. Next time I will win. By the way, that last move of yours completely caught me off guard. I wonder how many unusual skills do you have?"
The others were interested in knowing what kind of ability Alex used. What type of ability can make you switch places with your target? Isn't it too godly?
Before Alex could say anything a commotion started. Artemia and Lilith had arrived.
''Look the Third princess is beautiful than usual. She is ready for the match.''
Someone among the spectators said another one added,
''She will win. Even though Alexender is talented, he is nothing in front of our Goddess. He will lose.''
Most of the spectators seemed to share this feeling.
Turning blind ears to everything that was being said, Artemia walked toward Alex.
Once in front of him, she started after greeting the other she faced him and said.
''Good morning Alexander. Let's have a good fight. No need to hold back as I won't hold back. May the best win.''
''Sure,'' Alex replied with a smile. Unlike others, Artemia was going to be a real challenge.
Artemia left, however, instead of immediately following her Lilith stopped and looked at Alex for a moment before disappearing and when she reappeared she was already before him.
Lowering her head she whispered into Alex's ears, ''I want you to beat her as you beat me. If you win I have something you will be interested in.''
Like a ghost, Lilith disappeared after leaving those words. Maria looked at her strangely while others showed no reaction.
Alex shook her head and decided to focus on the match that was about to begin. Although curious about what she meant, he couldn't let that curiosity get to his head, or else he may make a blunder during the fight.
After Freya and Elseria came, Chris went into the arena to announce the stage of the final.
Meanwhile, Alex was getting ready to depart. Just as he took his first step he was stopped by Maria.
''Wait.''
Turning around Alex put on a teasing smile.
''What is it, Alexa? Are you planning to give me a good luck kiss? I w-"
Alex's words were cut off abruptly when his eyes widened. In his pupils was reflected an extremely beautiful face approaching at such high speeds that he was lost of words. Then something kissed his cheek like a lightning followed by the sensation of something being wrapped around his right wrist.
Everything happened too fast, by the time Alex regained focus Maria had already retreated to where she came from.
''Indeed it was a good luck kiss.'' She said.
*Uproar
Another commotion started. Most of the people sucked in a breath of fresh air not believing that the Ice Goddess just did something so audacious.
Most men became jealous as not only Alex snatched the pure Luna, he even put his claws on the Ice beauty. Unforgivable, if it wasn't because they knew they are not Alex's match they would have provoked him
to a duel and beat him.
If looks could kill Alex would have died a thousand times.
Leonardo's complexion turned ugly, he was not the only one though. The First prince who just came back from a diplomatic mission witnessed his beloved kissing another man. His eyes turned red with jealousy, he immediately put Alex on his blacklist.
Katherina, the second princess seemed pleased when she noticed her brother's hatred. This meant fewer competitors.
'Alex will be mine.' She murmured, however, she couldn't help but get depressed when she remembered how she hadn't made any progress. She was at her wit's end, unable to come up with a proper plan to win Alex over.
Back on Alex's side.
Leon whistled, Ferris facepalmed. Luna was surprised, so is Sakuya. Both seemed to have noticed something. It is said that when a woman was curious about a man, it was only a matter of time before she fell in love with that man. Guess it's true.
Alex the concerned party was surprised by the sudden kiss on his cheek, however, what surprised him, even more, was what Maria wrapped around his right wrist, it looks like a simple macrame bracelet, but Alex knew it was nothing but simple.
When Maria put the green macrame bracelet around his wrist, he felt his body became lighter.
''Status,'' Alex called out. He decided to check his status to see if his hunch was right about this bracelet not being simple.
