ã€ŠDominion of The Beast Mastersã€‹


 Chapter 1: The Day I Stopped To Be Someone

    Chapter 1: The Day I Stopped To Be SomeoneGenova Academy, one of the most prestigious training centers for aspiring beast masters. It was the roots of hope and ambition for everyone in the town of Grushia. Students here followed rigorous courses in various disciplines, including a special program dedicated to beast taming.

    For Grushia, Genova was not just an academy, it was a dream, a gateway to success in the competitive world of Beast Games, where tamers and their beasts battled for fame and fortune.

    But for Eratz Pandora, the academy had become his personal nightmare.

    The classroom buzzed with whispers as Eratz stood frozen at the front, every eye diving into him. His heart pounded violently in his chest, but outwardly, he stood still, frozen on the spot.

    Next to him, Professor Rowan, his mentor in the academy, trembled with disbelief.

    In front of Rowan, a young woman with sharp black hair and glasses held a small black crystal ball in her hand, her expression cold and merciless.

    "Well, I think that settles everything, Professor Rowan," she said, her voice slicing through the air like a knife.

    Rowan''s face contorted with confusion.

    "This... this is a joke. This has to be a joke..." His head turned slowly toward Eratz, his eyes wide with desperation. "Why are you silent?... Tell me this is a joke, Eratz!"

    Eratz''s mind raced, but no words came. He could feel all eyes fixed on him, the murmurs, the sneers, the looks of disdain.

    His throat tightened as his gaze traveled around the room, catching glimpses of students whispering to each other.

    "This is enough to confirm our suspicions," the woman spoke, holding up the black crystal. "Karinite 4, a magic device that amplifies power. And we''ve found it in your possession, Eratz. The ''genius'' student, nothing more than a fraud."

    The whispers grew louder, and some of the students couldn''t hold back their contempt.

    "So, he was cheating the whole time..."

    "I knew something was off. He''s a joke."

    "Ishtarians... always using tricks."

    Eratz''s fists clenched at his sides. The word "cheater" echoed in his mind, reverberating like a death knell. But then, one voice cut through the noise, a voice from the worst person imaginable, his voice.

    "I told you all he wasn''t what he seemed," Kenny''s smug tone dripped with satisfaction.

    Eratz''s heart twisted as his gaze found Kenny, standing at the back of the room, smirking. Eratz''s fists clenched as he fought back the urge to lash out.

    Rowan grabbed Eratz''s wrist, his grip shaky with emotion.

    "Tell me it''s not true! I trusted you, Eratz!" His voice broke, tears glistening in his eyes. "I believed in you. How could you deceive me like this?"

    Eratz felt his throat close up, his knees weak under the weight of it all.

    "P-professor... I didn''t... this is a setup, I...."

    "Then how did it end up in your bag?! You were the only one who knew where I kept it!"

    The old man''s fury was palpable, but underneath it was a raw pain that hurt Eratz even more. Tears welled up in Eratz''s eyes as he lowered his head, words failing him.

    He could feel the truth suffocating him, but no one would believe it. Kenny had played his cards perfectly.

    His eyes fell on his bag, from which he could see a pendant necklace shining under the sun, and achieving his will to defend himself.

    "... I''m sorry," Eratz whispered.

    "Eratz Pandora, you are suspended," the woman announced coldly, her final judgment as she sealed the crystal in a black box.

    The room erupted with voices, accusations flying through the air like daggers. Eratz could barely breathe. As the students'' sneers and insults swirled around him, he felt the world closing in.

    A star had fallen.

    **********

    Months passed, but the wound in Eratz''s heart never healed. Once the top student of the first years, praised for his quick understanding and skill, Eratz was now a ghost haunting the halls of the academy.

    Three months of expulsion had stolen his reputation, and upon his return, he was forbidden from training with the other students.

    The library had become his prison, a quiet place where he could disappear, drowning himself in books and bitter memories.

    During lunch break, Eratz sat at his usual table, an apple in one hand, a book in the other. The soft sound of pages turning was the only noise he could bear.

    The solitude of the library was his only refuge from the whispers and mocking stares.

    But even his isolation wasn''t immune to intrusion.

    "Come on, why is he being so stubborn?" Crystal Reiss, the student council president, stormed in with her usual fiery determination. "I''ve tried everything to get him to talk to

    you!"

    Eratz looked up, half amused by her persistence.

    "Crys, you know it''s better like this."

    "No, it''s not!" Crystal snapped. "Kenny''s the best tamer of the academy now. If he talks to the director, they might let you back in!"

    Eratz''s grip tightened around his apple. "Kenny, huh?" His lips twisted into a bitter smile. "Why do you even bother? I told you I was fine like this."

    Crystal didn''t catch the venom in his tone.

    "I''ll bring him here again. You two were friends once, right?"

    As she stormed out of the library, Eratz stared at the apple in his hand, his reflection barely visible on its surface. "Friends? I''d rather die than asking for his help."

    The memory of that day played on a loop in his mind, how Kenny had turned everyone against him, how Lisa, his childhood friend, had looked away, silent and complicit. They had taken everything from him.

    Later that afternoon, he walked in the corridor, head down, avoiding eye contact. He''d gotten used to the insults, the whispers that followed him everywhere, but it didn''t make them less

    painful.

    As he passed next to a window, something stopped him in his tracks, a familiar scent, a perfume he knew too well.

    He looked up and saw Crystal standing there, staring outside, lost in thought. Curios, Eratz followed her gaze, but what he saw made his blood run cold.

    Under the shadow of a large tree, Kenny and Lisa stood close, locked in a passionate kiss.

    The world seemed to tilt as a wave of nausea hit Eratz. His fists clenched, nails digging into

    his palms. His vision blurred with fury.

    "Lisa?!"

    The academy buzzed with the news of Kenny and Lisa''s relationship. For most, it was just another juicy rumor, but for Eratz, it was a fresh stab to the heart. She knew. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She knew everything, how Kenny had betrayed him, how he had taken the fall for something

    he didn''t do, and yet, she had chosen Kenny. His enemy.

    Lisa had always been close to Eratz, sharing a dream of becoming a great beast master.

    While Eratz excelled, Lisa struggled due to her lack of natural talent. Her family''s financial struggles only added to her desperation to succeed.

    One day, Lisa saw an opportunity when Eratz accidentally left the black crystal device outside Professor Rowan''s office while cleaning.

    Desperate, Lisa decided to steal it, hoping it would finally give her the edge she needed, however, Eratz discovered her and, instead of exposing her, offered to help her improve her

    skills honestly.

    He planned to return the device and asked Kenny to distract Professor Rowan while he did so.

    However, Kenny betrayed him. Instead of helping, Kenny spread a false story that Eratz had stolen the device to cheat.

    Kenny''s deceitful plot led to Eratz being framed and his reputation destroyed, and it was what

    was more painful.

    Of all people, Lisa sided with the one who threw him under the bus, she who knew the whole

    story.

    But the worst blow came soon after.

    Rumors began to swirl that Eratz had tried to assault Crystal. They''d spent time alone in the

    library, and now whispers of misconduct spread like wildfire.

    At first, Eratz had laughed at the absurdity of it but when he saw Crystal sobbing in the

    director''s office, clinging to Kenny, the laughter died in his throat.

    Crystal, the one person who hadn''t turned her back on him, was now standing in the director''s

    office, sobbing, her clothes torn, her face buried in Kenny''s chest.

    "I never thought you''d fall this low, Eratz," Kenny sneered.

    Eratz stood in the center of the director''s office, his fists clenched at his sides. The room,

    heavy with tension, was dimly lit by the afternoon sun streaming through the tall windows.

    Crystal sat next to the nurse of the academy, her eyes downcast, avoiding Eratz''s gaze. Kenny stood by her side, his arm draped protectively around her shoulders, wearing that same smug grin that made Eratz''s blood boil.

    On the other side of the room, the academy director, a stern woman with graying hair, sat behind her large desk, her expression unreadable.

    Several teachers lined the walls, their faces a mix of curiosity, disdain, and, in some cases,

    barely concealed hatred.

    Eratz''s heart pounded in his chest. He wanted to scream, to demand answers, but the weight of the accusations and the eyes of his peers didn''t let place for explanation. "Well, Pandora," the director finally said, her voice cold and formal. "The accusations against

    you are serious. This academy cannot tolerate such behavior. Crystal has already spoken, and

    we need to hear your side."

    Crystal''s eyes remained fixed on the floor, her hands fidgeting in her lap. Eratz''s throat tightened. He had trusted her, relied on her, and now she was the one dooming him.

    "Crystal..." Eratz''s voice trembled as he looked at her. "Tell them the truth. You know I didn''t do this. We were friends. Why won''t you look at me?"

    Her silence was deafening. The weight of betrayal settled heavily on his chest. She wouldn''t even acknowledge his presence, her eyes glued to the floor.

    One of the teachers, a tall, thin man with slicked-back hair and a sneer on his face, stepped

    forward, his voice dripping with disdain.

    Professor Melcin. He had always been silently critical of Eratz, but now the malice in his tone

    was unmistakable.

    "Ishtarians," he spat, his lip curling in contempt. "Always playing the victim. Always thinking the world is out to get them. But we know your kind, Pandora. Cheating, manipulating, causing trouble wherever you go. You''ve been a stain on this academy from the

    beginning."

    Eratz''s heart burned with anger, but he held his tongue. He had heard this rhetoric before.

    Ishtarians, people with dark skin and white hair, his people, were often treated as outsiders, savages and insulted often as animals. It had never bothered him as much before, but now, with everything crumbling around him, it felt like a dagger twisting in his gut. "You don''t know anything about me!" Eratz finally snapped, his voice rising. "This isn''t

    about where I''m from! This is about the truth! And the truth is, I didn''t do anything!" Professor Melcin chuckled, a low, condescending sound.

    "The truth, Pandora? What would someone like you know about truth? You come from a race

    living alongside beasts. Sexual assault is probably in your blood." "Enough," the director said sharply, cutting through the rising tension. Her eyes flicked

    toward Melcin with a warning, but the damage was already done.

    Kenny, sensing an opportunity to twist the knife further, leaned in closer to Crystal, stroking

    her arm as he spoke.

    "It''s pathetic, really. How low you''ve fallen, Eratz. First you cheat to stay at the top, and

    now... this." He gestured toward Crystal, who flinched under his touch but still said nothing.

    "I always knew there was something off about you. Guess I was right all along."

    Eratz''s vision blurred with fury.

    "This was your plan all along, wasn''t it, Kenny? You set me up! You put that crystal in my bag,

    you turned Lisa against me, and now you''re using Crystal too!"

    Kenny''s smile widened, but he didn''t respond.

    "Crystal," Eratz''s voice cracked as he pleaded with her one last time. "Please... tell them the

    truth. You know I didn''t hurt you. Why are you doing this?"

    For a brief moment, Crystal''s eyes flickered upward, meeting Eratz''s. There was a glimmer of

    something there, guilt, maybe regret, but it vanished as quickly as it appeared.

    She lowered her gaze again, her silence cutting deeper than any words could.

    Professor Melcin snorted.

    "Look at her. She''s terrified of you. And why wouldn''t she be? A beast tamer like you, an Ishtarian no less, using your power to intimidate and assault. Disgraceful."

    "I didn''t touch her!" Eratz shouted, his frustration boiling over. "She''s lying!" "And why would she lie?" another teacher chimed in, this one a younger woman who had

    always been skeptical of Eratz''s talents. "What does she have to gain by accusing you?" Eratz opened his mouth, but no words came. What could he say? Kenny had orchestrated

    everything so perfectly, and now, with Crystal''s silence condemning him, there was no way

    out.

    The director sighed heavily, rubbing her temples.

    "This is a serious accusation, Pandora. Until further investigation, you will be expelled from

    Genova Academy, effective immediately."

    The words hung in the air like a death sentence.

    Eratz''s chest tightened, the room spinning around him. He had lost. They had won. Crystal''s

    silence, Kenny''s manipulation, Melcin''s racism, it had all led to this moment.

    As the teachers began to file out, Crystal finally stood, her face pale and strained. For a

    fleeting second, she glanced at Eratz, her lips trembling, but she said nothing.

    With Kenny guiding her by the arm, she walked out of the room, leaving Eratz standing there,

    broken and alone.

    "Eratz," the director''s voice was softer now, but it didn''t matter. "You can gather your belongings and leave by the end of the day."

    Eratz didn''t respond. His body felt numb as he stood in the empty office, the weight of

    betrayal and injustice pressing down on him.

    Melcin''s parting words echoed in his mind. "Ishtarians... always the same."

    Later, Eratz stood alone in the his bedroom. He collected his few belongings with a

    mechanical precision, each movement a reminder of the life he was leaving behind. Stepping out of the room, he walked through the empty corridors of Genova Academy.

    The murmurs and sneers of the students seemed distant and hollow. The evening sun cast long shadows, painting the campus in hues of orange and gold.

    Reaching the academy grounds, Eratz paused, a red orb materialized and danced above him,

    the fire spirit he had bonded with, offered by the academy the first day.

    Its warm light casting a gentle glow in the encroaching twilight.

    His gaze followed the spirit and paused upwards. The sky was a paint of vibrant colors, the

    sun dipping below the horizon while the first stars began to emerge.

    As he watched the fire spirit dance in the air, something shifted within him.

    His green eyes began to change, the vibrant hue fading into a fierce, glowing red. It was as if a

    transformation was taking place, mirroring the shift in his mindset. His chest tightened, each beat echoing with intensity.

    The stars above captivated him, their beauty and the vast expanse of the night sky seemed to ignite something deep inside him.

    The endless possibilities they represented were a stark contrast to the narrow, confining space he had been forced into. Inspiration surged through him, as powerful as the fire spirit''s

    glow. Eratz''s breath quickened, his heart pounding with a new tempo. The injustice and betrayal he had suffered burned within him, fueling a singular desire: Revenge.

    He looked at the fire spirit, feeling its warmth and energy as it floated beside him. The

    transformation in his eyes and the pounding of his chest marked the beginning of a new chapter.

    With a determined gaze fixed on the star-filled sky, Eratz whispered to himself. "This isn''t over. I''ll show them. I''ll destroy everything they put on my way, and I''ll shake this

    world."

    His steps were lighter, his resolve steeled. As he walked away from Genova Academy, the fire spirit''s glow accompanied him.

 Chapter 2: And I Started To Be One

    Chapter 2: And I Started To Be OneEratz''s parents had sacrificed much to send him to Genova Academy, putting all their dreams and efforts in him, but that dream shattered when he was expelled, accused of cheating and aggression.

    When he returned home, his family was livid. His father paced back and forth, while his mother looked at him with a mixture of disappointment and disgust.

    "Do you have any idea how much we''ve sacrificed for you?" his father shouted, his face red with fury. "When will you stop being a burden to this family? I didn''t raise a criminal!"

    His mother''s words were even colder.

    "You''re going to go back there and apologize to that girl you assaulted. After that, we''re sending you to your aunt''s. We don''t want you here anymore."

    Eratz tried to explain the truth, how he had been set up by Kenny, how the accusation was false, but his parents refused to listen.

    "Enough with your lies!" his father shouted, slamming his fist on the table. "I don''t want to hear any more excuses!"

    Eratz fell silent, knowing that no words could penetrate their anger. He realized they had already made up their minds, casting him as the villain without even trying to understand his side. As they berated him, the weight of their disappointment crushed him in ways he hadn''t expected. Words hurt more than any physical blow. He felt broken, incapable of feeling anything anymore, not even resentment. All he could do was nod in silence.

    In the following weeks, his isolation grew. His parents hid the truth from their neighbors, pretending he was merely expelled for poor performance. His mother kept his younger brother and sister away from him, fearing a "sexual agression virus."

    He had become the shame of the family, a failure, an outcast, a disgrace.

    His salvation came when he was sent to live with his aunt and uncle in the countryside. It was a modest house with a small garden, but it was a world away from the suffocating hell of his parents'' home. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The little family ressembles his in appearance, his aunt, Cassie, was Ishtarian like him and his mother, but his uncle Roger was a native of the country like his father. They knew about his situation, but when he arrived, they welcomed him without hesitation.

    Upon his arrival, Roger led him to the attic, which they had converted into a bedroom. "Sorry it''s a bit cramped," Roger said, placing Eratz''s bags down. "But it''s the best we could do on short notice."

    Cassie, however, grumbled.

    "It would''ve been done sooner if someone hadn''t spent all day fishing."

    Roger rolled his eyes.

    "Hey, I was trying to catch something for a feast to welcome him."

    Eratz stood quietly, listening to their playful argument. Their lightheartedness was a stark contrast to the oppressive silence he had endured at home.

    Later, they sat down for dinner, and though the meal was simple, they had prepared it with care. But Eratz couldn''t shake the tension inside him.

    "Why aren''t you asking me why I''m here?" Eratz finally broke the silence. He couldn''t understand why they were treating him so kindly, despite knowing what his parents had said about him.

    Roger looked up.

    "What do you mean? You''re our nephew. Of course, we''d take care of you."

    Cassie nodded.

    "We''ve known you since you were a baby, Eratz. You wouldn''t do something horrible." Eratz stared down at his plate.

    "You know what they told you. Why don''t you ask me what really happened?"

    Cassie and Roger exchanged a glance, their cheerful expressions turning serious. It wasn''t about believing or not, but an horrible story had been spread and Eratz had never been able to tell his own version.

    "If it''ll help you feel better," Roger said gently, "we can listen to your side of the story." And so, Eratz told them everything. He recounted how he had found the device in Professor Rowan''s office while cleaning, how Lisa had tried to steal it, and how Kenny had twisted the story to frame him. As he spoke, he could feel some of the pain lifting, like a weight slowly being chipped away.

    By the end of his tale, Cassie was furious.

    "That little bitch," she muttered, reaching for her phone. "I''ll drag your mother here and make her apologize for everything."

    But Eratz shook his head.

    "Don''t call them. I don''t want to go back."

    Cassie hesitated.

    "Eratz, they''re your parents. They need to know what they did to you."

    "No," Eratz said firmly, his voice colder than before. "Even if they believed me now, it wouldn''t change anything. They didn''t listen when I needed them. You did. You and uncle Roger, you''re the ones who believed in me. You treated me more like a parent that they ever did."

    His voice was calm, too calm for a boy who had been through so much. Something had changed in him. His green eyes had changed, now glowing with a reddish hue as if reflecting the fire of his burning emotions. His transformation was not just physical, but mental.

    Cassie and Roger exchanged another glance, both realizing how deeply the academy and his family''s betrayal had scarred him.

    "I''ve decided what I''m going to do," Eratz said, staring at the glowing red orb of fire that had appeared in his palm, a manifestation of his bond with the fire spirit. "I''ll rise to the top, not to prove anything to them, but for myself, for you, and for Colin."

 Chapter 3: Awakening? The Power Of Genetics

    Chapter 3: Awakening? The Power Of GeneticsAfter that night, Eratz knew something had changed. His body felt different, stronger, more responsive. The air around him seemed sharper, every sound and movement in the surroundings felt more intense, like he was sensing too many things at once.

    It wasn''t just physical. His mind had changed too. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He had always known that strength was the key to power. Being at an academy could have helped him build his name, but now, out here on his own, he had to make a name from scratch.

    And that didn''t bother him one bit. It drove him. He needed strength, and he would do whatever it took to get it.

    The forest behind his uncle''s house was his perfect hunting ground. It was teeming with magical creatures, not too strong to be a threat, perfect for training.

    Early that morning, with the sun just starting to rise, Eratz stepped into the dense trees. His red orb swirled around him, and for the first time, he truly felt connected to it. It wasn''t just a power he could use it was part of him.

    As he moved deeper into the woods, the noises of the creatures around him grew louder. He could hear every rustle of leaves, every snap of a twig. More than that, he could feel them. It was like his senses were tuned to every living thing nearby.

    A branch cracked to his left. The red orb of light beside him stilled, and his body tensed. From behind a bush, a small, horned rabbit leaped out.

    [Name: Rabboot]

    Affinity: None

    Rank: Common

    Abilities: Quick Step]

    The information appeared in his mind instantly, like the rabbit was speaking directly to him. He blinked in surprise. Before, it had taken him time and focus to sense a creature''s strength, but now it was as easy as blinking.

    "What...?" he muttered under his breath.

    He crouched low, moving quietly. As he did, he concentrated, and suddenly, he could feel it the presence of every creature around him. Not just the rabbit, but others, too.

    "... Fifteen, no, twenty-five..." He grinned to himself. "A whole nest."

    But before he could think more about it, quick footsteps approached. A black shape darted out of the shadows toward him, moving fast.

    [Name: Vulpan]

    Affinity: Darkness

    Rank: Common

    Abilities: Acuity]

    A large, black fox stood before him, eyes glowing with menace. It was bigger than normal, its sharp fangs bared. The red flames around Eratz flared brighter, reacting to the creature''s aggression.

    But this time, the power felt different. It flowed easily, almost without effort.

    The Vulpan leaped at him, claws aimed straight for his chest. Eratz barely flinched. A burst of fire exploded from his hands, and in an instant, the fox was thrown back, its body rolling across the ground. Its fur was charred, still smoking as it struggled to get up.

    Eratz looked down at his hands, wide-eyed. The fight had ended almost before it had begun. "What... is happening to me?" he whispered.

    His heart raced with excitement. He felt stronger, faster, like his body was running on pure adrenaline. He remembered something Rowan had told him long ago about his Ishtarian blood.

    "There''s a legend about your people, some say Ishtarians are more like beasts than humans. If their power awakens, it''s like tapping into something wild, something primal."

    Eratz clenched his fists, feeling the power surging through him. Was this what Rowan meant? Was he awakening some kind of beast power within himself?

    The Vulpan, still limping but determined, charged at him again. But this time, Eratz was ready. He stepped aside, dodging the creature easily. It flew past him, and with a flick of his wrist, he sent a small fireball right into its side. The beast crashed to the ground, too injured to continue.

    Eratz grinned. This was easier than he expected.

    But he wasn''t finished yet. He wanted to test something.

    "Let''s see if I can really do this," he muttered.

    He gathered his aura, focusing it into a dome around himself and the wounded Vulpan. The air around him thickened, pulsing with power. This was spiritual pressure, the key to taming beasts. Every true beast tamer could use it to dominate a beast''s will, the success rate depending on their power and affinity.

    The Vulpan struggled, trying to resist, but Eratz''s pressure was too much. Slowly, the beast''s body dissolved into shadows, swirling around him before vanishing entirely.

    Eratz stood there for a moment, breathing heavily, trying to process what had just happened.

    "... Did I actually tame it?" he asked aloud, still stunned.

    To confirm, he let a small bit of his energy flow out. A shadowy shape appeared beside him, forming into the familiar shape of the Vulpan, its glossy black fur shimmering in the light. But something was different this time, there was no aggression in its eyes, only a calm, almost curious look.

    Eratz knelt down, reaching out to touch the fox''s head. It hesitated, then leaned into his hand, accepting the gesture.

    "I actually did it," he said, his voice filled with disbelief. "I tamed my first beast."

    He couldn''t stop the grin from spreading across his face. His heart was racing, not from fear but from excitement. If he could tame a Vulpan, what else could he do? How far could this

    power take him?

    Just then, movement in the bushes caught his attention. He looked up and saw more glowing eyes. A pack of Vulpans was slowly advancing, their gaze fixed on him.

    Eratz stood up, fire flickering around his hands once more. He looked at the approaching creatures, his grin widening.

    "Good," he said quietly, his voice steady. "More volunteers."

    The hunt was just beginning.

 Chapter 4: Beast Master

    Chapter 4: Beast MasterA dozen of Vulpans stood in front of Eratz, baring their fangs. Eratz focused on the beasts, each displaying similar characteristics as the one he tamed, in his own language, easy preys. "Hm... even like this, there''s still a few, I shouldn''t be too careless." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The red orb resurfaced, and so did his fire shield. He took the same stance as previously, this time increasing the concentration of fire in his hands, but then, he remembered the Vulpan at his side.

    The Vulpan stood on an offensive stance face to its peers, like brainwashed, the beast seemed to follow the will of its master.

    "...Oh, it must be his pack...but isn''t he supposed to be attached to them? I thought I was supposed to train him a little."

    The taming took place only a minute ago, yet the beast was already under Eratz''s control, in good shape and ready to fight. Usually it needed a little time to train a beast, under some circumstance the creature could be influenced by its past life, like here the Vulpan facing his literal pack.

    Eratz observed it momentarily from the side of his eye. Up till now, everything was perfect, everything he had tried was a success.

    "Can I do it with him too?"

    He dodged to the side as the first Vulpan lunged, its body igniting against the fiery shield. Eratz observed the creature thrashing on the ground, while ten more leaped toward him.

    It was a fleeting moment, yet the hue of the boy''s eyes mirrored that of his beast. A crimson blur swept through the battlefield with incredible swiftness, leaving a path of flaming Vulpans in its wake.

    The pack rushed on him with high speed, but their movements became predictable, their speed decreasing.

    "... It''s working..." A smile grew on his lips.

    Flames erupted from his hands, transforming into fierce claws reminiscent of the Vulpans. His senses heightened tenfold. With a swift spin, he deflected the onslaught of the pack; it was a fleeting moment, yet the fire swiftly covered the beasts, not strong enough to neutralize them, but as soon as they touched the ground again, Eratz''s Vulpan attacked them with fast strike.

    He could control his moves by thinking on different instructions, and the beast executed perfectly. It was like if the beast was an extension of his own body, and the fire spirit was another.

    Controlling the 2 while fighting took a lot on his mind, but the longer the battle lasted, the easier it become.

    The sun reached its zenith, and on the ground the battle reached its twilight. Eratz was sitting on a tree log in the middle of the aftermath of the battle, over 20 vulpans around him, while his beast was resting on his laps, battered and bruised from the relentless fight.

    Eratz himself had a few scratches on his body, and some parts of his outfit were burnt, but his eyes were sparkling with life.

    "It''s so strange, I feel like I could keep fighting a little more..."

    His pressure spread over the Vulpans, their body dissipating in his shadow. After a few seconds, he released his pressure again, spreading on large surface on the ground.

    The ground covered in darkness, before releasing several figures, morphing in the pack of Vulpans he slaughtered.

    The beasts watched the young boy with curiosity, they slightly varied in size and appearance, but all had in common the same docility.

    During his time at the academy, Eratz was told that the task of taming a beast required the finest abilities, anyone could handle a little pet, but taming a true monster required the strongest abilities.

    Yet, he came on this day with a single fire spirit, the weakest beast possible, accessible to anyone, and by noon he had conquered a whole pack of monsters.

    "Maybe I''m pretty strong, uh? But that many..."

    Controlling 2 beasts was a headache, and now he had a little army.

    "I''ve seen many beast masters using at most 3 beasts simultaneously, and they have to be strong enough to have a good autonomy."

    He concentrated for a moment on just one command: the basic act of sitting, and after that, the Vulpans followed through. He could send one order to all of them at once, but Eratz understood there was a method to give each one a different instruction.

    It seemed harder than anything he had tried before,

    His thoughts focused on perfecting his mastery over this small regiment of creatures. He was aware that this situation was a huge obstacle in his rapid growth, but somehow, the idea of controlling a whole army of powerful monsters had a good sound to his ears.

    The wind blew gently through the forest, bringing with it scents of ashes and earth. Eratz stood slowly, adjusting his burned clothes and dusting off the debris that had clung to him. He knew that what he had accomplished was an impressive display of power and control, but he was also aware that it was only the beginning.

    "We still have work to do. We need to strengthen ourselves, improve our coordination. We must show that we are more than just fighting beasts."

    The Vulpans looked up at him, as if they understood every word.

    Eratz turned to the pack under his control. The battle was not only a test of strength, but also of leadership skill and discipline, not only for the beasts, but also himself.

    He knew he had to learn to manage this power sleeping within him with caution and strategy. He heard a lot that he has talent, and now he was well aware of his potential.

    His objectives in life were a real challenge, and he was determined to achieve them, but he realized that he had more weapons than anticipated.

    "Come on, follow me," He said, his voice firm, but full of warmth.

    He moved forward, guiding his beasts, knowing that each step brought him closer to his goal of becoming a truly fearsome beast master.

 Chapter 5: Legion

    Chapter 5: LegionEratz faced the trees, his red eyes glowing faintly. The pack of Vulpans gathered behind him, their black fur blending with the shadows.

    He felt alive, more powerful than he had ever imagined.

    His heart pounded in his chest, not just from excitement but from the strange power flowing through him.

    He had started with one Vulpan, but now, a whole pack of them followed at his side, their eyes glowing in the darkness. He was a beast master, and his first real pack was at his command

    It was still noon, and Eratz was ready to hunt. His footsteps were silent as he ventured deeper into the woods, the Vulpans moving with him like shadows.

    Suddenly, his senses flared. He could feel a presence ahead, multiple creatures, waiting for him in the area.

    His pulse quickened, but his confidence surged even higher. A wicked grin crept onto his face. "More prey," he muttered to himself. "Good. Let''s see what you''ve got."

    Without hesitation, he gave a silent command to his Vulpans, and they scattered, circling the area like hunters preparing for the kill.

    Eratz could feel every one of them, their movements flowing through him as if they were extensions of his own body.

    This was the power of a true beast master, he wasn''t just leading these creatures; he was one with them.

    The first creatures emerged from the shadows: a group of clawed, insect-like monsters with glistening mandibles. They were fast, but not fast enough for the Vulpans. The dark foxes darted between the trees, attacking with ruthless precision.

    Eratz didn''t need to give specific orders, his beasts knew exactly what to do.

    He simply moved with them, his body syncing effortlessly with their actions.

    One of the insectoids lunged at him, its mandibles swiping through the air with deadly speed. But Eratz was faster. With a swift motion, he dodged to the side, his hand glowing with fiery energy. He released a burst of flame, incinerating slightly the creature before it could even react.

    His eyes darted to the side, where two more insectoids had pounced on a Vulpan.

    Before they could strike, Eratz raised his hand, and a thread of fire surged outward, tying the attackers in a burning embrace.

    The Vulpans moved with brutal efficiency, tearing into the weakened creatures, and within moments, the battle was over.

    But Eratz wasn''t done yet. His red eyes gleamed with power as he raised his hand again, and his spiritual pressure surged.

    The fallen monsters trembled as they were pulled into the ground, their bodies disintegrating into dark particles. The shadows swirled around him, the creatures were absorbed into his army.

    The insectoids'' forms reappeared moments later, flying behind Eratz like loyal soldiers. His grin widened.

    "Bigger, I want it bigger!"

    The thrill of commanding a huge army filled him with euphoria. Even if they were weak, it didn''t matter, he wasn''t after power right now. He was after numbers.

    For hours, he continued his hunt. Every time he encountered a new group of creatures, he launched himself into battle with unrelenting force. His monsters led the charge, but Eratz fought right alongside them, moving with the same ferocity and speed as the beasts he commanded.

    In normal occurrences, beasts masters focused on getting strong monsters and controlling them, it was what they''ve been taught to focus on first at the academy, but Eratz didn''t hesitate to flirt with the other occurrence they were warned to be too complicated to use. First, with his fire spirit, and now with his army.

    But he wasn''t just mimicking their movements, he was becoming them.

    At first, it was difficult. Trying to fight and command at the same time was overwhelming. His mind was split between controlling his beasts and reacting to the enemies in front of him. But as the day pursued, Eratz found that it wasn''t as hard as he had thought.

    The more he fought, the more natural it became. His commands became instinctual, his movements seamless.

    With each victory, he absorbed more monsters into his army. A pack of horned wolves tried to ambush him at one point, but they fell just like the others. He dodged their attacks with ease, striking with deadly precision. Once they were defeated, Eratz absorbed them, their forms vanishing into the shadows before reappearing by his side.

    His army was growing rapidly now. It wasn''t just the Vulpans anymore, he had wolves, insectoids, and other creatures of the forest under his control.

    None of them were particularly impressive on their own, but together, they formed a force was shaking the forest.

    During a fight with a swift, four-legged creature covered in thorny scales, Eratz felt another detail.

    The creature moved with such speed that it was nearly impossible to track, but after a few exchanges, something clicked.

    Eratz''s body moved on its own, matching the creature''s speed with terrifying precision, parrying the attacks and following the beast.

    His muscles burned, his lungs were in fire, it was as if he had these abilities within him, but his body couldn''t catch up with his will.

    One thing was sure, he possessed the power of the beast he had absorbed.

    His blood boiled with excitement as he parried the creature''s strikes, increasing his speed and agility with each movement while his body was literally burning.

    Eratz''s speed ended up surpassing the beast, dodging another attack before delivering a powerful blow to the creature''s side.

    The beast fell to the ground, and Eratz landed next to it. His spiritual pressure enveloped it, and within moments, the thorny creature dissolved into black particles, merging with his aura.

    He tried to catch up his breath, his body drenched in sweat. His view was blurring, but he wasn''t ready to stop now.

    He could feel his pack raging everywhere, so he couldn''t let them see their leader on the ground.

    The battles pursued for hours, becoming a blur. Eratz moved from one fight to the next, his body flowing with a strength and agility he had never felt before, his pain increasing, but overshadowed by his excitement.

    He fought like a beast, commanding his creatures with his will, and each time he absorbed another monster, the power inside him grew stronger.

    By the time nightfall came, Eratz had lost track of how many monsters he had fought, how many creatures he had absorbed.

    His army now numbered in the hundreds, and they all stood behind him, waiting for his command. The forest had grown quiet, the usual sounds of wildlife silenced by the presence

    of Eratz''s army.

    The moon had risen high above the trees, casting an eerie light over the clearing where he stood, breathing heavily but grinning.

    His body ached from the constant fighting, he could feel each of his muscles burning and his organs turning around.

    "Maybe... Maybe I should really take a break now," he muttered, his voice barely audible. "Before completely breaking down."

    He glanced around at the creatures surrounding him, his red eyes gleaming in the darkness. He had started with a single fire spirit, and now he had an army. He was the alpha now, the

    one in control.

    For a moment, Eratz laughed softly to himself. He had lost track of time, lost himself in the thrill of the hunt. His uncle and aunt were probably worried sick by now, he would need a good motivational speech to justify his recklessness, but He was satisfied.

    His red eyes flickered as he looked up at the moon, shining brightly above the trees.

    "Maybe I got a little carried away..." he muttered to himself, wiping the sweat from his

    brow."

    But there was no regret in his voice. Only satisfaction.

    He glanced around the clearing, the beasts watching him silently from the shadows. His spiritual pressure pulsed with power, and his red eyes glowed faintly in the moonlight. He felt

    unstoppable.

    "I guess I should train my body too, so I''ll handle this power better."

    There was a part of him that wanted to stay out here, in the wild, hunting and fighting until S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    the entire forest was under his control, but his body was sending him alarms he couldn''t

    ignore.

    With one last glance at the forest around him, Eratz turned and began walking back toward

    the edge of the trees.

    His beasts blended into the shadow of their master.

 Chapter 6: Breaking Limits

    Chapter 6: Breaking LimitsIt had been weeks since Eratz first set foot into the forest, and by now, he had conquered nearly every corner of it.

    Each day brought a new challenge, and he kept evolving. He had grown used to the routine: helping around the house, assisting his aunt at the village market, and then retreating into the forest for training.

    Life was simple, and he liked it that way.

    Their home was a modest one, tucked near the edge of the village. Wooden walls weathered by time, a small garden in the back where his aunt grew vegetables.

    His uncle, a carpenter, would work in his shed all day, while his aunt prepared vegetables to sell at the market.

    Eratz spent most mornings sweeping the floors, cleaning the windows, or chopping wood for the stove. These tasks felt natural to him.

    He wasn''t doing it for praise. He never sought attention. It was his family, after all, and doing these things for them felt like the least he could do.

    They had taken him in, treated him as one of their own after his parents had abandoned him. That sense of duty was engrained in him, and though he spent hours each day honing his skills in the forest, his family always came first.

    When the chores were done, Eratz would help his aunt at the village market.

    Cassie, was a lively woman who seemed to know everyone in the village. She had a smile for every customer, and her laughter filled the market air.

    The market itself was bustling with life with children running through the streets, merchants shouting out their wares, and the smell of fresh products filling the air.

    Many races were mixed, making Eratz satisfied of being part of it, even if he mostly kept to himself.

    "Eratz, are you sure you don''t want to go to an college?" his aunt asked one morning as they set up the stall. She looked at him with a mix of concern. "Your uncle and I are ready to pay for it."

    Eratz smiled softly, shaking his head as he set down a basket of carrots at her stall.

    "I''m fine, Auntie. I don''t need school. The forest is my teacher." He nodded toward the forest, where he spent his afternoons. "Besides, it''s better if you focus on Colin. She''s the one who should be going to school."

    Cassie sighed, placing her hands on her hips as she gave him a look.

    "I just worry about you out there all alone. You''re only seventeen, and the forest is wild. You should be with other teens your age, learning, I don''t want to see you wasting your life for revenge."

    He chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck.

    "I am learning. It''s just... different from what most teens do, I guess. And honestly I''m not even thinking about theses people anymore, I''m doing it because I like that. I know what I''m capable of, I''ll get the best for us, so don''t worry about me, focus on helping Colin get into a good school. She deserves everything."

    At the mention of Colin, his aunt''s expression softened. His little cousin was a shy girl with long white hair, blue eyes and a skin slightly paler than Eratz.

    She was always hiding behind her mother''s skirt or watching Eratz from the corners of rooms with wide, curious eyes.

    Whenever Eratz caught her watching him, she would blush and look away.

    "She''ll get there," Cassie said, her voice filled with pride and a bit of sadness. "But don''t forget to take care of yourself, too."

    She reached out, ruffling his hair the way she used to when he was smaller.

    "You''ve grown up too fast, if you keep being like this, I won''t be able to pamper you anymore." she said with a sigh.

    "Why would you stop? I''m never going to stop asking for it. I''ll always be your little boy."

    Cassie didn''t s answer, but her eyes showed that she was still worried. She wanted him to live a normal life, but he didn''t see the point anymore.

    The forest called to him in a way that nothing else did. The power he was cultivating, the strength he was building, it was all part of a path he felt attracted to.

    Later that afternoon, after helping with the day''s work, Eratz returned to the forest, without releasing his beasts.

    His presence was feared by most of the beasts in the forest, and they had learned to steer clear when they could feel him nearby.

    Eratz felt a strange energy coursing through him, an itch beneath his skin that made him restless.

    His goal was to break through his own limits. He wanted to push his body and power to new heights. For him, it was the key to defeat tame stronger monsters.

    Dressed in a simple black tank top, Eratz began his routine. He started with a sprint, dashing through the forest at full speed, his feet pounding against the earth.

    Each step came quicker than the one before, his legs moving in a blur as if they had a mind of their own.

    His breath came in fast, sharp gasps, his chest rising and falling as he darted between the trees like a thunderbolt, but it wasn''t enough, he needed more.

    Skidding to an halt, he faced a massive boulder, his chest rising and falling as he caught his breath.

    He tightened his fists and began slamming them into the rock, each punch harder than the one before. The impact sent shocks up his arms, but he didn''t stop.

    His blows were measured at first, each hit calculated and controlled, but soon they increased in speed and intensity. Each strike sent tremors through the stone, his fists moving so fast

    they were almost a blur.

    Boom! Boom! Boom!

    The sound of his fists hitting the rock echoed through the forest, sweat dripped down his forehead, the pain in his arms growing heavier with each punch. His muscles screamed in pain, but Eratz didn''t stop.

    He focused on channeling the energy in his body, pushing it into his fists, feeling the heat of his own power building up.

    "Faster," His mind urged him. "Stronger."

    Eratz''s knuckles were bruised, but he didn''t care. The rush of power surging through his body was too thrilling.

    Each punch made his heart pound harder, and cracks spread across the boulder''s surface with

    every hit.

    The feeling was electric, as if he could break through anything if he just pushed a little more.

    With one final, forceful punch, the boulder shattered, chunks of rock scattering to the ground. Eratz stood still for a moment, breathing heavily, sweat pouring down his face. He wiped his brow, grinning as he looked at his hands, his knuckles bruised, but he felt alive.

    The pain didn''t matter, the thrill of pushing himself beyond his limits gave him a rush he couldn''t explain. But he wasn''t still done.

    He stepped away from the crumbled rock, leaping high into the air, moving from tree to tree with quick, agile jumps. He tested his agility, landing on thin branches that barely held his

    weight.

    He dodged and moved as if invisible enemies were coming at him, flipping through the air with ease. His movements were raw, like a wild animal, but focused.

    He was learning to control his body, to push past the pain and exhaustion, to see how far his body could follow his imagination.

    Time passed quickly, and the sky began to glow with the colors of sunset. Eratz could feel the fatigue deep in his muscles, but he wasn''t ready to stop.

    Dropping to the ground, he started push-ups, the cool earth pressing against his palms.

    His arms shook with each push, and the strain built with every movement, but he clenched his jaw and kept going, determined to finish.

    His body ached, his arms trembling with each repetition, his muscles screaming for rest. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    One hundred. Two hundred. Three hundred.

    By the time he was finished, the forest was dark, illuminated only by the faint glow of a

    quarter of moon.

    Eratz collapsed onto his stomach, staring at the bushes, completely drained.

    His tank top was soaked through with sweat, and his body was covered in dirt and scratches,

    but the smile on his face never left.

    He had pushed his limits again, and the euphoria of it coursed through him.

    As he lay there, breathing heavily, he realized how far he had come. Weeks ago, he was just a talented teenager among thousands others, with everything to be happy, but one day, he lost

    everything.

    He was at the bottom of life, trashed by everyone, but on the brink of his despair, someone died in him, and something was born.

    He was stronger, more confident, more in control of his power. He wasn''t just training to become stronger, he was learning to master himself, to push himself farther than possible.

    He felt an uncontrollable desire to improve, to protect his family, to understand the strange power that flowed through his veins.

    He was a boy who understood that his body was a powerful weapon.

    After a few minutes, he finally stood, stretching his arms and wiping the sweat from his face.

    It was time to head home, his aunt and uncle would be wondering where he was by now, and though they trusted him, he didn''t like worrying them more than necessary.

    As he made his way back through the forest, his steps were slow but steady. The beasts kept

    their distance, and the night was quiet, peaceful. His army of creatures remained in his

    shadows.

    He was exhausted, but felt like he didn''t need them to deal with any monster coming to him,

    He was strong enough on his own.

 Chapter 7: The Torch Bearer

    Chapter 7: The Torch BearerThe next few days passed in a blur as Eratz continued to refine his strength.

    Each morning, his body felt lighter, more attuned to the forces around him, and his

    connection to his beasts deepened.

    One evening, after an intense day of training, as he walked toward his aunt and uncle''s house, he thought about the secrets behind his change.

    There was something else stirring within him, something deeper, linked to his Ishtarian blood.

    As he opened the door, the warmth of the house and the smell of roasted vegetables welcomed him. Aunt Cassie was at the stove, humming a cheerful tune, while Uncle Roger sat at the table, flipping through an old book with a relaxed smile.

    "There''s our warrior!" Cassie called out with a laugh. "Come on, show us some of those moves you''ve been practicing! You''ve got a whole new set of muscles since yesterday, I bet it''s not just for showing!"

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head. "Maybe later, Aunt Cassie. I''m not sure the house can handle it."

    "Oh, please!" She waved a hand dismissively. "This house has seen worse, right dear?"

    Roger coughed, almost dropping his book, smiling lazily.

    "She''s right, you know... This place survived your aunt''s cooking for years, the walls are really strong."

    Cassie gasped in mock offense.

    "Eh, smart boy, but I''ll have you know my cooking is a treasured skill! You''re just spoiled because you grew up in a house that knew how to cook a real feast!"