『[Alexander Kael Touch]
Class: Magic Gunslinger
Age: 17
Male
Race: High Human
「 Rank 7]
Level 66
Experience Value (XP): 0/18900
Magic Power: 5070/5070
Magic: None
Attack: 1550
Defense: 1450
Agility: 1600 (+100)
Intelligence: 1450
Luck: 1230
BP: 0
SP: 0
Gift: Two Guns * Semi-sealed*
Skills: [Advanced Appraisal Level 1] [Item box Level 2] [Swift Fingers Max] [Divine Sense Level 4] [Throwing knife Level 5] [Dark Vision Level 2] [Dual Wielding Level 2] [Accel Level 3] [Knife Art Level 4] [Link Level 3] [Gun Art Level Level 10] [Normal Regeneration Level 5] [Mana Recovery Level 5] [Synthesize Level 3] [Shadow Shift Level 1]
Special Abilities: [Language Comprehension][Danger Sense] [Overdrive] [Death's Eye] [Envisage] {Erase} {Magic Bullet} {Snatch} [Hellsing] [Xerox]
Titles: [Otherworlder] [The one who can't use Magic] [The one whose fingers are faster than Flash] [Goblin Slayer] [The Reborn] [Shadow Nemesis] [The Slaughterer]』
And indeed it was as he expected, this was not a simple macrame bracelet. This bracelet enhances his Agility by 100 points.
〖With this thing on your wrist you have become faster.〗Silveria said.
'Indeed.' Alex said feeling grateful. Even though he had not faced Artemia, he had the hunch that she is the agility type, therefore he was wondering how to deal with her. Maria's gift came in handy and also confirmed his hunch.
Alex almost said thank you, however, he stopped midway as he believes that such a word was not needed between family members.
''The final will begin. Participants get ready.'' Chris announced.
Alex was already on the stage, Artemia was standing in the opposite direction.
Looking at the two, Chris announced.
''Begin.''
Alex readied his weapons, Silveria in his left hand while in his right hand was Razor.
Strangely Artemia's weapon, Gift was two composite glaives, blue in color. They seemed to an invisible blue chain connecting the two weapons.
Outside, the moment Maria saw Artemia's weapons, she sighed as she knew how dangerous these two weapons are. How deadly Artemia who wield them could be. She could only hope Alex never the fate she suffered.
〖What? How? It impossible, they were lost.〗Silveria became emotional the moment she saw Artemia's Gift.
'Calm down will you? Start from the beginning. Do you know these weapons?' Alex asked the emotional Silveria.
Calming down Silveria answered,
〖Yes. Hailed as the fastest weapons they disappeared during the final war. Everybody thought that they have been lost forever. I guess it was wrong. However, they seemed incomplete.〗
'Uncompleted? ' Alex said while eyeing Artemia vigilantly.
〖Indeed, incomplete. Even so, be wary of them because it-〗
Silveria's words were cut short as Artemia suddenly vanished.
Without a second thought Alex unsummoned Silveria and summoned his second knife, Reaper. He spun around to welcome Artemia's attacks.
Clangs! Clangs! Clangs !!!!
Sparks flew out like firecrackers as the two weapons clashed. Dozen of moves were exchanged in the span of seconds.
Clangs! Clangs !!!
Artemia would disappear to reappear with a deadly strike, however, Alex had no trouble following her attacks no matter where they came from.
After performing those high-speed attacks, they got separated.
''As I thought if it's you, you would be able to keep up. However, that wasn't my best you know?" Artemia said with a smile. She was like a child who had finally the right mate to play with.
Wearing a battle-crazy smile, Alex said.
''I know. Now my turn.''
Whoosh!
Razor was launched at her at frightening speed, however, as if wasn't a deadly knife coming toward her, Artemia was still wearing a smile on her face, she titled her head to the side to let the blade passed by an air breath of her face.
As if he was waiting for such an outcome, Alex appeared behind her and caught the knife being slashing at her.
Clangs! Clangs
Alex's knives were blocked by Artemia. The two resumed another high-speed battle.
Outside not many were able to follow them, they only able to see sparks flew out like firecrackers.
Leon couldn't stay still, his blood was boiling, he wanted to go in, to experience such a battle. Unfortunately, it was not possible, and he couldn't help but lament, vowing to have a match against Artemia, a rematch as the last one he had lost.
237: The Final 2
Alex and Artemia kept moving around while exchanging moves at high speed.
Clangs! Clangs! Clangs!
They were able to perfectly parry the other's attack no matter what angles it was sent from.
Suddenly Alex let go of one of his knives surprising Artemia. Her movement faltered, using this chance Alex accel-ed to reappear behind her, his knife aimed at her back, however, halfway through it was stopped by a blue barrier.
It was now the turn of Alex to be surprised. Artemia did not wait for a second before sending her next attack. Without turning around, she sent her left leg to strike Alex's head while her right leg was still on the ground. It was an acrobatics feat that left one's mouth agape.
Being caught off guard as he hadn't thought that Artemia's body was this soft, Alex was pushed back.
Before he could stabilize his body, Artemia followed with another attack.
Bang!
The glaive coming toward his head was pushed back Silveria's bullet. Alex jumped back, putting some distance between them.
Boom!
Like a missile, Alex shot forward sending dozens of slashes toward Artemia. The latter moved her glaives at incredible speed.
Once again they vanished from the audience's sight.
Clangs! Clangs! Clangs !!!!
Most of the audience was not able to follow, they only saw sparks flew in the air.
Of course, for those able to see what was happening, they could only click their tongue in marvel. Both speeds had doubled. Their bodies seemed to be in perfect synchro with their thoughts, the way they attacked, the way they dodged using the minimal movement was surprising, one slight mishap could cause a heavy injury.
Some people in the spectator's area couldn't help but shiver when they thought about how helpless they would be should they face any of those two. Those two are truly monsters.
Finally, after one final blow, the two of them stopped moving and began seizing each other again.
*Huff* *Huff* *Huff*
Their breaths were ragged and because they wore each an armor, their upper body was fine, their injuries were on their hands, it was only some light cuts.
The result of this exchange could be said to have resulted in a draw.
'Even though I had expected her to be this fast. It still surprises me. Well, truth be told I'm frustrated. I thought speed was my specialty, that I was the fastest. Guess I was wrong.'
Even though he complained, he had to admit that he was loving this fight. This was different from all of his others fight, it could be said that he meets his match.
'Hahaha~I am really transforming into a battle maniac.' Alex couldn't help but mumble this.
Artemia, on the other hand, put on her most dazzling smile, she couldn't help but feel giddy with anticipation. It has been a long time since she didn't feel her blood boil in such a way. Her match against Maria ended up too quickly. It is not that Maria is weak, no, far from that she could be considered strong, extremely strong, however, not strong enough for Artemia to fight to her heart content.
However, Alex in front of her was different. He could give her the thrill she seeks.
''I shall show you my greatest speed.'' She announced.
Alex's eyes narrowed when he heard her words.
From her words, she was going to use the greatest power she had at her disposal.
Blue lightning dancing around her body as if to worship her. Then she uttered,
[God's Speed]
Zila~ Boom!
Even though he saw her coming, he couldn't dodge as she was beyond the word fast.
Rumble!!
The entire arena trembled as Alex was propulsed like a rocket into the air.
Boom! Bang! Boom!!
In the span of seconds, Alex was sent flying again and again. It was truly God's Speed, Alex hadn't experienced anything like this. He was able to see her coming, however, before his body could move he would receive an attack.
This continued for another minute or two before Alex roared and he activated his domain.
Artemia was sent flying, she quickly stabilized her body after taking ten steps back. She was almost half-kneeling.
'Incredible!'
Artemia gasped in amazement. As she felt the effects of Alex's domain, it was mixed with an intent, sovereign's intent.
Fighting back against the need to kneel, she stood back with difficulty, her breath ragged. Even keeping her Godspeed seemed way harder than normal. She didn't dare to look at Alex in the eye for fear of being caught under an illusion.
Unlike others, she possesses special eyes as well, it is like foresight, however, she didn't have control over it. She saw a future where she was under Alex's eye, under an illusion.
BANG!!!!
Before she couldn't move her glaives, she was sent flying by an invisible bullet, she almost coughed blood.
Alex appeared above her, trying to finish her with a splitting kick, however, he jumped when he saw a small water spear with a bolt of lightning dancing around it shot from Artemia's hand, if he was late by a millisecond he would have been impaled.
''Heavy Rainfall.''
Even before standing Artemia activated her domain, the sky rumbled, a small dark cloud appeared above the arena, above Alex to be exact, then it started raining.
Everything happened too fast, Alex had no time moving before the rain started. At the start he was not concerned about a little bit of rain, however, he soon found out that something was amiss, it started to feel heavy as if some weights had been put on him. It was then he understood the property of Artemia's domain. It can make her enemy slower.
Artemia shot toward him using the rain and the feeling of weight to constantly attack him.