    "And then you keep asking me to get some muscles."

    Eratz laughed, the lighthearted banter easing the weight on his shoulders. He felt more at home here than anywhere else in the world.

    With his aunt and uncle sitting close by, it felt like the right time to ask.

    "Aunt Cassie, Uncle Roger, I''ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be Ishtarian... Since I''m training, I''ve started changing, and I don''t understand that. You''ve both mentioned the stories of our ancestors before, but... what''s really behind this ''awakening'' everyone talks about?"

    Cassie raised an eyebrow.

    "Ah, the old ''beast awakening'' stories. Those were the kinds of tales your grandma used to scare me with when I wouldn''t finish my chores on time. ''If you get too angry, you''ll turn into a big scary beast, and then who''s gonna clean the dishes?''" She chuckled, giving Roger a playful nudge.

    Roger smiled back, leaning back in his chair.

    "She''s not wrong about the stories, though. There''s some truth to them. Strong emotions can stir something inside an Ishtarian, something primal. But it''s not like you turn into some wild monster. It''s more... An awesome awakening of who you really are."

    "Exactly," Cassie jumped in, her eyes sparkling. "It''s more about control. Our ancestors didn''t go around rampaging through villages. They channeled their emotions into battle, into protecting their homes. Some Ishtarians could awaken that power when they felt intense love or joy too, but it wasn''t always about fighting."

    Eratz listened carefully, intrigued.

    "So, it''s not just about getting angry or needing to fight?"

    "Nope," Cassie shook her head. "It''s about being in phase with yourself, and not everyone awakens in the same way. I didn''t change the way you did, Eratz. My awakening was more... subtle." She laughed, leaning closer. "But don''t worry, your Uncle Roger still says I''m plenty of trouble when I want to be, and he''s the proof that I''m not a savage beast."

    "... Um... depends..." Roger smirked. "But she''s not wrong."

    Eratz chuckled at their banter, feeling a little lighter. Roger hid his face behind his book to avoid Cassie''s furiously gaze, but both ended up chuckling.

    "You''re born from a formidable blood, Eratz. You''re so young but You''re already starting to understand what it means to be Ishtarian. You should really be proud of it."

    Cassie leaned back, crossing her arms with a thoughtful expression.

    "You''re not the first in our family to experience a big change. We''ve had grandparents just like you. And let me tell you, they all had one thing in common: they were completely unstoppable."

    The conversation continued, full of laughter and teasing, with Cassie making light of their family''s history while Roger added in his calm, reassuring perspective. Eratz soaked it all in, feeling a sense of pride in his heritage that he hadn''t fully grasped before.

    The next day, as Eratz prepared to head out for his training, he noticed something unusual. Colin was peeking at him from behind the door.

    "I see you, Colin," he said with a teasing tone. "You shouldn''t hide, or the monster in the shadow will bite your fingers."

    Colin stepped out hesitantly, her eyes wide as she approached.

    "I wasn''t hiding... I was just... watching."

    Eratz smiled, crouching down a little so he was at her eye level.

    "Watching, huh? You''re curious about my training?"

    Colin nodded shyly, fidgeting with her hands.

    "You look... really strong. Like... a real warrior."

    "Impressed, huh?" Eratz grinned, straightening up. "Well, I''ve been working hard, but it''s only the beginning. You know, you''ve got that same potential, Colin. You''re an Ishtarian too." Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her eyes widened, and she shook her head quickly.

    "Me? No, I''m not like you."

    Eratz chuckled softly.

    "You are, though. Even though you''re lighter than me, It''s in your blood. One day you''ll awake something big, like me or your mom. It''s just waiting for the right moment."

    Colin looked up at him, clenching her lips.

    "You really think so?"

    "I know you will," Eratz said confidently. "But for now, why don''t you let me handle the

    tough stuff? If you''re a good girl, I''ll bring you a surprise tonight."

    "A surprise?" Colin''s shyness melted away for a moment.

    Eratz nodded. "Yup. But you''ll have to wait until I get back. Promise?"

    "Promise," she said, her face lighting up with excitement.

    With a final smile, Eratz patted her white hair and headed out for his training.

    As he began his usual routine, he quickly realized that it wasn''t pushing him like it used to.

    The exercises, the summoning, it had all become too easy. He needed something more intense, something to really challenge his newfound strength.

    That''s when the idea sparkled in his mind.

    He called upon hundreds of his beasts, their forms surrounding him in the clearing.

    "Attack me," he ordered.

    At first, they hesitated, unsure of their master''s command. But with a sharp look from Eratz,

    they understood.

    The beasts rushed him all at once, their movements becoming faster as they closed in from all sides. Eratz''s heart raced, but he stood firm, ready.

    The battle was fierce, with him fending off wave after wave of creatures, his power surging with every strike. His pressure activated, healing the fallen beasts and reinvoking them as the

    battle raged on.

    Hours passed, and by the time the sun had went down below the horizon, Eratz was still

    standing, worn out, but victorious. The ground around him was littered with tired beasts,

    melting in his shadow.

    Breathing heavily, he looked up at the sky. "I guess this is my new training from now on..." he

    muttered to himself.

    Later that night, as promised, Eratz returned home to find Colin waiting eagerly. He knelt down in front of her and opened his hand, revealing a small, glowing flame, the fire spirit.

    "Here," he said, offering it to her. "This is for you."

    Colin''s eyes widened in awe as she reached out to touch the flame.

    "It''s... it''s beautiful."

    Eratz smiled softly.

    "It''s the hero who saved my life. It''s yours now. I want it to be as helpful to you as it was to

    me, take it like me always being with you."

    Colin looked up at him, her eyes shining with admiration.

    "Thank you, Eratz. You''re... like a hero."

    Eratz chuckled, feeling a warmth in his chest.

    "Nah. I''m your family first, and a monster second. But I believe in you, Colin. One day, you''ll

    awaken something even greater than this. Just remember, the strength of an Ishtarian doesn''t come from just power. It comes from within."

    As she held the fire spirit close, Colin''s shyness gave way to a radiant smile. For the first time,

    she looked at him not with uncertainty, but with confidence, like she''d just had a conversation

    with her hero.

 Chapter 8: Diverging Destinies

    Chapter 8: Diverging DestiniesLife with Cassie, Roger, and Colin had taken on a warm, steady rhythm. Every afternoon, he trained hard, pushing himself, but by the night, he and Colin would wander through the clearing, visiting nice spots Eratz found during his training.

    One afternoon, as Eratz was getting ready for training, he noticed Colin peeking at him from behind the door.

    "Hey, Colin, you spying on me again?"

    Colin blushed and stepped out, fiddling with her fingers.

    "I wasn''t spying! I just... wanted to see if you needed help."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "Yeah, sure. You would totally going to help me fight these scary monsters, huh?"

    "I could if you just let me."

    She puffed out her cheeks, pretending to be annoyed. Eratz bent down a little, getting closer to her eye level.

    "Maybe one day, but for now, it''s still a bit dangerous for you to come with me."

    "I can handle it."

    "I know you can," Eratz said gently, his teasing tone softening. "But I need to become a monster when I train, and I don''t want you to see me like that."

    Colin''s eyes lit up.

    "Really?"

    "Yeah, well, it''s not that hard here, the monsters aren''t a big deal anymore... it''s a little problematic if I want to hunt bigger target. But it won''t be a problem for long."

    *******

    Meanwhile, back at Genova Academy, Kenny was living his best life. After achieving well in the academy, he received his second elemental spirit, water this time. He was now one of the best beast masters at the academy.

    In the training grounds, Kenny disposed of a trump card, a fire bird, his first beast tamed. With his beast ruling the air, his water spirit created waves around him, and his fire spirit attacking the enemy, he was unreachable for most students. Everyone watched in awe as he commanded the three creatures with ease.

    Professor Rowan, standing at the edge of the field, watched Kenny with a thoughtful expression. The woman beside him, the one who had helped accuse Eratz, nodded satisfied.

    "Kenny''s done well for himself, hasn''t he?" she said with a smirk. "A true star. He''s going to shock the world if he keeps that progression."

    Rowan''s face tightened.

    "He''s good but... He''s too depending on his beasts. Eratz used to train differently. He tried to fight alongside them."

    "Beastification? Please, don''t tell me you''re still thinking about that boy. He could pull that because he was cheating. Kenny''s the real deal." The woman scoffed.

    Rowan sighed heavily, regret tugging at his heart.

    "Eratz was special. He had something, he shared the same view and... it wasn''t really the beastification, but he was getting close to it... He could use his fire spirit in ways no one else could. I''m not sure Kenny will ever have that if he keeps relying on his beasts."

    The woman rolled her eyes.

    "Doesn''t matter. Kenny''s the future now, and not a cheater."

    Rowan said nothing more, but inside, he felt the sting of loss. He tried to forget everything about Eratz, but his shadow was always over any prowess a student could pull.

    Even though he was labeled as a ''cheater'' and ''agressor'', Rowan couldn''t shake the feeling that they had lost something important when Eratz had been expelled.

    Lunchtime at Genova Academy was always a lively affair, especially when Kenny was around. Today, he sat in the academy park with Lisa, Crystal, and some of their friends, enjoying the sunshine and attention. His fire bird stretched its wings nearby, clearly meant to impress.

    "Kenny," Crystal said, leaning into him slightly, "You think you''ll do good for the next tournament? I heard the competition is tougher this year."

    Kenny smirked, full of confidence.

    "I''m not worried. My fire bird and water spirit will take care of everything. I''ve prepared the best strategy to win."

    Lisa nodded slightly.

    "You''ve got the best chances to win, I''m sure you can do it if you get serious."

    Kenny''s friends were observing the scene, the boys a little annoyed. Kenny had officially started dating the two of them. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    It wasn''t a rare occurrence to see someone with more than a companion, but usually it took one to be very wealthy or highly ranked in society, in normal situations that is.

    The top beast masters were celebrities with a formidable fortune, so as the one with the best future, Kenny was obviously a perfect contender for that future, and it had the consequence of attracting many people around him, mostly girls with no talent, wishing to hang out with someone with talent and a bright future.

    "Didn''t you lose the Grushia grand tournament last month?" A boy asked.

    Kenny''s face darkened.

    "That was a fluke, you idiot. I didn''t even have my water spirit and this bird. I''ll win this time, no problem."

    The group fell silent, Kenny''s sudden reaction seemed to make things a little uncomfortable.

    Trying to change the mood, he turned to Lisa''s best friend, sitting next to him, and accidentally brushed her hand with his own.

    "Oh, sorry about that."

    The girl quickly pulled her hand away, looking uncomfortable.

    "It''s fine." she mumbled.

    But Kenny leaned in slightly, grinning. "Unless it wasn''t an accident."

    The joke fell flat. Crystal frowned, and Lisa shot him a disappointed look. The other boys and

    girls around the table shifted awkwardly, exchanging glances.

    Kenny was getting used to girls hanging around him, and he knew their wish to date him, making him a flirting machine, especially in front of Lisa and Crystal. But he wasn''t aware of the hesitation growing among girls after his defeat at the tournament.

    Lisa cleared her throat, her voice cold. "Kenny, let''s just eat."

    Kenny, realizing he had crossed a line, tried to laugh it off.

    "I was just joking, relax."

    But the mood had already soured. Lisa and Crystal exchanged a glance

    At the same time, Eratz''s parents were in the middle of making plans of their own. They sat at

    the dinner table, discussing their other children.

    "We''re going to send them to the formation center," Eratz''s father said firmly. "They''ll

    enroll in Genova Academy soon after."

    Eratz''s mother nodded in agreement. "They''ll succeed where this brat failed. They''re not like

    him, they took your genes."

    Her voice was cold, and as always, there was no mention of Eratz, except to remind themselves of his failure. "No more animals in this family. They''ll be better."

    They had already dismissed Eratz as a lost cause, choosing instead to place all their hopes in

    his younger siblings.

    Later, back at home with Aunt Cassie, Uncle Roger, and Colin, things were much brighter. The family was busy packing for an exciting trip.

    Colin was going to attend a new school in the city, and Eratz would be able to hunt larger prey and take part in Beast Master battles.

    Aunt Cassie, as usual, was the heart of the chaos. She dashed around the house, stuffing

    clothes into bags and laughing.

    "Papa, you sure you need this many books? I mean, what are you gonna do? Open a library?"

    Roger chuckled, shaking his head.

    "It''s for the trip, Cici, it''s going to be long in car."

    Colin, who was busy folding her clothes neatly, looked up at them.

    "But... Why do we have to leave? We won''t come back again?"

    Cassie paused, her face softening as she looked at Colin.

    "You''re going to school, sweetheart. It''s in place very far, we need to change house. And your

    big bro needs a best place to meet people his age. Just remember, it''s okay to be nervous. New

    places are always a little scary at first."

    Colin nodded, biting her lip.

    "I... I see." Eratz walked over and ruffled her hair gently.

    "You''ll be fine. And if anything scares you, we''re right there."

    Cassie smiled, her eyes twinkling.

    "He''s right, Colin. Besides, I''m more worried about the city surviving your brother than the

    other way around. A boy like this, with these muscles and this cute little face, girls are going

    to get crazy over there, remind me to buy you big clothes to hide all these weapons."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "The only ''girls'' I hangout with right now are among my monsters, and they hate when I take

    off my shirt."

    They all shared a laugh, the warm, light-hearted mood filling the room as they finished packing. The excitement of the upcoming adventure filled the air, each of them knowing that

    this was the beginning of a new chapter.

    As they sat down together for dinner, Aunt Cassie raised her glass.

    "To new journeys, and whatever lies ahead."

    Roger nodded.

    "Together, and filled with joy and happiness."

    Eratz, Colin, Roger and Cassie all clinked their glasses together.

 Chapter 9: A Fresh Start

    Chapter 9: A Fresh StartThe city of Lugina towered before them, a vast, bustling metropolis with winding streets, towering buildings, and a constant hum of life. Eratz and his family sat in the carriage, staring wide-eyed at the sprawling city as it came into view. The sharp contrast from the quiet

    countryside they''d left behind was almost overwhelming.

    Cassie was the first to speak, her voice full of excitement as she practically hung out of the carriage window.

    "Look at it, Roger! It''s huge! So many people, so many places to explore!"

    Her eyes sparkled with an energy that seemed impossible to control, maybe was it her Ishtarian''s side?

    Roger, sitting beside her, was much calmer, but he wore a small smile, his eyes scanning the city with quiet appreciation.

    "It''s something, alright. We''ve got a lot to see, but we''ll take it slow."

    In the back, Eratz watched the city unfold. He''d been waiting for this, for a new playground. Behind these buildings were his first milestone: Beast masters duels.

    His heart was racing with impatience, but beside him, Colin shrunk into her seat, her eyes wide and nervous. She gripped Eratz''s sleeve tightly as the streets grew more crowded.

    "Hey," Eratz said, nudging her gently. "You alright?"

    Colin shook her head slightly.

    "It''s just... so big. I didn''t think it''d be like this."

    Eratz gave her a reassuring headpat.

    "Don''t worry. We''ll figure it out together. It''s just a city, right? We''ve got this."

    Colin tried to smile, but the height of the city seemed to crush her small size.

    Their carriage rattled to a stop in front of a tall, shabby-looking apartment building squeezed between two much larger structures.

    The sounds of Lugina, vehicles, clanging machinery, and chatter, filled the air. Cassie hopped out first.

    "Home sweet home!" she chirped, grabbing her bags.

    The apartment was on the fourth floor, and the climb up the narrow staircase was a workout in itself. When they finally reached their door, Roger unlocked it and swung it open with a proud grin.

    "There we go," he said, stepping inside. "Two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. Not bad for a beginning, right?"

    The space was tiny, cramped even. The two bedrooms were barely big enough for beds, let alone much else, and the kitchen was a narrow strip of counters with an ancient stove.

    The living room was the heart of the apartment, though it felt more like a sitting room with a worn-out sofa and a small table shoved against one wall.

    Cassie, as usual, was upbeat.

    "We''ll make it work. It''s cozy! And think of the view!" She gestured toward the small window, which offered a narrow glimpse of the busy street below.

    Eratz nodded.

    "I''ve slept in the mud of the forest, this looks fine."

    Roger threw his bag onto one of the beds.

    "Yup, this''ll be fine. We''re not here to live in luxury, after all."

    Only Colin lingered in the doorway, her eyes darting around the small space. Her shoulders slumped slightly, and she bit her lip, unsure. Eratz noticed immediately and walked over to her.

    "What''s up? Don''t like it?"

    Colin hesitated before whispering.

    "It''s just... different from what I expected. It''s small."

    Eratz smiled, ruffling her hair.

    "Yeah, it''s small, but we''ll make it home. Give it a chance.. and between you and I, just wait a little bit. I''ll make it a paradise for us."

    Colin nodded, though the unease in her eyes didn''t completely vanish.

    Later that day, after the family had settled in a bit, Eratz suggested taking a walk with Colin to explore the city. Lugina, even in the fading light of early evening, was a different world. The streets were alive with people of all kinds, vendors with beasts pushing carts, vehicles sending ton of carbon in the air, kids running through alleys; and groups of workers heading home. There was a lot of beasts among the people, apparently well dressed.

    The tall buildings loomed overhead, casting long shadows across the streets, and the smell of food, cakes, roasted meats, filled the air next to restaurants.

    Colin stayed close to Eratz, her eyes wide as she took in the unfamiliar sights and sounds. Her small frame seemed even smaller in the sea of people.

    "Everything alright?" Eratz asked, watching her closely.

    Colin sighed.

    "It''s just... overwhelming. I''m not used to all this."

    Eratz gave her a soft nudge with his elbow.

    "I get it. But we''re here now. We''ll get used to it."

    Colin hesitated, then blurted out what had been on her mind. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Eratz, do you think... do you think Mom and Dad left because of me?"

    Eratz stopped in his tracks, turning to face her.

    "What? Of course, no. Why would you think that?"

    She looked down at the ground, kicking a small pebble.

    "Because I wanted to go to school. They left everything behind... for me. What if it''s too much?"

    Eratz''s expression softened. He knelt down in front of her, looking her in the eyes.

    "Listen to me. They didn''t leave because of you. They left because they believe in you, and in me. They want us to succeed, and they''re giving us this chance. But it''s not on you alone. I too am on a mission to make things better for us, and your mom and dad also are doing their best.

    It''s a teamwork."

    Colin nodded, still looking worried.

    "But what if I fail?"

    "You won''t," Eratz said firmly. "You''re strong. And even if things get tough, we''ll figure it out together. It''s not just about you, it''s about both of us. We''re in this together, and if you think everything is on you, then just focus on living a happy life for us. It must be nice to be a little girl in a good middle school. Say, let''s go check out your school."

    Colin gave him a small, hesitant smile. "Okay."

    *********

    They soon found themselves standing outside Colin''s new middle school, a grand building with arched windows and a large courtyard. It looked impressive, even in the dimming light. Colin stared at it, her face a mixture of awe and stupefaction.

    "See? It''s a great place," Eratz said, sensing her nervousness. "You''re going to have so much

    fun here."

    Colin nodded, but her grip on his arm tightened.

    "It''s just... a lot. I know Mom and Dad did everything to get me here."

    Eratz ruffled her hair again.

    "Don''t overthink it. Just live your life, Colin. Do your best, but don''t force it. Things will come

    naturally, it''s easier for people like us."

    Her shoulders seemed to relax a bit as she smiled.

    "Thanks, Eratz."

    They started walking back home when Colin''s stomach growled. Eratz laughed.

    "You''re hungry? Let''s grab something to eat before we head back."

    They stopped at a street vendor selling skewers of roasted meat. Eratz watched the food, then

    his eyes lost life as he noticed the prices, but just as he was thinking about a way to say to Colin that they had to leave, they heard a commotion up ahead.

    A crowd had gathered, circling a small group in the middle of the street. Eratz and Colin edged closer to see what was happening. In the center, a boy with spiky blue hair was struggling to stand, his face battered and bruised.

    Across from him stood three older teenagers, each with a beast by their side, a thunderbird, a fire dog, and a water duck. They were laughing and jeering at the boy, clearly enjoying

    themselves.

    The leader, a tall guy with a smug expression, grinned as he shoved the boy back to the

    ground.

    "Think you''re tough, huh?" he sneered. "Trying to stop us? We''ll let you off if you

    apologize."

    The boy, clutching his injured raccoon beast, glared up at them defiantly.

    "You stole from that old man''s bakery! You''re nothing but thieves!"

    One of the delinquents rolled his eyes.

    "And what are you gonna do about it? You can''t even stand."

    The baker, an old man watching from the crowd, pleaded with the boy.

    "Please, kid, just let it go. They''ll hurt you."

    But the boy shook his head.

    "I''m not backing down."

    The leader of the group, clearly enjoying himself, stepped forward.

    "Alright then, tough guy. Let''s see how you like this."

    Before anyone could react, the water duck launched an explosive bubble at the boy, sending

    him crashing into the side of the bakery.

    The crowd gasped, some murmuring about calling the police.

    The leader sneered punching the boy again, ignoring the crowd''s frantic pleas for mercy.

    "If you were smart, kid, you wouldn''t pick a fight when you''re outnumbered."

    Just as he was about to throw another punch, a loud crash interrupted him. One of his lackeys

    went face on the ground, knocked out cold as Eratz stood on him, his right foot on his head.

    "Now it''s even."

 Chapter 10: Predator

    Chapter 10: PredatorThe street fell silent, the crowd frozen in shock after Eratz had knocked out one of the delinquents.

    The remaining members were stunned, their bravado slipping away as they looked at their fallen comrade.

    The fire dog, the beast of the boy Eratz had just taken down, growled angrily and charged at Eratz. Its flames flared wildly, and its eyes blazed with fury.

    Yet, as it met Eratz''s gaze, something shifted. An almost tangible pressure seemed to press down from Eratz, a suffocating, primal force that radiated sheer dominance.

    It was as if Eratz had become an apex predator, his presence exuding an aura so overwhelming that it seemed to distort the air around him.

    The fire dog''s eyes widened in sheer terror, its flames flickering erratically.

    The beast''s growl faltered, its steps unsteady. Trembling with fear, it retreated, lowering its head and backing away in a submissive gesture.

    "Good doggo."

    The delinquent leader, seething with rage, stepped forward.

    "Who the hell are you? What''s your deal?"

    Eratz remained calm, his voice calm and measured.

    "Just man in mission who saw an opportunity. I''m here to assist the bakery owner in exchange for a few pastries."

    The delinquents exchanged angry looks. "So you''re playing the hero? Nice try, but you''re messing with the wrong crew. We were just teaching this kid a lesson for not knowing his place." the other member clenched his fist.

    The boy who had been beaten, his clothes disheveled and face bruised, looked at Eratz with a mix of gratitude and embarrassment.

    "Please... Don''t interfere. I can handle it."

    Eratz sighed, his expression almost annoyed.

    "Well, it was only a proposal, what do you expect to do when you''re eating the ground anyway? Whatever, if you''re sure you want to handle it yourself, I''ll be on my way."

    The leader''s face twisted with anger.

    "No way. You''re not just walking away. You''ve made a mess of us, so we''re fucking you up now."

    The crowd murmured nervously, and someone shouted,

    "They''ve called the police!"

    The leader''s eyes narrowed.

    "Who called the police?!.... Fuck this, we... we... oh..." A cruel grin spread across his face. "Hey, bastard, How about a 2 vs 2 match? That way, the police won''t get involved."

    He glared at Eratz.

    "And when we win, I''ll make sure you suffer."

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed with interest.

    "A 2 vs 2 match? Against you?"

    A smile graced his face. He had been training a lot but for his debuts as a professional he was starving to test his skills on a normal opponent, and the first offering came so easily. "Fine by me."

    The crowd moved to a nearby public court. It was an open area, a bit like a basketball court with faded lines and cracked pavement, surrounded by old bleachers and a few spectators leaning over the barriers.

    The air was vibrant with excitement as spectators gathered to watch the battle.

    The boy, still shaken but determined, stood with Eratz on one side. Opposite them were the delinquent leader and his goon, a large and imposing young man.

    Eratz summoned a single beast, a swift, black creature with piercing eyes and a graceful build. It looked like a mix of a lizard and a peacock.

    The boy''s raccoon, clearly injured from the earlier skirmish, could barely move, leaving Eratz''s beast to face off against the delinquent leader and his partner.

    The crowd watched anxiously, Eratz, however, appeared relaxed and intrigued, his gaze sharp as he assessed the battleground.

    The battle began with the delinquent leader''s thunderbird soaring into the air, crackling with electric energy. His goon''s water duck darted forward, sending jets of water toward Eratz''s beast.

    In a blink, Eratz appeared in front of the leader, his movement so quick it seemed like he had teleported.

    The leader''s eyes widened in shock, world seemed to have frozen, with Eratz with a terrible smile suspended above him, doom in his fist, just before Eratz''s punch landed with a resounding thud, sending him flying out of the battleground and crashing onto the pavement.

    Eyes widened in disbelief as the leader lay dazed on the ground.

    Cracking his fingers, Eratz looked around at the stunned faces, with an expression of amusement.

    "I''ve been training to fight directly the other tamer because in beast master battles, a direct attack on the tamer is allowed. And if I knock out the opponent, their beast gets disoriented." The crowd gasped collectively, their astonishment turning into an uproar of cheers and shouts.

    "Whoa!" someone exclaimed.

    "Did you see that speed?" another person shouted.

    The thunderbird, seeing its master knocked out, hesitated in mid air. Eratz''s beast seized the moment, spitting a toxic ball that knocked out the thunderbird and left it struggling on the

    ground.

    The spectators were stunned, their amazement growing as they watched Eratz''s speed and

    skill.

    Eratz turned to the second delinquent, who was now visibly terrified. The delinquent''s eyes darted around in fear as he took a nervous step back.

    Eratz approached him with a casual stride.

    "Look up," he instructed, pointing toward the delinquent''s feet.

    The delinquent''s eyes followed Eratz''s gesture. Just as he looked at his feet, Eratz''s fist slammed into his nose, sending him flying.

    "I told you to look up."

    The crowd erupted into cheers, their voices merging into a cacophony of admiration and

    excitement.

    "Incredible!" someone yelled.

    "What the hell is this guy?!"

    "Is this allowed to fight like this?"

    "Yeah, I think, just not that way."

    The water duck, seeing its partner defeated and sensing Eratz''s chilling aura, recoiled in fear,

    its body trembling with terror.

    The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Eratz''s victory became clear. The boy he had teamed up with stood in stunned silence, his mouth agape.

    Colin, who had been watching anxiously, rushed over and hugged Eratz tightly. "That was amazing! You''re really a super hero!"

    Eratz, who only wished to try his power on another human, smiled down at her, gently

    ruffling her hair.

    "Yes, Colin. I just wanted to help... Because I''m a hero, a good hero."

    Later, near the bakery of the old man, the owner approached with a grateful smile, handing

    Eratz several boxes of pastries.

    "Thank you so much for your help. Here''s a little something for you."

    Eratz took the boxes with a nod, holding them carefully. Colin stood beside him, holding a

    few boxes too, her excitement barely contained.

    As they prepared to leave, the boy from earlier, approached them, curiosity and stupefaction

    on his face.

    "Wait! Sorry to disturb you, I''m Ryder. I need to know... Who are you? How did you do that?"

    Eratz shrugged, a casual grin on his face. "We''re just newcomers in town. We helped out

    because we''re on a mission for pastries."

    "And because you''re a hero?"

    "And because I''m a hero, Colin."

    Ryder''s eyes widened even more. "Seriously? But you were amazing out there! How did you

    move so fast? And where did you learn to fight like that?"

    Eratz shrugged casually.

    "Nothing special, push ups, sits ups, and plenty of injection."

    Ryder looked frustrated but continued.

    "But... why did you step in? I could... I could have defended myself... If it was on one on one."

    Eratz gave him a playful, teasing look. "Well, I wanted to see what the city had for me, and

    I''m not really dissatisfied."

    Ryder blinked, clearly not satisfied with the answer. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Come on, there''s got to be more to it than that. You seemed so... so strong."

    "It''s not a big deal, you''re sounding like a fanboy man. But thanks, now that I know this

    place, You might see me again if the mood strikes. But right now, I''ve got to get going."

    Ryder''s eyes softened a little.

    "Well, I hope I''ll see you again then, thanks for helping me out. I owe you one."

    Eratz waved it off casually.

    "Well, this wasn''t what I meant when I said I wasn''t looking for women."

    Ryder watched as Eratz and Colin walked away, the latter chattering excitedly about their

    family''s reaction.

    Ryder''s mind raced, trying to grasp the full extent of what he''d witnessed.

    "Seriously... What the hell is this guy?"

 Chapter 11: Stronger Monsters

    Chapter 11: Stronger MonstersThe house was quiet, with only the soft murmur of an a fan filling the air.

    Aunt Cassie and Uncle Roger were deep in slumber, their soft snores blending with the gentle rustling of Colin as she moved in her sleep.

    A small lamp in the hallway cast a faint glow, barely reaching the edges of each room, creating a comforting, peaceful atmosphere.

    Outside, the night was cool and fresh. The city''s lights glimmered in the distance, far away but still alive, never fully at rest.

    From Eratz''s spot by the window, the view was perfect, quiet houses, the dark outline of the forest, and the distant glow of the city, all under the watchful eye of the moon.

    He was hanging from the window ledge with one hand, his body dangling outside like it was nothing. The night air rushed past him, cool and refreshing, ruffling his hair as he looked out at the city around.

    The city was alive with faint lights, casting a soft glow over the streets, opposite to what he was used to in the countryside.

    He looked at the moon with a smile.

    "The hunt begins."

    His shadow stretched on the wall behind him, growing wider and darker. From it, shapes began to emerge, black, sleek creatures with sharp wings and glinting eyes. They stretched their wings, silent as the night itself, and hovered around him.

    "Go," he ordered.

    His monsters immediately responded, splitting off in different directions, their dark forms disappearing into the night as they went to explore every corner of the town.

    They were his eyes now, scouting for wild creatures and hidden monsters. His goal was simple: map out every beast in the city and around, evaluate their level and begin his hunt.

    One bird, larger and more imposing than the others, remained close. Without a word, Eratz grabbed hold of its massive talon, and with a powerful beat of its wings, He was lifted effortlessly in the air.

    The beast let out a low screech, and took off into the sky, carrying Eratz high above the town.

    Meanwhile, Eratz focused on his training. He had been thinking about the perfect way of training in the city for awhile, and after reflexion, he decided to use the sky as his new training ground.

    Hanging onto the bird''s massive claws, He began to pull himself up, using the beast''s flight to add resistance.

    The wind made it harder to hold on, forcing him to grip tighter and control his movements more carefully.

    He grunted as he strained his muscles, feeling the burn in his arms and chest, yet he sent a new command to the bird.

    The bird flew faster, weaving and diving through the sky in sudden jerks and dips. It twisted sharply, trying to shake him loose, but Eratz adapted, his body moving with the bird''s rhythm.

    Sweat poured down his face, and his muscles were spiking, but he kept going, pushing himself beyond his limits. The thrill of the pain, the feeling of power coursing through him, all fueled his excitation.

    As he flew above, his beasts scoured the city below. One group discovered a small park, nestled between apartment buildings.

    It was a peaceful area during the day, but at night, small creatures, mostly harmless, scuttled through the bushes and trees. In the sewers, another group of his monsters found a different kind of life.

    Creatures adapted to the dark, slimy tunnels, crawling and scurrying out of sight from the city dwellers above.

    On the beach, they found seabirds, crustaceans, and the occasional water-beast lurking in the shallows, drawn by the light of the moon reflecting off the water.

    Eratz grinned as he received the mental reports from his beasts, feeling the his preys growing in number.

    Back at Genova Academy, Professor Rowan''s lecture continued as usual, but there was an unusual focus in the room.

    The classroom was warm, filled with the familiar hum of Professor Rowan''s voice as he gave his lecture on monster classifications.

    Students sat at their desks, some listening attentively, others barely keeping their eyes open. Lisa, sitting in the front row, kept her gaze focused on Rowan, scribbling notes, though her mind occasionally wandered.

    Kenny, on the other hand, slouched in his chair, acting as if he wasn''t paying attention, but his eyes never left the board.

    "There are hundreds of monsters type in the world," Professor Rowan said, pacing back and forth at the front of the room. "Each with unique abilities tied to different elements. Fire, water, earth, air... The basics, of course."

    Rowan paused, turning to the board to scribble down some notes.

    "But we categorize them in more than just their elemental type. There are four general categories for monsters based on their rarity and power. The first, common monsters, are the ones you encounter every day. Harmless, easy to tame, and often used for basic tasks."

    He underlined the word "common" before continuing.

    "Then we have rare monsters. These are stronger, harder to find, and typically possess abilities that make them valuable in combat or other specialized roles."

    Kenny''s eyes flicked up at the mention of rare monsters, a small smirk playing on his lips. He always had a knack for stronger monsters.

    Professor Rowan moved on to the next category.

    "Special monsters. These creatures are unique, often with abilities that go beyond the typical elemental powers. They may have strange mutations or possess skills that defy logic. Taming one of these could change the course of a battle or even life itself."

    The room was quiet, everyone hanging on Rowan''s words. Lisa was fully focused now.

    "And then," Rowan said, his voice lowering as he spoke, "we have the final category: legendary monsters. These are tied to ancient myths and legends. Creatures so powerful, so elusive, that many believe they no longer exist, if they ever did at all."

    Rowan glanced around the room, making sure his words were sinking in.

    "Some say they were at the origin of the world, they even play a role in some religion. Finding one would be a turn in humanity, the discovery of a lifetime. No one can confirm their existence, but... well, some legends start with a grain of truth."

    As Rowan spoke, Eratz''s monsters continued their work. They ventured into the woods, when suddenly, a heavy, oppressive aura suddenly surrounded them.

    The birds faltered in their flight, their movements slowing. And then, out of nowhere, a

    massive shadow swallowed them whole, cutting off their connection to Eratz.

    He felt it like a physical shock, a sudden void where his beasts had once been.

    Eratz''s smirk faded, replaced by a thoughtful frown.

    He released his grip on the bird he was hanging from and dropped onto a nearby rooftop with

    a light thud.

    His muscles ached from the intense workout, but he didn''t mind. He had gotten used to the strain, even enjoyed it. But this... this was something else.

    Something strong was lurking in the forest, stronger than many of his monsters at once, something more powerful than anything he had faced so far.

    He stared into the distant treeline, pondering what had just happened. For a brief moment, he felt the little shock that he was unconsciously waiting for, a reality check. He was strong, for a

    beginner.

    "Stronger monsters," he muttered to himself.

    This was a new challenge, a bigger one, more dangerous one. The city was vast and filled with monsters, but what was lying in the forest was on another level.

    His pulse quickened as his mind raced with the possibilities. Whatever had swallowed his monsters, whatever was hiding in that forest, he wanted it, he needed a superpredator in his S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    pack.

    "Finally a real challenge," he said under his breath, his blood pumping.

    Eratz cracked his knuckles, his gaze locked on the direction of the woods. The night was young, and it was the perfect excuse for a little detour.

 Chapter 12: Dance of Lightning and Darkness

    Chapter 12: Dance of Lightning and DarknessEratz sat crouched on the rooftop of the building, his gaze was fixed on the forest that stretched at the border of the city.

    "They''re out there... somewhere." he thought, his instincts sharper than ever.

    The feeling from his beasts disappearing in those woods was still clinging to him, and he wasn''t about to leave them behind.

    With a slight shift of his weight, Eratz stood, the rooftiles barely making a sound beneath his feet. His giant bird, resting on the adjacent rooftop, cocked its head. With a swift move, Eratz leapt, landing on the creature''s back.

    "Let''s go."

    With a powerful beat of its wings, the bird launched into the air, and they soared toward the forest.

    The town below quickly fell away, its dim lights fading as they crossed the border. The trees rushed up to meet them, and within moments, they were engulfed in the dark embrace of the woods.

    The wind howled through the branches, whipping around them as the bird weaved between the towering trunks with ease. The moonlight barely penetrated the dense forest, casting long shadows across the floor. Eratz was finally in his new playground, but he had to claim it first.

    His senses were on high alert, his body tense as they moved deeper into the woods. They weren''t the predators anymore, but intruders, and they had already been welcomed by a local. He could feel the pulse of energy in the air, the remnants of his beasts'' presence nearby.

    "We''re getting closer, but something else is too..."

    His bird slowed as they approached a clearing, and Eratz slid off its back, landing silently on the forest floor. The earth was damp beneath his boots, the smell of moss and decay heavy in the air. The silence was sinister, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves in the wind.

    Eratz crouched low, his hand brushing the ground. He could feel the faint energy trails of his beasts, leading deeper into the forest.

    "Spread." he whispered, his shadow stretched around and summoned his beasts. In an instant, the clearing was filled with wolves, insectoid creatures, and shadowy beasts of all shapes and sizes. Hundreds of them, their eyes gleaming in the dark, forming a wave of monstrous forms stretching into the distance.

    For what felt like an eternity, they walked in silence, the tension in the air growing thicker with each step. The forest around them seemed to hold its breath, the usual sounds of wildlife strangely absent.

    Then, Eratz stopped.

    A sudden pulse of energy rippled through the air, faint but unmistakable. He straightened, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the trees around him.

    "They''re here."

    His shadow spread once again, growing darker, thicker. And then, one by one, the missing beasts began to reappear.

    Eratz''s eyes widened.

    "They''ve been here all along," he muttered, his smile reappearing, but as instantly, he realized. "...That means... the one responsible is also nearby."

    A sharp breeze blew through the clearing, and Eratz''s instincts screamed at him. He turned his head slightly, and then

    THUD

    The ground next to him exploded with a deafening roar, dirt and debris flying everywhere as a bolt of lightning struck the earth.

    Eratz jumped back, the force of the impact sending vibrations through the ground. His heart raced, but his reflexes kept him on his feet.

    "What the...!"

    Before he could finish, a blur of movement appeared in the corner of his eye.

    His body moved on its own, dodging to the side as a figure slashed through the air where he had been standing just moments before. Sparks flew as claws crackling with thunder energy raked the ground, leaving deep scars in the earth.

    Eratz''s breath hitched as he briefly caught sight of his attacker. The creature was tall, towering over him, it''s eyes glowed a sickly yellow, and electricity danced across its claws.

    "That thing..."

    He tried to parry its next strike, but as their bodies collided, a surge of electricity coursed through him, sending sharp jolts through his body.

    His muscles tensed, and he gritted his teeth against the pain, his vision blurring for a split second.

    "Damn it... Lightning...I can''t touch it..." he stepped back

    The creature''s next move was faster than expected. A blur of thunder and shadow, it lunged at him again. Eratz ducked, but the impact of its clawed feet against the earth shook the ground beneath him. He rolled to the side, barely escaping its reach as it came crashing down on a tree, splitting it in half.

    Breathing heavily, Eratz leapt onto a nearby branch, his eyes locked on the creature. Now, with a moment to breathe, he could fully take in its form.

    He spotted it next to a fallen tree, a hulking figure with glowing eyes. Its thin abdomen made its muscular arms and legs seem even more imposing. Claws sparked with lightning, and it crouched like a predator, ready to pounce.

    [Name: Thunder Lycaon]

    Affinity: Darkness/Lightning

    Rank: Special

    Abilities: Shadow Body]

    Eratz chuckled despite the situation. His eyes glinted with excitement. He had finally found

    what he looked for.

    "This thing is incredible. I need it!"

    Without a second thought, he commanded his beasts forward, the clearing erupting as his monstrous army surged toward the lycaon. All his monsters leapt through the trees, a massive wave of fur, claws, and fangs closing in on the creature from all sides.

    But as they approached, the Thunder Lycaon stood still, calm and collected. Its glowing eyes narrowed, and for the briefest moment, its lips curled into a smile.

    It was a simple move, but too unsettling coming from a beast, to the point of sending a shiver

    down Eratz''s spine.

    "He... He smiled?!... no way..."

    Before he could even process it, the lycaon disappeared in a flash of pink lightning, crossing the battlefield in the blink of an eye. It moved so fast that Eratz could only catch glimpses of its form, a streak of light tearing through his beasts.

    One by one, his monsters fell, their bodies crumpling to the ground as the lycaon slashed through them with terrifying precision. The world seemed to slow for Eratz as he watched the destruction unfold, but in reality, it was over in mere seconds.

    The lycaon stood in the center of the clearing, victorious. Its eyes locked onto Eratz''s, a mocking grin spreading across its face.

    Eratz exhaled slowly, his jaw clenched. "Holy shit... That thing is truly intelligent... Now I

    won''t let you go."

    With a deep breath, he reabsorbed his fallen beasts, pulling them back into his shadow. They wouldn''t help him here. Not against this. The Thunder Lycaon wasn''t just strong, it was smart, far smarter than any ordinary beast.

    He took a step forward, releasing his aura. The air around him thickened, a dark and primal aura radiating from his body, oppressive, like the presence of a predator stalking its prey. The lycaon stopped smiling. It raised its claws, the lightning crackling in the air around them. In the next instant, they disappeared, clashing midair. Eratz barely avoided the first swipe, twisting his body out of the way as the lycaon''s claws tore through the space where he had just

    been.

    He spun, delivering a powerful kick to the beast''s stomach, sending it crashing into a nearby tree with a sickening crack.

    The lycaon recovered quickly, using the tree as leverage to leap back at Eratz, claws flashing with energy. Eratz dodged again, but the beast was fast, faster than anything he''d faced before. Its claws grazed his arm, sending another jolt of electricity through him. He hissed in pain, but stayed on his feet.

    For hours, the two clashed, each blow faster and more brutal than the last. The forest around

    them was reduced to splinters, trees branches falling in their wake as they tore through the terrain. The lycaon''s claws struck with precision, but Eratz''s reflexes kept him just out of

    reach.

    His heart pounded in his chest, adrenaline coursing through his veins as he landed hit after hit. His body ached, but he was gaining ground. Slowly, he was dominating the lycaon down.

    The lycaon snarled, frustration flashing in its glowing eyes. It backed away, and for a moment, Eratz thought it was retreating.

    But then the lycaon''s body shifted. Its form darkened, melting into the shadows beneath it.

    "... The Hell?" The beast disappeared. Eratz scanned the area, his senses on high alert. There was a possibility that the monster had retreated, but his instincts were screaming at him, and just as

    he turned, the lycaon''s shadow leapt from the ground, claws extended. Eratz dodged, but the beast''s strike tore through his tank top, leaving a gash in the fabric.

    He spun to face it, but it was gone again, melted into the shadows. "Damn... This is bad..." he muttered, his eyes darting around, searching for any sign of

    movement.

    But the lycaon was too fast, too elusive. It attacked again, this time from behind, and Eratz S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    felt the sting of claws rake across his back. He turned, kicking out, but his foot passed through the shadow as though it wasn''t there.

    Electricity surged through his body, the familiar jolt making his muscles seize. He grunted in pain but refused to go down. He had to figure this out, and fast.

    "This thing''s not like the others, I can''t just rush in..."

    The Thunder Lycaon didn''t move much. It stayed calm, too calm. Most monsters would have

    attacked by now, relying on their instincts. But not this one, it was calculating, watching him, maybe enjoying his suffering. There was an intelligence behind its glowing eyes that made

    Eratz uneasy.

    Eratz pressed his fingers against the rough bark of a tree, taking a deep breath. The forest around him was unnervingly quiet.

    Time seemed to slow down as he thought through his options, trying to understand the beast''s strengths and weaknesses. He could feel its oppressive aura in the air, a force that made the hair on his arms stand up.

    The stats he had scanned replayed in his mind: "[Name: Thunder Lycaon]... Affinity: Darkness/Lightning... Rank: Special... Abilities: Shadow Body."