He couldn't dodge all her attacks as his movements had become sluggish.
Biting his lower lip, Alex decided to use one of his trump cards, the one Artemia wasn't expecting. She knew he could cancel her domain, it was what she wants. To make Alex use up all his MP.
BANG!
Instead of using Erase as Artemia was expecting, Alex made use of another special bullet: Dispel.
(Dispel Bullet: Can temporarily reduce the target's attack power. The duration will depend on the target's level.
Cost: 700 MP.)
This bullet reduced the pressure Alex was feeling, he was now able to move his body to some extent. Artemia was caught off guard by this bullet.
Leaning towards the side, Artemia's glaive passed by, catching her wrist Alex executed a heavy throw.
Bang!
''Gah!"
Artemia's domain stopped as her back collided against the ground. She quickly rolled on the ground, before standing up.
Bang!!!
Five normal bullets were shot at her.
Blue lightning coursed through her veins accelerating her movements, she moved her two glaives.
Bullets were cleaved into two parts before arriving before her.
While slicing Alex's bullet, Artemia jumps back and at the same time, she pointed her finger at Alex.
''Water dragon.''
''Roarrr!"
A mighty roar was heard, a seven meters long water dragon came to life and pounce on him.
[Ice Bullet.]
The water dragon who just came to life became frozen in the next instant after Alex's magic bullet penetrated its body.
Suddenly, Alex's six senses gave him an intense warning. His expression changed and he accel-ed without hesitation.
Even so, some of the sharp water blades that shot out from the little bit of water left behind by Artemia's domain were able to injure him, numbing his body as a little bit of lightning was mixed in.
[Shadow Shift]
Alex was forced to use this ability to switch places with Artemia whose next attack was ready.
Bang!!
Artemia was prepared, the moment Alex used Shadow Shift, she automatically created a water shield in front of her body to defend against his attack as she knew she would use this opportunity to attack her.
However, while it was true that she managed to defend against the first attack, the second one couldn't be avoided as she hadn't anticipated it.
Like a missile, she was shot forward passing by Alex who was grinning, albeit with a pale face.
Just as he passed him, she heard a tired voice.
''It's my win.''
〖Ice Bullet〗
While being frozen into an ice sculpture, Artemia couldn't help but smile. Smart as she is, she was able to understand what happened after a little bit of thinking.
Alex shot two bullets, one attacked her from the front while the other from the back. She was completely caught off guard.
While she was stronger, Alex showed that he was smarter. He knew she must have prepared a lot of countermeasures against him, therefore he also prepared some new possibility to deal with her, not only her, against those who saw him use Shadow Shift.
*Huff* *Huff* *Huff*
Half kneeling Alex's breaths were ragged. He was completely exhausted. This fight was not simple as it appeared. Well, he won in the end.
There was a heavy silence before Chris cleared his throat and announced,
''The final winner is Alexander Kael Touch.''
240 - Skip It It's A Mistake, It's Not For This Volume
In the Drexia Imperial Palace's majestic throne hall, huge braziers encircling each of the twelve obsidian columns light up every part of the throne hall and cover the hall in warm oranges and dancing shadows. The unadorned stones on the domed ceiling dance in the flickering light while sculptures look down upon the limestone floor of this royal hall.
A golden rug splits part of the room in half from the throne to midway down the hall while burgee banners with adorned lacery droop from the walls. Between each banner stands a large candlestick, none but a few have been lit and in turn illuminate the artistic portrayals of folk heroes and legends below them.
Huge windows were enclosed by veils colored the same gold as the banners. The curtains have been adorned with jewels and gold leaves.
A grandiose throne of sapphire sits in front of a giant painting of the previous ruler and was adjoined by two almost identical seats for esteemed guests.
The throne was covered in textured and layered emblems and fixed on the wide backside was a lavish lantern. The comfortable pillows were a dark golden and these too have been adorned with gilded edges.
Those expecting an audience with their royal highness can do so on the few impressively carved mahogany benches, all of which are facing the throne. Those of higher standing can instead take a seat in the humble-looking balustrades overlooking the entire hall.
And sitting on such a grand throne was the emperor of the Drexia empire, Julius Von Havens.
He wore a gentle smile on his face, from his expression you could see that he was expecting someone's arrival, someone dear to him.