    "Shadow Body..." Eratz repeated to himself, narrowing his eyes. "What does that mean?"

    He thought back to the lycaon''s earlier attacks. Every time it had struck, its body crossed it as

    an hologram. It was as if it was untouchable when turning dark. That ability was what made it so deadly, it could phase through attacks and strike back without warning.

    "It''s not just speed. It''s darkness..." Eratz thought, clenching his fist. "How do I fight

    something I can''t hit?"

    The lycaon shifted slightly, its claws glowing with pink lightning as it prepared for another

    strike. Eratz stayed focused. He needed to study it more, figure out exactly when it was vulnerable. There was an option, but it would mean being a punching ball against unknown.

    He watched the beast bend in the darkness, making one with it, mixing in it, and then, face to this fusion, something snapped.

    "Shadow Body..." Eratz thought back to the lycaon''s ability. "It''s not just becoming invisible. It''s turning into pure darkness."

    He stood his ground, waiting for the right moment, and then, the lycaon lunged at him, its

    massive claws aiming for his chest.

    Eratz jumped on the side, just as the claws tore through the tree where he had been. The impact shattered the tree into splinters, sending wood flying in all directions.

    Eratz rolled as he hit the ground, quickly springing back to his feet. The lycaon landed heavily in front of him, its claws sparking with energy as it growled, his body black in shadow. Eratz darted to the side, keeping his movements steady, watching the beast''s reaction. The

    lycaon''s eyes followed him, and within a split second, it lunged again, its claws leaving trails of lightning in the air.

    Eratz ducked, dodging the attack, but this time, his fist covered in darkness, his fist moved at incredible speed, and in a brief instant, he felt a miracle, the furr of the beast.

    "There!" Eratz''s eyes widened. "It''s vulnerable when I use darkness!"

    It wasn''t much,

    but it was enough. Now that he knew the lycaon''s weakness, he just had to

    time his attacks right.

    Eratz circled the beast again, his heart pounding.

    "But I need more than just darkness. That thing''s too fast."

    He closed his eyes for a brief moment, feeling for the power of the darkness inside him.

    The origin was another race of monsters inside him, the Vulpans, the darkness they commanded stirred within him, and he focused on channeling that energy into his body. Slowly, his senses sharpened. He could feel the lycaon''s presence more clearly, like an animal

    tracking its prey.

    When he opened his eyes, the world around him seemed different. The shadows were clearer, more defined. He could feel the lycaon''s movements even before it made them.

    The lycaon lunged at him again, its body flickering with lightning and shadow. But this time,

    Eratz moved with precision, sidestepping the attack in perfect sync with the beast''s rhythm. He spun on his heel, delivering a powerful kick straight into the lycaon''s side. His foot

    connected with a loud thud, sending the beast crashing into a nearby tree. The tree splintered under the impact, its trunk snapping in two.

    Eratz landed lightly on his feet, watching as the lycaon pulled itself up from the wreckage.

    "Got you." The lycaon snarled, shaking off the blow, but there was a new look in its eyes. It wasn''t just

    anger, it was respect. The beast now understood that Eratz was more than just a regular opponent.

    But Eratz knew the fight wasn''t over. The lycaon wasn''t done yet, and it had more tricks up its

    sleeve.

    The lycaon roared, and before Eratz could react, its entire body shimmered, turning into pure shadow. In an instant, it melted into the ground, disappearing from sight.

    "Dammit," Eratz growled. "It''s using the shadows again..."

    The lycaon attacked again, vanishing into the ground before launching another sneak attack.

    Eratz dodged, but it was getting harder to keep up.

    The beast was relentless, slipping in and out of the shadows like a ghost. Every time Eratz

    tried to counter, his attacks passed through nothing but air.

    "I can''t hit it like this," he muttered, frustration building. The beast was too slippery, too

    elusive. It was like fighting a phantom.

    As he dodged another attack, Eratz''s mind raced. "It''s the shadow form... I need more

    darkness!"

    Eratz closed his eyes again, focusing more deeply on the Vulpans'' power. He could feel their

    dark energy swelling inside him, merging with his own.

    His arms covered in darkness with the shape of claws. As the lycaon prepared its next attack,

    Eratz let the darkness consume him.

    The lycaon lunged, but this time, Eratz moved even faster. He dodged the attack with ease,

    his body slipping through the shadows like a wraith. As the lycaon''s claws missed him, he spun and delivered a back kick straight to the creature''s head.

    The impact was devastating, slamming the lycaon''s face into the ground with enough force to

    crack the earth beneath it.

    Eratz landed in a crouch, his body now surrounded by a dark aura.

    The lycaon struggled to rise, shaking its head in surprise. It looked at Eratz, its glowing eyes

    wide with disbelief. For the first time, it seemed unsure.

    Eratz grinned, his stance shifting into something more animalistic, more primal.

    "Now that I''ve got you figured out, let''s finish this."

    The lycaon snarled, its claws sparking with lightning again as it prepared to charge. But Eratz

    was ready.

 Chapter 13: Clash of Shadows and Thunder

    Chapter 13: Clash of Shadows and ThunderThe battle exploded into a storm of chaos. Eratz and the Thunder Lycaon moved in a blur, each strike shaking the ground beneath them.

    The air crackled with energy, the clash of darkness and lightning tearing through the trees like an unstoppable force.

    Eratz darted to the side, narrowly avoiding a lightning-charged swipe from the Lycaon''s massive claws. He retaliated with a sharp elbow aimed at the creature''s ribcage, his body twisting mid-air with the agility of a beast.

    The impact landed with a thunderous crack, sending a shockwave through the surrounding. The Lycaon skidded back but regained its footing instantly, baring its fangs.

    There was no pause, no time to think. Eratz spun on his heel, planting a low kick into the ground, sending up a wave of dirt and debris.

    The Lycaon lunged, its lightning claws slicing through the cloud of dust. Eratz ducked just in time, rolling under the beast and coming up with a spinning back kick to its side.

    The force of the impact echoed like a cannon blast, and the Lycaon was knocked off balance, crashing into a tree that shattered on contact.

    The forest was now a battlefield, trees collapsing, the ground splintering under the weight of their blows. Eratz didn''t slow down. He charged forward with crazy speed, each of his movements sharp and precise, yet wild and unpredictable.

    One second he was in the air, launching a flying knee aimed at the Lycaon''s face, the next, he was rolling under its legs, planting a powerful uppercut into its gut.

    The Lycaon roared in frustration, its claws sparking with even more electricity. In a blink, it vanished into shadow, reappearing just behind Eratz.

    The beast slashed, but Eratz spun around with perfect timing, narrowly dodging the attack. His fist followed through with a devastating right hook, but the Lycaon melted into shadow again, vanishing before the hit could land.

    They continued their deadly dance, both fighter and beast moving at a speed that blurred the lines between man and monster.

    The air itself seemed to tremble with the ferocity of their clash. Each strike from the Lycaon sent arcs of lightning ripping through the trees, while Eratz''s dark energy twisted and coiled around him, giving his movements a primal, fluid form.

    At one point, the Lycaon leaped into the air, aiming to crush Eratz with a powerful downward strike, but Eratz, without missing a beat, leaped to meet it mid-air, twisting his body and landing a crushing kick to the beast''s side.

    The impact sent them both flying in opposite directions, crashing through trees and boulders as the ground split beneath them.

    Blood pumped through Eratz''s veins like fire. He couldn''t feel the strain anymore in his muscles, only the burn in his lungs, but his body kept moving, every instinct sharpened to a razor''s edge.

    He had trained for this, endured far worse. And now, he was taking the lead.

    The Lycaon slowed, its movements losing that deadly speed it had maintained for so long. Its breaths were ragged, its lightning flickering in and out. Eratz could sense it, the shift. He had the upper hand now.

    He launched himself at the beast. Before the lycaon could recover, Eratz was on it.

    He unleashed a series of devastating blows, his fists and feet moved in a flurry of blows, each strike landing with precision and power.

    The first punch landed squarely on the beast''s chest, knocking the wind from it.

    The second hit came from a sweeping roundhouse kick that shattered a nearby boulder as the impact rippled through the air.

    The third strike, a spinning elbow, connected with its jaw, sending it staggering backward.

    And a final, bone-shaking blow, the explosive impact sending the lycaon crashing to the ground, its massive body shaking the earth as it fell.

    Dust and debris swirled around them, the forest eerily silent as the final blow landed.

    The beast lay still, its massive body twitching as residual sparks of lightning crackled around

    it.

    Eratz stood over it, his chest heaving with each breath, sweat and blood mixing on his skin.

    The world around them seemed to settle, the dust finally clearing as the adrenaline began to wore out.

    Now he could feel every bruise, every cut, but it didn''t matter. He had won.

    He dropped to one knee, catching his breath. The forest was silent except for the faint crackle S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    of fading electricity and the distant rustle of wind through the broken trees.

    His eyes fell on the Thunder Lycaon, its powerful form still lying in defeat.

    He stretched out his hand, and his pressure mixed with dark power flowed outwards, extending toward the beast. He watched carefully, waiting for the familiar sign of submission.

    But then, it stopped.

    The cracks that had started spreading across the lycaon''s body faded, sealing themselves up. Eratz''s brow furrowed in confusion. He pressed harder, but the Thunder Lycaon didn''t yield.

    Eratz''s eyes widened in shock.

    "What the...?"

    He focused, trying to extend his pressure, pushing harder to tame the beast, but the Thunder Lycaon resisted. The creature''s body remained the same, rejecting his influence. Eratz clenched his teeth, frustration building inside him.

    "Why won''t you submit?" he muttered under his breath, his fists tightening.

    He had fought harder than he ever had, and now, this beast was refusing him?

    Eratz''s mind raced. He had never faced a situation like this. Every other monster had yielded after a battle, but the Thunder Lycaon wasn''t like the others.

    It wasn''t just a monster, it was special, unique. It had its own will, its own pride.

    He sighed and pulled back his pressure, allowing the dark energy of the Vulpans to recede from his body. The shadowy aura around him vanished, and his form returned to its usual self.

    "I get it now," he whispered, standing up.

    Eratz took a step forward, looking down at the lycaon.

    "You''re not just a beast. You''re a warrior."

    The Thunder Lycaon stirred slightly, still unconscious but somehow responding to his words.

    "You fought me with everything you had," Eratz continued. "You''ve got power, strength... something greater than just survival instincts. You''ve got pride." He crouched down. "That''s why I want you to join me. I''ve seen your potential, and I want you to grow, to become even stronger. I know I can push you further beyond."

    Eratz''s aura shifted, becoming more commanding, more powerful. The air around him thickened as his presence expanded, not as a conqueror, but as an alpha.

    "I want the hungry wolves around me. I want those with strength, those who understand what

    it means to lead. I want a monster with it''s own will, with it''s pride."

    He placed his hand on the lycaon''s head, his voice calm but firm.

    "Join me. Together, we can rise to something bigger. You''ll no longer be hunted, no longer know limits. You''ll be part of my pack, my army. Come, and help me shaking this world."

    Eratz''s pressure intensified, his aura growing stronger than it had ever been. It wasn''t just about power, he wasn''t just asking the lycaon to submit; he was offering it a place by his side. The Thunder Lycaon''s body began to crack again, but this time, it didn''t resist. Slowly, its form began to dissolve, melting into shadow. The dark energy flowed into Eratz''s own shadow, merging with him. The process was slow, deliberate, and powerful.

    When it was done, Eratz stood in the quiet forest, his shadow deep and vast, absorbing the power of the Thunder Lycaon.

    He waited, catching his breath as the forest around him seemed to settle.

    A moment later, his shadow shifted, and the lycaon reappeared, standing before him. The

    beast looked different, its fur glossier, its eyes sharper. It was rejuvenated, standing tall.

    The Thunder Lycaon locked eyes with Eratz and then, slowly, it lowered itself, bowing its

    head.

    Eratz smiled, wiping sweat from his brow.

    "You made the right choice."

    In the distance, the first rays of the rising sun pierced through the treetops, bathing the two of them in warm light. The battle was over, but something far greater had been won.

 Chapter 14: Flash

    Chapter 14: FlashThe days in Lugina were starting to fall into a new rhythm. Aunt Cassie had found work as a housemaid, while Uncle Roger was facing the harsh realities of job hunting.

    His job interview wasn''t going well, with the interviewer criticizing his lack of professional experience and brushing aside his hard-earned knowledge as insufficient.

    That day was also a big day for Colin. It was her first day at middle school, and Eratz was walking her there.

    She clung tightly to his arm, though she tried her best to hide the nervousness in her hands.

    Her small fire spirit floating around her like a protective flame, more docile, and more in tune with Colin''s emotions.

    The morning sun bathed the middle school in golden light, making its fa?ade shine.

    As Colin stepped through the gates, her heart pounded with anxiety but a little excitation. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The school''s main building, with its tall columns and large windows was alive with students arriving for their first day.

    The courtyard was filled with children chatting and laughing, their voices creating lively sounds. Groups of girls in neat uniforms stood in groups, some twirling with new backpacks, while boys in varying emotions showed off their latest gadgets or chatted animatedly.

    "Remember, Colin," Eratz said softly, catching her hand for a moment. "Just be yourself. You''ve got this."

    "But what if they don''t like me? What if I''m all alone?"

    "Colin, you''re never alone, look around you." He reached out, gently placing his hand on the fire spirit that hovered by her side. "You''ve got me with you. Whenever you see this little guy, remember that I''m always here, cheering you on."

    Colin''s lips curled into a small, but genuine smile. "Really?"

    Eratz grinned and ruffled her hair.

    "I''m not a liar, and it''s okay to be a little scared. Everyone feels like that on their first day, even I did. Now, show them what you''re made of, You''re my little monster."

    Colin laughed softly, her anxiety diminished.

    "Thanks, Eratz," she said, her voice barely audible over the noise.

    She walked forward, her steps more confident as the fire spirit danced around her, its warm glowing a comforting presence.

    She joined the throng of students, her nervousness getting replaced by a budding excitement, and she threw a final glance over her shoulder.

    Eratz waved at her, and she waved back before stepping into the building, her silhouette disappearing into the sea of new faces.

    After leaving Colin at the school, Eratz went to his part time job and jumped onto his bike.

    His job wasn''t exactly glamorous, but it was a way to make some quick cash. Delivering newspapers across the city gave him a chance to explore Lugina, but more importantly, to find the locations of the Beast Tamers Arenas.

    To do his delivery quickly, he used his beasts to cover vast areas in no time, their speed and strength allowing him to finish his route well before noon.

    It left him with extra time, and that was perfect for another of his routines.

    At this hour, the square where he had his first battle against the delinquents was alive with excitement, like a public basketball court, but instead of basketballs, there were beasts of all shapes and sizes.

    The crowd buzzed with energy. Teenagers with wild grins, flexing their new skills, their beasts at their sides.

    Girls in stylish outfits with confident smirks leaned against the railings, their beasts lounging nearby. Boys strutted around, showing off, their shining accessories clinging to their outfits as they talked up their latest victories.

    It was the kind of place where hormones ran high, and everyone was looking to prove themselves.

    In the middle of the square, a particularly intense battle was underway. A beast master with a fire tiger, its fur blazing, was on a winning streak.

    The crowd roared with as the tiger leapt and roared. The energy was contagious, and everyone was swept up in the fervor.

    Ryder, seated in the stands, watched with admiration. His gaze was focused and intense, but he seemed relaxed, leaning casually on the railing.

    Next to him sat a striking blonde woman with an air neglected and nonchalant.

    She was casually dressed, her attitude calm as she observed the battles with an amused expression.

    "That''s the third in a row, he''s really amazing!," Ryder said, glancing at her with a grin, "How are you so calm?! Don''t you want to try a few duels too?"

    She chuckled, her eyes scanning the square.

    "Against kiddos? Nah, it''s more fun watching you fidget. You''re like a kid waiting for his turn

    in a candy store. Come on, let''s go to the arcades."

    Ryder rolled his eyes.

    "You said you would do what I want if I stopped fighting before the selection."

    She nudged Ryder with a teasing smile.

    "I just wanted to stop an idiot, You know you''re not supposed to be fighting yet, right?"

    Ryder groaned, leaning back.

    "I''m not fighting. I''m watching... and besides, I haven''t even used my main team yet... Does it count if I go with the weakest?"

    The woman turned her gaze from the battle to him, a slow smile tugging at her lips.

    "You''re always looking for the thrill of the underdog fight, aren''t you? But that''s not how a real beast master thinks."

    "Come on, you know I can handle stronger opponents with weaker monsters. It''s about strategy, not brute force." Ryder huffed.

    She chuckled softly and shook her head. "It''s not just about picking the weaker or stronger beast, Ryder. A good beast master naturally elevates the power of their creatures. The bond between them makes the monsters stronger."

    She looked the battleground, where the young man with a fire tiger was winning yet another

    match.

    His beast''s fur burned brightly, with heavy and explosive moves it dispatched its latest

    opponent.

    The crowd roared with approval, but the woman''s attention wasn''t on the tiger. It was on the

    master.

    "See him?" she said, pointing subtly. "That''s not just brute strength. Watch the way his aura

    spreads."

    Ryder squinted, trying to understand what she meant. The woman''s gaze sharpened, and her eyes seemed to glimmer as if she could see something deeper, something invisible to others. "It''s not just his beast that''s powerful," she explained. "It''s him. His aura connects with his tiger and his other six monsters, binding them all together. The energy he gives off, it flows into his beasts, and that''s why they''re strong. They fight as extensions of him. You can see it in the way his aura wraps around them. A good master makes a good monster, simple." Ryder leaned back in his seat, watching more closely but still unable to see anything. "So basically... he keeps winning because he''s strong? Not his monsters?" "Exactly," she said with a knowing smile. "He has seven powerful beasts, not because he

    trains them in isolation but because his strength as a beast master amplifies their abilities. They grow stronger because he grows stronger. And that''s why he keeps dominating the

    field."

    Ryder slumped a little, deflated.

    "So what, I''m supposed to just stick with my strongest monsters all the time? That''s not how

    I was seeing things..."

    The woman glanced at him, a little teasing glint in her eye.

    "You could, but the real trick is to build your connection with all of your beasts. it''s about

    making every monster you have unstoppable."

    Ryder sighed but smiled slightly. "Alright, alright. Guess I''ve got some work to do."

    "Yeah. Can we go now?"

    "Oh Look who just showed up."

    Eratz stepped into the square. Immediately, heads turned. The group of teenagers closest to

    the entrance was the first to greet him.

    One of them, a tall guy with a rough voice, called out.

    "Yo, Eratz! You here to show off again?" He laughed, extending a hand for a quick fist bump,

    which Eratz returned with a smirk.

    A girl clapped Eratz on the shoulder, grinning.

    "You going for that 3v3 today? The new guy''s been tearing it up with that fire tiger, wanna

    teach him how we greet people around here?"

    "Oh? Is it again like the 4 others from last week?"

    Further along, a group of girls had already spotted him. They whispered amongst themselves

    before one of them, a tall, slender girl with short brown hair and a confident stance, stepped

    forward.

    "Eratz," she said with a smile, her voice playful. "It''s been a while. Thought you forgot about

    us here."

    He gave her a nod, his lips quirking up at the corners.

    "Got a new part time job, it takes longer than I expected, but I can throw some punches before

    four."

    She laughed, flipping her hair over her shoulder.

    "You should totally push your watch to the night, it''s funnier when no one can see. Hey, let''s team up, this guy is getting too confident."

    He started moving toward the battle grounds. More people greeted him as he passed

    "That''s the guy I was talking about," Ryder said, watching Eratz like a child watching his

    hero. "He''s a phenom above the rest."

    The woman tilted her head, intrigued.

    "Oh? You don''t usually compliment others. Must be something special about him."

    "You''ll see."

    The woman''s eyes followed Eratz as he walked into the battlefield with his 2 partners. From the look of it, it was going to be a 3v3.

    Eratz''s eyes scanned his opponent, his eyes landing on the fire tiger tamer, who was already

    grinning.

    "The Flash Eratz? Nice to meet you, ready to step up?" the boy called out, his voice loud and

    proud.

    Eratz stepped forward, a casual smile on the lips.

    "Yeah, ready to know why they call me the Flash?"

    As Eratz''s eyes changed, the casual calm that had carried him through the arena transformed

    into something different.

    The air grew dense, like the calm before a violent storm. The energy in the arena didn''t just

    change, it darkened.

    People continued chatting, unaware, but the woman, sitting next to Ryder, suddenly straightened. She felt it immediately.

    Her eyes widened as she focused on Eratz. The aura surrounding him wasn''t just powerful; it

    was suffocating. Like an invisible weight pressing down on everything, spreading slowly, deliberately, enveloping the entire arena like a living being.

    It was raw, wild, and terrifying. It wasn''t like the other beast masters she''d seen today, whose

    auras blended smoothly with their beasts, this was different like the presence of an apex

    predator.

    The beasts, even those still in the stands, shifted uneasily, sensing the energy.

    "... What the hell is that?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    The energy seemed to tremble with a life of its own, twisting and turning like a thousand

    creatures waiting to strike.

    Ryder noticed her sudden stillness.

    "You alright?"

    She barely registered his question. Her mind was racing. How could a boy this young possess

    such a terrifying force?

    This wasn''t the aura of a regular beast master.

    The moment the battle began, the fire tiger tamer raised his hand, summoning a blazing

    barrier around himself and his beast.

    The crowd leaned in, expecting a show of strength. The tiger roared behind its protective wall

    of fire, standing on its lower paws, its flames crackling. The tamer smirked, and then, Eratz''s eyes flashed. Before anyone could blink, he moved, his figure disappearing in a flash. A sudden gust of wind

    swept through the arena, and then, in the next heartbeat, Eratz was already within the barrier, his bare hand raised in a swift, slashing motion.

    A sharp, chilling sound filled the air as Eratz struck the fire tiger''s side with a single powerful

    blow. The beast yelped in surprise, its massive body spinning uncontrollably through the air, before crashing into the ground with a dull thud, completely knocked out, its flames

    sputtering out. Then the crowd exploded. Cheers erupted from every corner of the arena, the noise deafening

    as people jumped to their feet. It was chaos, pure chaos.

    Eratz stood tall, his red eyes glowing ominously in the fading sunlight. He glanced over at the

    tamer, whose confident expression had morphed into one of shock and disbelief. The boy''s

    mouth opened

    "Next."

    "... Uh?"

    "Show me your next monster."

    "I... that... but that was my ace..." he murmured, his voice shaky, almost disbelieving.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Then you''d better bring out something else, fast."

    Without waiting, he flicked his wrist, and a large, shadowy figure materialized beside him.

    The creature that emerged from the shadows was a grotesque mix of sinewy limbs and sharp, toxic claws. Its form was shrouded in a faint green mist, its eyes glowing with a deadly, venomous gleam. The air around it thickened with a stench as it exhaled, spreading a toxic

    wind across the battlefield.

    The fire tiger''s tamer staggered backward as the green mist enveloped his teammates'' beasts.

    The creatures froze, their movements suddenly sluggish and disoriented.

    The toxic air jammed their instincts, making them stumble, unable to react to the battle unfolding before them.

    Eratz''s teammates exchanged impressed looks.

    "Kick his ass, Eratz! Show him what a real beast master can do!"

    The other girl laughed.

    "Yeah, don''t go easy on him. Make it hurt a little!"

    The crowd went wild, cheering and chanting Eratz''s name, while the tamer''s friends helped

    him off the battleground, defeated.

    In the stands, Ryder leaped to his feet, his voice rising above the chaos.

    "That''s it, Eratz! Show them what you''ve got!"

    Next to him, the teacher sat in stunned silence, her eyes wide as she watched the battle.

    She shook her head slowly, murmuring under her breath.

    "Seriously... there was someone like that here?"

 Chapter 15: Game Changer

    Chapter 15: Game ChangerEratz had already fought in several matches by now: 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3, each time, he dominated the battlefield.

    In one fight, as his teammates got defeated, Eratz summoned 5 Vulpans at once, turning around the tables. When he faced people knowing their fears, he called upon his insectoid creatures, triggering a phobia in them.

    The crowd loved him, every time he stepped onto the battlefield, cheers erupted. Everyone admired his skills, and cunny demeanor.

    The only common point was that he never attacked directly the beast master, only the beasts.

    "Man, that''s his 12th win today, let''s just team up with him for the last games..." a teenage boy whispered to his friend as they watched Eratz take down another opponent with ease.

    Another common point of Eratz''s beasts were the focus on their speed. Their attacks were surgical and happened in the blink of an eye.

    Nearby, Ryder watched with an envious gleam in his eyes. His hands gripped the metal rail in front of him as he watched Eratz.

    "I have to fight him," he muttered.

    "Don''t even think about it, You''re not allowed to fight today, Ryder, and neither should this Eratz be. It''s not even fair for him to be here... You''ve got to be kidding me, he''s a pro, toying with amateurs for sport."

    Ryder chuckled and shook his head. "Pro? Nah, he''s not signed with any agency. He''s a freelancer. Just like me, sorta."

    Zara''s brows raised, and she blinked, her stance shifting.

    "Wait, what? He''s not with any agency?"

    Ryder nodded.

    "Yep, no contracts or anything. He''s just... here, fighting for fun."

    Zara leaned back slightly, crossing her arms with a raised eyebrow as she watched Eratz interact with the other beast tamers.

    She had seen countless matches and what she had just witnessed was clearly a professional- level beast tamer.

    The speed, precision, and sheer control Eratz had displayed in his matches were that of an experienced beast masters.

    She turned her gaze to Ryder, who was still grinning ear to ear. Zara couldn''t help but smirk slightly at Ryder''s enthusiasm.

    "You''re telling me he''s not signed with an agency?" she asked, her tone skeptical.

    Ryder nodded quickly, his excitement bubbling over.

    "Yeah, I told you! He''s not contracted or anything. He''s... kind of a freelancer, I guess."

    Zara frowned, shaking her head. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "That doesn''t make any sense. Someone with that skills? He''s got to be a pro."

    Ryder chuckled.

    "I know, right? But trust me, he''s not. Eratz told me himself, he''s just starting out. Can you believe that? He never participate to any official match."

    Zara blinked, her mind reeling.

    "Wait... what?"

    She studied Eratz again, watching as he casually spoke with some of the other beast tamers. For a moment, her brain refused to process it.

    A beginner? No way, she had seen hundreds, maybe thousands of rookies, and none of them had ever shown that kind of control over so many different beasts at once, and his physical abilities were an anomaly in themselves, it was just impossible.

    "You''re serious? He''s really just a beginner?"

    Ryder nodded eagerly, leaning forward. "Yeah, it''s crazy, right? He''s only been at this for a short while. But he''s something else."

    Zara''s arms slowly unfolded as she took in Ryder''s words, and her skepticism began to waver. She looked at Eratz again, narrowing her eyes, trying to make sense of it.

    Her heart skipped a beat as the realization hit her like a thunderbolt.

    "... He really is a beginner."

    Her emotions shifted rapidly, first denial, then confusion, and finally, a surge of excitement. A prodigy. An absolute phenom. And he wasn''t tied to anyone, not to any agency or arena. He was a free agent.

    A grin slowly spread across her face, her eyes lighting up with pure joy at the opportunity in front of her. She had stumbled upon a diamond in the rough.

    "Ryder..." Zara said, her voice trembling with a mixture of shock and awe. "He''s the friend you mentioned, right? You know him, right??"

    "You can say that, yeah. He''s nice with everyone."

    "... Listen, if you help me here, dinner is on me, for a week, ok? I need to talk to him now!"

    As the afternoon sun began to sink lower in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the arena, Eratz was preparing to head home, but before he could take more than a few steps, he heard familiar voices calling out to him.

    "Eratz! Wait up!" Ryder''s excited voice echoed through the air, followed closely by the sound of rapid footsteps.

    He turned around just in time to see Ryder and Zara hurrying toward him. Ryder''s grin was as wide as ever, his energy infectious.

    "Dude, that was amazing today! You get stronger every time it''s crazy!"

    "Thanks, man. I didn''t see you fight today, don''t t tell me you''re not in the mood." Eratz

    smiled.

    But then, he felt a burning presence next to him. Zara''s eyes pierced Eratz like a hawk zeroing

    in on its prey.

    "... Hello?"

    "Hello! I''m so glad to talk to a phenom like you! You did a number on everyone!" Zara said, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "I''ve got something important to discuss with you."

    Eratz blinked, sensing the intensity behind her words. He raised an eyebrow.

    "Oh? What''s that?"

    Zara took a step forward, her eyes practically glowing with excitement now.

    "You''re not just some ordinary beast tamer. You''ve got something special, something that

    I''ve rarely seen, and trust me, I''ve been doing this for a long time."

    Eratz nodded slowly.

    "I appreciate the compliment, but..."

    The woman wasn''t having it. Her grin widened as she shook her head.

    "No, no, you don''t get it yet, do you? You''re not just talented, you''ve got the potential to be

    one of the best!"

    Eratz felt a slight twinge of doubt creeping in. He was used to handling praise, but the

    woman''s sudden enthusiasm was catching him off guard.

    He glanced at Ryder, who was practically bouncing on his toes with excitement, and then back

    at her, who looked like she was trying to contain herself from jumping on him.

    "Look, I''m flattered, but what exactly are you getting at? Who are you exactly?"

    Zara let out a breath, her hands gesturing as she tried to explain.

    "Oh, forgot to introduce myself. I''m Zara Quinn, a beast master trainer. I scout talent for professional arenas, and I''ve seen some of the top beast masters out there. I know talent when I see it. And you... you''re a phenom."

    Eratz''s eyes widened slightly. He hadn''t been expecting that specific situation.

    Zara realized that she finally had his full attention, she calmed down for a bit.

    "What I''m saying is, I want to scout you. I work for an agency but I''m also part of an arena in town, and we''re holding selections in a few days for new recruits. You definitely need to be

    there."

    Eratz''s initial calm demeanor started to waver, his curiosity quickly turning into amazement

    as he realized.

    "Wait... You want me to join your selections?"

    Zara''s grin only grew wider, her excitement palpable.

    "Yes! I''m telling you, you''ve got something special. I''ve never seen a beginner with such control, power, and natural instinct. It would be insane to let this opportunity slip by, you

    have to accept!"

    Ryder chimed in, adding his fuel.

    "Dude, this is your chance! I told you, you''re amazing! You have to do it!"

    Eratz felt his heart race as the realization set in. This was the moment he''d been waiting for.

    All the hard work, the hard training in the forest, the struggles and determination, it had all

    led him to this.

    A part of him still couldn''t believe it. He''d come here just to gain some experience, to test his

    abilities in front of a crowd, and now a professional beast master trainer was offering him the opportunity of a lifetime. Nothing happened by hazard, and now he started to firmly believe

    it.

    "I... I don''t even know what to say," Eratz stammered, his mind racing as he processed Zara''s words. "I never expected anything like this so soon."

    It wasn''t that he couldn''t believe it, but everything he did was for reaching this unique opportunity, so much that his brain refused to believe that the miracle had finally happened. For him, it was like heaven, and he had just learned that it had come to him. Zara laughed, her

    voice bright with enthusiasm.

    "Well, believe it. This is your shot, Eratz. And if you''re serious about this, about becoming one of the best, then you need to take it." She held him her professional card. "The selections are in three days, be sure to contact me before so I give you all the details." Eratz looked at the card Zara handed him, the weight of the moment hitting him fully now. This was the chance he had dreamed of, the chance to prove himself on a grander stage.

    He felt a rush of excitement and gratitude, realizing that everything he had been working

    toward was finally within reach.

    "I''ll be there," Eratz said, his voice firm.

    Zara gave him a knowing smile.

    "Good. I''ll be expecting great things from you."

    Ryder and Zara walked away, leaving Eratz to process what had just happened, he stood there

    for a moment, staring at the card in his hand.

    This was it, the beginning of a new chapter in his life, and he wasn''t going to let it pass by.

 Chapter 16: A Promise Under the Stars

    Chapter 16: A Promise Under the StarsThe warm glow of a single lamp lit the modest living room. On the small table Aunt Cassie, Uncle Roger, Colin, and Eratz sat together.

    Dinner was simple: a couple of dishes Cassie had managed to cook after a long day, with Roger''s help, and it was nothing fancy, but the atmosphere was filled with warmth.

    The clinking of plates and the occasional quiet hum of conversation were the only sounds for a while.

    "I swear, if I have to scrub one more floor this week..." Cassie chuckled softly, leaning back in her chair. "You know how many people keep walking on the floor even after you tell them you''re sweeping? I almost broke my broom on a stupid cougar."

    Roger grinned, though his eyes were tired.

    "Tell me about it. Had a job interview today, but the guy couldn''t stop pointing out how I''ve got no professional experience. I mean, do I need a degree to swing a hammer?"

    He shook his head, trying to make light of it, though the frustration was clear.

    Colin, meanwhile, was full of energy, barely able to stay seated as she spoke, her words bubbling out like a fast-flowing river.

    "My first day at school was amazing! Everyone''s so nice, and I managed to make a friend thanks to my fire spirit, it didn''t even misbehave, see?!" She gestured excitedly as the little fire spirit flitted around her head, obedient and glowing faintly.

    Eratz smiled at her enthusiasm, his heart feeling a little lighter watching Colin''s joy. Her control showed that she had already a deep connection with beasts.

    "Maybe she''s cut to be a beast master too..." He thought to himself.

    He wanted to let her discover her path, but since it seemed linked to his, he felt a little excitation at the idea of training her, but tonight, there was something he had to share, something big.

    "Actually... something happened today," Eratz started, trying to sound casual.

    Roger raised an eyebrow, taking another sip of water.

    "Oh? You gonna tell us, or leave us hanging?"

    Eratz wait for just a second, looking at their eager faces. Then he couldn''t hold it back anymore.

    "I got scouted."

    There was a stunned silence for a moment before Cassie nearly jumped out of her chair. "What?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide. "You got scouted?! By who?! For what???"

    Roger''s spoon dropped on his plate. staring at him, with big eyes.

    "Eratz, what are you saying? Scouted like by an agency? The dream you wanted??"

    "Yeah," Eratz said, showing Zara''s card. "Zara Quinn, she''s a beast master trainer from Neon Clash Arena. It''s a small arena in the town near the bridge. She saw me in the matches today and she wants me to join her selection process for new talents in a three days."

    Cassie''s eyes sparkled with pride, her voice thick with emotion.

    "Eratz... this is exactly what you''ve been waiting for. You have to go for it."

    "Absolutely," Roger added with enthusiasm. "That''s a chance in a million, and if she wants to recruit you it''s because you''re special. Go for it!"

    "I will," Eratz replied, his voice steady now. "This could change everything for all of us."

    Colin clapped her hands together, practically bouncing in her seat.

    "I knew you could do it, Eratz! You''re going to be amazing! The best beast master ever!"

    Cassie reached over and gently squeezed Eratz''s hand.

    "We''re so proud of you, sweetheart. You''ve worked so hard for this, and we''ll support you every step of the way."

    Roger nodded in agreement.

    "Yeah, don''t hold back. If you''ve got a shot at something this big, you have to go all in."

    The warmth of their support washed over Eratz, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a surge of a new emotion.

    They were rooting for him, not just as a beast master, but as family. And that meant more than anything he had achieved till now.

    His mind was locked on a single objective: succeed, for them.

    Later that night, after the dishes were cleared and everyone had gone to bed, Eratz was lying in the dark beside Colin, who shared his room.

    The soft rustling of the covers was the only sound in the silent night, but his mind was wide awake, racing through the events of the day.

    For the first time, he forgot to go to train, Zara''s words still ringing in his head, with the weight of the opportunity she''d laid before him.

    His thoughts drifted back to the director''s office at Genova Academy. He remembered how he''d felt sitting there, crushed under the weight of the accusations, the betrayal.

    The walls had felt so small, trapping him in a space where no one believed him, where everything was falling apart. But now... Now it felt like those walls had crumbled away, and above him, the stars were visible again, there was hope.

    "Eratz?" Colin''s small voice pulled him from his thoughts.

    He turned his head, surprised she was still awake.

    "Yeah?"

    "I''m really proud of youm. You''re always there for me, helping me, and now. I''m so glad you got what you wanted."

    Eratz felt a little taken aback. He hadn''t realized how much Colin had been paying attention to everything surrounding him.

    She was twelve now, and He''d always tried to be strong for her, but hearing her say it like that made him realize that she wasn''t the same little girl he used to know.

    "Thanks, Colin," he said quietly. "But you know, it''s not just me. You''re going to do great things too. You''ve already come so far with your fire spirit, and you''ve got so much

    potential."

    Colin shifted, turning towards him, her eyes wide in the moonlight.

    "You really think so?"

    "I know so, the way you adapted to your fire spirit, the control you have, it''s rare to see that at your age. If you keep going like this... Ah, well, for now focus on what you like, on my side, I promise you, things are going to change for us. Your mom and dad, they did their best for us, but now it''s our turn to help them. We''re going to make their lives better, Colin, I''ll make sure

    of it."

    Colin smiled, a small, sleepy grin, and held up her pinky finger.

    "Promise?"

    Eratz smiled back as he linked his pinky with hers. "Promise."

    With that, Colin finally closed her eyes, her breathing slowing down as she drifted off to sleep.

    Eratz lay awake a little longer, staring up at the ceiling. It was a chance in a lifetime, a miracle rewarding his efforts, and adding weight to his responsibility, but instead of fear or uncertainty, all he felt was determination. This was his chance, not to change everything, but S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    to start.

 Chapter 17: Training And Trials

    Chapter 17: Training And TrialsAt Genova Academy, the sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the busy students. Lisa hurried across the courtyard, her heart heavy with a feeling she couldn''t quite name. She had felt this way more and more lately, a tight knot in her chest that wouldn''t go away, but her friend''s voice cut through the noise in her head.

    "Lisa! Wait!"

    Lisa''s steps faltered, and she forced a thin smile as she turned. Clara, her closest friend, was hurrying toward her with a look of worry on her face.

    "Clara, I''m really in a hurry..."

    "We need to talk." Clara grabbed her arm gently. "It''s important. It''s about Kenny."

    At the mention of his name, Lisa felt her stomach twist uncomfortably. She sighed, dropping her gaze to the ground.

    "Clara, please. Not now."

    "It has to be now," Clara insisted, her eyes soft with concern. "Kenny''s been... well, he''s been flirting with me. And it''s not just me, Lisa. He''s been like this with other girls too. It''s getting worse."

    Lisa closed her eyes for a moment, trying to calm her breath. She didn''t want to have this conversation, didn''t want to admit that she already knew. Of course, she knew. But what was she supposed to do?

    "Kenny''s always been... like that," she said softly, her voice becoming hard to hear. "I don''t control him, Clara. He does what he wants."

    Clara blinked in surprise, her worry deepening.

    "But you''re his girlfriend. Shouldn''t you..."

    "I don''t care!" Lisa interrupted her voice sharper than she intended.

    Around, some students looked at her, prompting her to glance away, her fingers twisting nervously.

    "He''s free to do whatever. I can''t stop him, and... and I won''t try."

    Clara looked at her with a mixture of shock and confusion.

    "Lisa, what are you saying? This isn''t right, You shouldn''t have to put up with this. Why do you stay with him if..."

    "It''s not like that," Lisa murmured, her voice softening. "The girls didn''t mind before. They were all over him when he was winning, but after the last tournament, everything changed. They''re only annoyed now because he lost."

    Clara''s eyes widened.

    "Lisa what''s wrong with..."

    Lisa shook her head, cutting her off.

    "It''ll get better once he wins again. When he''s back on top, everything will go back to how it was. It''s just... a difficult moment. But I need to support him so he will win. That''s all."

    Clara''s face softened, what she saw was a shell of the luminous girl Lisa used to be, but Lisa didn''t want to hear that either. She forced a smile and started walking again.

    "Just... don''t worry about it, okay? Everything will be fine."

    Clara hesitated, watching her for a moment before nodding reluctantly.

    "If you say so..."

    As Lisa walked away, her eyes caught on a couple training together in the distance. They moved with such ease, such perfect harmony. Her chest tightened painfully, and she quickly looked away, her heart sinking.

    "It''s normal," she whispered to herself, trying to push the feeling down. "This is normal, this is what I wanted."

    On the training grounds, Crystal stood with her arms crossed, watching Kenny take on another group of students. It was the same old routine, Kenny''s spirit and beast would demolish his opponents easily, and then complain that no one was a real challenge.

    Today was no different. He had just beaten three more students in a 2v2 sparring match, but the usual excitement in his eyes had faded.

    Crystal stood nearby, catching her breath after their sparring session. She wiped the sweat from her forehead.

    "If you want a real challenge, why don''t you fight the third-years? They''re stronger and more experienced."

    Kenny scoffed, shaking his head.

    "The third-years have more elemental spirits than I do. It wouldn''t be a fair fight."

    Crystal crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly.

    "You keep saying these fights are too easy, but when an actual challenge comes up, you avoid it. Why?"

    "I''m not avoiding anything, I just don''t want to waste my energy on a fight I can''t win fair and square. What''s the point in that?"

    Crystal stared at him for a moment, disappointment flickering in her eyes. But she knew better than to push him when he was like this.

    Kenny always shut down when it came to facing real difficulties. For a moment, unwillingly, her mind remembered why he wasn''t the top student in the first place. She glanced up at the

    sky, a quiet sigh escaping her lips.

    "You haven''t grown since..."

    But Her voice didn''t reach anyone.

    Meanwhile, in the forest, Eratz stood in the clearing, surrounded by towering trees and the hum of nature.

    From his shadow, the Thunder Lycaon appeared in a flash of shadow and lightning. The beast''s electric gaze locked onto Eratz.

    The bond between them had grown stronger since their first encounter, but today, Eratz wanted to take that bond to a new level.

    He took a deep breath, his eyes locked on the Lycaon.

    "If one beast alone can defeat my army, then I need to use this forest as my new farming ground, and I''ll need you for this."

    The Lycaon''s glowing eyes watched him intently as if it understood. Since his battle with the beast, Eratz became obsessed with the power he had obtained while channeling the Vulpan''s

    power. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He remembered in the library of Genova Academy the concept of Beastification, a state where the tamer fused with his beasts, and he was sure that it was what had happened.

    Now, he wanted to do the same, but this time with the Lycaon.

    "I want to channel your power into my body, like I did with the Vulpan. But this time, I need to hold onto it longer. Let''s go, partner."

    The Lycaon gave him a slight nod, and then, Eratz stretched out his hand, feeling the familiar surge of lightning as it flowed from the Lycaon toward him.

    The power hit him like a wave, his body immediately stiffening from the intensity. It was overwhelming, stronger than what he was used to.

    Clenching his jaw, he focused, trying to steady his breathing. The lightning crackled around him, and for a moment, his arms glowed with electric energy. But just as quickly, it faded, leaving him panting and on his knees.

    "Still too much," he muttered, wiping sweat from his brow.

    But he didn''t give up. After a short break, Eratz stood again, determined to achieve this. He had to master this before the selection, and he absolutely wanted a better roster to engage in

    the arena.

    His presence here was for the sole purpose of getting stronger and hunting stronger monsters, but He needed to push himself beyond his limits, to get used to the dual energy of

    the Lycaon''s power.

    "I need to keep trying," he said to the beast. "I''m going to channel your power, and then... I want you to run. I''ll chase you, and when I catch up, we''ll fight. I need to sharpen my senses,

    get faster, and make this power feel natural."

    The Lycaon let out a low growl, remembering how their last battle went.

    Without waiting for another word, the beast darted into the trees, its body a blur of shadow

    and lightning.

    Eratz grinned, his pulse quickening. This was it. He summoned the Lycaon''s power again, and this time, when the lightning surged through him, he held it longer. His muscles tensed, his body buzzing with energy, but he pushed through the pain.

    His feet moved faster than ever as he darted after the Lycaon, weaving through the thick trees while leaving a lightning trail behind him.

    Every time he caught up, they clashed in a whirlwind of lightning and shadows. The fight was intense, faster, sharper, and more brutal than before.

    After ten minutes of back-and-forth strikes, the Lycaon would break free, and the chase

    would begin again.

    Hours passed, but Eratz didn''t stop. The forest became their battlefield, their playground,

    and with each round, he felt himself getting stronger. His body still ached, the lightning still burned, but he was learning to control it.

    By the time the first rays of dawn broke through the trees, Eratz dropped one knee on the ground, in pain, but triumphant.

    His arms still hummed with the faint crackle of electricity, his body light and charged with

    power. He had done it.

    One thing he noticed after this training was that his stamina had deeply increased, the pain was the only barrier he met, but his body was roaring for another round.

    ****

    Back at his former home, Eratz''s parents sat at the dinner table, talking quietly while his

    younger siblings, Kian and Lila were chatting excitedly about their upcoming class trip to the

    training arena.

    "The lessons at school are way too easy," Kian said with a smug smile. "I can''t wait to show

    off at the arena tomorrow."

    Lila nodded enthusiastically.

    "The teachers said we''d get to see real fighters in action! Maybe they''ll even notice us."

    Their father smiled.

    "You two are doing well, but don''t get cocky. Make sure you give it your best tomorrow. You

    want to be noticed for the right reasons."

    Their mother nodded. "Show them what your name means, you have a lot to do to clean our honor."

    Kian and Lila exchanged determined looks, their confidence only growing.

    In the meantime In a gym far from the forest, Ryder groaned in frustration, wiping sweat

    from his forehead as he glanced at Zara.

    He had been pushing through a grueling workout, and every muscle in his body felt like it was

    on fire.

    "Why are you making me do all this?" he panted, his legs wobbling beneath him.

    Zara, ever composed, leaned against the wall, a small smile playing on her lips.

    "I''m helping you prepare. After the selection, things will get even more intense. You have to

    be ready."

    Ryder huffed, crossing his arms.

    "So suddenly? You''re easy to read, it''s because you''re thinking of training Eratz too, right?"

    Zara''s smile widened.

    "Break''s over. Get back to it. You''ll thank me later."

    As the night settled in, each of them continued to chase their goals. Eratz pushed his body and mind to their limits in the forest, the Thunder Lycaon by his side, sharpening his senses and mastering the power of lightning and darkness simultaneously. Ryder, exhausted from his intense workout with Zara, pushed himself to finish another set, his thoughts lingering on Eratz. Although exhausted, he focused on Zara''s training, He wanted a good rival and he didn''t want to be a third wheel.

    At Genova Academy, Kenny studied with Rowan. He studied the places where he could find the

    strongest monsters, as quickly as possible before the tournament. Crystal watched him from the sidelines, her face calm but her eyes worried.

    She wanted to believe in him, but something told her that if he lost again, the tournament

    would be his breaking point.

    All around, their paths were set, their goals clear. Each of them was fighting for something. Only time would tell who would come out on top.

 Chapter 18: Rare Beasts

    Chapter 18: Rare BeastsThe morning sun filtered gently through the towering trees, casting a golden glow across the forest.

    Dew glistened on every leaf, and under one particularly large leaf, something small was moving. A tiny creature, no bigger than a football, with white fur and an almost comically perfect bowl cut, was swatting at the leaf like a playful kitten.

    A blue head shrooms on its head made it looks like a bowl cut, twitching with every movement, and its large round eyes glistened with innocent curiosity.

    It squeaked and hopped in place, spinning in circles and rolling around, as if the entire world was just a playground for it.

    Eratz, watching from a distance, felt his heart melt.

    "What... are you?" he whispered to himself before approaching slowly, crouching down beside the creature.

    The little monster looked up at him, its eyes sparkling like it had just found a new friend.

    Without a second thought, it hopped right into Eratz''s outstretched hands, snuggling against his chest as if it had always belonged there.

    Eratz grinned wide, his face softening as he gently cradled the creature.

    "You''re... adorable," he whispered, his voice resonating with a new tone.

    The little creature let out a soft, high-pitched noise, nibbling on his sleeve like a baby would on a blanket.

    From behind them, the Thunder Lycaon sat lazily, watching the scene unfold with a pair of piercing yellow eyes.

    It let out a low growl, the sound carrying just enough sarcasm to make its feelings clear. Eratz glanced over and caught the Lycaon''s mocking gaze.

    "Don''t give me that look," he sighed, but still smiling. "I''ve been in this forest for a whole day; I''m allowed to go soft on something this cute. Maybe I''m just going insane."

    The Lycaon''s tail swished once, its mouth curling into what could only be described as a wolfish smirk.

    Eratz glanced down at the little creature in his arms, now dozing off peacefully, completely unaware of the silent conversation happening between its new caretaker and the amused wolf beast.

    "Yeah, yeah. Laugh all you want."

    He was so enchanted by the creature''s cuteness that he forgot his usual routine of checking a monster''s stats.

    He had never seen something so small and harmless in this part of the forest. But today was supposed to be his day to hunt, and he still had work to do.

    With a soft chuckle, he gently tucked the little creature into his cloak, where it nestled like a baby in a cradle, before giving the Thunder Lycaon a knowing look.

    "Alright, ready to go?"

    The Lycaon immediately jumped to its feet, its fur crackling with energy.

    They set off together, running side by side. The bond between them had grown so strong that they no longer needed words. It was instinctual.

    As they dashed through the forest, they moved in perfect synchronicity, their movements fluid and precise.

    A rustling in the bushes ahead alerted them to their first prey, a large rabbit-like creature with long, sharp claws.

    The Thunder Lycaon leaped forward, lightning crackling around its body, but Eratz was already a step ahead.

    He summoned a flame javelin in his hand and threw it forward, striking the creature before neutralizing it with his thunder punch, and then the beast fell and disappeared in his shadow. The two exchanged a glance, both of them grinning. This hunt wasn''t just about survival anymore, it was a competition.

    "One for me," Eratz teased, stroking the baby monster nestled in his cloak, as if showing off to his tiny companion.

    The Lycaon growled, its eyes narrowing in playful challenge. The next moment, they were off again, chasing down more prey.

    It became a game, each trying to surpass the other, acting like a perfect, but with a competitive edge.

    One by one, they took down goblin-like creatures, large birds, and other monsters, each time trying to claim the next victory.

    But as they ventured deeper into the forest, Eratz felt something shift. His instincts, honed from training, tingled with a familiar sense of danger.

    "Hold up," Eratz whispered, raising a hand. The Lycaon slowed, its hackles raised.

    Following the strange pull in his chest, Eratz led them to a cavern hidden among the rocks and vines.

    The entrance was narrow, but as they pushed through, the air grew heavier.

    As they ventured deeper into the cave, the air grew heavy, almost suffocating. The walls, narrow and tight, opened into a wide chamber.

    Darkness wrapped around them, but a faint glow, coming from the center of the cavern, illuminated what lay ahead.

    And there it stood.

    A towering figure, hunched yet powerful, its black scales shimmering like polished stone under the faint light.

    The creature, standing on two muscular legs, its broad, clawed hands gripping the cavern floor, glared at them with fiery amber eyes.

    Each breath it took made the dust fly away.

    It was a dragon, but not just any dragon this one radiated an energy far beyond the usual

    creatures Eratz had encountered.

    [Name: Terrakrus

    Affinity: Dragon/Soil

    Rank: Rare

    Ability: Rockbound Fury]

    Eratz''s heart raced. His mind was blurring. He needed this beast. It was unlike anything he

    had faced before, its mere presence sent a thrill down his spine.

    The dragon''s aura of strength, its raw power, felt almost insurmountable, the ability was unique, but that only made Eratz want it more.

    "Lycaon, ready?" Eratz whispered, his voice barely audible.

    The Thunder Lycaon let out a low growl, its yellow eyes locked on the dragon. The tension in the air was palpable.

    Without warning, the Terrakrus roared, shaking the cavern. Eratz and his Lycaon sprang into

    action.

    The wolf-like beast charged forward, its claws crackling with electricity as it launched a slash infused with lightning at the dragon, but the attack barely grazed its tough, stone-like scales. The dragon barely flinched, its eyes narrowing.

    Eratz followed up, summoning flames and thunder from his palms and sending them hurtling toward the beast through his flash series of attacks. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The fire and lightning collided with the Terrakrus, but once again, it only seemed to fuel the creature''s power. Every hit, every blow only made it stronger.

    Its scales shimmered brighter, and its movements grew faster, more deliberate.

    The ground shook as the dragon stomped forward, swiping at the Thunder Lycaon with a

    heavy, clawed hand.

    Lycaon barely dodged, rolling to the side as rocks from the ceiling began to fall around them. The cavern was coming apart under the dragon''s growing strength. Eratz''s heart pounded in his chest. He gritted his teeth, unwilling to give up.

    "Shit... stronger than him? We''re not done yet!" he shouted, summoning his army of beasts, Vulpans, insectoids, and wolves, all rushing the Terrakrus at once.

    The dragon snarled, its tail lashing out and sending several of them flying across the cavern. It unleashed a roar that shook the entire cave, sending a shockwave that rattled Eratz''s bones.

    His monsters weren''t strong against the monsters from this forest, they couldn''t withstand the sheer force of the Terrakrus.

    He had summoned them only to exhaust the dragon, but they were only delaying the

    inevitable.

    And then, with a heavy stomp, the dragon brought down its foot, sending cracks through the ground. The cavern shuddered, rocks breaking loose from above. The ceiling began to

    collapse in on itself.

    Eratz froze, his mind racing. The dragon was strong, too strong, but if the cavern caved in, the Terrakrus would be trapped beneath the rubble. This beast, this incredible creature, would be

    buried alive.

    "No!" Eratz shouted, rushing forward as stones began to fall around them.

    He had to save it. He couldn''t let this beast, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, be lost

    forever.

    Thunder Lycaon leaped back to his side, barely dodging the falling debris, its fur still

    crackling with energy.

    But Eratz didn''t stop. He fought through the crumbling cave, using punches to blast away

    boulders as they came crashing down.

    The Terrakrus continued to stand its ground, roaring in defiance.

    "Move, damn it!" Eratz growled, his voice strained as he threw himself at the falling rocks,

    trying desperately to clear a path for the dragon.

    His body ached from the exertion, but he couldn''t give up. Not now.

    The cave continued to collapse around them, the entrance narrowing as more and more

    boulders tumbled down.

    The Terrakrus let out a final roar, swinging its massive claws at the falling rocks in a futile attempt to free itself, but it was no use. The cave was going to bury them all.

    Eratz''s breath was ragged. He could see the entrance closing up, and the dragon standing

    there, its amber eyes filled with rage. The ceiling was about to come down entirely, trapping

    them both.

    But then, just as the final stone began to fall, the tiny creature in Eratz''s arms let out a

    piercing cry.

    A brilliant flash of light engulfed the cavern. Everything around Eratz turned white, so bright

    that he couldn''t see anything. He felt weightless, as if the world had been pulled out from

    beneath his feet.

    And then... silence.

    When Eratz opened his eyes, he was lying in a stream. The cool water flowed around him, and the sound of the forest echoed in his ears. He sat up, dazed and disoriented.

    His heart sank as the realization hit him. The dragon, the Terrakrus, it was gone. He had lost

    it. The cavern had collapsed, and he had been teleported out, leaving the rare creature trapped

    beneath the rubble.

    "No..." he whispered, his voice filled with frustration. His chest tightened. He had been so

    close.

    So close to capturing something extraordinary, and now it was lost forever.

    But as he rubbed his face, he heard the sound of water splashing nearby. Slowly, he turned his

    head.

    Standing in the shallow water, her body half-submerged but unmistakably visible, was a girl. Her skin glistened in the sunlight, and her short, wet hair clung to her shoulders. She was completely naked, her body standing above the waterline.

    For a moment, neither of them moved, both locked in stunned silence.

 Chapter 19: A New Connection

    Chapter 19: A New ConnectionA girl stood no more than a few feet away, waist-deep in the water.

    The girl had fair olive tan skin, her dark blue eyes intense and sharp beneath her short, shoulder-length blue hair that flared out at the bottom.

    Her bangs were cut very short, exposing most of her forehead, with a split near the corner where several tiny curls rested, framing her face.

    One larger curl stood out, giving her an almost carefree, messy look. Her toned body showed the result of constant training, lean muscle in her arms and legs.

    Her arms snapped up, crossing over her chest in a flustered attempt to shield herself. Her eyes blazed, furious and wide.

    "You...! What the hell are you doing here?!" she shouted, her voice sharp, cheeks turning red as she glared at him.

    Eratz barely glanced at her. He ran a hand through his hair, gripping his head as frustration surged through him.

    "This can''t be happening... Oh no... OH NO!" he muttered, ignoring her completely.

    His mind was consumed by the dragon he''d just lost, something far more valuable than the current situation.

    The girl''s face flushed deeper. "You... who even are you? What are you doing here?!" she asked again, splashing water at him. "You''re just gonna stand there like it''s no big deal? Look away! Idiot!"

    Eratz, only half hearing her, sighed and turned around, his eyes scanning the trees as if hoping to spot some sign of the dragon.

    "I''m not interested in this... Where am I? How did I lose him? Damn it..."

    "Not interested?!" Her voice cracked with both fury and disbelief. "Who do you think you are?! Acting all high and mighty!" She splashed to the shore, hurriedly grabbing her towel. "You walk in on a girl, can''t even apologize, and now you''re just muttering nonsense? Where do you even come from?"

    Eratz muttered something under his breath, still distracted.

    "I''m more worried about something else right now..."

    She scowled, wrapping the towel around herself, still dripping wet. "Yeah, sure. But you''re out in the middle of nowhere, and it''s dangerous here. You don''t just wander this deep into the forest like a clueless idiot unless you''re looking for trouble."

    "I''m just passing through," Eratz said vaguely, already stepping toward the trees.

    "Oh, really?" she snapped, her hands on her hips as she marched toward him. "Passing through? You think this is some stroll in the park? You''re either completely clueless or you''ve got a death wish. What are you really doing here?"

    Eratz closed his eyes briefly, clearly losing patience.

    "It''s none of your business. I''ve got things to do. Just leave me alone."

    She stepped in front of him, blocking his path.

    "Like hell it''s none of my business. If you''re screwing around in this part of the forest, it is my business. I''m not about to let you get yourself killed playing the warrior."

    His red eyes flicked to her, a sharp glare in them. He didn''t want to deal with this, he had a more important thing to worry about.

    "I''m not looking for a fight," he muttered, stepping to the side to go around her. "Good. Because you''d lose," she shot back. "But seriously, what''s your deal? No one just ''passes through'' here without a reason. Are you some kind of beast tamer? Explorer?"

    Eratz paused, staring off into the distance, the memory of the cave''s location burning in his mind.

    "I''m a tamer and there''s something I need to take care of."

    Her eyes narrowed, a mix of curiosity and suspicion creeping into her voice. "Something? Like what? You''re not hunting a beast, are you?"

    Eratz didn''t bother to answer. The dragon was his only concern.

    "It''s nothing you need to worry about," he finally muttered, pushing past her and disappearing into the trees.

    She stood there, fists clenched, watching him walk away.

    "Fine! Go ahead, be all mysterious and secretive! But don''t blame anyone when you get yourself killed!"

    Eratz didn''t look back, his mind already on the dragon.

    She glared at the spot where he vanished, shaking her head.

    "What an idiot..." she muttered under her breath.

    Eratz moved through the forest swiftly. He was deep in though, when a sudden wind made him flinch. A feeling awakening the burning moment he lost the dragon, a familiar energy coming from an object on himself.

    The little white creature, the one he had found earlier under the leaf, was poking its head out from the fold of his cloak, its bowl-cut fur wet from the splash of the stream.

    "What...?"

    Eratz stared at the creature in surprise, realizing something significant.

    This little thing, this tiny, cute monster was the thing that had teleported him away from the collapsing cave.

    He crouched down, gently patting its head, watching as the creature looked up at him with wide, innocent eyes. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Wait..." he muttered, connecting the dots. "You... teleported us, didn''t you?"

    The creature squeaked in response, its tiny body bouncing slightly as it seemed to nod.

    Eratz''s heart raced as he realized what this meant. This wasn''t just any cute forest creature; it was powerful. Rare, maybe even rarer than he thought.

    "What are you?" Eratz whispered, his voice full of wonder. The little creature tilted its head, its round eyes shining as if it understood his question.

    Eratz slowly reached out with his spiritual pressure, gently, not wanting to scare it off. The connection between them deepened instantly, surprising him with how natural it felt.

    "You''re special," he murmured to it.

    The creature squeaked again, this time more enthusiastically, and Eratz felt a soft, warm connection blossom between them.

    He could feel the telekinetic power pulsing from the creature, like a wave of potential waiting to be harnessed.

    As he watched it explore, Eratz closed his eyes, reaching out with his spiritual pressure. He could feel a connection to the creature, something deep, something ancient. He couldn''t resolve himself to attack it, but he wanted to tame it.

    His spiritual pressure surrounded the creature, the monster paused in its movements, tilting

    its head to look at him.

    Eratz knew he was supposed to fight it to tame it, but something in him just couldn''t. It was just a baby, innocent and harmless.

    "I can''t do this," he muttered, feeling conflicted.

    Every other time, taming meant battle, showing dominance. But this... it felt different.

    Sparks of light began to appear around them. Eratz watched in awe as the creature started to fade, not into the usual black mist like the others, but into glowing sparks.

    They floated around him, lighting up the air in a soft, warm glow.

    "What the... He''s getting tamed?!"

    His pressure wrapped around the creature and to his surprise, the baby didn''t resist or run

    away. It stood there, calm, as if waiting for something.

    Eratz blinked, unsure of what was happening. His energy, instead of forcing the creature to submit, seemed to be pulling it closer, not with power, but with a quiet connection. He could

    feel it, his heartbeat syncing with the creature''s.

    "I don''t have to fight him?" Eratz whispered, more to himself.

    The baby chirped softly and took a step closer. It wasn''t scared. It didn''t need to be forced. He

    was willingly getting absorbed.

    Eratz felt a shift inside. The bond forming between them wasn''t through dominance. His heart raced, and in that moment, he realized something: he could tame a beast without

    fighting, without hurting it.

    "This is different..."

    The creature had accepted him completely, without any need for a fight. The bond was strong, stronger than any he had felt before. He smiled as the last of the sparks settled around him,

    feeling the baby''s presence in his heart.

    "I can tame without fighting." he said quietly, amazed.

    The creature had shown him a new way. He didn''t have to fight to earn a bond. Sometimes,

    trust was enough.

    As he stood, the warm feeling stayed with him. His gaze shifted toward the distance. If he could connect with this small creature without fighting, maybe... maybe he could do the same

    with the dragon.

    "I''ll find you." he whispered.

    The baby had changed everything for him. And now, with a new way of taming, he was ready

    to face his biggest obsession.

 Chapter 20: Echoes Of The Spirit

    Chapter 20: Echoes Of The SpiritEratz stared down at the creature resting comfortably in his arms. Its small body hummed with a faint glow.

    Its stats flashed before his eyes again, a showing more of the power that lay within this tiny form.

    [Name: Aetheri

    Affinity: Spirit

    Rank: Rare

    Ability: Empathic Veil

    This wasn''t just any beast. Eratz had tamed powerful monsters before, but Aetheri was different.

    Its energy wasn''t something he could feel in his muscles, but something that tugged at the edges of his mind.

    He decided to try to connect with the beast, every step he took felt connected to the pulse of the world around him.

    He could sense the creatures in the woods, their subtle emotions brushing against him through Aetheri''s veil.

    His usual training methods, focused on brute strength and endurance, wouldn''t work here. Aetheri wasn''t a monster that could be mastered through physical power alone.

    "This is going to be interesting," Eratz muttered.

    He set Aetheri down in the clearing, the Thunder Lycaon watching lazily from a distance. Aetheri''s soft eyes blinked up at him, its presence growing clearer the more Eratz opened himself to the connection.

    The training began, but it wasn''t what Eratz was used to. Sitting cross-legged on the ground, he reached out to Aetheri with his mind, closing his eyes to shut out the physical world.

    Immediately, he felt the pull. It wasn''t a violent surge of energy like when he trained to master the lycaon''s power, this was gentler, but no less powerful.

    It felt like his mind was being drawn into a swirling vortex, the air around him growing thick, as if the limits between his thoughts and the world were dissolving.

    Aetheri''s power was subtle but vast. He could feel the emotions of the creatures in the forest, the tension of a predator hunting its prey, the quiet fear of a little monster hidden in the brush. Everything was connected, and Aetheri was the bridge that allowed Eratz to all.

    And then the telekinesis hit him. It wasn''t just a force; it was an extension of his will. As Aetheri''s eyes glowed faintly, Eratz felt objects around him tremble. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Stones, leaves, even the air itself seemed to shift in response to the connection they shared. It wasn''t physically exhausting, but it was mentally overwhelming. Each time he tried to push harder, it felt like the swirling emotions of the world would consume him, like he was on the verge of being swallowed by the void.

    Eratz struggled to stay grounded in his own mind. His spirit felt like it was being pulled in a thousand directions, each emotion, each thought pulling him further into the depths of this strange space Aetheri created.

    The Thunder Lycaon glanced up, its fur bristling slightly, sensing the tension in the air. But Eratz ignored it, his mind wholly wrapped around Aetheri''s energy.

    He could feel it, the raw, untapped potential that came with this spirit-affinity beast. It wasn''t just a cute ball of fur. Aetheri had power, unique power, the kind that could reshape battles in ways he hadn''t imagined before.

    Time seemed to slow as Eratz sank deeper into the spiritual connection. His senses expanded beyond the clearing, beyond the forest. He could feel the pulse of the land, the breath of life that existed all around him. And through Aetheri, he felt like he could influence it.

    He tested his control, lifting a cluster of rocks into the air without even touching them. Aetheri''s power flowed smoothly, but the mental strain was enormous.

    His head felt heavy, as if each lift, each telekinetic push, was pulling at the essence of his being, yet, he couldn''t deny how natural it felt at the same time, the connection with the monster was stronger than with any of his beasts.

    "This baby is more amazing than I thought." Eratz breathed, more to himself than to Aetheri. He could feel the intensity of the connection growing, a constant hum in his spirit that made his usual training feel almost primitive in comparison. No fire, no brute force, just raw, mental power.

    He opened his eyes, snapping back to the physical world. The clearing looked the same, but he felt different.

    Aetheri had barely broken a sweat, but Eratz was drained, not physically, but mentally. It was as if the air he was breathing was heavier, charged with the energy of the training.

    His mind swirled, a lingering dizziness from the spirit connection, and yet, he was fascinated. There was something undeniably powerful in this kind of training, and he wanted more of it. Aetheri floated back to his side, as innocent as ever, but Eratz could feel the weight of its potential. It wasn''t just another beast to add to his ranks. It was special.

    With Aetheri resting on his shoulder, Eratz headed back to the cave where the dragon had vanished.

    The hunt wasn''t over yet. The memory of the dragon''s presence was fresh in his mind, and with Aetheri''s telekinetic abilities, he had managed to locate the residue of its teleportation energy. The dragon had to be that way.

    He reached the boulders that had collapsed over the entrance of the cave, signaling to Aetheri.

    The small creature''s eyes glowed once more, and the rocks lifted effortlessly into the air, clearing the path ahead. As they floated to the side, Eratz stepped into the cavern, the Thunder Lycaon following with a low growl.

    Minutes passed, his eyes darting around the dark space, searching for any sign of the dragon.

    The cavern stretched deeper than he remembered, and with each step, his frustration grew. He had lost track of it once; he couldn''t afford to lose it again.

    Aetheri''s telekinetic influence was strong, but even with its help, the dragon''s presence was nowhere to be found.

    The deeper he ventured, the more desperate his search became. He focused his mind, trying to reach out through Aetheri''s connection, hoping to sense the dragon''s emotions or energy, but the cavern was silent.

    "Damn it," Eratz muttered under his breath. Minutes turned to hours, and the sun outside had dipped low, casting long shadows over the entrance.

    He paused, standing in the middle of the cavern, his mind racing. The dragon was of soil affinity, and that meant it might have burrowed deep into the ground.

    He slammed his fist against the stone wall. He realized at the last moment that the dragon was doing a suicidal action simply because it wasn''t suicidal for it. It was in it''s element the whole time, and now it had escaped.

    Eratz exhaled, turning toward the entrance. "It''s gone," he said quietly, more to himself than

    anyone else.

    His time in the forest had run out and he had to go back home now.

    His day was supposed to be dedicated to hunting stronger monsters, but in the end he only added one interesting beast to his rooster and missed another one.

    With a final glance back at the empty cavern, he made his decision. He had to return, the following day was important. Zara was expecting him, and looking for the dragon might make him miss his opportunity.

    As he left the cavern, with Aetheri perched lightly on his shoulder and the Thunder Lycaon pacing beside him, he made a silent promise to himself. He would come back. The dragon wouldn''t escape him a second time.

 Chapter 21: The Call Of The Arena

    Chapter 21: The Call Of The ArenaThe sun was already high in the sky as Eratz made his way to the meeting spot with Zara. Today was the day he would finally take his first steps into the pro world of beast masters.

    Eratz was at the same spot where he had first meet her, near the public battlefield. He stood there, hands in his pockets, gazing out over the open space with a sense of quiet nostalgia.

    The air smelled of rain, the damp ground holding traces of past battles. This was where his dream opened a door to reality, where he had found a way to pursue his path as a beast master.

    His thoughts were interrupted by a voice calling out from behind him.

    "Eratz!"

    He turned to see Zara approaching, waving enthusiastically. Her bright expression clashed against the backdrop of the gloomy sky, but her energy was contagious.

    She stopped just in front of him, slightly out of breath, as if she had jogged the whole way.

    "Eratz! You''re right on time," she greeted, her voice dripping with enthusiasm. "I hope you''re ready for today. Things are about to get intense."

    "I''m more than ready," Eratz said.

    They headed toward the bustling part of town. It didn''t take long before they reached a small but cozy restaurant nestled between larger buildings.

    The warm, inviting smell of cooked food greeted them as they stepped inside.

    "Here we are!" Zara declared, plopping down into a booth near the window. "Best place for a good chat. Food''s amazing too."

    Eratz slid into the seat across from her, glancing around the quaint interior. The restaurant was filled with the soft hum of chatter, the clinking of dishes, and the occasional laughter from other tables.

    It wasn''t too crowded, which made it perfect for a more private conversation.

    Zara leaned back in her seat, letting out a small sigh of satisfaction.

    "I thought it''d be good for us to chat about what''s next, you know? Give you the lowdown on how this whole pro beast master thing works." She paused for effect, then leaned in closer. "Alright, here''s the deal: it''s kind of like a sport, all ranked, and pretty intense."

    Eratz leaned back in his seat, raising an eyebrow.

    "Alright, I''m listening."

    Zara''s grin widened.

    "Okay, at the bottom, we''ve got the City Tier. This is where all the rookies start, battling it out in local city arenas. It might sound easy, but trust me, some of these local stars are no joke. They''ve been doing this for years, just waiting for someone like you to challenge them."

    Eratz nodded, still intrigued.

    "Alright, seems fair. What''s next?"

    "Next is the Country Tier," Zara continued, her voice dropping for dramatic effect. "This is where things heat up, literally. Only the best from the city level make it here, the ranking is made with the best masters from different cities. They challenge each other in competions gathering the best from the whole nation in tournaments and events. This is where your name starts getting known, sponsors start noticing, and you can''t afford to lose."

    "Sounds more interesting," Eratz mused, folding his arms. "I like it."

    Zara''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh, it gets better. After that, you''ve got the Continental Tierp. This is where the elite fight, on a continental scale. The beast masters here? They''re like celebrities, idols. The kind of people who have their faces plastered on posters and their names chanted by fans."

    Eratz felt his heart rate quicken, the very idea of reaching that level lighting a fire in his chest. But Zara wasn''t done.

    "And then," she added, raising a hand to silence any response, "there''s the World Tier, the absolute top. This is where legends are born. The best from every continent, from every corner of the world, clash in battles that are watched by billions. These are the people whose names are spoken with reverence. You don''t just fight to win at this stage, you fight to be remembered forever."

    Eratz''s mind raced, already envisioning himself at the top. He wanted a challenge and now he had found the perfect playground. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "So, what''s the catch? How do I get to each tier?"

    Zara smirked.

    "Oh, good question. To rank up, you''ve gotta pass some tests. These aren''t your average fight either, they''re brutal. Fight designed to push you and your beast to the absolute limit, to see if you''re worthy of the next level. Fail, and you''re stuck at your level until you''re ready to try again."

    She paused, letting it sink in. Eratz''s ambition was clear in his eyes, but so was the understanding that this path wouldn''t be easy.

    "But," Zara said, bringing the conversation back down a notch, "for now, you''re in the City Tier. That''s where we need to focus." She glanced around before her eyes landed on a small, somewhat rundown building. Above it, a sign hung with the name "Crescent Moon Agency" written in fading, cracked letters.

    Eratz eyed the building, noting its shabby appearance.

    "... This your agency?"

    Zara rubbed the back of her head, laughing nervously.

    "Yeah... I know it doesn''t look like much right now, but don''t let the exterior fool you! It''s full

    of potential! And that''s where you come in! With someone like you, we can turn this place

    around."

    Eratz gave her a look a little skeptical.

    "You''re betting a lot on me."

    Zara leaned in, her eyes pleading but still playful.

    "I mean, you''re a sure bet, right? I''ve seen your skills! We''ll turn this into the hottest agency around. Heck, we''ll make the World Tier in no time!... You know, with you on board, I''m thinking of rebranding the agency. Something like, ''Eratz''s Crescent Moon.'' Has a nice ring to it, don''t you think?"

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself," Eratz shot back, rolling his eyes.

    "Alright, let''s talk business," Zara said, pulling out a small stack of papers from a folder. "This is your contract. Once you sign this, you''ll officially be a part of the Crescent Moon Agency. Together, we''ll make sure you climb the ranks and maybe even reach the World Tier!" Eratz skimmed the contract. His eyes narrowed when he saw one particular line.

    "Lifelong contract?" he asked, his voice flat.

    Zara immediately stiffened, her attempt to keep things casual faltering.

    "Uh... well, yeah, but think of it this way... it''s a lifelong... partnership! We''ll help each other

    until the end of times!"

    Eratz''s gaze hardened.

    "I''m not signing that."

    Zara visibly deflated, her shoulders slumping.

    "I knew you''d catch that. Damn it." Her voice cracked, and she buried her face in her hands dramatically. "Why are they always reading? You''re not supposed to notice these things! I''m trying to save this place, and I need someone like you! Please, don''t leave me hanging!" Eratz sighed, feeling a twinge of sympathy, but not enough to sign a contract for life. "You''re a terrible negotiator, you know that? I''m willing to join you, but not on a contract for

    life."

    She peeked through her fingers and pouted.

    "Fine! Fine, I''ll give you a one-year contract. But you have to promise me you won''t just

    abandon me when you make it big, okay?"

    Eratz chuckled.

    "Don''t worry, usually I''m the one being betrayed."

    After finalizing the one-year deal, Zara perked up again.

    "Alright! Now that''s settled, let''s go check out the arena! This is where the selection for new beast masters will be held. This will soon be the place you make our name memorable!"

    Eratz shook his head with a smirk. "You''re awfully confident."

    "Confidence is my middle name, haven''t you heard?" Zara shot back with a teasing grin.

    They left the restaurant and headed toward the arena in the north of the city. It loomed over them like a colossal monument, bustling with activity.

    As they entered, the noise of battle and the roar of the crowd hit them immediately. "Here''s how it works," Zara explained as they made their way to a viewing area. "The arena has official members. These guys are like the gatekeepers. When a challenger comes in, they fight one of the arena members. If the challenger wins, they can challenge the arena''s champion. It''s like a rite of passage. Each point gives you a specific number of points on the ranking and are necessary to participate to some tournaments."

    Eratz watched as a duel unfolded below. Two beast masters faced off, each commanding a team of three monsters. The arena member, a muscular man with a wild grin, commanded a massive bull-like creature with fire spewing from its nostrils. The challenger, a young woman, had a more nimble approach, with a trio of reptiles slithering around her feet.

    The battle was intense. The bull charged, its fiery aura flaring, but the reptiles were quick, darting in and out of its path, striking with precision. The crowd cheered as the fight escalated, each beast giving its all.

    "The real challenge," Zara continued, "is not just beating the arena member, but making a statement. These battles are watched by sponsors, by fans. A good performance can get you

    noticed."

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed with excitement. He watched as the challenger finally brought the bull down, her reptiles using his venom and exhaustion to bring the bull to the ground. The crowd

    erupted in cheers.

    The blood pumped through Eratz''s veins. His fingers twitched with anticipation.

    "I want to fight," he muttered, half to himself.

    Zara grinned, catching his words. "Calm down pal, your aura''s showing. Tomorrow''s your

    day. The selection''s gonna be your first step toward the top."

    The rest of the afternoon was spent touring the arena, watching more duels, and getting a feel

    for the atmosphere. Zara kept trying to tease Eratz into conversation, but his mind was set on

    one thing: tomorrow''s fight.

    Eventually, they parted ways as the afternoon drew to a close.

    "Don''t be late tomorrow, alright?" Zara called out as they split up. "I''ve got high hopes for

    you, comrade!"

    Eratz waved her off with a small nod.

    "I''ll be there."

    As Zara made her way back into the arena, she noticed a familiar figure lounging at the edge,

    sipping from a juice carton with casual ease.

    The girl, dressed in her fighting gear, glanced up with a soft smile.

    "Back already?" the girl asked, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. "Ma''am Victoria

    said you were off chasing a diamond."

    Zara plopped down beside her with a playful sigh, stretching her arms dramatically.

    "Oh, it''s better than just a diamond, trust me. Soon, we''ll have enough talented tamers to pull

    this agency out of the mud."

    The girl, none other than the one Eratz had crossed paths with in the forest, arched a brow,

    taking another sip.

    "Just don''t push yourself too hard, Zara. You know I can handle the fights."

    Zara shot her a teasing grin, nudging her shoulder lightly.

    "I know, I know. You''re a rock, but with someone like him joining us? We''re on the verge of

    turning this whole game around."

 Chapter 22: The Big Day

    Chapter 22: The Big DayThe morning sun greeted the house through the thin curtains, casting a warm glow on Eratz''s face as he stirred awake.

    He sat up in bed, blinking away the remnants of sleep. Next to him, Colin was still deep in

    sleep.

    Today wasn''t just any day. It was the day, the culmination of his training, his struggles, and his resolve. The arena awaited, but first, he had to get through the morning.

    The sound of soft humming and the clinking of dishes reached him from downstairs, and a smile tugged at his lips.

    Aunt Cassie was already in the living room, and the familiar rhythm of her morning routine gave him a sense of comfort.

    He stood, stretching out the tension in his limbs, and walked to the small bathroom for a quick shower.

    As the warm water cascaded over him, Eratz took a deep breath.

    "At long last..."

    He murmured the words to himself, letting the water clear his mind of any lingering doubts.

    When he was dressed and ready, he made his way downstairs. The living room was warm and alive with the scent of frying eggs and sausage.

    Roger sat at the tiny table, his large hands wrapped around a tea cup as he greeted Eratz with a grin.

    "There he is! Our future champion," Roger said. "You ready to knock ''em good?"

    Eratz smiled, trying to shake off the pressure.

    "It shouldn''t be too bad if it''s like the public ground."

    "You''ll better win then," Cassie chimed in as she handed him a plate. "If you come back here without empty handed, we be ready to be laughed at for the rest of the week."

    Eratz chuckled, knowing she was fully capable of that.

    "Don''t worry, I''ve been working as a delivery boy for long enough to not want to do it again."

    Colin darted into the room, her wide eyes sparkling with excitement. She bounced up and down next to Eratz, tugging at his sleeve.

    "You''re gonna win, right? You always win!"

    He ruffled her hair with a soft smile.

    "I''ll do it, Colin, I promised I would."

    "I''m sure you will! Me and my spirit prayed all the night for you." she insisted, puffing out her chest like she had personally guaranteed his victory.

    "I''ll try not to let you down," Eratz replied, feeling a bit lighter from her cheerleading. The pressure wasn''t off, but it was easier to carry with her enthusiasm propping him up.

    Cassie set down a heaping plate of food in front of him.

    "Eat up, champ. You''ll need your strength. And don''t worry, if you trip and fall in front of everyone, we won''t laugh too much."

    Roger laughed.

    "... You keep laughing about the haircut I got when we were in highschool."

    "No, I''m laughing because my mom called it a 1 penny haircut."

    As they ate, the room was filled with light banter and familial warmth. It was a poor house, but the love inside it made up for the size.

    Cassie''s jokes, Roger''s fatherly advice, and Colin''s enthusiasm, it was all exactly what Eratz needed.

    The arena loomed ahead, a massive structure buzzing with excitement and competition. Eratz and Roger approached together, as they walked closer, Eratz could feel the energy from the crowd, the anticipation thick in the air.

    "This is it," Roger said, his voice lower now as they neared the crowd of beast masters. "Remember, no matter what happens in there, we''re proud of you."

    Eratz nodded.

    "Thanks, uncle. I''ll give it everything I''ve got."

    Beast masters from all walks of life were gathered outside, chatting in groups, some

    adjusting their outfits, others just soaking in the atmosphere.

    Eratz kept his gaze down, eyes forward, avoiding any direct attention.

    "Eyes ahead, kid," Roger said, offering a reassuring pat on Eratz''s shoulder. "Remember, it''s all about keeping your cool."

    Eratz nodded but didn''t say much. The pressure was mounting, and though his uncle''s presence was comforting, it didn''t stop the tension tightening in his chest.

    Then a familiar voice broke through the crowd.

    "Hey, Eratz! Over here!" Ryder''s energetic voice was unmistakable, waving frantically from the other side of the entrance.

    Eratz''s face relaxed a little as he saw his new friend standing alongside Zara, but there was someone else with them, a small blond boy who looked about as out of place as a kitten in a dragon''s den.

    The boy''s oversized jacket hung loosely on his tiny frame, his messy blond hair falling into his bright, wide eyes. As they got closer, the boy noticed Eratz and practically jumped in place.

    "Hi! Hi! I''m Milo! I''m eleven." the boy blurted out before Eratz could even say hello. He shot out a hand for a handshake, which Eratz took cautiously, unsure if Milo might vibrate right out of his shoes. "You must be the guy Ryder and Zara keep talking about!."

    Ryder chuckled.

    "Yeah, Milo''s been dying to meet you. He''s... well, you''ll see."

    Milo grinned, bouncing slightly on his toes.

    "I''m happy to meet a true soulmate, it''s not everyday I meet another....!"

    Before he could finish his sentence, Milo tripped over his own feet, tumbling forward and caught in time in the palm of Eratz.

    He quickly straightened up, pretending as if nothing happened.

    "I meant to do that, skin ship to build confidence between us!" he said proudly, brushing himself off with a dramatic flourish.

    Eratz blinked, looking at the palm of his hand.

    "... What the... He weighs nothing at all?"

    Zara chuckled, patting Milo on the back. "Don''t worry, he''s tougher than he looks. Just...

    clumsy."

    "Clumsy?" Milo gasped, as if personally offended. "I can''t be clumsy, I don''t wear glasses."

    Zara''s smile vanished.

    "... Anything against glasses wearers, you little thing?"

    Eratz couldn''t help but smile.

    "Well, nice to meet you, Milo. You... uh, what are you here for anyway?"

    "Here?" Milo looked up at him with wide, sparkling eyes. "It''s obvious, I am here for smoke!

    I''ll eat everyone''s horses!" He pointed at the sky.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Are you... Human?"

    Milo looked down at his mismatched socks, one bright blue with stars and the other green

    with frogs.

    "No... I am the Man. I am the mans in humans... I''ll take all the men at once!"

    Zara shook her head, grabbing him by the mouth.

    "Eeew enough talking for you!.... He''s a handful, but don''t let him fool you... Milo''s got a way

    with beasts. It''s like they can''t help but like him..."

    "Or maybe they feel sorry for him and help him by pity?" Ryder sighed.

    Milo raised a brow.

    "...? But I''m not handic..."

    "I said enough talking!"

    Eratz chuckled, feeling a bit of the weight lift off his shoulders thanks to Milo''s ridiculous

    energy.

    Zara''s eyes lit up when she saw a girl approaching them, and she waved them down excitedly.

    "There you are! The team is all here!" she called out, her voice filled with enthusiasm. The girl strode toward them with a confident air, her sharp eyes scanning the group.

    Eratz noticed her fiery eyes immediately, but something about her felt oddly familiar.

    She stopped short when she saw Eratz, her eyes narrowing.

    "Wait a minute... You... It''s you!"

    Eratz blinked, taken aback by the sudden intensity in her tone.

    "Uh... do I know you?"

    "Don''t act like you don''t remember. The forest, the river..."

    "... Am I supposed to know something or... Oh, wait... oh, yeah, the girl from yesterday."

    The girl sighed.

    "Unbelievable. You actually forgot."

    Eratz rubbed the back of his neck, sheepish.

    "No, no, don''t worry, now I remember every details."

    Her eyes narrowed, crossing her arms over her chest.

    "... Could you not?!"

    Zara raised an eyebrow, watching the exchange with a knowing grin.

    "Looks like you two have history. Tell me, I wanna know!"

    The girl rolled her eyes.

    "Not the kind of history I''d like to remember, thanks."

    Milo, oblivious to the undercurrent, grinned up at his sister.

    "Mercury, please, he''s my equal in this world. Don''t bully him!"

    Mercury shot him a look of fond exasperation.

    "Milo, what did I said about talking with strangers?"

    "... You also say that I never listen..."

    Zara stifled a laugh, her eyes sparkling.

    "Well, I''m glad you could join us, Mercury. It seems we''ve got quite the electric group here."

    She winked at Eratz.

    "But don''t worry, with my diamond in the rough, we''re bound to shine in this selection."

    Mercury didn''t seem convinced. Her eyes swept over the group, Eratz, Ryder, and Milo, she

    sighed.

    "I know we were desperate for agents but this is just ridiculous. These two don''t exactly scream ''victory'' and my brother is a primary school student."

    Eratz''s gaze slowly fell on Milo.

    "How old did you say you were?"

    "I''ll be twenty in nine years."

    Zara clutched her chest dramatically. "Oh, ye of little faith! Just wait, Mercury. You''ll see."

    Mercury crossed her arms.

    "You know that if they fail, they won''t get a license and won''t join us, right? Zara, We need agents before next month."

    "Um? What? What''s about the contract I signed?"

    Zara began to sweat profusely, but her salvation came from a staff member coming from the

    building.

    "It''s time, follow me."

    As they made their way into the selection room, the air grew heavy with tension. Beast masters from all over had gathered, each one radiating confidence and power.

    Eratz could feel the energy crackling around him, the excitement building with each step they

    took deeper into the arena.

    In another room, Zara stood, arms crossed as she watched her champions with a mix of

    amusement and pride.

    Mercury had joined her, standing silently by her side as she scanned the room, her sharp gaze

    taking in every detail.

    "I hope you know what you did." Mercury murmured.

    The room was large, filled with beast masters and staff members, all preparing for the sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    selection process.

    At the far end of the room, a large screen displayed the matchups. Ryder bounced on the balls

    of his feet, his hands flexing in anticipation.