Soon enough, a gentle voice filled with respect traveled to Julius's ears, "Royal father, you asked for me?''
Julius slowly moved his eyes towards the large door and saw Artemia coming in with a smile and respectfully bowing before him.
''Come closer my daughter, come give daddy a kiss,'' Julius said with wide-open arms.
''Ugh!.''
Even though she grunted she still hugged her father.
''Tch! I thought I asked for a kiss?"
Like a child that was throwing a tantrum, the emperor said.
Artemia rolled her eyes at her father. Taking sit not too far from her father, she asked.
''Father, why did you call me? Surely not because you want a kiss?"
''Ugh! Well, not entirely. Sigh! You have grown up and started to behave as if I'm a bother.'' Julius couldn't help but lament.
'Not as if but you are a bother.' Artemia inwardly, she didn't dare to voice out this thought or else her father would start weeping like a child, he was capable of doing it. He loves her too much, much than his others children.
Surely because she resembles her deceased mother whom the emperor loves more than anything. She couldn't even remember who her, not even her face.
Artemia couldn't help but sigh.
''What is it?" The emperor asked seeing his daughter sigh.
''No, it's nothing. Tell me father why did you call me?'' She asked once again.
Julius's expression changed, becoming serious he asked.
''You have heard about the disappearances don't you?"
''Yeah! I have my subordinates look into it, unfortunately, nothing was found.'' Artemia responded with a serious expression.
Sighing Julius said, ''Indeed, the investigation teams didn't found any useful information.''
Artemia's eyes widened, to think that the joint teams of the strongest empire and Elseria couldn't find anything. She wondered how resourceful those behind the kidnapping are.
'Another headache to think about. We already have that thing to deal with. But now another troublesome thing just popped out. Sigh! How tiring. We lack men, hope we will be prepared before that thing woke up. I must quickly complete the awakening.'
As she was thinking about the incoming dungeon's exploration, she lost track of time.
''I was thinking about postponing dungeon's exploration for you and other students,'' Julius announced.
Breaking free from her formulating thoughts, Artemia frowned.
''And why would you do that? Because of fear that some of us being captured? No, I bet you have decided to do this because of me.''
Julius couldn't only sigh at how fast she found out the reason for this decision. However, his surprise did not end up there, Artemia next words shocked him.
''This must be that Bro-con of mine's doing. He must be jealous of Alex to have suggested this.''
While saying this Artemia looked toward her father, the latter refused to look at her, he started whistling.
''I know it's dangerous but life is dangerous, only coward will stay hidden just because there's a little bit of danger. You know that I need to go in that dungeon. I can delay it any longer. While only three-person are going, none of us is weakling, you know my knight, you know my strength and more importantly, you know how strong Alex is. So there is no need to worry. Nothing will happen to us.''
When Artemia was talking about Alex, how strong he is there was a smile on her face this startled Julius, he misinterpreted Artemia's smile as a sign of her beginning to fall for Alex's devious scheme.
If Alex was here he would have fallen face-first while claiming his innocence, Artemia is indeed beautiful, more beautiful than Maria and others, however, he has never had a design on her, never thought of courting her must less plan for her to fall for him.
Unaware that her father had labeled Alex as dangerous, that he had already put Alex on the 'mustn't approach my daughter's list', Artemia would have facepalmed.
''I do understand your point but I still think it's dangerous you should wait-"
''Enough, father my decision is already taken. Like brother you don't fear me being kidnapped but you fear Alex making move on me.'' Artemia cut her father off and said.
''Ugh!" Julius grunted as Artemia had hit the bullseye.
''Don't worry nothing will happen,'' Artemia announced before standing up and said,
''I shall take my leave. See you soon father''
Before leaving the throne hall she stopped and said, ''Better not send someone to monitor us. I will know.''
''Ugh!"
''And better stop that little game of yours, now that it was still not late. Your children will commit the irreparable if you keep up.''
Leaving these words behind she left the throne hall, Julius couldn't help but sigh while thinking 'You talk as if you are not one of them. While you are not interested in the throne, the others are, and succession war is not a game.'
''Sorry Adler, your little scheme did not work. She still refused even if I suggested not going. Sigh!"