    "Man, I wish they''d just start already!" Ryder muttered.

    Milo, on the other hand, seemed less aware of the weight of the moment.

    "Do monsters dream of skeleton sheeps?"

    "... What are you?!"

    Eratz shook his head, but his smile couldn''t disappear. The boy reminded him of a human

    version of his Aetheri.

    They lined up alongside the other beast masters, the atmosphere thick with tension. This was

    it, the moment they''d been working toward.

 Chapter 23: The Moment Of Truth

    Chapter 23: The Moment Of TruthIn the massive, brightly lit room, the atmosphere was filled with tension. Hundred of beast tamers from different backgrounds gathered, and at the front of the room, a group of staff members stood, dressed in formal uniforms.

    One of them, a tall man with a graying beard and sharp eyes, stepped forward. His voice rang out across the hall, silencing the chatter.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome. Today marks a significant milestone in your path as beast tamers, one that will test not only your strength but your skill and adaptability. Over the course of today''s trial, each of you will engage in three distinct battles. This event is not a mere competition of brute force. We are not here to crown a victor, but rather to evaluate your mastery, strategy, and connection with your beasts. In the first round, your opponents will be assigned at random. In the second, the winners will face those who lost, and by the third round, we will match the strongest among you against each other, while those still honing their abilities will face similar opponents. Your performance today could open doors, those who impress us will have the opportunity to secure a contract within the arena. So, show us what you are capable of. Prove to us that you have what it takes to be more than just a tamer, but a true master of the arena."

    The tamers exchanged glances, the weight of the challenge settling in. This was their moment to prove they were worthy of integrating the arena, potentially securing contracts with sponsors or agencies. For many, this would be their shot at glory.

    Ryder''s eyes gleamed with excitement.

    "Three battles? That''s perfect! I''ll show them what I''m made of!" he whispered, clenching his fists.

    Eratz, standing beside him, felt a different kind of calm. He''d already secured a contract, now, it was just about getting that official license.

    "You think they''ll throw anything serious at us?" Milo asked, bouncing on his toes as if gearing up for a sprint.

    Ryder grinned, rolling his shoulders.

    "Man, I hope so. I''m ready to go all out."

    Meanwhile, in the observation room, Mercury stood by the large screen showing the arena, her arms crossed. Her sharp eyes flicked between the tamers below, assessing them.

    She wasn''t here for the spectacle, she was here because the agency was counting on them. Without new recruits, without proving that they had real talent, the future looked bleak. "Ryder''s ready. Milo''s too antsy," she remarked, her voice carrying a calm, almost indifferent tone. But there was a sharp edge underneath, like a blade hidden in a velvet sheath.

    Zara was leaning against the wall, quiet as ever, though her eyes glinted with interest.

    "I''d say Milo just needs to find his groove, I trust Ryder to pull something, but Eratz... oh, I can''t wait."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, glancing sideways at her.

    "You''re too confident. He hasn''t shown us anything yet. All that hype, and we still don''t know if it''s justified. They need to win, the agency''s future depend on them getting a license today."

    "Don''t worry, Mercury. I know you''ve never seen Eratz fight, but when he will step into the arena, you will fight me to be his number 1 fan."

    Mercury let out a slow breath. They all believed in him. She wanted to, too. But she hadn''t seen Eratz fight like the others. All she had was their word.

    In the main hall, the random draws for the battles began. Names were displayed on the screen. The first rounds consisted of 64 battles, and the excitement only grew as new opponents were revealed.

    Eratz, Ryder, and Milo were all drawn to fight against unfamiliar opponents. They waited their turns, watching intently as the battles commenced.

    The first battle featured a tamer with a towering creature, a beast resembling a large armored crab, its shell gleaming like steel. Its opponent, a lithe woman, commanded a large feline beast with electric yellow fur.

    As soon as the battle began, the crab-like creature launched a barrage of stone spikes from its shell, but the feline zipped around the battlefield, dodging and releasing pulses of electricity that danced across the arena. The stone spikes couldn''t reach the beast under the pressure of this creative electric shield, and within moments, the feline''s speed overwhelmed the bulky -crab.

    The beast rushed to the crab and after a series of monstrous electric bites on the joint areas, the crab fell down.

    The first victory was quite long, but the finesse of the battle left the audience in awe.

    The second fight paired a young man, a little nervous, against a woman whose beast was a massive serpent with sapphire scales. His creature, a bird of fire, flapped its wings and sent waves of heat crashing into the serpent.

    But the serpent was clever, slithering between the bursts of flame, waiting for its moment. When the bird tired, the serpent coiled around it, squeezing with terrifying strength until the fiery bird disappeared in the shadow of its master.

    The third and fourth battles followed similar paths, each with beasts showcasing unique powers: a plant-like creature wrapping its thorny vines around a rock golem, slowly crushing it; a bird with wind manipulation sending a shockwave that disrupted its opponent''s movements. Every match brought new strategies, new challenges, and new excitement to the

    room.

    By the time the eighth battle was called, the audience had been treated to a whirlwind of creative tactics, elemental powers, and incredible displays of beast mastery. Then came the

    moment.

    "Eratz Pandora vs Selic Vanor!!"

    As Eratz stepped into the arena, the atmosphere shifted, and the massive crowd seemed to blur in his peripheral vision. The arena was bathed in a hazy glow, the air charged with tension and the weight of expectations.

    His entrance was calm, his long white hair catching the light as his red eyes scanned the battlefield. It felt surreal, as if time slowed around him, the world fading away, leaving only the battle ahead. This was his moment, and he knew this battle would change his life. From their room, Mercury, Zara, and Roger leaned forward. Ryder clenched his fists with excitement, while Milo''s restless energy stilled.

    Mercury crossed her arms, trying to keep her cool.

    "This is it."

    Eratz''s opponent stepped into the arena with a smug look, summoning a swarm of bat-like creatures that filled the sky like a dark, living cloud. Their shrill screeches echoed through the open space, creating an unsettling atmosphere.

    With a flick of his wrist, Eratz summoned a single Vulpan. The sleek, black fox creature materialized at his side, its dark fur blending seamlessly with the shadows.

    Mercury frowned, her arms crossed.

    "Wait... that''s it? One monster against a whole swarm?"

    Zara leaned forward, a mix of worry and anticipation.

    "Maybe it''s a strong little monster?" she whispered, fists clenched tightly in front of her face.

    The bats swarmed toward the Vulpan, their wings beating furiously as they closed in from all directions, aiming to overwhelm.

    But Eratz remained still, his eyes narrowing as he followed their movements effortlessly. Every shift in their flight pattern, every chaotic dive, became clear to him in an instant.

    The crowd, unsure of what to expect, began to murmur. Whispers of doubt floated through

    the air.

    "Is he seriously going to fight that swarm with just one beast?"

    Milo, seated beside Ryder, fidgeted impatiently.

    "C''mon, do something!"

    Eratz''s expression remained calm, almost too calm for the chaos unfolding. He could see through his opponent''s plan: exhaust his Vulpan with numbers, forcing a retreat or making a

    mistake.

    The strategy was simple yet effective for those who couldn''t keep up with the speed and

    number of the bats.

    Eratz immediately reabsorbed his Vulpan, leaving the battlefield empty.

    A collective gasp rippled through the audience.

    "What''s he doing?" a scout blurted out in her room.

    Mercury''s brows furrowed.

    "Wait... what?"

    Then, Eratz''s shadow deepened, and the ground beneath him trembled. A new creature

    materialized in the arena, a massive, armored beast with thick, impenetrable scales and a spiked tail. Its size alone drew gasps from the crowd, but its body, built like a heavy spiky

    defensive tower left everyone in awe.

    "Whoa..." Milo muttered, eyes wide.

    The armored beast let out a low growl, its posture defensive. Every movement of its spiked tail sent ripples through the air. It was a creature built for endurance, a wall against any

    incoming attacks.

    In the stands, Roger couldn''t hide his pride. "That''s Eratz''s doing..." he whispered, barely able to contain his amazement.

    Selic, however, wasted no time. He commanded his bats forward again, their screeches

    cutting through the air. But this time, their attacks fell harmlessly against the beast''s rocky armor. Bat after bat collided with the creature''s tough exterior, some of them even injuring themselves in the process.

    The audience was enthralled. Spectators leaned forward, eyes glued to the arena.

    "It''s like they''re hitting a brick wall." someone said.

    Zara grinned widely, her face lighting up with excitement.

    "That''s the Eratz I knew he''d be!"

    Even Mercury, who had been doubtful from the start, couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow.

    "I see... since he can''t keep up with the speed, he''s using a monster who will only defend but

    still do damages... smart."

    Selic, frustrated, continued to throw his bats into the fray, but Eratz wasn''t concerned. He didn''t need to defend or counter with more monsters. His beast was enough, and he could see that his opponent was running out of options, yet, as this happened, something shifted within Eratz.

    He could sense how easy it was, his opponent''s movements, their vulnerabilities. It was as if

    the fight had slowed down around him.

    He watched Selic with big eyes, He felt like he could strike him at any moment. It was a surreal

    feeling, a wide opening, and so, he decided to try it.

    He focused on Selic only.

    There, in the center of the battlefield, was the true target. His opponent had left himself

    open, too focused on directing the bats, too focused to see the predator glaring only at him.

    The entire arena felt the transition. The energy in the air thickened, and those watching could feel it, a primal tension as if a predator was about to pounce.

    Mercury leaned even forward, despite the distance, she could feel the bloodlust from Eratz. "Something''s...different," she whispered, her heart pounding.

    Zara, usually quick to cheer, was holding her breath, the excitement building to an unbearable

    height. With one fluid movement, Eratz''s moved like lightning.

    One second, he was standing still. The next, he shot forward in a flash, his body a streak of

    motion as he speed-blitzed across the battlefield. His opponent barely had time to blink before Eratz had already passed through him.

    The impact hit like a thunderclap.

    The opponent spun violently, his body twisting mid-air as if struck by a truck. His expression

    was one of pure shock, eyes wide as he crashed to the ground, unconscious before he even hit

    the dirt.

    The entire arena seemed to freeze, the crowd collectively stunned into silence, unable to understand what had just happened.

    As the dust settled, Eratz stood tall, the arena was enveloped in an eerie silence.

    The crowd, frozen in awe, struggled to understand what they had just witnessed. Eyes

    widened, mouths agape, and breaths collectively held.

    For a moment, it felt as though the entire stadium had paused, caught in the aftermath of

    Eratz''s explosive display of speed and power.

    A murmur rippled through the stands, hesitant at first. Whispers of disbelief.

    "Holly shit..." someone murmured in a low voice.

    "I didn''t even see him move," another muttered, the tension rising with every second of

    silence.

    The crowd''s reaction was mixed. A few tamers clapped, acknowledging his skill, but most were quiet, exchanging uneasy glances.

    They had just seen something far beyond the "theme of the selection", and the thought of facing him made them nervous.

    Ryder, standing on the sidelines, was practically vibrating with energy. "That was insane! That''s what I''m talking about!" His eyes gleamed with excitement.

    They were all beginners so they weren''t all used seeing a tamer fight this way, taking down

    the tamer first before the beasts, but they all understood that Eratz wasn''t a random fighter,

    this was the signature of the first big shot among them. Milo, who couldn''t see the attack, kept looking around. "What... What happened? Did he attack? How?? When???" he shouted, still trying to wrap his

    mind around how Eratz won.

    Roger, still seated but stunned, could only manage a slow shake of his head, his voice soft.

    "What the... Eratz?" It was the first time he witnessed the power of his nephew.

    Zara was clapping furiously, grinning from ear to ear.

    "I knew it! I knew he would do it again!" she shouted over the crowd, her joy infectious.

    Yet, in the growing excitement, Mercury''s hadn''t moved.

    Her eyes were still wide, her hands gripping the edge of the observation room''s railing. She

    hadn''t expected him to be this powerful.

    She was hoping for some level of competence from Eratz, because they had no other choice, Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    but this was far beyond anything she had imagined.

    Her thoughts froze for a moment as the applause continued to swell, and soon, Mercury''s lips

    parted, but no words came out.

    She stared at Eratz, her fingers gripped the edge of her seat, and though her face remained

    calm, inside, she felt a stirring of hope she hadn''t fell in ages.

    He wasn''t just good, he was a miracle fallen from nowhere, and he had already signed in their

    little den.

    Without meaning to, a smile formed as she watched him.

 Chapter 24: A Cruel Lesson

    Chapter 24: A Cruel LessonEratz walked toward the stands, a calm smile playing on his lips as he watched the faces of the other challengers. As he reached the waiting area, he saw Ryder and Milo heading his way.

    "Eratz!" Ryder called a wide grin on his face. "That was incredible! You made it look easy out there!"

    Milo, still looking confused by the earlier battle, stood quietly beside Ryder, shaking his head.

    "I still don''t get it. What happened? When did you win?"

    Eratz chuckled softly.

    "What is it, Milo? I thought my equal in this world would understand my strategy."

    "Eh?... I... I was only saying that for dramatic effect! Like in movies when there''s a side character hyping the main character!"

    Eratz couldn''t help but pat his little head, this boy really looked like his baby monster.

    "I''m sure you''re worth better than a side character. It wasn''t that hard, honestly, You guys will handle it just fine."

    Milo looked up, his chest bulking.

    "Of course I will, I''ll show them how creatures like us deal with problems!"

    Eratz smiled at him, Ryder clenched his fists, his energy practically bouncing off the walls.

    "Easy for you to say, but still, now I''m really motivated. I''m ready to give it my all. No holding back, Milo!"

    Milo nodded.

    "Yeah, we can do this."

    Eratz nodded confidently at both of them. After all, if it was easy for him, it had to be a little for them too, right?

    Up in the observation room, Zara nudged Mercury with a playful smirk.

    "So... looks like I was right. He''s definitely not your average beginner, huh?"

    Mercury crossed her arms, her face unreadable at first, though the faintest trace of a smile tugged at her lips.

    "He''s... different, I''ll give him that. That speed isn''t the mark of a newbie, by the way, is he really a newbie? How did you convince him to join us?"

    Zara triumphed, enjoying the rare moment of Mercury complimenting someone as her own victory.

    "I''m the best scout, what did you expect? Remember that the salvation of our agency will come from me."

    Mercury sighed, her attention drifting back to the arena. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I''m curious to see more from him though... his monsters. He has only used that black fox, but he didn''t..." Her words trailed off, and her expression suddenly became exasperated. "Wait...what if that''s all he''s got? What if he''s just fighting with his raw strength and not his beasts? Zara...."

    Zara waved her hand dismissively.

    "Relax, hun, I''ve seen him use all sorts of monsters before. He''s perfect, trust me."

    Mercury wasn''t entirely convinced but let the thought rest for now. There was still a lot to be

    seen.

    The battles continued, the air in the arena growing more charged as each tamer adapted to the increasing intensity.

    Eratz''s earlier victory had set a new tone for the competition, and now the tamers were cautious. They realized that the arena wasn''t just for their monsters, if they weren''t careful, they themselves could become the target of an attack.

    Most tamers adjusted their strategies, keeping monsters close to defend themselves while still trying to go on the offensive, yet from Mercury''s point of view it was again another mistake.

    "They''re too scared of being attacked to go on the offensive. It''s pointless if their opponent''s as fast as him, he''ll just turn around the beast."

    By the time Ryder''s name was called for the 41st match, the crowd had settled into a tense rhythm. Everyone was giving his all and the show was getting intense.

    All eyes turned to the energetic young man as he entered the arena. Face to him, stood a young lady, her face a mixture of focus and worry.

    Ryder took a little time to savor the moment he was waiting for so long, then, keeping his eyes on the crowd, looking for Eratz, he called out his main team, three beasts.

    The first was a creature that immediately sparked a reaction in Eratz, a wolf-like creature with winds swirling around its paws, remembering him of his Thunder Lycaon. Beside it, the second was a massive bull-like monster with glowing horns. Completing the trio was a bird crackling with lightning, its wings sparkling with energy.

    The crowd murmured in awe at the sight of his monsters, there was a literal collection of beasts all around the selections, Ryder''s beasts looked like living weapons, ready to destroy anything on their way.

    The young lady, on the other side, swallowed nervously before summoning her own beast a sleek, panther creature with shadows swirling around it.

    The battle began, and right away, Ryder took control. His trio of monsters moved with coordination. Each one covered the other, making it nearly impossible for the girl''s panther to find an opening.

    Ryder''s wolf darted forward with high speed, circling the panther. His bull charged in with brute strength, shaking the ground beneath its feet, while the thunderbird swooped down, releasing crackling bolts of electricity.

    The girl watched in panic, her hands trembling as she tried to direct her panther, but the power of Ryder''s monsters overwhelmed her moves.

    Her panther was fast, dodging and weaving through the arena, but Ryder''s beasts were relentless. The wolf''s speed kept it on edge, forcing it to keep moving, while the thunderbird''s strikes left little room to breathe.

    The bull, with its towering frame, was like an unstoppable wall, cutting off any escape route and ensuring that no attack could reach him.

    The girl bit her lip, fear evident in her wide eyes as she realized how outmatched she was. Her hands shook as she desperately tried to issue commands, but her panther was tiring quickly under the relentless pressure. Every step it took seemed heavier, its movements slowing. Ryder, however, never sent his beasts directly at her. Instead, he focused entirely on the panther, respecting the battle and letting her a chance to show everything she had.

    As the panther faltered, struggling to dodge a final lightning strike, it collapsed to the ground, exhausted. From the girl''s reaction, it was quite obvious that she had nothing else in reserve. Ryder''s beasts stepped back immediately, their job done.

    The crowd murmured in awe, watching as Ryder calmly recalled his monsters, a soft smile on his face. There wasn''t a single scratch on him or his beasts.

    The girl lowered her head, eyes filled with frustration and disappointment, but before she could walk away in defeat, Ryder called out to her.

    "You fought well. You''ve got talent. Just believe in yourself a little more, and next time, you''ll be unstoppable."

    She blinked in surprise, looking up at him with wide eyes. His words caught her off guard. She has been ridiculous, she looked like a perfect beginner and she knew it, yet something about the honesty in his eyes made the frustration less painful. She forced a smile, she had at last escaped further humiliation.

    The crowd, previously murmuring, began to nod in agreement. Ryder wasn''t just strong, he had the heart of a true competitor, one who could lift others up.

    As he left the battlefield, a few respectful claps echoed from the audience. Ryder, beaming with pride, gave Eratz and Milo a thumbs up as he returned to the waiting area. Next, Milo''s name was called. A hush fell over the arena as the young boy stepped into the ring. He was clearly the youngest here, and the sight of him standing so confidently in the

    arena drew murmurs from the crowd.

    "He''s just a kid," someone whispered.

    "Is he serious?" another voice asked.

    But Milo stood firm, his small figure deceptively calm as he summoned a light fairy. The delicate creature floated beside him, its glow casting soft light on him.

    The crowd, perhaps taken by his courage, or perhaps amused by what looked like a joke, began

    to cheer for him.

    He smiled, appreciating the support.

    In front of him stood his opponent, a blond young man, around Erat''z and Ryder''s age, who barely glanced at Milo as he summoned his own team.

    To the crowd''s surprise, the man also called out fairies, but these weren''t like Milo''s. Milo''s fairy had a soft, radiant glow, like an angelic creature pulled from a dream. In contrast, the man''s fairies looked otherworldly, in a different way.

    They were gracious, their wings shimmered with an multiple colors, casting soft hues of gold and silver as they floated gracefully into position, but despite their beauty, there was something unnerving about them, the way they moved with silent elegance, and how the very air around them seemed to change.

    The entire battlefield was suddenly cloaked in a dense, mystical mist. The fog rolled in like waves, swirling across the ground, and within seconds, Milo and his fairy were barely visible.

    The crowd leaned forward, straining to see what was happening. Unlike the usual chaotic energy of a battle, this one was eerily quiet.

    The only sound was the soft fluttering of wings as Milo''s fairy tried to navigate through the thick fog. His face tightened with concentration, but there was a growing look of worry in his

    eyes.

    And then, several flashes of light crossed the mist, but the audience couldn''t tell what was happening. All they could see were brief glimmers of movement, like shadows dancing in the fog, shadows vanishing in flashes of light, and the sound of objects falling on the ground.

    When the mist finally began to clear, the scene was heartbreaking. Milo was on his knees, cradling his injured fairy in his arms like a baby, his face pale.

    The creature looked small and fragile, its wings dimmed. His opponent approached with a

    slow, mocking grin.

    "Is that what you call a fight? I barely had to try. You were practically begging to lose."

    Milo, still shaken by the defeat, blinked in surprise.

    "I... I just didn''t expect that kind of attack," he stammered, trying to defend himself. "Your

    fairies...they''re strong."

    The teenager laughed, a sharp sound that echoed through the arena. "Strong? That''s the understatement of the century. What did you expect, playing around with your little light fairy? You thought you could actually compete with that? Look at

    it...pathetic."

    Milo''s face flushed with embarrassment.

    "I... I thought I could handle it. I''ve trained hard, and my fairy..."

    "Your fairy is weak. Just like you," the teenager interrupted. "You shouldn''t even be here, kid.

    You''re embarrassing yourself. Look around." He gestured to the watching crowd. "Everyone sees it. You''re out of your league. Go back to playing in the schoolyard before someone really

    hurts you."

    Milo''s eyes darted to the spectators, who had fallen silent, watching the exchange. His lips trembled, and he tried to hold his ground.

    "I''m not weak... I can get better. I just need more time."

    The teenager leaned in closer, his voice lowering to a cold whisper. "More time? There''s no ''getting better'' for people like you. You don''t belong here. You''ll

    always be a loser, no matter how hard you try. Quit now, before you make even more of a fool

    of yourself."

    The crowd shifted uncomfortably. It was clear Milo had been totally defeated, but the way his opponent taunted him felt unnecessarily cruel.

    Eratz and Ryder exchanged glances from their side of the arena. Eratz''s expression remained

    calm, He hadn''t expected the battle to end this way, nor the aftermath to be so harsh, Ryder, on the other hand, couldn''t hide his anger.

    "What a jerk," he muttered, shaking his head. "Milo doesn''t deserve that."

    The crowd murmured, some in disbelief at the man''s harshness. Even those who weren''t

    particularly rooting for Milo felt the sting of his opponent''s words.

    "That''s too much," someone whispered.

    "He didn''t have to go that far," another voice added, echoing the sentiment of many in the

    audience. Mercury, watching from the observation room, clenched her fists tighter to the point her kneckles were white. Her jaw was set, eyes narrowing as her anger built.

    At first, she had tried to stay composed, but as the teenager continued his relentless verbal

    assault on Milo, her temper boiled.

    "That... bastard..." Her voice trembled with barely contained rage.

    Even Zara, usually quick to make light of things, was silent, her expression dark. Milo, still on his knees, finally stood, wiping his eyes. He didn''t look back at his opponent or

    the crowd as he quietly left the arena, holding his fairy close to his chest.

 Chapter 25: Forged In Fire

    Chapter 25: Forged In FireMilo sat with his head hung low, staring at the ground in silence. Everyone around him could feel the weight of his defeat. The other tamers passing by cast quick, awkward glances in his direction but said nothing.

    Their discomfort seemed to hang in the air, making the moment feel even heavier.

    Ryder, was the first to break the ice, knelling down beside him.

    His smile looked a little forced as he patted Milo''s shoulder.

    "Hey, don''t sweat it, buddy, It was just one match. You''ll bounce back in no time."

    Milo looked up, but only briefly, his eyes dull and tired.

    "I''m fine, really," he said quietly.

    His voice lacked conviction, the words empty. Ryder frowned, trying to find the right thing to say next.

    "Look, we''ve all been there. One loss doesn''t mean anything in the long run. You''re still a great tamer, man."

    Eratz stood nearby, shifting awkwardly. Normally, he was good with words, but seeing Milo like this left him a little troubled.

    Milo didn''t respond to Ryder. His gaze had dropped back down, and his hands tightened slightly around the small fairy in his arms.

    He was holding her close, almost protectively, but the way his fingers gripped her said more than his words. He looked defeated in every sense of the word, like someone who''d lost more than just a match.

    At that moment, Roger, Mercury and Zara arrived. Mercury, in particular, looked flustered. The moment she saw Milo, she rushed over to him, dropping to her knees in front of him, her hands immediately reaching for his shoulders.

    "Milo! Are you alright?"

    Her eyes darted over him, checking for any signs of injury.

    "I''m so sorry. I shouldn''t have let you fight. I should''ve known... I''m so sorry."

    Milo shook his head, though his movements were sluggish, almost mechanical.

    "I''m fine, Mercury," he said again, though the words were no more convincing than before. He tried to sound tough, like he was unaffected, but his face told a different story.

    Mercury ran her hands over his arms, her worry growing as she checked him for bruises or any signs of damage.

    "I should''ve seen this coming. It''s my fault, Milo. I should''ve stopped it." Her voice wavered. Milo shifted slightly.

    "It''s really no big deal," he mumbled, his voice barely audible. "I lost. It happens." Zara stepped forward next.

    "You did your best, Milo," she said softly, her eyes steady on him. "No one expected that there was someone else with that level. That wasn''t something you could have predicted. You''ll get him next time."

    Her tone was calm but carried a warmth that seemed to cut through the tension.

    Roger, who had been standing back, finally spoke up as well.

    "Exactly, kid. That guy was just cocky. He got lucky. You''ve got a lot of potential, Milo." He gave a nod, trying to offer some encouragement, but even his words felt like they were falling flat against the silence.

    Milo remained quiet. His gaze dropped to the ground again, his shoulders slumping even further.

    He was starting to look like a shadow of his usual self, and the energy he usually carried had completely disappeared.

    The group exchanged uneasy glances. This wasn''t the Milo they knew. He was too conscious of his surroundings, too wise for his own good.

    After what felt like an eternity of silence, Milo finally spoke again, his voice so soft it was almost a whisper.

    "I think... I think I forgot something at home." He paused, as if struggling to find the words. "I... I should probably leave."

    The words hung in the air, silencing everyone. It wasn''t just that Milo had lost the fight, there was more behind it, he was giving up altogether, and everyone could feel it.

    Eratz''s eyes completely shifted, losing their light.

    "So... you''re giving up?"

    Milo blinked, thrown off by the casualness in Eratz''s tone.

    "I... I''m just thinking it over," Milo stammered, clutching his fairy a little tighter. "I mean... maybe it''s for the best. Maybe I wasn''t ready for that?"

    "For the best?" Eratz''s eyes glinted. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Milo opened his mouth, struggling to find the words.

    "Lily got hurt, Eratz... I-I can''t keep letting her fight for me and get hurt because I''m not good enough... I was wrong trying to.... To fight. I''m not as good as you all..."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed slightly. He took a slow step forward, lowering himself to Milo''s level.

    "So that''s it? You''re going to walk away because you couldn''t handle one loss? You''re going to let an idiot remember he ended your career?"

    Milo looked down at the ground, his lips pressed tight.

    "It''s not just about losing..."

    "But that''s what you''re doing, isn''t it?" Eratz cut him off, his tone now sharper. "You''re

    running."

    Milo flinched at the word.

    "No, I''m just..."

    "Running away, like a perfect coward. You lost, and now you''re running away, you were all fine and confident, but now you''re trying to run tail between legs... Well, in your case it''s even bold to assume you have a tail."

    Milo''s eyes widened in surprise. The harshness of Eratz''s words seemed to catch everyone off guard, even Ryder, who usually had a joke ready for every situation.

    Mercury''s breath hitched, and she looked like she was about to intervene, but something in Eratz''s tone made her pause.

    Milo clutched his fairy, Lily, in his arms like a small child holding onto a beloved toy. Tears formed on his eyes as he held her close to his chest.

    "I''m not mad for me," he whispered, his voice trembling. "I''m mad for Lily. She doesn''t deserve this. I don''t want her to get hurt again."

    "You think you''re protecting her by giving up? You think quitting is what she wants?"

    Milo''s lip quivered. Eratz''s red eyes flared as he loomed over Milo, the anger in his voice

    growing.

    "Do you know why Lily fights for you, Milo? Why she would gives everything for you? It''s because one way or another, YOU decided to become her master, YOU made her serves you, and she became a tool for YOUR dream. You took her freedom for your own good and this is how you repay her? By turning your back the moment things get tough? You want her to be the reason her stupid master gave up his dream?!"

    Milo''s tears finally spilled over, his voice trembling.

    "I-I just don''t want her to get hurt again! She shouldn''t have to suffer because of me!"

    "And you think quitting will stop that?" Eratz''s words came out like a growl now, his patience snapping. "You''re going to make her feel even worse! She''ll think she failed you! What''s so hard to understand? She''s not a free monster anymore, she''s a part of you! Your dream is her dream, and you''re making her give up on everything! Is that what you want?"

    Milo sobbed harder, his knees buckling slightly under the weight of his guilt. His tears fell onto Lily''s body, soaking her as she nuzzled him in comfort.

    Mercury''s gaze fell on Milo, her hands trembling, but she stayed silent.

    "If you can''t take the heat of one loss, then maybe you really don''t deserve to be a beast master? Don''t just go home, release all your beasts! Give them a chance to not live with a coward!" His voice echoed around them, raw and intense, shaking everyone to their core.

    The words hit Milo like a punch to the gut. His breath caught in his throat, and he choked on a sob. His tears fell harder now, and he hugged Lily closer as if she were the only thing keeping

    him together.

    Everyone stood frozen. Mercury''s eyes widened, her breath held. Even Roger seemed taken aback by the sharpness of Eratz''s words. It was as if he was completely different person. "You think you''re the only one who''s ever lost? The only one who''s ever been afraid?" Eratz continued, his voice like thunder now. "Every single one of us has lost. Do you want to know how miserable he looked when I met Ryder?

    Ryder gave a slight nod before shaking his head in surprise.

    "And Zara, don''t you understand how desperate she is right now? Can''t you see that it''s

    probably her whole life who''s on the line here?"

    Zara gave a nod too, rubbing her fingers together.

    "And I''m not even talking about every single one of us, tamers. This stench of defeat is sticking do much on our bodies that I can smell someone''s defeat from a mile," as he said, his eyes wondered toward Mercury, but the girl was too focused on her brother to notice.

    "We all became familiar with defeat, we lost something, got insulted, but we got back up. We fought through it. We never stopped fighting, and even after today, the losers will fight harder... But you... You''re trying to run away? You want to make a mockery of our names? Of the time I talked with you? Oh no... no...kid, you''re not giving up. You''re in the bath too, and you''re going to go through it, until your bones are perfectly washed up! You will be their leader, their example. They trust you, they follow you, and you let them give everything to you, so now you owe them everything in return, for the rest of your life. If you lose, fine, you lost. But you stand up, you keep going, and you show them that their master is a leader worth following. You''re going to rise your head now and your next line will be that you''re not giving up. Now go ahead, say it!"

    Milo''s sobs became quieter, but his shoulders shook as he struggled to find his voice.

    "I... I don''t want to give up... I won''t give up..." he whispered, barely audible through his

    tears.

    "Stop saying it like a toy, you have lungs and guts so use them."

    Milo wiped his face with the back of his hand, his eyes still red and wet, but something had

    changed.

    The trembling in his hands had slowed, and a spark of life started to flash on his eyes.

    "I''m not... Giving up!"

    Eratz gave him a firm nod.

    "And you will never. From now on, I''m looking forward your growth, and after I finish with

    you, you will track down and bury this bastard who insulted you. You hear me?"

    "Yes... I will!"

    The silence that followed was suffocating. Milo''s tears had stopped, but his face was still wet,

    his expression shifting from despair to something more resolute. He took a shaky breath and

    finally stood calm, clutching Lily close to his chest.

    Eratz''s expression became calmer.

    "That''s the spirit, boy." Milo looked at him, eyes still glassy, but now full of determination.

    The others watched in silence, still processing the intensity of what had just happened.

    Ryder looked both impressed and a little surprised, while Zara simply nodded in approval. Roger gave Milo a firm clap on the back. "That''s more like it, kid. You''re going to be just fine." As the tension in the air finally began to ease, Roger chuckled softly, shaking his head. "You sure don''t pull any punches, do you, Eratz? Poor kid probably needs a second to breathe

    after that roasting."

    Zara wiped a little sweat on her forehead, managing a small smile.

    "Yeah, I mean... you could''ve maybe been a little gentler, right?... By the way about what you

    said... did you just insult me?"

    Ryder chimed in with a grin. "Seriously, man. If I didn''t know any better, I''d think you were trying to break him, not help

    him." He raised his hands in mock surrender. "Remind me never to ask you for a pep talk!" "Is there a difference?" Eratz furrowed a brow.

    As the others engaged in the light-hearted teasing, Mercury remained quiet, her eyes fixed on

    Milo.

    There was a tenderness in her gaze, as though something in Eratz''s words had resonated deeply with her.

    Her initial instinct had been to protect her brother when Eratz''s words became harsh, but as

    the speech progressed, she realized it was exactly what Milo needed for so long.

    She watched her brother, seeing the subtle shift in his posture, the way his shoulders no

    longer drooped in defeat but were now steadier, more determined. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She wanted to rush to his side, but seeing his resolve start to build, she held back, understanding that this moment was crucial for him. With a slight smile on the lips, she wiped a single tear.

 Chapter 26: The Ant And The Predator

    Chapter 26: The Ant And The PredatorThe remaining matches of the first tour flew by in a whirlwind of fierce battles. Each fight brought out the distinct styles and strengths of the competitors, and soon the matches concluded without much fuss.

    With the first round behind them, the arena buzzed with excitation for the second round. This time, the winners were being matched against the losers,

    The whole arena buzzed with the crowd''s excitement.

    The stakes were raised, some hoped to win again, sure to secure a contract that way, while others feared losing for the second time. The tension was thick, and everyone understood that the real battles were beginning.

    The draws were directed by a supercomputer, checking the names randomly in the two set of winners and losers.

    The process was a cheerful and enthusiastic moment building everyone''s adrenaline, until the first draw appeared on the screen.

    [Eratz Pandora VS Milo Ambrosius]

    Instantly, the energy shifted. The vibrant atmosphere collapsed into a deep silence, like if the mood at switched from a party to a funeral.

    "Milo? The kid?" someone whispered.

    The crowd began murmuring in concern, faces turning pale. Milo, the youngest with a heart of gold, had been paired against Eratz, the terrifying prodigy whose raw power had already left them speechless in the first round.

    No one had expected this. It was a cruel twist of fate, like watching a lamb thrown into the lion''s den.

    Mercury''s heart sank immediately, her expression tightening. She gripped the borders of the screen, her head going down.

    "Nooo..." she muttered with a sigh.

    Zara''s usual calm demeanor faltered, her brow furrowing. "That''s... bad. I wasn''t expecting our challengers to fight each others." she whispered with a grimace. "And it had to be against Eratz..."

    Even Ryder''s optimism vanished, replaced with worry.

    "No way," he said, shaking his head. "Milo against Eratz? Damn... What were the odds?"

    All eyes turned to a side of the stands. Milo, standing alone under the weight of everyone''s fear for him, seemed impossibly small. Eratz, by contrast, stood composed, watching the draw with an almost impassive expression.

    When the pairing was confirmed, he raised an eyebrow. He glanced at Milo, who seemed too fine for a prey destined to be put in a cage against a predator.

    The audience grew even quieter, murmurs turning into whispered fears. Milo shifted on his feet, the pressure building around him like a crushing weight. He felt the eyes of the crowd on him, eyes filled with pity, with doubt.

    Taking a deep breath, he slapped his cheeks, trying to summon all the courage he had left.

    Despite the tension, a shaky grin spread across his face. He looked straight at Eratz, his voice wavering but defiant.

    "I''m going to give this everything I''ve got!"

    For a moment, silence hung in the air, and then, surprisingly, Eratz nodded, a smile on the lips.

    "Good answer."

    The two walked toward the center of the arena under the stressful gazes of the other beast masters, everyone knew what was about to happen, the outcome felt like an inevitability no one wanted to witness.

    At the announcement of the speaker, the battle began.

    Milo summoned five light fairies, four of them immediately rose into the air, forming a radiant shield around him, while the fifth flew in front of his shield, charging up an attack.

    The fairy shot a beam of light, aimed directly at Eratz. He sidestepped easily, almost casually, the light grazing past him without any trouble.

    The crowd gasped, surprised by the attack and even more impressed by Milo''s coordination. Most feared that he wouldn''t put up a fight like his first battle, but seeing his determination brought some people to start cheering for him.

    "Wow, he''s really going for it!" one tamer shouted.

    Ryder, who had been tense at the beginning, allowed himself a relieved smile.

    "He''s doing better than I thought."

    Mercury, meanwhile, remained silent, her brows knit with concern. She couldn''t shake the anxiety that clung to her.

    Milo, focused, directed his fairy to get ready for a second attack.

    Eratz watched him from safe distance, far enough to see his attacks coming.

    Milo''s breathing was ragged, every pulse of his power fueling the glimmering shield around him. He blinked, and suddenly, Eratz was above him.

    With a terrifying impact, Eratz''s leg collided with Milo''s shield. Sparks flew from the barrier, lighting the air with a fierce, electric glow as the shield flared violently.

    The force reverberated through the field, but Eratz landed effortlessly on his feet several meters away, almost casual, like it was a warm-up.

    His red eyes glinted with quiet amusement as he glanced down, noticing a small burn on his pant leg from the shield''s reactive energy.

    The entire arena froze, stunned by what they had just witnessed. Eratz''s speed, his raw power, it was unnatural.

    The first time, there was a building with two monsters he summoned, but now it happened just like that, so casually. It was clearly a feet from the body itself.

    Slowly, whispers exploded through the crowd.

    "Did you see that?" one tamer gasped, wide-eyed. "He did that again!"

    "How does anyone fight against that?" another muttered, fear creeping into their voice.

    "He''s not even using a beast, is this allowed?"

    Ryder, who had been watching with anxiety, shook his head in disbelief.

    "What is he even doing? How is he fighting like this without summoning anything?"

    Zara and Cira exchanged knowing glances, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Zara. leaned forward and explained.

    "In fact, it''s perfectly normal. At the higher ranks when beast masters become strong enough, their bond with their beasts grows so deep, they can use their power as their own."

    "But..." Mercury continued, her gaze locked on Eratz. "His form isn''t complete... yet. It looks like beastification but... well, like you said, he isn''t using a monster."

    Milo''s heart pounded in his chest, every instinct screaming at him to run, but there was

    nowhere to go.

    The shield was all that stood between him and Eratz, and it was weakening. He couldn''t even track Eratz''s attacks, all he could do was waiting to be destroyed.

    Another flash of movement, and then, CRACK!

    The shield flared violently, barely holding together under the relentless assault. Milo''s pulse quickened, fear tightening his throat as he fought to stay calm.

    "He''s too fast... I can''t... I can''t see him," Milo muttered, panic leaking into his voice.

    His fairies hovered anxiously around him, their energy bolstering the shield, but they weren''t enough. He wiped his brow, sweat dripping into his eyes.

    "What do I do? What do I do?"

    Eratz circled him like a predator, his movements fluid, calculating. He watched Milo closely,

    eyes sharp, yet calm.

    His strikes had tested the barrier, yes, it was resilient, more than he''d expected, but it wasn''t

    a threat. Still, there was something about that last strike, the shield had lashed out its energy,

    biting back.

    He glanced at the burn on his pants.

    It can strike back... But it''s not dangerous for me.

    Milo''s hands trembled as he whispered to himself, trying to stay focused.

    "I just need a moment... Just a little moment..."

    The crowd was tense, their eyes darting between Eratz and the faltering shield around Milo.

    They exchanged worried looks, whispering among themselves.

    "Is this even a fair fight? This kid isn''t really a beast master, right?" one murmured, watching

    Milo with apprehension.

    "He''s should just give up..." another said, their voice laced with dread. "This guy could

    seriously injure him."

    Ryder, his knuckles white as he gripped the bars in front of him, could hardly bear to watch.

    "He''s got no chance... why does it has to be Eratz?... At least let him show off a little... damn S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    it..."

    Cira''s face was pale, her lips pressed into a thin line as she watched the inevitable unfold. She shook her head slowly, resignation in her eyes.

    "Milo won''t win," she said softly, barely above a whisper. "I''m starting to understand what kind of person Eratz is... he is taking this seriously, he won''t give him a chance."

    Eratz vanished again.

    Milo''s heart nearly stopped. He spun wildly, searching the arena with wide, frantic eyes.

    "Where is he?! Where is he?!"

    CRACK!

    The shield lit up again, this time on the opposite side. Milo flinched, his body stiffening as

    fear took hold of him.

    "Stop! Just... stop!" he shouted, his voice cracking. His fairies'' energy flickered, weakening under the weight of Eratz''s relentless assault.

    But Eratz didn''t stop. He darted around Milo''s crumbling defense, hammering the barrier from every direction, faster, harder, turning the shield into a shining sphere. The attacks weren''t managing to break the shield, they were instead breaking Milo.

    He could feel the shockwaves increasing. Every strike rattled his bones, his nerves frayed and

    on the verge of collapse.

    Eratz was calm, unhurried, each strike a calculated move. He was now sure that the rebounds of his attacks weren''t dangerous for him. He could freely unleash himself.

    The crowd watched in horrified silence as Eratz appeared in flash everywhere at once on the

    shield, each time in a striking pose.

    "This is not even a fight," one tamer whispered, a tremor of fear in their voice. "this kid doesn''t stand a chance."

    Another crack, another burst of energy as the shield strained, flickering dangerously.

    Milo could feel the walls closing in. The crowd''s tension pressed down on him, the realization

    dawning on everyone watching.

    Zara, worried, glanced at Mercury, the girl so pale that her tanned skin had almost changed

    color, the others barely breathing.

    Milo''s eyes darted wildly around the blinding shield, desperate for an escape, but there was

    no way out. He was trapped, and he knew it.

    And then, with a final devastating blow, Eratz leaped back, retreating a full twenty meters. He

    stood still for a moment, surveying the damage, his chest rising and falling slowly.

    The silence in the arena grew heavy.

    Eratz exhaled, and the air around him shifted. His entire body began to hum, his aura

    flickering with raw, primal power. Shadows twisted and mingled with crackling bolts of

    electricity as he began to channel the latent energy of one of his strongest monsters: the Thunder Lycaon.

    Zara and Mercury both gasped, their faces paling.

    "Is that...?" Zara began, but her voice faltered.

    Even the staff members on the sidelines widened their eyes, watching a special event.

    Eratz''s arms darkened, streaks of black veins crawling up his skin, and the air around him

    buzzed. Lightning crackled at his fist as he prepared to deliver the mightiest blow till now.

    Milo looked him, eyes wide with terror.

    Eratz''s body disappeared in a flash, only to reappear high above Milo''s trembling shield.

    It only lasted a moment, where both locked eyes. Milo''s eyes were filled with despair, and

    through his despair he gazed into the big, terrifying, sharps eyes, widely open to devour him. Eratz''s fist came down like a thunderbolt from the heavens. A brilliant light exploded at the point of impact, a shockwave ripping through the arena with terrifying force.

    The ground beneath Milo shattered, splintering under the sheer weight of Eratz''s attack. The sound of the blow echoed, reverberating through the building.

    The shield crumbled. Milo was thrown backward, his body ragdolling across the battlefield.

    His fairies blinked out of existence as his body stopped several meters away, unconscious but

    breathing.

    The arena was still. No one spoke, no one moved. The officials, clearly shaken, took a moment

    to react, glancing at each other in uncertainty.

    After what felt like an eternity, they flinched, quickly stepping forward to declare the

    outcome.

    "Eratz is the winner!"

    But the crowd hardly needed the announcement. Everyone had seen it. Eratz stood there, his

    body slowly returning to normal, the lingering energy around him dissipating. The match was

    over.

    Mercury''s group was frozen, their eyes wide. Zara turned to her, but before she could say anything, Mercury bit her lip and lowered her head.

    Without a word, Eratz walked over to Milo''s ragged body. He crouched down and carefully lifted the unconscious boy onto his shoulders, carrying him like a sack of flour.

    The murmurs of concern from the other tamers followed him as he made his way toward his

    friends.

    When Eratz approached the group, the atmosphere thickened. Each of them shifted uncomfortably, avoiding his gaze, unsure of how to respond to the intensity they had just witnessed.

    Eratz scanned their faces, he raised his eyebrows.

    "What did you expect? A miracle?"

    Ryder let out a shaky laugh. He scratched the back of his neck, forcing a smile that didn''t quite

    reach his eyes.

    "Yeah, no... it''s just, uh... You really did a number on him... After that speech of yours, I knew

    you wouldn''t go easy on him, but... maybe you could, I don''t know... ease up a bit on the weaker opponents next time?"

    "I''m not going to make a fool of myself by toying with someone I took under my care."

    He turned to Mercury.

    "You''re part of Zara''s agency, right? Looks like we''re in the same house now, I''ll take over

    Milo''s training after the selections. He''s interesting. I think I can build a brick house out of him."

    The group exchanged glances, still processing what Eratz had just offered. Zara was the first

    to break the silence, her eyes wide with surprise.

    "You... you want to train Milo?"

    "He has potential. He''s a little clumsy but I like his head. He reminds me of someone precious

    I''ve met, and I''m a brother too, I can''t let what the other guy said. Milo will rise and get revenge for himself."

    Mercury blinked at Eratz''s words. Her initial shock melted into something more contemplative.

    After a beat, she let out a slow breath and nodded, a small, almost imperceptible smile

    tugging at her lips.

    "Hm... why not? You don''t seem like the type to be held back by sentiment, and Milo... he could use someone like you. Maybe you''ll do better than I could."

 Chapter 27: The Calm Before

    Chapter 27: The Calm BeforeThe atmosphere in the arena was electric, buzzing with excitement and nervous anticipation as the second round of matches continued.

    Each battle seemed to build on the last, the stakes rising higher and higher as the number of competitors dwindled. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Ryder''s turn began, he stood at one end of the battlefield, his fists clenched in quiet focus. His opponent, a stern young man with short, dark hair, mirrored his intensity.

    Neither spoke, their eyes communicating the mutual understanding that this battle would be intense.

    The referee raised his hand, and in the blink of an eye, both tamers summoned their creatures. In a burst of light, Ryder''s team appeared, three new monsters, a majestic hawk with shimmering feathers, a sturdy, heavily-armored bear, and a sleek panther whose black coat seemed to absorb the light around it.

    His opponent responded with a massive, reptilian beast, its scales gleaming like polished steel, and a pair of smaller, nimble creatures that darted around it like living shadows.

    The lizard''s tail slammed into the ground with a low rumble, sending cracks snaking through the arena floor.

    With a sharp whistle, Ryder''s hawk dove down from the sky, its wings flashing as it peppered the lizard with a flurry of razor-sharp feathers.

    The reptile roared, snapping at the bird but missing as it swooped gracefully away. At the same time, Ryder''s panther darted forward, a shadow streaking across the arena as it moved in to attack from the side.

    Meanwhile, the bear held its ground, waiting for attacks directed toward him.

    The young man''s lizard beast lunged, its claws tearing into the dirt as it charged toward Ryder''s panther, but the sleek feline was too fast, slipping just out of reach and circling around behind it. The panther''s claws raked across the lizard''s side, drawing a sharp hiss of pain.

    The battle raged for minutes, each tamer commanding their creatures with finesse and skill. It was a well-matched fight, the crowd caught in the exhilarating back-and-forth as both sides vied for dominance.

    But even as his opponent pressed forward, Ryder''s expression remained calm, he was slowly taking the upper hand.

    His opponent, however, grew increasingly frustrated. The young man''s brow furrowed, his teeth gritting as none of his attempt succeeded.

    In a bold move, he completely changed his strategy, locking onto Ryder himself.

    The crowd gasped in unison as the boy charged straight for Ryder, his shadow spreading as he was summoning another beast.

    It was a desperate tactic, he wasn''t as fast as a beast to take Ryder by surprise, but all his thoughts were to create a change.

    But Ryder didn''t flinch. His eyes narrowed, a small, smile tugging at his lips.

    "Bad move."

    Just as a new creature emerged from the shadow, Ryder made his move. With a snap of his fingers, the ground beneath his feet exploded upward, revealing his fourth beast, one that had remained hidden for the entirety of the battle, a massive mole-like creature, its claws razor-sharp and its eyes glowing with a deep, molten red, shot out of the earth, intercepting the boy with a crushing blow that sent it sprawling.

    The arena erupted into chaos as the crowd screamed in astonishment.

    "Winner, Ryder Crow!"

    The cheers from the others tamerswere deafening. Ryder''s opponent had to be taken away by medics, but before leaving, he turned to Ryder for a moment before bowing his head, acknowledging his loss. Ryder offered a respectful nod before turning away.

    But as he walked off the battlefield, his eyes flicked toward Eratz, who was watching him from across the arena. Their eyes met, and Ryder''s heart skipped a beat.

    He realized in that instant that Eratz had seen everything, his hidden beast, his strategy was known by the worst person possible.

    The quiet acknowledgment in Eratz''s smile sent a chill down Ryder''s spine.

    The next matches rolled around quickly, but the atmosphere shifted once a new tamer stepped onto the battlefield.

    Whispers filled the stands as the tamers watched the young man, the one who had crushed Milo in his first match without breaking a sweat.

    His opponent was older, taller, but the nervous glances he shot at him betrayed his unease.

    The battle began, and just like before, the battlefield was shrouded in a thick, unnatural mist. The crowd murmured in confusion. They''d seen this before, the signature move before Milo''s disaster.

    From within the mist, a shadowy figure appeared, his beast, shadows with glowing eyes and an strange forms that seemed to drift between the physical and the mystical.

    It moved like a ghost, slipping through the fog, its movements barely visible.

    The older tamer summoned his beasts, but the fog disoriented them. They stumbled,

    thrashing about as they searched for their unseen enemy.

    And then, in a flash of light, the battle was over before anyone could fully register what had happened.

    The older tamer''s beasts collapsed, one after the other, their defeat swift and nonsensical. He stared at him, stunned and disbelieving

    Once again, the boy didn''t even break a sweat.

    "Winner, Jaden!"

    As Jaden turned to leave, his eyes flicked across the arena, looking for something, and then, landed on Eratz.

    For a brief moment, the two exchanged a glance, Jaden''s lips twitched into a small, confident smile before he turned away, disappearing into the stands.

    Eratz''s gaze didn''t really change, there was something in the way Jaden looked at him, an invitation, perhaps, or a warning, but at this moment he couldn''t care less.

    As the final matches of the second round concluded, the energy in the arena reached a fever

    pitch.

    The third round was coming, and the crowd was buzzing with speculation. Who would face whom? Who would see his dream crushed?

    The screen in the center of the arena flickered, the names of the challengers flashing across it. Among them, five names stood out, those who had won both of their matches.

    The tension was thick, the excitement almost unbearable as the final draw began. Eyes turned toward the screen, the murmurs of the crowd growing louder. Everyone had their attention fixed on two names in particular: Eratz Pandora and Jaden.

    Both had surprised and impressed the audience with their overwhelming displays of power. It was clear that these two were the competitors to watch and a battle between the two seemed like a final for this selection.

    The draw began, and time seemed to slow down. The names on the screen shuffled, flickering between the remaining tamers.

    The suspense was unbearable. Everyone in the crowd held their breath, waiting for the results.

    And then, the names appeared:

    13th match

    [Eratz Pandora VS Ryder Crow]

 Chapter 28: Field Spell

    Chapter 28: Field SpellThe announcement of the next match caused some murmurs through the arena, and Ryder stood frozen, wide-eyed, staring at the screen.

    His name appeared, bold and unmistakable, right next to Eratz.

    A gulp echoed through the room, everyone exchanging glances.

    Some of the challengers nearby shook their heads sympathetically.

    One of them, a taller boy, sighed.

    "Poor guy... it''s gonna be his funerals."

    He was a good guy, hard-working and lively, and now everyone considered him a relic of the past.

    Ryder''s face became blue, He turned slowly to face Eratz who was standing next to him.

    "I didn''t think I''d have to fight you so soon..." he muttered.

    "What''s the difference? It was me or another real opponent."

    Zara, who had been nervously pacing the entire time, threw her hands on her head and let out an exaggerated groan.

    "Seriously, Eratz! You''re supposed to be our secret weapon but you''re only destroying our team! First Milo, and now Ryder, You''re wrecking us!" Her feelings were serious, but there was a hint of frustration in her voice that made the others fight to not chuckle.

    Eratz raised his eyebrows, meeting Zara''s gaze.

    "To be fair, I''m also a victim here. I was really worried to perform bad today but everyone fell once I touch them. I feel like I''ve been wasting my time stressing over that."

    Zara glared at him, her frustration melting into mock exasperation.

    "Oh come on, why do you think I told you you were special? You should be forbidden to use your body here!"

    "I think using my monsters would be worse."

    Eratz''s grin softened.

    "You''re worrying too much, Ryder will be fine, I believe in his strength. I want a real challenge, for once."

    Ryder blinked in surprise. Milo pouted in the corner, arms crossed tightly, while Ryder was awakening to something.

    He was oozing worries a second ago, but something in Eratz''s words stirred a flame inside him. A small, determined smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

    "I didn''t expect you were seeing me like that..." Ryder said, standing taller now, his voice steadying, "Well, it''s my honor, you count on me to give you a challenge? I''ll give it everything I have, don''t think you have already won."

    Eratz''s grin returned, and this time, there was something more playful in his expression.

    Zara shot him an annoyed glance.

    "Oh, please, don''t build unnecessary suspense, there''s a reason I recently started a new training for you. We all know how it''s gonna end."

    The atmosphere shifted as the first match of the second round was announced.

    [Jaden VS Sia Verizion]

    All eyes turned toward the battlefield, but the chatters remained mostly on Eratz and Ryder.

    Jaden, however, was clearly pissed with this. His expression soured as he stepped into the arena, his lips twitching in frustration.

    He couldn''t stand the fact that his moment in the spotlight was being overshadowed, he had defeated his opponents in a flash, he showed them his domination and had even been cruel, yet no one mentioned him anymore.

    His opponent, a calm girl with long, silky black hair, was already waiting on the opposite side. She stood still, her posture relaxed, her black gauntlet gleamed under the light, but she made no move to ready herself.

    Jaden sneered as he glanced around at the audience, most of whom were whispering about Eratz''s upcoming match instead of paying attention to the battle about to begin. His pride was pricked, and his ego demanded attention.

    "Looks like I''ll have to be a little more violent if I want people to notice," he muttered.

    The girl didn''t react, her eyes half-lidded. Her calmness, bordering on indifference, only made Jaden''s irritation grow. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Hey!" Jaden barked, his voice loud and sharp as he pointed at her. "You might want to actually focus on the battle. This is going to hurt, and I don''t plan on holding back!"

    For a moment, the entire arena seemed to freeze, the audience, sensing something serious, fell silent, their attention finally shifting to Jaden and the girl.

    Even Eratz paused, watching the scene unfold with growing interest.

    Jaden''s confident smirk faltered just slightly with his rage, but he quickly recovered, scowling as he prepared himself. He wasn''t going to let some quiet, mysterious girl get under his skin.

    No way.

    The battle began.

    Jaden acted immediately. A thick pink mist erupted from him, swirling around him like a cloud as he summoned his beasts.

    The mist spread fast, enveloping the battlefield, and the crowd leaned forward, waiting to see

    the action unfold.

    But something happened.

    Almost as soon as the mist spread, a sharp, cold wind began to sweep through the arena, cutting through the pink fog like a blade, scattering it in all directions.

    The temperature dropped noticeably, and ice began to form on the ground, spreading across

    the battlefield with eerie speed.

    Jaden blinked in confusion, his focus broken.

    Zara, watching intently from the sidelines, suddenly gasped as her eyes widened in

    realization.

    "Wait... What the... now I get it! That''s the same technique! A field spell!"

    Mercury, standing beside her, blinked in confusion for a moment before the realization hit her as well.

    "...What? Oh, wait, yes, you''re right! How did I miss that? It''s a field spell, and this time it''s ice." she looked genuinely impressed, her gaze following the frost-covered battlefield. Eratz, silently observing the entire exchange, noticed something subtle but telling in the expressions of the more experienced among everyone, the staff members.

    They didn''t show overt reactions, but their slightly furrowed brows and occasional whispered comments suggested there was an anomaly.

    "Unbelievable..." Zara muttered under her breath, still shaking her head. "How come there are so many talented people among the rookies? This is insane... I need to recruit her!"

    Eratz watched the girls'' reaction with sharp, thoughtful eyes. His interest was piqued.

    "This technique she used, this ice field... What is it, exactly?" He glanced at Zara and Mercury. "You said it was the same as the pink mist Jaden uses. What is it?"

    Zara crossed her arms, her expression turning more focused as she explained. "It''s called a field spell. Think of it like a terrain-altering technique. The user changes the battlefield into an environment that suits their specific powers or their beasts. It gives them an advantage over their opponent by turning the area into something favorable for their own type of

    beasts."

    Mercury nodded and added to her explanation.

    "In this bastard''s case, his pink mist creates a field that''s ideal for his types of beasts, and seeing their... silhouette, I would say fairy or specter, most likely."

    Zara continued, her eyes flicking back to the frost still lingering on the arena floor. "But this

    girl, she used the same concept. Only instead of mist, she turned the battlefield into an ice land. That ice field would be perfect for controlling beasts with ice affinities, she must be an

    exclusive ice type master."

    Eratz''s red eyes gleamed with growing interest. The concept of altering the battlefield with a single spell intrigued him, especially after seeing how effective it had been till now.

    Jaden looked around, his eyes narrowing. He spotted the girl, still standing in the same spot, but the air around her had changed.

    There was a cold energy radiating from her, and the ground beneath her feet was now coated in a thin layer of ice. She hadn''t moved an inch, yet the entire battlefield was frozen. Slowly, the girl opened her eyes and threw a cold gaze at him. When she spoke, her voice resonated Jaden''s head like if they were alone in a closed room.

    "You should be careful how you talk to people, sometimes, a defeat can turn into a

    correction."

    A cold wind crossed Jaden''s spine. The girl''s gaze remained steady, her eyes as cold as the ice spreading everywhere across the arena. And then, she turned her back to Jaden.

    "I forfeit," she said, her voice cutting through the silence like a knife.

    The entire arena froze, stunned by her words. The referee hesitated, looking at her in

    disbelief. The audience collectively held their breath, unsure of what was happening.

    "What?!" Jaden exploded, his face turning red with anger. "You can''t just... What do you mean

    you forfeit?! We haven''t even fought yet!"

    The girl didn''t bother turning around. She took a few steps toward the exit, her voice calm as

    she spoke again.

    "I only need a license. I''ve already proven enough."

    Jaden stood there, speechless, as she continued to walk away without another word. His fists

    clenched at his sides, but there was nothing he could do. The match was officially over. He was the winner, but he had been defeated twice.

    The crowd erupted into murmurs, everyone talking at once. Some were confused, while others speculated about the strange, icy power the girl had displayed.

    Meanwhile, Jaden remained in the center of the arena, his face still twisted with fury. He kicked at the frost-covered ground, muttering curses under his breath, but it was no use. The match was over, and there was nothing he could do to change it.

    The audience slowly turned their attention away from Jaden''s outburst.

    The buzz of excitement started to rise again as the announcer called out the next match: Eratz

    VS Ryder. This was the battle everyone had been waiting for. The anticipation in the air was electric as both of them made their way to the center of the arena.

 Chapter 29: Power Unbound: Eratz VS Ryder

    Chapter 29: Power Unbound: Eratz VS RyderThe arena was bursting with energy, the challengers buzzing in excitement as the battle between Eratz and Ryder was about to begin.

    Cheers erupted from all sides, and among the crowd.

    Roger shouted

    "Good luck, both of you!" His voice was strong, but there was a hint of concern.

    He had seen Eratz''s power, but Ryder had been showing impressive skills.

    Mercury stood nearby, arms crossed, her face serious as she analyzed the upcoming fight.

    "This is it," she muttered to herself. "I''ll finally get to see their true level... if Eratz doesn''t completely crush Ryder first." She sighed.

    She felt Eratz had the potential to make this battle easy if he tried, but she wanted to hope that Ryder would push him a little bit to see his true abilities.

    As the match began, Ryder took a deep breath, summoning his three beasts instantly, an earth serpent covered in jagged rocky scales, a sleek wind lycaon with glowing eyes, and a water drake with translucent, rippling fins.

    Eratz immediately felt something shift in the air.

    Danger

    His instincts kicked in, and without hesitation, his shadow stretched out like a living entity at his fert. From that darkness, dozens of beasts materialized: Vulpans, wind birds, wolves, and the varied creatures he had tamed during his time in the forest.

    Gasps echoed through the crowd.

    "Whoa!" A challenger leaned forward in disbelief. "Look at all those different types!"

    Eratz''s ability to control multiple species of monsters at once was rare. Typically, beast masters using a whole group of monsters specialized in a single type of creature, but Eratz wielded diversity with ease.

    His monsters darted in every direction, a chaotic storm of claws, fangs, and elemental power. Ryder, however, didn''t seem fazed. In fact, he smirked.

    "You think that''ll work on me? I''ll show you what real control looks like!"

    His beasts charged.

    The wind lycaon was the first to strike, darting forward at blinding speed. It let loose a fierce blast of wind, knocking back several of Eratz''s beasts before they could react. The water drake followed up by spewing torrents of high-pressure water, slicing through the ranks flying. Meanwhile, the earth serpent burrowed underground.

    The crowd erupted into cheers.

    "Ryder''s dominating!" someone shouted.

    "Look at those elemental attacks! He''s got total control!" another added.

    Eratz''s beasts were scattered, some torn apart by the wind lycaon''s relentless assault, others soaked and crushed by the drake''s water attacks.

    Still, Eratz remained calm, though his eyes narrowed slightly.

    They''re stronger than the forest''s beasts?

    Suddenly, one of Eratz''s wind birds swooped down from the sky, aiming for Ryder''s exposed left side. But Ryder was ready. His third creature, the earth serpent, shot up from the ground just in time to intercept.

    The serpent''s tail smacked the bird down, sending it crashing into the ground.

    "You''re going to have to do better than that!" Ryder shouted confidently. He smirked and added, "You really thought you could catch me off guard with such a simple trick?"

    A loud crack echoed through the air, followed by a swift gust of wind. Ryder spun around, eyes wide. There, standing amidst the chaos, was Eratz, locked in a fist clash with Ryder''s wind lycaon, wind against lightning.

    The beast had barely managed to block Eratz''s sneak attack, its body vibrating. Ryder''s heart pounded as he realized just how close he had come to losing right there.

    The crowd gasped again.

    "That was close!" someone exclaimed. "He almost took him down just at the beginning of the battle!"

    Zara, observing from the stands, leaned forward, eyes gleaming.

    "Really close. If you don''t pay attention against him it''s over. It''s like he''s fighting on instinct."

    Mercury couldn''t take her eyes off Eratz. "I''ve never seen someone move like that. One lose of focus and you''re done. He''s really dangerous."

    Ryder took a step back, reassessing the situation. His beasts, though powerful, were getting tired by the relentless attacks. He gritted his teeth, frustration creeping in.

    "I have to take control again," he muttered under his breath.

    Eratz''s thoughts raced as he surveyed the battlefield. His beasts were being overwhelmed, his strategy was effective as Ryder''s beasts were losing a stamina battle, but he didn''t feel the need to focus on that.

    If I touch him once, it''s over. It was his sole focus.

    "These guys aren''t still enough, even the ones I tamed yesterday... they''re not ready to handle this kind of opponents... Guess I''ll rely on my aces."

    He stepped back, far away from the clash of beasts, his gaze locking onto Ryder. The crowd murmured, unsure of what was happening.

    "Is Ryder cornering him?" someone asked. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz''s shadow pulsed, and in an instant, all of his beasts vanished. The arena went dead silent. Then, slowly, the ground beneath Eratz began to darken, spreading like ink on his

    sides.

    Ryder''s beasts growled low, standing in front of their master.

    From the stands, Zara''s breath hitched. She leaned forward, eyes gleaming with both

    excitement and dread.

    "Here we go..." she muttered, barely audible, her heart racing in anticipation. This is the moment they''ve all been waiting for.

    "Those are..." Milo murmured.

    Roger couldn''t help but smile, despite his earlier concern.

    "This is it..."

    Mercury unfolded her arms, letting them drop to her sides

    "His true team."

    Suddenly, a crackling sound erupted, and a blinding flash of lightning split the air. The crowd gasped collectively, eyes wide as the Thunder Lycaon burst forth, its sleek form illuminated by arcs of electricity that danced along its fur.

    It landed with a fierce howl, sparkling with electricity, electric-blue eyes locking onto Ryder, radiating raw energy.

    As the crowd processed the arrival of the Lycaon, an aura of calm swept through the arena.

    A gentle wave of energy rolled from the depths of the shadow, and the Aetheri emerged, enveloped in a soft, mystic glow.

    Its shimmering form resembled a baby in angel disguise, casting a soothing light that stood in stark contrast to the ferocity of the Thunder Lycaon.

    "... Oh my God..." Zara gasped, her voice barely above a whisper, captivated by the Aetheri''s

    mighty cuteness.

    A murmur of awe rippled through the spectators, even Jaden and Sia were focused on the spectacle. The boy had become famous here for his abnormal raw strength, and now he revealed what all considered as the hidden face of the moon.

    Mercury''s eyes widened, her usually composed demeanor giving way to genuine excitement.

    "This is it! This is what we''ve been waiting for!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her

    enthusiasm.

    Ryder clenched his fists, his earlier confidence now wavering as he absorbed the sight of

    Eratz''s formidable beasts.

    "Finally getting serious? Bring it on!"

 Chapter 30: A Display of Dominance

    Chapter 30: A Display of DominanceThe atmosphere in the arena was electric. The tension was palpable, and some challengers held their breath.

    A murmur rippled through the crowd, eyes glued to the two radiant beasts standing by Eratz.

    Among them, one of the staff members narrowed his eyes.

    "That''s... an Aetheri," he whispered, shock evident in his voice. "I thought they were extremely rare... how did a rookie find one?!"

    The crowd was in uproar at this revelation. An Aetheri, an elusive creature very rare was now on the battlefield.

    Excitement mixed with disbelief as the audience wondered how the battle would unfold, but just when everyone thought they were about to witness a fantastic battle of beasts, a new phenomenon reminded them why Eratz was the center of attention.

    Eratz''s aura, previously simmering under the surface, exploded outward. A pulse of energy radiated from him, a mix of lightning and shadow enveloping his body.

    "What is this?" someone muttered.

    Mercury''s brow furrowed.

    "Wait... this is what he did against Milo, but... it''s more complete this time."

    Gasps and murmurs spread through the crowd like wildfire. All eyes were fixed on Eratz, whose body was now covered in black marks, lightning crackling across his skin.

    The aura he exuded was far more controlled, more potent.

    Jaden whispered, his eyes widening in astonishment.

    "This guy..."

    Sia''s eyes narrowed slightly.

    "... Beastification."

    Zara clenched her fists, staring intently at Eratz. "At this level... He''s pulled that with a Thunder Lycaon. This is insane."

    Milo, watching from the edge of his seat, felt the tension rise in his chest.

    Everything he saw from the beginning of this selection was an alien language for him, but he could at least see when something was too abnormal.

    Eratz stood tall, his stance eerily similar to the Thunder Lycaon beside him.

    His eyes snapped open, glowing electric blue, crackling with the same energy that surged through his beast.

    "It isn''t wise to wait for your opponent."

    Ryder''s eyes widened. The aura surrounding Eratz sent a chill down his spine. He had never

    faced something like this. His instincts screamed at him to prepare for a storm.

    "Cover me!" Ryder roared to his beasts. His three monsters moved swiftly.

    In an instant, Eratz''s eyes flashed.

    With a sudden burst of lightning, he dropped one hand to the ground, his stance low, muscles tensed like a coiled spring, and then, with a destructive force, he launched himself forward and crashed in a flash, shattering the ground, a shockwave of lightning and shadow exploding outward, tearing through the battlefield.

    The flash was blinding, the noise deafening. A wall of smoke and dust rose, obscuring the arena in a thick, impenetrable veil.

    Ryder staggered, throwing his arm up to shield his face from the upcoming blast.

    His beasts roared, struggling to hold their ground against the sudden onslaught.

    The arena fell deathly quiet, everyone standing, eyes wide, wondering what had just happened.

    Was Ryder defeated? Had Eratz taken him out in one move?

    The smoke began to thin, and as it did, the scene that emerged left the entire audience in stunned silence.

    Eratz stood in a crater, his hand firmly gripping the head of Ryder''s Wind Lycaon, pinning it to the ground.

    The Thunder Lycaon, meanwhile, loomed over Ryder''s Water Drake, the massive beast lying unconscious beneath its paws.

    Eratz''s glowing blue eyes cut through the haze, locking onto Ryder.

    "Next."

    Ryder''s heart raced, panic bubbling up inside him. His beasts, his very main team, had been utterly destroyed in the blink of an eye.

    He raised his arm, summoning two more beasts. A bull-like creature, its horns glowing with a fierce red light, appeared first, pawing at the ground. Beside it, a lightning bird crackling, its wings sparking and fluttering.

    Ryder''s sweat fused as he shouted his last command.

    "Go! Attack! Don''t hold anything back!" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His beasts charged forward, the massive bull''s hooves pounding against the cracked earth as its glowing horns aimed directly at Eratz, overhead, the lightning bird soared, sparks flickering along its wings, preparing for an aerial assault.

    But Eratz didn''t move. Everything felt slower, unnaturally slow.

    His senses heightened, he could see the subtle twitch of the bull''s muscles, the faint flicker of panic in Ryder''s eyes, the anxious energy the young tamer was unconsciously pouring into his beasts.

    ''I feel... different'', Eratz thought.

    He was lighter, calmer. It was almost like his first experience when he trained his spirit with

    his Aetheri.

    ''Hmm... I was right trying with you.''

    At that moment, a clear path unfolded before him, every movement, every reaction mapped out in his mind.

    His body moved on instinct, stepping smoothly to the right as the bull charged straight at him, narrowly missing his figure.

    He paused, his eyes tracking the lightning bird as it swooped in, and with an effortless sidestep, he dodged it entirely.

    For Eratz, time seemed to crawl, each motion calculated and precise.

    To everyone else, it was like Eratz crossed the two beasts in the blink of an eye covered by

    lightning.

    "Holly... Did you see that?!" Mercury leaned forward, eyes wide with excitement.

    Sia''s cold gaze barely wavered, but the slight raise of her brow betrayed her surprise.

    Ryder''s heart pounded as he scanned the field. His beasts were still moving, but Eratz had disappeared, and then, in an instant, the boy was there, two meters in front of him.

    Ryder froze, his muscles locking in place from the shock. He couldn''t react, couldn''t even breathe, but then Eratz paused, eyes narrowing as if he''d sensed something.

    He leaped back, just as the ground erupted beneath him, and a rocky snake surged from the earth, its jagged body coiling toward him. Eratz''s gaze hardened. ''As I expected.''

    His legs coiled, and with a burst of power, he launched forward. His hand came down in a thunderous slap against the snake''s head, sending a shockwave through the air.

    The impact cracked the ground, and the snake''s body trembled before collapsing in a heap,

    motionless.

    "Holly shit!" someone in the crowd shouted.

    "I was wrong," Zara muttered, her eyes wide. "He''s better than I thought... Mercury, look! Look, he will really save our agency."

    The bull roared, turning around to attack again, but the Thunder Lycaon struck first.

    A blur of motion, its claws crackling with electricity as it slashed the beast several times in rapid succession, each blow accompanied by a sharp crack of thunder. The bull faltered, its strength fading under the relentless assault.

    Eratz stood at the center of the chaos, the thunder lycaon was his doppelganger, and the Aetheri was the tower control giving them all the information they needed.

    The audience was stunned face to this team working as a single organism.

    Ryder, breathless and covered in sweat, began to understand the truth, it was pointless, he

    had no chance.

    His lightning bird hovered above, but it was useless now.

    "... No... I can''t let it be like that... I can''t give up... Not yet!"

    He clenched his fists, desperately focusing, his eyes focusing on Eratz with his new form.

    ''... If I have no chance... then I have nothing to lose! I''ll try it. I have to do it!''

    He closed his eyes, summoning every ounce of energy he had left, hoping to initiate the same beastification Eratz had mastered.

    But before Ryder could even make his move, Eratz landed softly, almost casually, on his feet

    in front of him.

    His act alone was enough to send a message to Ryder: He could finish him anytime.

    Ryder stumbled back, his breaths coming in ragged gasps. Flashbacks of Eratz''s words rang in

    his head:

    - It isn''t wise to wait for your opponent.

    He felt a sad smile pull at his lips, a defeated acceptance sinking in. Slowly, Ryder lowered his

    arms.

    But then, something stirred within him. His promise to Eratz.

    - You count on me to give you a challenge? I''ll give it everything I have, don''t think you have already

    won.

    Ryder''s eyes widened.

    ''I promised him a real challenge. I can''t just quit here!''

    His determination reignited, and with a fierce clench of his teeth, Ryder jumped backward,

    shouting.

    "I won''t give up!"

    The crowd, who had been holding their breath, started to murmur in surprise.

    "He''s still going?" someone whispered.

    Zara had a grimace, while Mercury smirked.

    Ryder yanked off his jacket, tossing it into the air as he prepared to launch one last attack. The

    fabric swung up, briefly blocking his vision as it passed in front of his face. But the moment it

    hit the ground, Eratz was gone.

    "!!!"

    But only from Ryder''s point of view.

    Eratz was moving, sliding from Ryder''s blind spot, following the path created by the falling jacket. And before Ryder could react, Eratz was beside him, his palm lightly touching Ryder''s chest. A pulse of electricity surged from his hand, coursing through Ryder''s body in an

    instant.

    Ryder''s body seized up, his eyes going wide as the shock overtook him. He collapsed, rolling to the ground, unconscious before he even hit the dirt.

    The arena fell silent, the sound of Ryder''s fall echoing through the space. For a moment, no

    one moved, no one spoke. Eratz stood tall beside Ryder''s still form, his glowing blue eyes fading back to normal. The calm after the storm.

    A slow rumble of murmurs began to spread through the crowd, disbelief giving way to awe. The staff, who had been too stunned to speak, finally found their voice. "Ryder is... unconscious! The match is over! Eratz Pandora is the winner!"

    For a brief moment, the arena remained utterly silent, everyone processing what had just unfolded. Then, almost hesitantly, the first clap echoed, a slow, deliberate sound cutting through the still air. Others soon followed, joining in, until the applause began to spread like

    wildfire.

    At first, it was scattered, but soon, it swelled into a powerful, unified round of applause. Slowly, people rose to their feet, one by one, acknowledging the talent and strength they had

    just witnessed. The sound grew into a thunderous roar, the beast masters now fully on their

    feet, clapping in unison.

    Mercury clapped vigorously, her grin wide with genuine admiration.

    "Now that''s what I wanted to see! Damn, Eratz!" she said, shaking her head in disbelief.

    "He''s the real deal, You''ve got an eye for talent, Zara. Good call on recruiting him," she said, clapping her friend''s shoulder.

    Zara, still a bit wide-eyed, managed a smile, shaking her head.

    "... Maybe I should have signed a three year contract instead."

    Milo, who had been quiet throughout most of the match, was now beaming, his hands

    clapping almost too loudly.

    "I knew he had it in him!" he said, unable to hide his excitement. "Whatever he did... it was

    superb!" Roger watched the scene with a look of quiet amazement. Seeing everyone''s genuine appreciation for Eratz filled him with pride.

    "They finally see what you''re made of," he muttered to himself, a smile forming on his face.

    All around the arena, faces filled with awe and respect. People applauded with full-hearted admiration. It wasn''t just recognition, it was respect.

    Sia crossed her arms at first, but then, a slight smile crept onto her lips. She began to applaud

    gently with the tips of her fingers.

    Jaden, on the other hand, let out a groan, frustrated. He stood up quickly, mumbling something under his breath before heading for the restroom.

    In the middle of the crowd''s overwhelming reaction, Eratz stood tall, soaking in the moment.

    His Thunder Lycaon howling on a side, his Aetheris rubbing its face behind, his heart swelled

    with pride as he watched the standing ovation unfold before them.

    The applause wasn''t just noise, it was a reward, a confirmation that his hard work, his

    struggle, his journey, had led him to this point.

    He allowed himself a proud smile.

 Chapter 31: A New Beginning

    Chapter 31: A New BeginningThe arena buzzed with excitement long after Eratz''s overwhelming victory over Ryder. The air was thick with energy as the remaining challengers prepared for their matches. Spectators chatted animatedly, still amazed by the two young men''s performance.

    "Did you see how fast he was?" someone exclaimed.

    "Unbelievable! I want to fight like that too!" another agreed.

    After a while, Ryder woke up and learned about his defeat.

    He bite his lips, but then went back to his group.

    "Hey."

    Eratz turned to him.

    "Ah, finally awake?"

    They exchanged a warm grin under the relieved gaze of their friends, and then Ryder extended his hand.

    "You fought really well earlier. I completely panicked, but next time, I''ll give you a real fight."

    Eratz shook his hand.

    "I''m looking forward to it. You made me use my strongest mode, that''s already good for me."

    Ryder grinned.

    "Please, don''t try to compliment me, sometimes you don''t realize that it''s worse."

    "Yeah, that''s the point."

    Nearby, Zara clapped her hands.

    "Great job today, everyone! Let''s keep this energy going!"

    Backstage, the other challengers felt both inspired and anxious. Eratz''s display had ignited a competitive spirit among them, it was now a matter of leaving a good memory.

    Milo stood nervously near the entrance to the battlefield, taking deep breaths to calm himself. His heart pounded, but he was determined. He glanced over at Mercury, who gave him a supportive nod.

    "You''ve got this, Milo," she mouthed.

    He smiled back, feeling a bit more confident. His opponent, a tall boy who had also lost his previous two matches, smirked at him.

    "Ready to lose again?" the boy taunted.

    Milo straightened up.

    "Suck doesn''t it?" he replied firmly.

    The battle began.

    Milo summoned his light fairies, fluttering around him like tiny stars. His opponent released

    a snarling fox and a hulking boar, both looking fierce and ready to attack.

    "Fairies? Again?" the opponent scoffed. "This will be easy."

    From the sidelines, Mercury clenched her fists.

    "Come on, Milo," she whispered. "You''re stronger than that."

    Milo focused hard.

    "Fairies, let''s go! Formation Flower!"

    Everyone could hear his shout and all frowned and shook their head.

    The fairies zipped through the air, leaving trails of light. They danced around the fox and the boar, confusing them.

    "Attack them already!" the opponent yelled, frustration creeping into his voice.

    The boar charged, but the fairies swooped down, flashing bright lights in its eyes. The boar stumbled, disoriented.

    The fox leaped toward Milo, growling fiercely.

    "Now, Cosmetic Wave!" Milo commanded.

    One of the fairies emitted a high-pitched sound that made the fox yelp and back off.

    "Yes!" Mercury cheered softly, a smile spreading across her face.

    In the stands, Zara blinked faster.

    "Hold on... He''s given a name to his attacks?"

    "Why flower and cosmetics?" Ryder added.

    The opponent was getting even more frustrated.

    "Boar, send this idiot back to school!"

    The boar reared up and slammed its hooves into the ground, sending shockwaves toward Milo.

    "Fairies, show me the world!" Milo shouted.

    The fairies grabbed Milo and lifted him just above the shockwaves. The crowd gasped.

    The crowd was completely stunned, then a few chuckles crossed the stands.

    "What the hell is this battle?" someone exclaimed.

    Zara''s face became a little blurry and she leaned back toward Eratz.

    "Maybe you did well by showing him a little reality."

    Eratz glanced at her with a frown, then back at the battle.

    ''What do you mean? Cosmetics Waves is pretty cool... Naming the attacks... that''s a revolutionary

    idea...'' he thought.

    As the shockwaves passed beneath him, Milo landed back on the ground.

    "Now, Prism Beam!"

    The fairies gathered together, their lights merging into a brilliant beam that shot straight at the boar. The boar groaned and collapsed.

    This time, the crowd was a little more surprised and some cheers started to rise. Eratz''s eyes

    sparkled as he processed the neatness of that last name.

    "Uh?! Hey, get up!" the opponent shouted desperately.

    But it was no use. The boar was out of commission.

    The fox, seeing its companion fall, hesitated. Milo seized the opportunity. "Fairies, Stardust

    Shower!"

    The fairies sprinkled sparkling dust over the fox, disorienting it. It whimpered, tail between

    its legs, before slinking away.

    "Finish it!!" Milo called out.

    The staff made the announcement everyone became dying to hear.

    "Winner: Milo!"

    Milo stood there, stunned for a moment. Then he broke into a huge grin, jumping up and

    down.

    "Yes!!! I did it!! I won!!!"

    The crowd erupted into cheers, many of them on their feet.

    Mercury felt a tear prick at the corner of her eye. She quickly wiped it away, not wanting

    anyone to see.

    "Thanks God... Finally!"

    As the final matches ended, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the arena. The challengers gathered in the main hall for the results.

    The head examiner stepped onto the stage.

    "Thank you all for participating. Out of all the challengers, twenty-seven have passed and

    will receive their Beast Master licenses."

    A hush fell over the crowd as he began calling names.

    "First, Eratz Pandora."

    Without a surprise, Eratz was called first. He walked up to receive his license, and applause

    filled the room.

    "Next, Jaden."

    Jaden smirked as he accepted his license.

    "Ryder Crow."

    Ryder pumped his fist as he went up.

    "Sia Verizion."

    Sia moved to the stage.

    Mercury''s heart sank deeper with each name called, her fingers tightening around the edge of

    her jacket. The names continued until only one spot remained.

    "And finally, the twenty-seventh Beast Master is... Mark Zelman."

    A tall boy with glasses nervously walked up to accept his license. When the final name was announced and it wasn''t Milo''s, Mercury felt a lump form in her

    throat. She turned to her brother, who stood staring at the ground, his shoulders stiff and his

    hands balled into fists.

    "Milo..." she began softly, reaching out to touch his arm.

    He looked up, forcing a shaky smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "It''s okay," he said, his voice strained but trying to sound upbeat. "I did my best."

    She could see the sheen of tears welling up in his eyes, but he blinked them away quickly, swallowing hard to keep his composure. His attempt to act tough only made her heart ache

    more.

    Zara approached them cautiously, her expression filled with sympathy.

    "Milo, I''m so sorry," she said gently. "But don''t be discouraged. You showed real promise

    today, and that''s what counts."

    He gave a slight nod, his gaze dropping back to his feet.

    "Thanks," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

    Just then, Eratz stepped forward and placed a firm hand on Milo''s shoulder.

    "Hey, you fought incredibly well out there, you did win a battle after all" he said, his eyes

    meeting Milo''s. "You have real talent. We''ll just work on that, ok? I''ll help you train on

    whatever you need... And you''ll help me with something I want to try."

    Milo looked up, a flicker of hope igniting in his eyes. "Really?" he asked, his voice tinged with both surprise and longing.

    Zara glanced at Mercury, for some reason, Eratz seemed to always be the only one succeeding

    in reaching Milo. "Absolutely," Eratz affirmed with a confident smile. "I believe in you. We''re in this

    together."

    Ryder joined them, clapping a supportive hand on Milo''s other shoulder.

    "Count me in too," he said warmly. "We''ll make sure you''re more than ready next time."

    Surrounded by their encouragement, Milo''s tough facade began to crumble. His lower lip quivered slightly as he tried to hold back tears. Mercury pulled him into a gentle hug.

    "We''re here for you," she whispered. "Always, I''m very proud of you."

    He closed his eyes, his tears finally escaping down his cheek.

    "Thank you," he murmured, his voice cracked. "All of you."

    As the crowd around them started to disperse, Zara looked at the group joyfully.

    "Maybe we should hold off on celebrating tonight, let''s wait until Milo gets his license."

    Ryder nodded in agreement.

    "Good call, can''t believe you wanted more today after all of these battles." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Zara offered a warm smile.

    "Well, I haven''t fought, but alright then, it''s decided. Let''s meet tomorrow morning at the

    agency for the medical tests and official introductions. We''ll start fresh."

    The others agreed, and as they began to part ways, Eratz gave Milo''s shoulder a reassuring

    squeeze.

    "Come after school, we''ll start too."

    Milo managed a genuine smile this time, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. "I will. See

    you all tomorrow."

    Mercury wrapped an arm around Milo as they walked away.

    That night, as the stars began to dot the sky, the group dispersed with a renewed sense of

    purpose. The day had been rich in emotions and now the door for the real competition world was open.

    Outside, the sky was filled with stars. Eratz walked with his eyes on the beauty of the ocean of

    stars.

    Roger walked next to him.

    "You did great today, your aunt will be shocked when she''ll hear how strong you are."

    Eratz smiled.

    "Thanks... This is really the start of everything for us."

    Roger nodded.

    "I''m proud of you."

    Eratz looked at him seriously.

    "I''m going to change our lives, Uncle. Everything will be better."

    "I know you will," Roger replied, patting his shoulder. "Let''s go home." They walked away, the sounds of the arena fading behind them.

 Chapter 32: Crescent Moon Agency

    Chapter 32: Crescent Moon AgencyMorning sunlight streamed through the modest curtains of the small living room, casting a warm glow over the wooden table where Eratz sat with his family.

    Cassie bustled about, her apron sprinkled with flour as she prepared breakfast.

    "Eggs are almost ready," she called over her shoulder. "Don''t let that toast burn, Colin!"

    Colin stood on tiptoe, carefully watching the toaster.

    "I got it, Mom!" she replied.

    Roger sat across from Eratz, sipping his coffee.

    "Big day today," he said.

    Eratz nodded, a hint of excitement in his eyes.

    "Yep, I couldn''t sleep well last night."

    Cassie placed a plate of scrambled eggs in front of him.

    "Make sure you eat well. Can''t have you fainting on your first day," she said with a wink.

    He smiled.

    "Thanks, Aunt Cassie."

    She patted his shoulder affectionately. "We''re all proud of you, you know."

    Colin brought over a plate of perfectly toasted bread, grinning proudly.

    "Here you go! You''ll need energy for all those beast battles."

    "Thanks, Colin," Eratz said, ruffling her hair. "I''ll make sure to break some spirits in your honor."

    As they ate, laughter filled the room. Cassie shared a funny story from her maid job, and Roger talked about his plans for the day.

    After breakfast, Eratz stood up to leave. "I should get going."

    Cassie handed him a packed lunch.

    "Just in case you get hungry later," she said with a smile.

    Colin hugged him tightly.

    "Good luck! Do your best today too."

    Roger walked him to the door. "Remember, stay focused and be yourself," he advised. "You''ve got what it takes." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz nodded.

    "I will, good luck too today. See you all tonight."

    Crescent Moon Agency building stood a little short among the city streets, its glass and steel exterior gleaming in the morning light.

    But as Eratz approached, he noticed the faded sign and the worn steps leading to the entrance. The place had an air of former glory, now overshadowed by neglect.

    As he neared the door, he spotted Ryder leaning casually against a lamppost.

    "Morning," Ryder greeted, flashing a grin. "Ready for the next step?"

    "Always." Eratz replied with a nod.

    They entered the lobby together. The interior felt quiet and somewhat empty. A few staff members moved about, but the lack of activity was noticeable.

    Zara appeared from around a corner, her enthusiasm undimmed.

    "There you two are! Right on time," she said cheerfully.

    She led them down a hallway lined with old photographs and awards.

    "This agency has a rich history," she explained, her tone both proud and wistful. "We''ve faced some challenges, but we''re still standing... and now we''re about to make history!"

    They entered a spacious training hall bathed in natural light filtering through tall windows that lined one side of the room.

    The polished wooden floor gleamed under the overhead lights, and various training equipment, dummies, targets, and agility courses, were neatly arranged along the walls.

    The air was filled with chatting in low voices from a few beast masters, casting curious glances at the newcomers.

    Zara led Eratz and Ryder into the room, her footsteps echoing softly.

    "Welcome to our training facility. These people are the few recruits I''ve managed to bring last month."

    She lowered her voice slightly.

    "They''re doing their best, but to be honest, our agency has been struggling with them. Mercury is our only top-tier fighter, and we have one other member who''s decent but not quite at her level. The rest are still developing their skills. Without more strong fighters, we''re on the verge of bankruptcy."

    As she spoke, a tall young man approached them. He had sharp features, styled dark hair, and wore a sleek training outfit that seemed more about fashion than function. An air of smug confidence surrounded him.

    "Ah, Zara, been looking for you." He said, looking them over with a critical eye. "Oh? What''s that? You brought another set of part timers? And another set of boys... Well, that''s your stuff. So, new guys, Name''s Adrian, been holding things down here pretty well. Hope you two can

    keep up."

    Ryder raised an eyebrow

    "We''ll do fine, don''t worry." he replied lightly.

    Adrian smirked as his gaze shifted dismissively between them.

    "Like the others rookies, yeah, yeah, I know the lyrics."

    Eratz remained unfazed, his expression neutral.

    Adrian seemed slightly put off by their lack of reaction.

    "Well, we''ll see what you''re made of soon enough," he added before sauntering away.

    Zara sighed softly as he left.

    "That''s Adrian, the second strongest," she explained. "He thinks very highly of himself because he''s better than some weaklings. Unfortunately, his attitude doesn''t help our situation, he''s nothing special in the arena. Well, whatever, as I was saying, without more fighters like Mercury, we''re struggling to keep the agency afloat."

    Just then, the double doors at the far end of the hall swung open. A hush fell over the room as Mercury entered.

    She wore a sleek, casual sports outfit, a fitted black jacket over a white athletic top and streamlined leggings.

    Her short blue hair were covered by a black cap, and her piercing blue eyes held a distant focus. She exuded an aura different than the day before, oozing out coldness and confidence.

    Whispers spread among the recruits.

    "That''s Mercury," someone murmured.

    "She''s even more impressive in person," another replied.

    "Should we try talking to her?" one suggested.

    "I don''t know," his friend responded. "She seems unapproachable, but she''s just a person like

    us, right? Try your luck first!"

    Mercury seemed oblivious to the buzz her entrance had created. She walked toward a set of lockers along the wall, her footsteps steady and composed.

    Setting down her duffel bag, she began checking its contents, gauntlets, training gloves, a

    water bottle.

    Spotting an opportunity, Adrian straightened his posture and smoothed his hair before

    approaching her with a confident stride.

    "Hey there, Mercury, preparing to amaze us all again today?"

    She didn''t look up.

    "Hi," she replied curtly, continuing her inventory.

    Unfazed, Adrian leaned casually against the locker beside hers.

    "You know, it''s bad to not show up during training days, I felt very lonely without you

    yesterday, we make a pretty strong team, if you''re not around I feel lost. To apologize, let''s

    train together."

    "I''m fine training on my own," Mercury replied, her tone flat.

    He chuckled softly.

    "Always the lone wolf, huh? Well, perhaps I could convince you over dinner. There''s a new restaurant in town that''s perfect for a... nice conversation."

    Mercury zipped up her bag without acknowledging his suggestion.

    Adrian raised an eyebrow, still smirking. "Playing hard to get? I admire a challenge."

    She finally glanced at him, her gaze icy. "If you have time to chat, you have time to get better.

    Go back to your training."

    He leaned in slightly.

    "Come on, don''t be so cold. It''s not a reason to get heated, sometimes we need to chill."

    Mercury''s patience was wearing thin. She stood up and sighed heavily.

    "Don''t talking to me again if you have nothing better to say."

    Adrian''s smile turned into a sly grin. "Maybe not yet. But who knows? We could have a lot of

    fun together, both in and out of the arena. It''s human''s nature."

    She turned away, clearly intending to end the conversation.

    He decided to make one last attempt, his tone taking on a suggestive edge.

    "You know, they say even the fiercest warriors need someone to help them... unwind. You

    can''t stay hard forever... Speaking of hard, I''m just trying to cheer you up, I heard it didn''t went well yesterday. So please, don''t get angry, let me treat you today."

    At that, Mercury paused. Her shoulders tensed as she took a slow breath. Before she could

    respond, her gaze shifted past Adrian, landing on Eratz and Ryder standing next to Zara across the room. Her expression softened almost imperceptibly.

    Without a word to Adrian, she picked up her water bottle and walked away, heading straight

    toward the newcomers.

    Adrian blinked in surprise, left standing alone.

    "Hey, where are you going?" he called after her, surprise creeping into his voice.

    The surrounding recruits watched with interest.

    "Lol, serves him right, that''s for stealing my girlfriend." someone whispered.

    "I couldn''t take that, this guy is tough," another snickered.

    "Wait, who''s she going to?"

    Mercury approached Eratz and Ryder, her usual cool demeanor changing slightly.

    "Eratz, Ryder, good to see you made it."

    "Hey, Mercury!" Ryder replied with a grin. "Didn''t expect to see you so soon."

    Eratz nodded.

    "Glad to be here."

    She offered a small smile.

    "With you two joining, things are going to get interesting around here."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "I hope it will be more challenging than yesterday then. By the way, how''s Milo doing?"

    Mercury sighed softly, glancing aside. "He''s... managing. It''s hard for him to go back to school after thinking he''d be off on adventures. I really hope we can help him get his license soon."

    Ryder gave an encouraging nod.

    "We''ll make sure of it. We''re a team now."

    Eratz crossed his arms thoughtfully. "Maybe it was God''s plan to let the kid finish elementary

    school before ditching... Speaking of which, is he really..."

    Mercury hesitated, then shrugged lightly. "Let''s just say he''s eager to grow up. Maybe a bit

    too eager."

    Around them, the other recruits exchanged astonished glances.

    "Is Mercury actually talking to them?" one whispered. "And she''s being... friendly?" another added, eyes wide.

    Across the room, Adrian watched the interaction, his jaw tightening with irritation.

    "Who does that guy think he is?" he muttered under his breath.

    Before the conversation could continue, the main doors to the hall opened gracefully.

    A woman entered, capturing everyone''s attention with her appearance. Zara stepped forward, her face glowing with enthusiasm.

    "May I have everyone''s attention, please?" she called out. The murmurs in the room subsided as all eyes turned toward her. "I am honored to introduce Madam Victoria, our agency''s director and founder."

    The room collectively straightened up. Victoria entered gracefully, her attire commanding yet

    warm.

    She was elegantly dressed in a tailored navy suit that exuded professionalism, her long blonde hair cascading over her shoulders.

    Her blue eyes observed each face, and a subtle smile played on her lips. "Good morning, everyone," Victoria greeted, her voice clear and resonant. She paused for a

    moment, her gaze sweeping across the room. "It''s truly wonderful to see so many dedicated and promising individuals gathered here today."

    She took a few steps forward, the quiet click of her heels echoing in the silent hall.

    "I''m glad to count you among us. Our agency has faced its share of challenges, there were

    times when the path ahead seemed uncertain, when obstacles appeared insurmountable. But seeing all of you here fills me with renewed hope and determination."

    The recruits nodded, absorbing her words. Adrian stood a bit taller, attempting to appear

    attentive, while others exchanged glances of admiration.

    Victoria''s eyes fell upon Eratz, and she paused, a flicker of recognition crossing her face. ''White hair, dark skin... He must be the one.''

    "I see we have some new faces among us," she remarked, her gaze still on him. "Fresh talent

    brings fresh perspectives, and that''s exactly what we need. Each of you possesses unique skills and strengths. It''s through our combined efforts and mutual support that we will

    overcome the hurdles before us. Together, we can restore this agency to its rightful place in the world of Beast Masters."

    Her voice carried a conviction that stirred something within the recruits. A sense of unity and

    purpose began to take root.

    "Remember," Victoria went on, "greatness isn''t achieved alone. It thrives on collaboration,

    on pushing each other to be better. I encourage you all to learn from one another, to challenge yourselves, and to never lose sight of why you embarked on this journey."

    She gestured gracefully toward Zara. "To help us understand where we stand and how we can grow, Zara has prepared a series of exercises to assess your abilities." "Thank you, Madam Victoria," Zara said with a respectful bow of her head. Turning to the

    group, she added, "We''ll start with endurance and agility drills. Please follow me to the training area."

    As the recruits began to move, Victoria approached Eratz with a welcoming smile.

    "You must be Eratz," she said softly.

    "Yes, that''s me." Eratz replied.

    "I''ve heard about your impressive performance at the selection, I''m impatient to see a true

    champion on the scene. To think Zara''s has a real talent as a scout, I guess I lost my bet." She

    laughed lightly.

    "Ah!" Zara crossed her arms with a smug.

    "Should you say that about your othes recruits?" Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    Victoria nodded appreciatively.

    "I''m only teasing you, I believe in everyone, but I know you''ll make a significant impact here.

    If there''s anything you need, don''t hesitate to ask."

    "I appreciate that... I might have something for later.".

    Nearby, Adrian watched the exchange, his jaw tightening with barely concealed envy. Mercury

    observed as well, a subtle smile hinting at her approval.

    Ryder leaned in toward Eratz as Victoria walked away.

    "Well, who''s the lucky guy?" he whispered teasingly.

    Eratz shrugged lightly.

    "I''m barely existing. Life is a mystery for me too."

    "Alright, everyone!" Zara called out, clapping her hands to gather their attention. "Let''s get

    started!"

 Chapter 33: The Sparks Of Change

    Chapter 33: The Sparks Of ChangeThe recruits assembled in the training area, the atmosphere was electric.

    As they prepared for the exercises ahead, there was a shared feeling that this marked the beginning of an important chapter, not just for the agency struggling to regain its footing, but for each of them embarking on their own paths to greatness.

    They were in the same agency, but the competition was individual.

    As the group dispersed to prepare, Adrian approached Victoria, attempting to regain his composure.

    "Victoria, always a pleasure," he said smoothly. "If there''s anything you need, you know you can count on me."

    She gave him a polite but distant smile.

    "Thank you, Adrian. I trust you''ll do your best today."

    Eratz and Ryder moved toward the training area, discussing.

    "What''s on the menu though? I thought we would be immediately fighting, why the medical test?" Ryder remarked.

    Mercury caught up with them.

    "Just a formal protocol," she said. "There''s always a medical test for new recruits, nothing to worry about. Come, I''ll show you your locker quickly."

    As they began their discovery of the place, the atmosphere in the hall was charged with an invisible tension.

    Adrian watched from a distance, his eyes narrowed.

    "This isn''t over," he muttered to himself.

    Meanwhile, Victoria and Zara observed the group, their expressions reflecting a mix of hope and determination.

    "I can feel it just by the gaze, this time you really surpassed yourself." Victoria commented quietly.

    Zara nodded in agreement.

    "Yup, I think I deserve more praises, they might be just what we need to turn things around." They were led to a training facility equipped with advanced but slightly outdated equipment. The first test was an endurance run on treadmills. Mercury was taking the role of the medic, taking notes of the results.

    Eratz was next to Adrian.

    "Hope you''re ready to eat my dust," Adrian sneered.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "You''re that old?"

    The treadmills started, and Adrian set his speed high, casting smug glances at Eratz. But Eratz matched his pace effortlessly, his breathing steady and movements fluid.

    Minutes passed, and sweat began to bead on Adrian''s forehead. His breaths became labored, while Eratz showed no signs of tiring, almost bored.

    "How... What... are you...Hey?... " Adrian panted.

    Eratz glanced over.

    "... Hm? Can you form a sentence? I don''t read minds."

    Around them, other recruits struggled to keep up. Ryder pushed himself, determined not to fall behind, but he couldn''t help but marvel at Eratz''s stamina.

    Next came the strength and agility tests. Eratz navigated the obstacle course with ease, his movements precise and controlled. He leaped over hurdles, climbed walls, and dodged obstacles as if it were second nature.

    "He''s amazing," Zara whispered to Victoria, watching from the sidelines. "And without

    beastification."

    Victoria nodded thoughtfully.

    "I really want to see his beastification though, you should have taken some pictures."

    As the physical exams continued, fatigue began to show on the faces of many recruits. Muscles ached, and breaths were heavy. But Eratz remained composed, barely breaking a sweat. For him, it wasn''t even a warm up.

    Finally, it was time for the full-body examination. The male recruits were instructed to remove their shirts for a comprehensive health check.

    The atmosphere in the room shifted as shirts came off, revealing a range of physiques among the recruits.

    Eratz calmly pulled off his shirt, revealing a physique that seemed carved from stone.

    His muscles were well-defined and perfectly balanced, broad shoulders leading to a chiseled chest, with pectoral muscles that stood out prominently. His abdomen displayed a set of toned abs, each muscle distinctly etched.

    Scars crisscrossed his skin, faint lines that hinted at violent past battles.

    A hush fell over the room as eyes turned toward him. Conversations tapered off, and a palpable sense of awe settled among the recruits.

    Adrian, who had been flexing subtly to showcase his own physique, glanced over and felt a jolt of insecurity.

    Standing next to Eratz''s chiseled form, his own body seemed decidedly ordinary. He crossed his arms over his chest, subtly trying to flex his muscles and harden his stomach, but it was no

    use.

    The contrast was too great, and the confidence he usually wore like armor began to crack.

    Zara, couldn''t help but take notice. A flicker of surprise crossed her eyes, followed by a subtle

    smile.

    "Well," she murmured softly, "that explains a lot."

    Ryder, standing nearby, raised his eyebrows in astonishment.

    "Eratz, are you even human?" he joked with a grin. "Where have you been hiding that body?"

    Mercury, acting as the assistant for the medical exams, approached Eratz with a clipboard in hand.

    She aimed to maintain a professional demeanor, but her eyes momentarily drifted over the planes of his chest and the definition of his pectoral muscles.

    "Alright, let''s proceed with the examination," she said, her voice wavering slightly.

    She placed a stethoscope against his chest, the cool metal making contact with his warm skin.

    "Deep breath in," she instructed.

    Eratz inhaled deeply, his chest rising. Mercury''s gaze traced the movement.

    ".... and out!" she continued.

    She moved the stethoscope to another spot, her fingertips brushing against a larger scar.

    "Does this mark have a story?" she asked, more out of personal curiosity than medical

    necessity.

    Eratz glanced down.

    "Learned the hard way to not hunt a water beast in shallow water, he chewed me a little but I

    chewed him back." he replied simply.

    Mercury nodded slowly, her eyes still fixed on him.

    "Fascinating," she murmured, almost to herself.

    Victoria, observing from a few steps away, noticed Mercury''s prolonged attention. Holding a

    smile, she stepped forward.

    "Mercury, I''m pretty sure there are other recruits waiting."

    Mercury blinked, snapping back to reality. "Right! Of course," she replied hurriedly.

    "Everything looks excellent, Eratz. You''re in remarkable shape."

    "Thank you," Eratz replied.

    As Mercury moved quickly on to the next recruit, Victoria approached, her gaze assessing

    Eratz thoughtfully.

    "Impressive," she remarked, her eyes meeting his. "Your physical condition is outstanding."

    Eratz nodded respectfully.

    "Good, it means I can fight soon, right?"

    Adrian watched the exchange from a distance, his expression a mix of envy and frustration.

    He clenched his jaw, feeling overshadowed by the attention Eratz was receiving.

    The other recruits whispered among themselves.

    "Did you see those scars?" one murmured.

    "That''s not normal, what the fuck?" another commented.

    As the examinations continued, the results for Eratz came back with outstanding marks. His endurance levels were off the charts, reflexes sharp, and overall health impeccable.

    Victoria shared the results with Zara.

    "I''ll need to check his contract," she noted. "I need to be sure you''re not pranking me."

    Zara nodded in agreement.

    "Since we''re at this, what''s about changing a little the date of the contract duration? Like

    adding one or two zeros?"

    The medical exams wrapped up, and the recruits began to prepare for the next phase of their

    training.

    Eratz pulled his shirt back on, oblivious to some of the lingering glances cast his way.

    After the tests, Victoria gathered everyone in a meeting room. The atmosphere was solemn

    but hopeful.

    "First, congratulations on completing the assessments," she began. "I have some things to share with you all."

    She paused, choosing her words carefully.

    "Years ago, I was a professional Beast Master, like you all. I had success, fame, and everything

    that comes with it. But I chose to leave that life behind to start this agency. My dream has

    always been to nurture young talents, to help the next generation rise."

    She sighed softly. "However, not everyone agreed with my decision. Some powerful individuals felt betrayed by

    my choices and used their influence to hinder us. They''ve spread rumors, cut off our

    resources, and made it difficult for us to attract new talent."

    Eratz listened intently.

    "This agency would have closed long ago if not for Zara and Mercury," Victoria continued.

    "Zara stepped up in ways I never expected, taking on multiple roles to keep us afloat. Mercury became our ace, her skills and dedication bringing us victories when we needed them most."

    Mercury shifted slightly but remained silent.

    Victoria offered a gentle smile.

    "I want to thank each of you, especially our latest recruits, Eratz and Ryder, for choosing to

    join us despite our struggles. Your presence here means more than you know. I have great expectations for you."

    The two gave a slight nod, Victoria''s eyes glistened with gratitude.

    "With your licenses, you can now enter Level 1 arenas and challenge other Beast Masters. Each

    victory will not only earn you significant rewards but also help rebuild our reputation."

    Eratz''s eyes widened.

    "We can start battling immediately?"

    "Yes," Victoria confirmed. "It''s an opportunity to gain experience and bring much-needed

    funds to the agency."

    Ryder jumped with joy.

    "Fantastic! Let''s start right away, Eratz! To the arena!"

    Eratz, however, took a moment to consider this, recalling the strong opponents he''d seen the

    day before. "I think I''ll go tomorrow," he said thoughtfully. "I want to make sure I''m ready. There''s still something I need to work on in the forest."

    His mind conjured the image of the Terrakrus, the elusive beast that had haunted his thoughts

    since his last encounter in the cavern.

    He was determined to track it, and catch it, but he preferred to keep this quest to himself.

    Just then, Mercury approached him. "Mind if I join you?" she asked casually, though her eyes

    reflected genuine interest. "I''d like to see how you train."

    Around them, the other recruits exchanged surprised glances. Mercury, the ice queen whom

    many admired from afar, rarely showed interest in anyone.

    Adrian''s expression turned sour.

    "She wants to train with him?" he muttered under his breath, feeling a sting of jealousy and

    humiliation.

    Eratz was momentarily taken aback. He hadn''t planned on company, especially since he intended to hunt the Terrakrus right after. But after a brief hesitation, he nodded.

    "Sure, I''d like that. Maybe bring Milo too?"

    Mercury''s lips curved into a slight smile.

    "Great. We''ll meet in the morning."

    Before they could part ways, Adrian strode over with a forced grin.

    "Hey, since we''re all gearing up, how about I join you guys for training?" he suggested, trying

    to sound casual.

    Mercury''s gaze shifted to him, her eyes getting colder.

    "No thanks," she said firmly. "We have specific plans."

    He chuckled awkwardly.

    "Come on, the more the merrier. I could show you some advanced techniques."

    Eratz remained silent, sensing the tension.

    Mercury crossed her arms. "I said no. We''re fine on our own."

    Adrian''s smile faded, a hint of annoyance creeping in.

    "Why not? Afraid I might outshine you?" Eratz raised an eyebrow. "Don''t you have any friend?"

    A few nearby recruits stifled laughs, and Adrian''s face reddened.

    "Fine," he muttered, backing off. "Suit yourselves, fools."

    As he walked away, the other recruits exchanged amused glances, further irritating him. Ryder gave Eratz a playful nudge.

    "Looks like you''re quite popular," he teased. "But are you sure about bringing Milo along?"

    Eratz shrugged.

    "Why not? He could use the experience."

    "Ah, forget it," Ryder replied. "But I think I''ll stick around here. I want to focus on mastering beastification. This place is perfect for that."

    Victoria watched the exchange with renewed hope. Turning to Zara.

    "This could be the fresh start we''ve been waiting for."

    "Let''s hope," Zara replied, her eyes following Eratz and Mercury. "They might just be the key

    to turning things around."

    Leaving the agency, Eratz felt a many emotions, excitement, responsibility, and a deep desire to make a difference. The revelation about the agency''s struggles only fueled his

    determination to perform better.

    That evening at home, he shared the day''s events with his family. Colin listened eagerly, her

    eyes wide with admiration.

    "You''re going back to the forest? Can I come this time too?" she asked, her voice brimming

    with enthusiasm.

    Eratz smiled warmly at his younger cousin.

    "Actually, I was hoping you''d ask. If you''re still interested in beast taming, I''d like to teach

    you a few things. But I''m warning you, it''ll be intense."

    Colin''s face lit up.

    "Really? Oh thank you! Thanks Eratz, I won''t let you down!"

    He chuckled softly.

    "I know you won''t. Get some rest tonight; we''ll head out early."

    Cassie placed a gentle hand on Colin''s shoulder.

    "Be careful out there, both of you," she advised, a hint of concern in her eyes.

    "We will," Eratz assured her. "It''s time Colin got some real experience."

    Roger nodded approvingly.

    "It''s good for her to learn from you. Just make sure to keep an eye out. With you around, she

    risks nothing."

    "Always," Eratz promised.

    Later that night, as the household settled, Eratz found Colin sitting on the porch steps, gazing

    up at the stars.

    "Nervous?" he asked, taking a seat beside her.

    "A little," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But mostly excited."

    He smiled reassuringly.

    "That''s normal. The forest can be challenging, but I believe you''re ready."

    She looked up at him, determination shining in her eyes.

    "I''ll work hard. I want to be as strong as you someday."

    Eratz placed a hand on her shoulder. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "And I want to see you stronger than me. I''ll make you the strongest monster of our family."

    Colin grinned.

    "Thanks, Eratz. I''m glad you''re finally taking me with you."

    "Me too," he replied softly. "Imagine if we could both be pro? Aunt Cassie and Uncle Roger

    would be so relieved."

    She laughed lightly.

    "Maybe! We''ll work together and buy a huge house, and we''ll live together forever."

    They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, the night air cool and refreshing.

    "Get some sleep," Eratz finally said, standing up. "Little monsters sleep early."

    Colin nodded.

    "Goodnight."

    "Goodnight," he replied, heading inside.

 Chapter 34: Teaching A Toad To Fly

    Chapter 34: Teaching A Toad To FlyThe sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm golden light over the large city. Eratz stood at the entrance of the forest, adjusting the straps of his backpack. The morning air was fresh, and the scent of pine mingled with the earthy aroma of the woods. He took a deep breath,

    savoring the tranquility before the day''s chaos.

    "Eratz!" a familiar voice called out.

    He looked over to see Mercury coming closer, her short blue hair shining in the morning light.

    She wore practical clothes: a snug jacket, cargo pants, and strong boots. Next to her was Milo, his eyes sparkling with excitement, he bounced on his toes, full of energy.

    "Morning," Eratz greeted with a smile. "Ready for the big day?"

    "Always," Mercury replied, a grin tugging at her lips.

    "Couldn''t sleep at all!" Milo exclaimed, vibrating with enthusiasm. "I''ve been up since midnight!"

    Just then, a small figure peeked out from behind Eratz. Colin stepped forward hesitantly, her eyes darting between Mercury and Milo.

    She clutched the straps of her small backpack, fingers fiddling nervously.

    "Guys, this is my cousin, Colin," Eratz introduced. "She''ll be joining us today."

    Colin gave a small, shy wave.

    "Hi," she said softly, her gaze briefly meeting Mercury''s before flickering away. Mercury''s eyes softened.

    "Aw... what a cute girl. Hello, Colin, nice to meet you, glad to have you with us." Milo leaned in.

    "Hello, I''m Milo. I didn''t know Eratz had a cousin, nice to meet you."

    Colin blinked, her eyes switching to the sides.

    "Um... nice to meet you too," she replied, offering a tentative smile.

    Eratz chuckled.

    "Alright, let''s get started. First, we''ll explore the forest a bit. It''s important to understand the terrain."

    They began exploring the forest, the leaves above filtered the sunlight into dappled patterns on the ground.

    Bird-like creatures chirped, and the rustling of leaves added a gentle backdrop to their footsteps.

    Mercury walked alongside Colin.

    "Have you been in the forest before?"

    Colin nodded slightly.

    "A few times... but not here," she admitted.

    "Stick close, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask, okay?"

    Colin glanced up at her, a hint of appreciation in her eyes.

    "Thank you," she said quietly.

    Meanwhile, Milo darted from side to side, his attention flitting between every new sight and sound.

    "Look at that bird! And those mushrooms, are they edible? Oh, and what''s that noise?"

    "It''s probably the sound of a predator looking for a talking prey." Eratz smirked.

    Milo gulped.

    "... Good thing that preys only exist in geography channel."

    They paused near a large tree, its roots sprawling like ancient veins through the earth. Mercury gestured to markings on the bark.

    "See these claw marks? They were made by a Sylvan Lynx. They''re nocturnal creatures, so we won''t see them now, but it''s important to know they''re around."

    Colin examined the marks closely. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "They''re higher than I expected," she observed.

    "Very perceptive," Mercury praised. "It shows how agile they are. They''re quite difficult to catch."

    Milo leaned in, nearly bumping into Colin.

    "Whoa, that''s so cool! Do you think we''ll see one someday?"

    Colin stepped back slightly, a bit overwhelmed by his closeness. "Maybe?" she replied softly.

    Eratz clapped his hands to get their attention.

    "Let''s move on to the next area."

    As they walked, Mercury continued to share her knowledge of the forest''s flora and fauna. Her tone was nurturing, and both Colin and Milo listened intently. Milo''s attention would occasionally wander, prompting Eratz to tease him with gruesome tales of beasts lurking nearby.

    Milo''s eyes widened.

    "Eaten alive... Without leaving a trace?"

    "Yeah, even the outfits, it''s like a sandwich with a bacon wrapping,

    "... What''s about the shoes?"

    "They would try to wear them and squeeze them... Now if you have fake shoes... It''s even

    worse..."

    Milo glanced around nervously looking at his muddy basket.

    "Mercury... Why were they cheaper than the normal price?"

    Mercury tried to not burst in laugh.

    "Eratz, seriously..."

    After a while, they reached a clearing bathed in sunlight, a gentle stream running nearby.

    "Perfect spot for some body destruction," Eratz announced with a playful grin.

    Milo pumped his fist.

    "Finally! Let''s break our bodies!"

    Colin glanced around, excitement mingling with nervousness.

    "What will we be doing here?"

    "Just some basic exercises to build strength and endurance," Eratz explained. "It might seem

    futile, but it''s the foundation for everything else."

    They began with running laps around the clearing. Mercury and Eratz adjusted their pace to

    match the kids.

    Colin kept a steady rhythm, her breaths controlled, while Milo sprinted ahead enthusiastically

    before quickly tiring.

    "Wait up... huff... ah..." Milo called, huffing as he slowed down.

    "Remember the fate of the slower monster of the pack?" Eratz shouted. "Next time, don''t use

    all your energy at the start. Steady your pace, focus on your breathing. If your lungs burn, slow

    down. If your stomach hurts, get ready to puke."

    Milo nodded, trying to catch up with the others.

    "Got it... but... ugh..." Suddenly, he turned to the side and emptied his stomach.

    Eratz rolled his eyes.

    "That''s one way to lighten up."

    Next came push-ups and sit-ups. Colin managed well, completing a formidable set of 10 for each, in opposite, Milo struggled, his muscles shaking as he tried to do his 4th push up.

    "My life is flashing before my eyes... and it''s ridiculous..." he groaned, collapsing onto his

    side.

    Mercury knelt beside him.

    "You''re doing fine, the key is consistency. Keep practicing every day, and it''ll get easier."

    "Every day? Like tomorrow too?" Milo asked, eyes widening.

    Colin watched with concern.

    "Are you okay?"

    Milo sighed dramatically.

    "My tummy isn''t tumming at all..."

    After a brief rest, Eratz gathered them. "Now, we''ll work on channeling the power of one

    beast at a time, this is essential for any Beast Master."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow.

    "You''re teaching them that already?"

    "Yes, we''re doing a full assessment today. Depending on the results, we''ll adjust their

    training."

    Colin''s eyes widened slightly, with her smile growing timidly.

    "Actually... I''ve seen that at the school''s library. I''ve been practicing that a little with my Fire

    Spirit, I know how to do it a little."

    Milo grinned.

    "My Light Fairies are also very intelligent! We''re ready, and at least this training won''t make

    me puke!"

    "Great," Eratz said. "Find a comfortable spot and focus on your connection with your beast. If

    you can do it, we''ll move on to more advanced training."

    "There''s more?" Milo gulped.

    Colin settled beneath a tall pine tree, closing her eyes. She took a deep breath, hands resting lightly on her lap. A calm enveloped her, and a gentle warmth began to radiate.

    Milo, meanwhile, fidgeted where he stood.

    "Okay, focus..." he murmured, squeezing his eyes shut.

    Mercury approached Colin quietly, observing her. A soft glow emanated from Colin''s hands,

    and wisps of flame danced around her fingertips, swirling gracefully.

    "Beautiful," Mercury whispered. "You''re really something."

    Colin opened her eyes, which now shimmered like embers. The flames responded to her

    slightest will, weaving patterns in the air.

    "It feels... so natural," Colin said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It''s like the Fire Spirit is

    a part of me."

    The atmosphere around her was serene, a sight to see.

    Eratz watched with pride.

    "You''re more talented than I thought, Colin. I think you could really be stronger than me

    someday."

    On the other side, Milo was hopping from one foot to the other.

    "Come on, come on," he muttered, his fairies swirling around him, mirroring his scattered

    thoughts.

    Mercury walked over to him.

    "Take a deep breath, let go of unnecessary thoughts."

    He nodded, inhaling deeply. For a moment, the light steadied, and a tiny orb floated above his

    palm. But then a bird chirped nearby, and his eyes snapped open.

    "The shoes thief!!!" he exclaimed, the orb disappearing.

    Mercury suppressed a smile.

    "Try to stay focused."

    Eratz sighed lightly.

    "Milo, perhaps we need to approach this differently. From now on, we''ll focus on helping you

    channel one fairy at a time. Every time you lose focus, there will be a penalty."

    Milo looked up warily.

    "... What kind of penalty?"

    Eratz grinned mischievously.

    A few moments later, Milo was hanging upside down from a tree branch, two rocks tied to his

    wrists.

    "Now, Milo, repeat after me: one," Eratz called up calmly.

    "HEEEELP!" Milo''s scream pierced the forest. Mercury watched with wide eyes.

    As Milo endured his unconventional training, Colin continued to manipulate the flames with

    increasing confidence. She stood up, the fire swirling around her like a protective aura.

    Mercury approached her.

    "How do you feel?"

    "Better," Colin replied, a small smile playing on her lips. "My arms don''t ache anymore."

    "Remember the feeling in your heart, it''s the key for your growth, You need to replicate it

    everytime."

    Colin nodded, eyes reflecting gratitude.

    After some time, Eratz reunited the group.

    "Excellent work, both of you. Colin, you''re showing a strong aptitude for channeling, so we''ll

    focus more on physical training to balance your skills. Milo, we''ll concentrate on enhancing your channeling abilities. Do that until tonight... By the way, Milo, there''s this new watch

    shop in town... Wanna pick something you want?"

    Milo, with red wrists, groaned. "You''re not a teacher... you''re evil..."

    Colin chuckled softly. "I''ll do my best."

    "That''s all I ask," Eratz said warmly.

    Mercury stretched her arms overhead. "Now that they''re set for the day, shall we have our

    own training

    Eratz grinned.

    session?"

    "Yeah, I''m starting to feel sleepy. You two stay here and keep practicing. We''ll be nearby if

    you need anything."

    "Okay," they chimed in unison.

    As Eratz and Mercury moved to a more open area, Colin watched them go, a thoughtful

    expression on her face.

    "Milo," she began hesitantly, "I know Eratz seems a little tough, but maybe if you focused a

    bit more, it would be better? He''s not evil at all."

    Milo sniffed.

    "Then why is he laughing?"

    "He didn''t laugh..."

    "He did! When you had your back turned, he mimed a laugh in silence! He''s having fun

    torturing me!"

    Colin shook her head gently.

    "Or maybe he was just happy? Perhaps you misunderstood?"

    "I''m getting wiser when my beast gets injured or someone is mocking me. I''m very

    enlightened now, and my beasts aren''t injured at all!"

    Colin suppressed a giggle. "Maybe we should both focus on our training."

    "... This isn''t even a training... It''s torture..."

    Meanwhile, Eratz released his Thunder Lycaon and several other beasts to watch over Colin

    and Milo.

    "Always a sight to see," Mercury whistled.

    "Your turn," Eratz prompted.

    Mercury summoned her own beast, a graceful bird with iridescent feathers shimmering

    between hues of blue and silver. A gentle mist surrounded it, and the air felt cooler.

    "An Air and Water type," Eratz observed, impressed. "And rare."

    She smirked.

    "Meet the Azure Windrider, my baby boy."

    He assessed the creature, sensing its strength.

    "That''s surprising, you have more in stock?"

    "We''re good to go like this, now let''s get back to business, You, me, 1V1." she replied

    playfully.

    He chuckled.

    "In that case, I won''t hold back."

 Chapter 35: The Forest Showtime

    Chapter 35: The Forest ShowtimeEratz stood in the center of the clearing, stretching. He glanced over at Mercury, whose short blue hair shimmered in the light.

    "Ready to get started?" Eratz called out.

    Mercury smirked, stretching her arms above her head.

    "Hope you''re prepared to eat my dust today."

    Eratz chuckled inwardly.

    ''Good, she''s fired up. If we can go all out, she''ll be too tired to continue, and I could go for the terrakrus.''

    "Big talk, I hope you''re ready to face my reaction when you lose."

    She rolled her eyes, her smirk unwavering.

    "We''ll see about that. Let''s begin with an long race. We start from here and go to the lake we saw earlier, then we go back here."

    Eratz nodded, concealing his surprise at her eagerness.

    "Sounds good. Let''s make it interesting, we do it three times, full speed all the way."

    "Only if you can keep up," Mercury replied.

    They positioned themselves at the starting line marked by two large rocks. "On three," Eratz instructed.

    "One, two, three!" Mercury shouted in quickly, launching forward with explosive speed.

    She took an immediate lead, her legs pumping with remarkable agility. Eratz pushed himself, matching her speed, he was confident in his body to handle this, but as he watched her back he realized that it was taking longer to catch up with her.

    ''She''s faster than I expected,''

    "Having fun behind?" She called out with a triumphant grin.

    "Not a chance," he retorted, his muscles tensing.

    Minutes stretched into what felt like hours as they navigated the winding forest path.

    Mercury''s speed was impeccable, but Eratz''s endurance kept him close behind.

    From time to time, she would slow down, but once she regained her breath, she left him behind.

    Sweat began to bead on their foreheads, and their breaths came in heavy gasps, yet neither showed signs of giving up.

    Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they reached the clearing once more, panting and drenched in sweat. Mercury stood slightly ahead, her chest heaving.

    "Looks like... My win..."

    Eratz wiped his brow, a mix of frustration and surprise in his eyes.

    Visibly, she seemed more exhausted than him, maybe if the distance was longer he might

    have returned the tables, but he was forced to admit that he got crushed on speed.

    "Don''t get too cocky. Next challenge is mine."

    "Bring it on," she shot back.

    They approached a hefty boulder nestled among the trees. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Let''s see who can lift this the most times."

    Mercury eyed the rock skeptically. "Compensating for something?"

    He chuckled.

    "Yeah, for your little arms."

    She stepped forward, contracting her muscles and showing quite developed biceps and triceps

    "I''ll teach you what ''little arms'' can do."

    Gripping the rough edges, Mercury hoisted the boulder with a grunt. One, two, three lifts, her arms trembled slightly on the fourth. She set it down, shaking out her hands.

    "... Your turn."

    Eratz took her place, confidence surging. He lifted the boulder smoothly. Four, five, six, seven times. He glanced at her with a smug grin.

    "Hm?"

    She rolled her eyes.

    "Don''t strain yourself, King Kong. Why are we even doing this out here when we have perfectly good training facilities back at the agency?"

    "Of course, a loser shouldn''t understand, the forest adds unpredictability. Makes things more interesting."

    - And I can look for my dragon right after you collapse.

    She rolled her eyes.

    "Fine, enjoy it while it lasts. How about an agility race through these trees?"

    Eratz nodded, already moving into position.

    "Ah, bad choice."

    But he soon realized how true that sentence was.

    As they darted through the obstacle course of hard branches and tangled vines, Mercury''s agility shone.

    She weaved through with graceful precision, darting around branches almost without touching them while Eratz pushed his limits, struggling to match her fluid movements.

    "I thought I was the monkey?!" he called out, trying to mask his frustration.

    "Aw, are you angry?"

    He frowned, frustration creeping in.

    ''How is she better at something I practice every day? How strong is she?''

    After that, They approached a narrow stream with a slippery log stretched across it.

    "The worst of us lose," Eratz declared.

    Mercury stepped onto the log with confident balance. Eratz followed, his strong body easily maintaining his stance.

    Minutes passed as they maintained their balance through the pressure. Eratz felt a slight

    wobble but managed to steady himself.

    Mercury noticed it smirked, but then her foot slipped, and she plunged into the cold water, bumping into him and sending him under in the process.

    They emerged dripping wet, gasping for breath.

    "It should count as a penalty for me," Eratz groaned, rubbing his head.

    "Alright... now I''m really going to crush you... Why are we even the only ones suffering? Let''s

    call our beasts too," Mercury replied.

    "... Yeah, let''s make them feel that too. For the next challenges, our beasts participate too and

    if they win, we get some points," Eratz agreed.

    "Good for me," Mercury said, wiping water from her face.

    Eratz reached out telepathically to his Thunder Lycaon, who was watching over Milo and

    Colin with a vigilant eye.

    "Lycaon, join us. Aetheri, you take the watch," he commanded.

    The beast responded with a powerful growl, reaching them instantly in a flash of electricity crackling along its fur.

    Mercury closed her eyes briefly, then extended her hand. From a swirling vortex of water and light emerged a magnificent creature, a Seraphim Panther.

    Its sleek, midnight-blue fur was interwoven with patterns that glowed like constellations. Feathered wings arched gracefully from its back, shimmering with iridescent colors.

    Eratz''s jaw dropped.

    "A Celestial Panther?"

    She smiled proudly.

    "Meet my other baby, Nebula."

    They turned to their beasts.

    "You''re participating too. It will be your training. Fight until this bird begs her master for a

    break," Eratz roared to the Lycaon.

    Mercury clenched her fist in front of Nebula''s head.

    "Show him how we treat pests like him. I want you to turn this dog into jelly!"

    The two beasts exchanged a glance, a mixture of incomprehension and slight exasperation.

    They knew their masters well and understood that it wasn''t wise to disobey.

    As the training intensified, Eratz and Mercury continued their fierce competition, their taunts

    sharp and filled with determination.

    "Break a leg!" Eratz laughed.

    "Fat chance," Mercury shouted back.

    They continued to trade challenges, with every taunt and comeback, the tension between them growing palpable. It wasn''t a training anymore, but a competition.

    They squared off, muscles tense and minds focused. The forest around them seemed to fade, leaving only the charged atmosphere between them.

    They moved simultaneously, trading swift strikes and agile blocks. Every time their hands brushed or their bodies collided, a spark of electric tension passed between them.

    Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world stood still.

    Eratz felt his heart race as Mercury''s movements became more fluid, matching his every

    move.

    He could see her moves, he could pass through them, but she always managed to block him, and in opposite, Mercury''s touch always grazed Eratz''s skin, but only when he pared her.

    They continued, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, each push and parry drawing them closer. Their skins brushed, their breath mixed, spicy, intoxicating their lungs.

    The temperature kept rising, the heart beat faster, stronger. The forest echoed with their exertion, their voices mixing with the sounds of nature around them.

    Finally, in a burst of energy, they both lunged towards each other, colliding mid-air.

    The impact sent them crashing back into the clearing, landing side by side, completely

    exhausted.

    Their breaths came in heavy gasps, bodies drenched in sweat, hair sticking to their flushed

    skin.

    Milo and Colin rushed over, worry etched on their faces.

    "Are you okay?" Colin asked, eyes wide with concern.

    Eratz and Mercury lay on the ground, struggling to move but unable to stop laughing.

    "We''re fine," Eratz panted, his chest heaving. "Just... Dying."

    Mercury nodded, trying to catch her breath.

    "Holy... Crap." Milo looked between them, still anxious. "All these noises, it was you?! I was getting scared

    here!"

    Eratz chuckled, Mercury laughed lightly, keeping her eyes shut.

    As night began to fall, Milo started to panic, the shadows growing longer around them.

    "W-What are we going to do? It''s getting dark! The monster of the night will come eat us!"

    Colin tried to calm him down with a worried look.

    "We... uh... they''re too tired... We have to do something ourselves... Oh, I know, Let''s set up camp here."

    Milo huffed, his eyes wide with worry. "Here? In the monsters'' home?!"

    Colin patted Eratz and Mercury''s head, her expression turning serious.

    "Milo, we have to, it''s our turn to help our big brother and sister."

    Eratz and Mercury remained on the ground, barely able to move, their bodies intertwined

    slightly from their exhausting battle.

    Their outfits were torn and dirty, sweat glistening on their skin in the fading light.

    In this sorry state, none of them was able to move and Colin quite grasped it.

    "Milo, grab those logs over there. We''ll need more firewood. I''ll handle the tents. Let''s finish

    before the monst... Before it''s night."

    Milo reluctantly nodded, still looking worried.

    "Okay, but what''s about the monster of the night inside the tent?"

    "Move it, slowpoke!"

    Unaware of Eratz and Mercury''s monsters watching in the shadow, Milo hurried and rushed

    everywhere, grabbing wood, while Colin picked the tent and realized as she took the notice that she didn''t know how to read, yet.

 Chapter 36: Streams of Trust

    Chapter 36: Streams of TrustThe inside of the tent was quiet.

    Eratz stirred, feeling the warmth of bodies pressed against him on either side. He blinked sleepily, realizing that Milo and Colin were snuggled up between him and Mercury.

    Colin''s small hand was resting on his chest, and Milo was curled up close to Mercury, their peaceful expressions making him smile.

    Carefully, he shifted, trying not to disturb the stillness of the morning. The tent felt warm, too warm after everything they had been through yesterday.

    As he gently moved Colin''s hand and slipped out of the tent, he was greeted by the cool dawn air. The sky above was a deep blue, just starting to lighten with the new day.

    He stretched, letting the crisp air wash over him, when he heard a soft sound from behind. Turning, he saw Mercury emerging from the tent, her blue hair tousled, and her eyes still half-lidded from sleep.

    "Morning," she whispered, her voice soft and sweet, careful not to shatter the quiet peace that surrounded them.

    "Morning," Eratz replied, matching her soft tone.

    Mercury stretched, rolling her shoulders as she glanced toward the kids still sleeping inside.

    "Guess we pushed ourselves too much yesterday and they had to take care of everything. That was careless of us."

    Eratz chuckled lightly, rubbing the back of his neck.

    "Yeah, we should thanks them properly. let''s start by a good breakfast."

    She glanced down at her dirty and torn clothes and laughed softly.

    "Before that, we''re a little messy. How about we clean up first? There''s this stream nearby." "Good idea."

    They quietly slipped away, careful not to wake Milo and Colin.

    As they walked through the forest toward the stream, the early morning light began to filter through the trees, casting a soft glow over everything.

    The silence between them wasn''t uncomfortable, yet, there was a need to empty something from the chest.

    "This is nice," Eratz said after a while, breaking the silence. "Being out here with you guys... it feels different. In a good way."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, glancing at him with a curious smile. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Hm? Different how?"

    "I''ve always been used to doing things alone. I train with my monsters, then I hunt. This is how I was planning my time here... but I didn''t expect to enjoy being part of a group again. You, Milo, Colin, I''m really enjoying this."

    Mercury''s smile softened.

    "I get that," she said quietly. "I''ve always been used to doing things alone too, but it''s good to try new things from time to time. We''re beast masters, we have different knowledges, so we always need someone to improve, it''s our nature. For example, if it wasn''t for you, I think Milo would have been a lost case."

    Eratz glanced at her, noting the shift in her tone.

    "What do you mean?"

    She hesitated, her eyes fixed ahead as they walked.

    "Milo... Milo''s all I have. My mother died when I was young, and our father... well, he''s alive, but he''s the biggest piece of shit in the world. He kept fooling around, never caring for us. One day, Milo''s mother got fed up and threw him at us, but since this bitch is too dumb to listen, she ignored that our father wasn''t even in town anymore. I''ve been the one taking care of us since he was little."

    Eratz listened, his brow furrowing slightly. He hadn''t known this part of her story, and it hit him differently, hearing the weight she carried.

    "My chance was that I was a little good at taming monsters, I met Zara one day during a hunt and she invited me, and thanks to her and madam Victoria I could offer us a little decent life. The agency saved our life, so I''ll do anything to never see it crumble. I really want to make us the best, so I train Milo too so he will someday be independent... well, I tried... but I''ve never been able to be hard on him during training," her voice became softer. "I''m too attached. I love him too much to push him like he needs. That''s why... that''s why I''m glad you''re here, Eratz. You''re doing what I couldn''t. Training him the way he needs, pushing him beyond his limits. I can''t tell you how much it means to me."

    Eratz was quiet for a moment, his chest tightening at the sincerity in her voice. "I didn''t know you had it that hard... you''re doing an amazing job. Milo''s lucky to have you, you know that?"

    She shook her head, though a small smile tugged at her lips.

    "Maybe. But I want him to have a future. I want him to be okay, and that''s why I''m working so hard, to make enough money to give him that. All I care about is him and the agency."

    Eratz stopped walking for a second, taking in the strength behind her words. "That''s something that deserves respect," he said, meeting her gaze. "Now it''s very personal, Milo''s going to be just fine, you have my word, and I don''t know how it''s gonna be in real matches but I''ll put my all for the agency."

    Her smile brightened for a moment.

    "You better, it''s going to be three times funnier with you around."

    As they continued toward the stream, Eratz spoke about his own story, from Geneva, with the betrayal of his friends, to his parents ditching him.

    Mercury looked over at Eratz, then, seeing no shade of hate in his face, she had a genuine smile.

    "You know, I admire how you''re handling all of this. Normally people would seek for revenge, become evil... but you... you''re just ready to take on the future after everything you''ve been through.. That''s not something a lot of people can do."

    Eratz met her gaze.

    "It''s not easy, but... I''ve got people who saved me. My uncle, my aunt, Colin... they gave me a reason to keep going. Now, I want to take the world for them, and for the agency."

    Mercury nodded.

    "Well, this will be our new goal in life, we will reach the top for our loved ones."

    They smiled at each other, the bond between them stronger than ever as they could hear the

    stream.

    When they reached the edge of the water, the sound of the flowing current was soothing, and the light sparkled off the surface. Mercury stretched again, groaning softly.

    "Finally. I can''t stand being this dirty."

    Eratz laughed, starting to take off his shirt.

    "This is why I always bring another shirt with me "

    Mercury, halfway through pulling off her tank top, glanced at him with a teasing smile.

    "So... You''ve already seen me naked once, so you definitely don''t feel too shy about this,

    right?"

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head as he remembered that awkward moment. "Honestly? I barely remember. I was too focused on tracking down that damn Terrakrus."

    Her expression shifted from playful to intrigued.

    "Terrakrus? A real terrakrus?! When? Where? You''ve seen one?"

    Eratz nodded, tossing his shirt aside and stepping into the stream.

    "Yeah. Came across one not too long ago. Big, powerful... The first monster to have escaped

    me. I want to hunt it down."

    Mercury''s eyes widened slightly as she waded into the water beside him. "That''s... impressive. You know how dangerous those things are, right? Where the heck did you see

    one?"

    "Not too far from where I met you," Eratz said, running his hands through the water. "And I know how powerful it is, that''s precisely why I need it... It''s not just about the power, though. There''s something about it that calls to me."

    Mercury studied him for a moment, then, after hesitation, her lowered while her eyes stayed

    on him.

    "So that they you were really after something like this..."

    "Yeah... In fact ... I chose the forest to hunt him. I''ve been keeping it to myself, I didn''t want

    to bring anyone else into it. Sorry."

    She observed him for a moment with big eyes, then slowly, she processed his intentions. Her

    gaze became calmer.

    "... You''re really crazy, I''ll give you that... But don''t worry, it''s your prey, I won''t interfere...

    Say, you should go after it once we''re done training."

    Eratz blinked, surprised by her words. "Really? That''s all?"

    She laughed softly, splashing a little water in his direction.

    "Yes, you though I would try to steal it from you? I need you to be at your best for the agency.

    It''s your hunt, I would like to see you succeed."

    Eratz shook his head, a grin spreading across his face.

    "You''re full of surprises, you know that?"

    She smirked.

    "Gotta keep you on your toes, but I really hate that you took me for a thief."

    Before he could say anything else, she gave him a playful shove, sending him splashing into

    the water.

    He resurfaced, sputtering and laughing, and before long, she jumped in after him, both of them caught up in the moment.

    Their laughter echoed through the forest, mixing with the sounds of the stream as they shared in a special, lighthearted moment.

 Chapter 37: Terrakrus

    Chapter 37: TerrakrusAs the day pursued, Colin and Milo dove into their training. Eratz kept a watchful eye on them, ensuring they pushed themselves without overdoing it.

    Milo, ever eager, bounced between instructions, constantly distracted by every rustle in the forest, but despite his wild energy, he had shown improvement in channeling the power of his light fairies, though he still struggled to stay focused.

    Colin remained calm, her movements precise. Her connection with the fire spirit was almost instinctive now, the flames swirling around her effortlessly and now Eratz commanded her to do physical exercises in this state.

    In the afternoon, it was time for Eratz and Mercury to go through their fitness regimen.

    Although they didn''t push themselves as hard as the day before, the competition between them was still present.

    The playful taunts, subtle smirks, and stolen glances carried the challenge, but not as intense than the previous day.

    Both of them knew the real intensity lay ahead so they made sure to not go overboard.

    As evening descended, the air thickened, Mercury stood beside Eratz as he strapped on his gear, checking his equipment with quiet focus.

    Colin and Milo, after their training, approached him, their wide eyes full of wonder.

    "Good luck, big brother," Colin whispered softly, tugging at his sleeve.

    "Yeah... Good luck... all alone in the forest... during night... Don''t get eaten by a monster or something..." Milo added with a mischievous grin.

    Eratz chuckled, ruffling their hair gently.

    "I have your smell over my feet, boy, if I fall, you will fall too."

    While Milo''s grin disappeared, Eratz turned to Mercury, who stood with arms crossed, her sharp blue eyes locking onto his.

    "Bring it home, show that Terrakrus what we''re made of. we''re waiting for good news."

    "I will," Eratz replied with a smile. "I''ll bring it back."

    Mercury gave him a firm pat on the shoulder, and with their words in his heart and a final nod to the group, Eratz set out, the forest stretching out before him.

    His senses sharpened as he began retracing the path he had taken before, relying on the Aetheri''s power to guide him.

    The dense trees became familiar markers, the energy showed an invisible path.

    As he moved deeper, the surroundings shifted. The trees grew sparser, the terrain more jagged. He crossed streams, climbed rocky hills, and descended into narrow paths that seemed to lead into darkness.

    The faint hum of the aetheri''s energy pulsed at the edge of his consciousness, guiding him like a compass further toward his destination.

    Time slipped by as the day faded into twilight. The forest took on an dark glow, and shadows stretched long across the ground.

    The path ahead was no longer clear, but Eratz''s connection with the aetheri gave him the clarity he needed.

    It wasn''t just about his physical surroundings anymore, it was about the invisible threads of energy, the pulse of life deep within the earth, and the unmistakable presence of the Terrakrus.

    After what felt like hours of tracking, Eratz finally reached the entrance of the cave, the same one he had discovered before.

    The stone entrance loomed before him, dark and unwelcoming.

    His heart pounded in his chest as he stepped forward, the air around him thick with tension.

    The aetheri''s power hummed more intensely now, the sense of danger growing stronger with each step.

    He used another layer of the aetheri''s abilities once more, closing his eyes and focusing on the energy within the cave.

    The monster had a soil ability, so if he couldn''t see it where the eyes could reach, he should try where the earth could go.

    It was difficult, more difficult than he expected. Eratz''s brow furrowed as he struggled to connect with the ground, his mind pushing through layers of cold, soil and hard stone.

    The deeper he tried to reach, the more resistance he encountered. It was as though the earth was protected by a shield he had to break with his mind to find the creature''s location.

    His breath came in ragged pulls as he concentrated harder, sweat trickling down the side of his face.

    Slowly, carefully, he extended his reach further into the earth, feeling the cold stone, the rough texture of the walls, the emptiness of the cavern beyond.

    And then, there it was.

    The Terrakrus.

    A wave of raw power hit Eratz like a physical blow. His breath caught in his throat as his mind touched the presence of the creature far below.

    It was waiting, as it always had been, formidable, still, exuding a strength so overwhelming that Eratz could feel it vibrating through the very ground beneath his feet.

    His pulse quickened, a rush of adrenaline surging through him.

    "It''s really here... after all this time... I wasn''t wrong."

    A mix of joy and relief washed over him, his heart pounding with intensity.

    He had a chance. He had finally found it after all this time. The beast that had haunted him, the creature that had consumed his thought since their first encounter. The Terrakrus was alive, and it was right beneath him.

    But his elation quickly turned to frustration. The Terrakrus was too far below for him to reach. The cavern stretched deep into the earth, and there was no clear way down.

    How was he supposed to get to it? How could he seize this opportunity if the dragon remained out of reach?

    His mind raced, searching for a solution. And then, like a flash of inspiration, it came to him.

    Suddenly, the pieces clicked into place. The aetheri. He had been using it to guide him, but it was capable of more than that.

    It could manipulate space, it could teleport him, the same way it did when he first fought the

    Terrakrus.

    A thrill shot through him like lightning. This was it, this was how he would reach the

    Terrakrus.

    Eratz drew in a deep breath, steadying his nerves. He closed his eyes once more and focused all his energy into the aetheri.

    The power surged through him, wrapping around his body like a second skin.

    He visualized the cavern deep below, the place where the Terrakrus waited. He could feel the location as though he were already there, the cold air, the weight of the stone, the oppressive presence of the dragon.

    The world around him began to blur, his surroundings growing faint as the energy twisted and shifted. He felt his body lift, his connection with the earth pulling at him like gravity

    reversing itself.

    And then, with a sharp pulse of energy, the teleportation happened.

    The world vanished in an instant. For a brief moment, everything was silent.

    And then, just as suddenly, the ground returned beneath his feet.

    Eratz opened his eyes. He stood in a vast, dark cavern, the air cold and thick with moisture. The sound of dripping water echoed faintly through the space, the only noise breaking the

    heavy silence.

    His vision adjusted to the dim light, it was pitch black, but thanks to his connection with his monsters, he had access to a sample of night vision, and as he scanned the cavern, his gaze

    locked onto a shadow at the far end of the chamber.

    The Terrakrus.

    There it was, towering, magnificent, far more imposing than even Eratz had remembered.

    Its black scales shimmered faintly in the dim light, their surface like polished stone. Every muscle in its enormous body was coiled with power, standing on two legs, thick and strong, Its dark, rocky hide has a texture like polished obsidian, marked with veins of earth-

    colored streaks.

    The dragon''s eyes burned like molten gold, locked onto him with an intensity that made the cavern feel small and suffocating.

    Eratz''s heart pounded in his chest. This wasn''t just a beast. This was a force of nature, a sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    creature of pure power.

    Every inch of it exuded dominance, its mere presence overwhelming, casting a pressure over

    the cavern that seemed to swallow everything else.

    For a moment, Eratz was frozen in place, unable to move as he took in the sight of the

    Terrakrus.

    The beast he had been hunting, the one that had consumed his thoughts, was finally standing

    before him.

    The enormity of the moment hit him like a truck, this was it. His chance, his obsession, his

    hunt, everything had led him to this.

    His red eyes sparkled.

    With a quiet breath, Eratz took his first step forward.

 Chapter 38: Primeval

    Chapter 38: PrimevalThe cave roared to life as the first strike landed.

    Eratz and the Terrakrus moved at each other with a force that shook the ground beneath their

    feet.

    The black dragon''s claws scraped the stone, leaving deep gashes in the rock as it lunged.

    Its glowing amber eyes locked onto Eratz with deadly intent, but Eratz was already moving, lightning crackling at his fingertips.

    He met the dragon''s attack head-on.

    With a savage roar, Eratz slammed his fist into the Terrakrus''s claw, his punch crackling with electricity.

    The force of the impact sent a shockwave through the cave, rocks crumbling from the ceiling as the two collided.

    The ground beneath them trembled, and a crater formed where their powers met.

    Eratz was pushed back a few steps, his muscles tense, but he refused to yield. A grin spread across his face as the excitement surged through him.

    The primal part of him, the beast within his blood, bursted in full force.

    His red eyes glowed brighter, and the thrill of the fight sent adrenaline flooding through his veins.

    "Come on!" he roared, summoning his beasts.

    All materialized from the shadows, covering the cavern, their eyes glowing with the same fierce energy that pulsed through their master.

    They charged at the Terrakrus, a whirlwind of claws, fangs, and fury.

    But the dragon was relentless. With a swing of its tail, it obliterated the weakest beasts, sending them crashing into the cavern walls.

    The Vulpans leapt at its face, biting at its scales, but the Terrakrus let out a pulse of aura that knocked them back like ragdolls.

    The flying monsters, though fast, were no match for the dragon''s powerful claws, which crushed them with ease.

    Each time Eratz''s beasts fell, they dissolved into shadows, retreating back into Eratz''s shadow, only to be summoned again.

    He felt their energy surging through him, fueling his every move, his attack.

    He was becoming more animal by the second, his movements sharp and predatory, his senses heightened to an almost painful degree.

    The Terrakrus responded in kind, its eyes flaring as it released a deep, growl.

    It raised its massive tail and brought it down with a thunderous crash, causing a tremor that rippled through the cave floor.

    The ground beneath Eratz''s feet cracked and split, sending shards of rock flying through the air.

    But Eratz wasn''t fazed. He dashed forward, dodging the falling debris with lightning speed, his body a blur of movement.

    With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a fire ball and hurled it at the Terrakrus, the flames igniting the dark cavern in a bright light.

    The dragon roared as the flames collided with its scales, scorching the stone-like armor.

    It staggered back but retaliated immediately, stomping the ground and creating a localized earthquakes.

    The cavern shook violently, and jagged spikes of rock shot up from the floor, aiming to impale Eratz.

    Eratz leaped into the air, flipping over the rock spires, his body moving with an animalistic grace.

    The Terrakrus charged again, its maw opening wide as it unleashed a molten rock breath, the air around them boiling from the heat.

    Eratz crossed his arms, summoning a shield of lightning, fire and light to block the oncoming onslaught.

    The molten rock splashed against the barrier, sizzling and hissing as the two forces clashed violently.

    Eratz dropped the shield and charged forward, his fist sparking with electricity.

    As he closed the distance between them, he slammed his lightning-charged fist into the Terrakrus''s chest, the impact sending another shockwave through the cavern.

    The dragon let out a bellow of rage as the lightning coursed through its body, causing its scales to crack and fracture.

    The ground beneath them quaked, the cave beginning to crumble under the weight of their battle.

    Massive boulders fell from above, but Eratz and the Terrakrus paid them no mind. They were locked in a dance of destruction, each blow they exchanged shaking the very earth around them.

    Eratz''s beasts re-emerged from the shadows, attacking in unison. The Thunder lycaon moved with blinding speed, weaving between the Terrakrus''s legs.

    The Vulpans lunged at its neck, their jaws snapping with deadly precision. The insectoids swarmed its wings, trying to tear at the membranes.

    But the Terrakrus fought back with equal ferocity. It slammed its tail into the ground, sending a shockwave that threw Eratz''s beasts into the air.

    It stomped the earth, causing fissures to open beneath their feet, swallowing them whole. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Yet each time they fell, they returned, undeterred, their loyalty to Eratz unwavering. Blood and sweat dripped from Eratz''s body, his chest heaving with exertion, but his eyes burned with the same fiery determination.

    He was relentless, every muscle in his body tensing as he prepared for another attack.

    He could feel the primal energy building within him, a power that made him feel invincible.

    The Terrakrus reared back, raising both claws high above its head, and slammed them down toward Eratz with a thunderous crash.

    Eratz crossed his arms, his aura flaring with a mix of lightning and fire, catching the blow with everything he had.

    The force of the attack sent shockwaves rippling through the cavern, cracks spider-webbing across the walls as rocks fell from above like rain.

    The beast roared, a deep, earthen growl that shook the air. Eratz felt the ground tremble beneath his feet, the sheer might of the dragon pressing down on him.

    But he refused to back down.

    With a guttural roar, he pushed back with all his strength, forcing the Terrakrus off balance.

    He jumped into the air, summoning a whirlwind of flames around him as he dove toward the dragon. His fist ignited with a powerful flame, and he brought it crashing down on like a hammer on the Terrakrus''s head.

    The explosion of fire rocked the cavern, sending molten rock spraying in every direction. The dragon roared in pain, staggering back as flames licked at its scales.

    But the Terrakrus was far from finished. It unleashed its full power, slamming its claws into the ground and releasing a devastating earthquake that shook the entire cavern.

    Massive pillars of rock erupted from the ground, crashing into the walls and ceiling.

    The cavern shook violently, stones crashing from the ceiling as the earth groaned under the

    pressure of the battle.

    Eratz barely had time to brace himself before the Terrakrus lunged forward with a guttural roar, its massive claws slashing through the air.

    He ducked, just in time, as the claws scraped the rocks, sending shards flying.

    Without missing a beat, Eratz surged forward, his fist crackling with raw lightning. He

    slammed it into the Terrakrus''s chest with a sickening thud.

    The force of the blow sent shockwaves through the cave, the lightning searing the beast''s scales. The dragon flinched, but its amber eyes blazed with fury.

    Before Eratz could react, the Terrakrus struck back, its powerful claws raking across his chest.

    The impact was brutal, like a hammer against steel. Eratz staggered but didn''t fall. Instead, he roared in defiance and leaped at the beast, fists blazing with energy.

    They collided in a chaotic frenzy of fists and claws, the raw power of their strikes causing the very ground beneath them to tremble.

    Eratz''s punches crackled with lightning, shattering the rocks around them with every blow, while the Terrakrus retaliated with devastating swipes that shook the earth, miniature earthquakes radiating from each strike.

    The cavern echoed with the sounds of their battle, the violent clash of flesh against scale, the roar of energy and force as they tore into each other.

    Blood splattered the ground as Eratz landed a vicious kicks to the side of the Terrakrus''s jaw, the lightning in his fist exploding with force, causing the beast to stagger.

    But the dragon responded in kind, whipping its massive tail into Eratz''s side, sending him crashing into a wall with chilling noise.

    Rocks crumbled around him, but he pushed himself out of the rubble, eyes blazing.

    His body felt like it was on fire, his instincts were at their peak.

    He wasn''t done yet. He launched himself back at the Terrakrus, his fists and feet a blur as he

    attacked with a savagery that matched the dragon''s own.

    They were no longer man and beast, they were two forces of nature locked in a brutal,

    unrelenting struggle for dominance.

    Each punch, each slash tore through the air with the force of a hurricane. The Terrakrus''s

    claws dug into Eratz''s flesh, but each time it did, Eratz returned the blow tenfold, his lightning punches sending waves of destruction across the cavern.

    The two of them became a whirlwind of destruction, neither willing to back down, neither

    willing to give an inch.

    The Terrakrus roared and charged, its massive body barreling into Eratz, slamming him to the

    ground with crushing force.

    The impact left a crater beneath him, but Eratz roared in return, grabbing the dragon by its horns and smashing his forehead into its skull, sending a burst of lightning crackling through its body, again and again, each headbutt with a more violent intensity.

    They were locked in a savage melee, neither gaining the upper hand. It was chaos, a primal

    dance of power and destruction.

    Each blow they traded shook the cavern, the ground splitting and crumbling beneath them as

    they fought with everything they had.

    But then, something inside Eratz shifted.

    As he crashed once again, he could feel a change, a deep, calm energy awakening within him.

    It wasn''t just his connection to his beasts or the power of his spirit. It was something deeper,

    something more radiant.

    The aetheri.

    He could feel its energy coursing through him, intertwining with his own. His senses sharpened, his mind clearing as the world around him seemed to slow.

    He could feel the flow of energy in the cavern, the pulse of the earth, the rhythm of the

    Terrakrus''s movements.

    And then, the energy surged.

    The aetheri''s power exploded out of him in a white and pink storm, the calm center of a storm

    that swept through the entire cavern.

    It washed over the Terrakrus, over the rocks, over the earth. The air around him grew still, the

    sound of the battle fading into the background.

    Eratz felt no pain, no exhaustion, only a deep sense of calm. His connection to the aetheri had reached a new level. He understood everything now.

    Every breath, every movement, every pulse of energy around him was clear.

    He reached out with his hand, and a brilliant light began to form at his fingertips.

    It was pure, concentrated energy, swirling with the power of the aetheri and his own spiritual

    force.

    The light grew brighter, more intense, until it became a white and pink aura covering his

    hand.

    Eratz''s eyes burned with resolve as he pointed his fingers at the Terrakrus.

    The dragon roared, sensing the incoming attack, but it was too late. With a roar of his own, Eratz released the energy. The beam shot forward, a brilliant column

    of light that tore through the air, crashing into the Terrakrus with the force of a thousand

    storm.

    The cave shook violently, the walls crumbling under the sheer power of the attack.

    The Terrakrus let out one final roar before the energy consumed it, its massive body glowing

    with the light of the beam.

    And then, silence.

    The cave was still, the air thick with the scent of smoke and earth. Eratz stood in the center of

    the destruction, his body trembling from the exertion, but his heart steady.

 Chapter 39: Man of Steel

    Chapter 39: Man of SteelThe cave was still shaking as the battle came to a close. Dust and debris hung in the air, illuminated by the soft glow of Eratz''s aura.

    The Terrakrus lay on the ground, its massive body heaving with labored breaths.

    The powerful beam of white and pink energy had struck the creature, leaving cracks and scorched marks across its rocky hide.

    Eratz stood across from it, his own body trembling from the exertion. Blood trickled down his face, matting his white hair, and his muscles screamed with exhaustion, but he didn''t waver. His aura, now calmer and more radiant, wrapped around him like a protective cocoon.

    He felt different, his senses sharper, his body covered in light that flickered like embers. His form was marked by heavenly symbols, glowing softly on his skin. This was the beastification with the aetheri.

    He felt not just stronger, but enlightened, as though a new layer of understanding had awakened inside him.

    Beside him, the aetheri stood taller than before.

    Its new form was humanoid, its mystical figure glowing with the same serene light as Eratz.

    The creature had evolved, its body slender and elegant.

    Its limbs were long, almost graceful, and it floated effortlessly just above the ground, emitting an aura of tranquility.

    Eratz glanced at the aetheri, amazed by its transformation.

    "You''ve changed..." he whispered.

    The creature turned its head slightly, meeting his gaze with soft, glowing eyes. It nodded once, its power now fully in sync with Eratz.

    Together, they faced the Terrakrus, ready for whatever came next.

    The Terrakrus, weakened and battered, lifted its head slowly. Its amber eyes still burned with defiance, but it was clear the fight had drained it. Eratz tightened his fists, ready to strike again if needed.

    His aura flared brighter, the symbols on his skin glowing in unison with the aetheri''s radiant light.

    "Whenever you want." Eratz called out, his voice calm but firm.

    The tension in the air was palpable, the entire cave was holding its breath.

    For a moment, the Terrakrus seemed to consider it. Its massive body shifted as it tried to lift itself up.

    But then, with a low, rumbling growl, the creature lowered its head and let its body fall to the ground, as though it had finally admitted defeat. Its claws dug into the earth, and it laid still, breathing heavily.

    Eratz exhaled deeply, relief washing over him. The beast had surrendered, the fight was over. His shoulders relaxed, but only slightly.

    He stepped forward, reaching out with his spiritual pressure, letting it cover the Terrakrus like a blanket.

    The power flowed from him, surrounding the fallen dragon as he prepared to absorb it.

    The process was slow, but steady, the Terrakrus''s energy seeping into him as it became a part of his growing strength.

    Once it was done, Eratz stood there for a moment, his body still trembling from the intensity of the battle.

    Blood coated him from head to toe, so much so that he had to close one eye, but there was a smile on his face. He had won. He had tamed the Terrakrus.

    He glanced over at the aetheri, who gave him a solemn nod, then began to fade back into his shadow, returning to its place of rest.

    "Thank you," Eratz whispered, his voice barely audible.

    He then turned to the cavern, feeling the presence of all his other beasts, and with a hoarse voice, he spoke again.

    "Thank you all. You fought well.... you, too," he added, directing his words at the Terrakrus inside him.

    The light around him began to dim as his aura faded away, leaving him in his normal form. He felt the weight of exhaustion hit him like a truck. His body swayed, his knees buckling slightly.

    Blood still dripped from his brow, his vision blurring. For a moment, he felt like he was going to fall, to collapse under the weight of it all.

    But then, with a groan, he planted his foot forward, stomping hard into the ground, using the last of his strength to steady himself.

    A thought burned in his mind, Mercury, Colin, Milo. They were waiting for him. He fell that if fell now, he would be done for the night, and they''d be worried sick. He couldn''t do that to

    them.

    He gritted his teeth, forcing himself to stand tall, to not let the exhaustion win.

    His breathing was labored, his muscles screamed, but he refused to give in. He couldn''t afford to collapse, not now.

    Drawing on the remaining power of the aetheri, Eratz closed his eyes and concentrated. He could feel the energy swirling within him, weak but still there.

    He tapped into it, summoning the aetheri''s power one last time. The air around him shimmered, and with a final push of willpower, he teleported.

    Rain poured heavily over the forest, turning the ground to mud and filling the air with the steady patter of droplets.

    The sound was almost deafening, but it only added to the tension in the small camp where Mercury, Colin, and Milo waited.

    The tent barely held up against the downpour, the fabric sagging under the weight of the water.

    Inside, Colin and Milo sat in silence, their anxious faces illuminated only by the occasional flash of lightning.

    Colin hugged her knees to her chest, her eyes fixed on the ground, while Milo fidgeted nervously, stealing glances at the tent''s entrance.

    Mercury, on the other hand, sat at the opening, her arms crossed as she stared out into the

    rain.

    Her gaze was distant. Every minute that passed felt like an eternity.

    And suddenly, Her heart skipped a beat.

    Without thinking, she stepped out into the rain, her boots sinking into the mud as she began

    to run.

    The rain was relentless, soaking her to the bone as she splashed through puddles, her feet squelching in the mud.

    Her breaths came in quick bursts, the cold air biting at her skin, but she didn''t slow down.

    Colin and Milo crawled to the tent entrance, exchanging confused looks before they spotted Mercury running off into the rain.

    They peered through the downpour, their hearts racing as they tried to make out what she had

    seen.

    Mercury''s pace slowed as she got closer, her eyes wide, and finally, she stopped. There,

    standing in front of her, was Eratz.

    He was covered in blood, his clothes torn, his white hair clinging to his face, but he was smiling, a tired, crooked smile, but a smile.

    His chest heaved with heavy breaths, and his legs shook, but he was still standing.

    He looked at her, rainwater and blood mixing and dripping from his chin, his good eye

    glinting in the soft light of the storm.

    "Tomorrow''s breakfast... it''s on me," he said, his voice hoarse but playful.

    For a moment, Mercury just stood there, staring at him.

    Her eyes trembled, caught somewhere between a cry and a laugh. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She bit her lip, and let out a choked laugh, her hands trembling as she wiped away the rain and

    tears from her face.

    "You idiot," she whispered, her voice shaky.

    But she smiled, a soft, genuine smile, full of relief and warmth.

 Chapter 40: The N, The M, and D

    Chapter 40: The N, The M, and DThe next day arrived, sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a soft glow over the camp. Eratz was lying down, bandaged and exhausted, trying his best to relax, but the atmosphere around him was tense.

    Mercury knelt beside him, focused on cleaning his wounds. Her movements were a little more aggressive than necessary, the bandage she was wrapping around his chest pulling too tight, causing Eratz to wince.

    "Ow! There was definitely anger there!" Eratz grumbled, shifting uncomfortably as she continued to patch him up.

    "Anger? You think it''s anger? What else did you expect to see?!" she snapped, her voice sharp. "You''re lucky you''re still in one piece! What were you thinking?" She pulled the bandage a little tighter than she should have, making Eratz hiss in pain. "You could''ve died, Eratz. Do you even understand that?"

    He opened his mouth to retort but shut it quickly when he saw the fire in her eyes, but at the same time, he could see her hands tremble as she treated his wounds, and her voice cracked through her harsh words.

    "Look," he started, trying to sound calm despite the stinging pain. "We talked about it, I thought we were ok about what was going to happen."

    Mercury stopped, glaring at him. Her eyes narrowed, and for a moment, Eratz felt the weight of her gaze like a stone pressing on his chest.

    It was a death stare, one that told him he should think very carefully about his next words. "I was an idiot because your words sounded too good, we were ok? About the state you were when you came back?" she repeated, her voice low and dangerous. "Eratz, you were practically bleeding out by the time you got back here! You could have died for something you could have get later! Without accomplishing anything! What''s so hard to understand?!"

    Eratz looked away, embarrassed. He hadn''t realized just how bad it had gotten until he saw the worried expression on her face now. He had been reckless, and it was starting to sink in. "I..." He started to say something, but stopped, unsure of what to even say. Instead, he sighed, letting his body relax against the ground.

    Mercury softened a little, though her frustration still lingered. She sat back, her arms crossed. "You''re lucky," she muttered after a long pause. "I don''t know why I was so worried. It''s not like I care or anything. You just said you''d help me with Milo and the agency. You have responsibilities now, you can''t act selfishly anymore."

    Eratz glanced at her, his eyebrow raised.

    "Technically what I did was for the agency... Now I''m finally complete... Hm... Hey, I feel a little better..."

    Mercury gave him a sidelong look but didn''t answer. She stood up, brushing her hands off, before leaning over him again.

    "Don''t even think about training anytime soon."

    "Just the beastification, I won''t even attack. I just want to see what it feels like with him." Eratz began.

    Her gaze turned icy again, and Eratz immediately regretted his words.

    "What the heck is wrong with you?!" she asked, her tone cold and sharp. "That again? Beastification? Did this thing kicked the brain out of your head?"

    Eratz swallowed hard, his mind scrambling for a way to salvage the conversation. "...Maybe later?"

    Mercury leaned in closer, her face dangerously close to his.

    "I think you have too much dirt stuck in your ears. You''ve won, I''m giving you a bath until your wounds become pink like raw meat."

    Eratz''s eyes widened, and before he could stop himself, he blurted.

    "Why do you always bring naked bath in every subject? You''re a nudist fetishist, or what?"

    Mercury''s eyebrows shot up, her face tensing in indignation.

    "Me? A nudist fetishist? Coming from the guy who keeps getting himself in great pain to feel better? You sure you''re not a masochist?"

    Eratz groaned louder, trying to sit up but immediately getting pushed back down by Mercury. "Down."

    "Stop pushing me around! You''re only enjoying this because I''m too weak to defend myself, and I''m not a masochist, I''m just... committed to training."

    Mercury smirked, her eyes gleaming.

    "Committed to getting yourself hurt more like it. Maybe I should just pin you down and make sure you don''t move for the rest of the day... Or better yet, how about that bath? You''re so weak you can''t even resist me."

    "I swear, if you keep testing me... You''ll be the first victim of that dragon."

    "Please, we both know you will it''s first victim, you maso," Mercury teased, crossing her arms and smirking down at him.

    "At least a maso focus on himself, not like a nudist fetishist looking for naked boys!" Eratz protested, his voice raising in pitch meeting Mercury''s protests..

    Across the camp, Colin and Milo were in the middle of their training but kept stealing glances at the two of them.

    Milo furrowed his brow, clearly confused.

    "What''s a nudist fetishist?" he asked

    Colin, who shrugged.

    "I dunno. What''s a masochist?" she replied, equally puzzled.

    Milo thought for a second, then decided it didn''t matter. His eyes drifted to the massive form

    of the Terrakrus, lying under a tree nearby. He tilted his head, then got an idea.

    "Hey, maybe the dragon knows!"

    "Milo, I don''t think that''s a good idea..." Colin started, but without waiting for her answer, Milo bounded over to the Terrakrus, his hand outstretched as though it were a cute pet he could simply pat on the head.

    In an instant, the dragon''s head whipped around, teeth bared, a low growl rumbling in its

    throat.

    Milo froze, his hand hanging in the air. Before the Terrakrus could lunge, Eratz, still lying down, released a wave of pressure, his aura flaring.

    "Enough!" he commanded, his voice firm despite his exhaustion.

    The pressure from Eratz''s energy filled the camp, and the Terrakrus halted mid-lunge, its glowing amber eyes flickering as it struggled to resist.

    Slowly, it lowered its head, though its body remained tense, like a coiled spring ready to

    strike.

    Eratz sighed, his energy fading.

    "It''s still unstable. I''m too tired to perfectly control it, it''s gonna take a while. Right now, I''m just trying to let it get familiar with me. You all need to keep your distance from it for now."

    Milo stumbled back, his face pale.

    "S-Sorry. I didn''t think it would..."

    "Just listen to Eratz, okay?" Mercury said firmly, looking between Milo and Colin. "Stay away from the dragon until Eratz says it''s ok."

    Colin nodded quickly, her eyes wide as she glanced nervously at the Terrakrus. Milo, still shaken, gave a small nod as well, stepping further back.

    Mercury''s gaze softened as she looked back at Eratz. The aetheri, now in its new, elegant form, floated quietly beside Colin, its serene aura a stark contrast to the tension of the

    terrakrus.

    Mercury murmured, almost to herself.

    "You''re really amazing."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, caught off guard.

    "...? Me, the aetheri''s master or the terrakrus slayer?"

    She smirked, crossing her arms again.

    "I was talking about an idiot. You know, for a reckless, masochistic, you''re very good."

    He chuckled softly, shaking his head.

    "I guess it takes a nudist to see beyond the cover."

    "Little freak, but I''ll let you have it. Taming the Terrakrus? And with that new form your aetheri has taken... You''re not just a fighter, Eratz, You''re a real phenomenon." Eratz''s expression softened, appreciating the rare moment of sincerity from Mercury.

    "Thanks. But, you know, I couldn''t have done it alone. It was a teamwork, my hands did a lot,

    but without my feet it would have been impossible, then my brain enters in action and now

    that''s a different story."

    Mercury punched him lightly on the arm.

    "You''re impossible."

    As the day wound down, the group prepared to leave. The entrance to the forest was bathed in

    the soft, golden and red hues of the setting sun.

    The sky above was streaked with colors that blended beautifully into the horizon, and beyond the trees, the city loomed large, its outline glowing in the fading light.

    Colin and Milo stood at the edge of the forest, looking back toward the camp with a hint of

    sadness in their eyes.

    "Do we really have to leave?" Milo asked, his voice quiet.

    "Yeah," Colin agreed. "I was really having fun... and we''ve gotten stronger here."

    Eratz leaned against Mercury for support, still recovering from his injuries. He chuckled

    softly. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "We''ll come back, next Friday."

    "That''s too long... we can train with you guys at the agency, right?" Milo asked.

    Mercury shook her head.

    "Nope. Without a license, it''d be illegal. You can train at public gyms for physical stuff, but

    those aren''t cheap."

    Colin''s shoulders slumped, but Eratz reached out to ruffle her hair.

    "Don''t worry. We''ll make enough money to fix that soon."

    "And besides," Mercury added with a grin, "we''ll need to come back to the forest often to

    catch more monsters. Your training is just beginning."

    The kids'' spirits lifted a bit, and after a few more goodbyes, they all began to leave the forest.

    But just as they were walking away, Mercury froze, her eyes wide with sudden realization.

    "Wait!" she called out, turning toward Eratz. "I don''t have your contact info!"

    Eratz blinked, confused.

    "Contact info?"

    "Your phone number, give it to me."

    Eratz scratched the back of his head sheepishly.

    "Uh... a phone... You mean these things with many zeros in their price?"

    Mercury stared at him for a moment before bursting into laughter.

    "Wait... You don''t have a phone? You''ve got to be kidding me!"

    He crossed his arms, looking away.

    "No, and why the laugh? I have a pigeon, He''s more reliable, except during mating season,

    but I don''t need to charge him."

    She continued laughing, wiping a tear from her eye.

    "Ok, ok, you''re killing me... You got a terrakrus but no phone... That''s crazy. Let''s get you one

    after your first match."

    The group continued toward the city as the golden hues of the sunset slowly gave way to

    twilight, leaving the peaceful forest behind them.

    Meanwhile, in the distance, the rumbling noise of a grand arena echoed through the streets of

    Grushia, where another kind of battle was about to begin.

    The tournament had begun.

 Chapter 41: Beasts Masters Challenge

    Chapter 41: Beasts Masters ChallengeThe morning air was crisp as Eratz stood outside the grand arena, its towering structure looming over him.

    Today was the big day, the day of his first official match as a professional Beast Master.

    The arena, the one he had passed during his selection process, was now where he was supposed to register for his first match.

    His chest was beating faster as he stared up at the enormous building. It felt almost like a dream.

    He took a deep breath and walked toward the service entrance behind the arena.

    The entrance was nothing fancy, just a small door tucked away in the shadows of the massive structure, although, as he stepped inside, it was like entering a different world.

    The buzz of excitement and energy surrounded him, and the sound of footsteps echoed off the polished floors.

    The hallway was lined with doors leading to various rooms, and the scent of disinfectant and polished metal filled the air.

    It was like a stadium''s locker room, the kind athletes would pass through before stepping onto the field, except this time, the athletes were Beast Masters, and the field was a battleground where monsters clashed.

    He approached the first checkpoint where a staff member stood behind a small desk. With a nod, he presented his Beast Master card, a simple, rectangular card with his name and registration number.

    The staff member gave it a quick glance and motioned for him to proceed.

    Inside, the interior opened up into a wide space, and Eratz''s eyes widened as he took it all in.

    It was a massive sport zone, bustling with activity. Beast Masters of all ages and ranks moved around, some in deep conversation while others checked their equipment or were sitting nervously.

    The sound of monsters growling, roaring, and chirping echoed through the air. Large, hovering screens displayed ongoing matches in other arenas, and vendors sold snacks, drinks, and merchandise in a small corner.

    To his left, he spotted another staff zone, where Beast Masters registered for their matches.

    He approached the counter, where a middle-aged woman in a sharp uniform looked up from her monitor.

    "Can I help you?" she asked.

    "I''d like to register for my match," Eratz said, holding out his card.

    The woman scanned the card and nodded.

    "You''re scheduled for a match at 10:30 AM," she confirmed. "Level 1, single match."

    Eratz paused, glancing at the time on a large clock above the entrance, it was only 8:30 AM.

    "Excuse me, I''m new with this system. Why 10:30 AM? Also is it possible to participate in more than one match today?"

    The woman raised an eyebrow, slightly amused.

    "The slots are booked until 10 am, so you can''t battle before. At Level 1, you''re only allowed one match every ten hours, and the arena closes at 9 PM, so at most, you could squeeze in two matches per day."

    Eratz took a little time to consider this.

    "Hm... Okay, then I''d like to register for a match at 6 PM too."

    The woman typed quickly into the system and nodded.

    "You''re all set. Two matches for today, 10:30 AM and 8:30 PM. Good luck."

    With that, Eratz moved away from the counter, making his way to the stands. The arena was filled with spectators, though it wasn''t packed.

    He found a spot with a good view of the battlefield and settled in, watching as the early matches began.

    The variety of matches was incredible, some were high-intensity battles between powerful beasts, while others were more strategic, offering a prism of tactics and creativity.

    As time passed, Eratz''s focus shifted from the matches to the buzzing excitement in the arena.

    He was lost in thought, wondering about his own upcoming battles, when a familiar voice called out.

    "Eratz!"

    He turned to see Ryder, Zara, and Adrian approaching. Ryder''s eyes sparkled with, and Zara flashed her usual warm smile. Adrian, as usual, had a more reserved expression, though there was a glint of annoyance in his gaze.

    "You already registered for your match?" Ryder asked, grinning.

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yeah, I''m set for 10:30 AM and another match at 8:30 PM."

    Ryder blinked in surprise.

    "Two matches? Is that allowed? Didn''t you say it was only one per day?"

    He looked at Adrian who crossed his arms, smirking.

    "It is recommended for beginners to do one per day, but since your friend want to play the big guy, I guess he''s going to learn the hard way. There''s a difference between a selection and a

    real match."

    Eratz shrugged off Adrian''s comment.

    "The last time I heard that I beat everyone once I touched them. I''m praying to learn the hard way."

    Adrian groaned, but Zara chuckled to his face.

    "You''re wasting your time, Eratz isn''t your average beginner. Victoria asked us to come here together specially for that... Speaking of which, she should be with Mercury here soon. She''s got a match coming up."

    "Mercury''s here?" Adrian asked, his curiosity piqued.

    "Yeah," Zara nodded. "Victoria wanted us all to participate today for the first day together. Well, the best of the agency. After today, you''ll spread out for your own schedules."

    As the matches succeeded, Zara explained the professional Beast Master system. "Each battle gives points, depending on whether you win or lose. At Level 1, a win gives 10 points, and a loss gives 2 points. These points serve for the power ranking and are necessary to participate to some tournaments and especially for agencies. They need to meet certain quotas to keep running. Our agency''s quota used to be 250 points per week, but it''s been

    raised to 500 recently."

    "That''s a lot of points," Ryder mused.

    "Exactly. Mercury''s been carrying the agency almost by herself," Zara added, glancing at the entrance to the challengers'' area. "She fights in multiple arenas every day. She registers at different locations and does about 13 battles a day, sometimes more."

    Eratz''s interest blew up.

    "Thirteen matches a day? How is that even possible? I thought the maximum was two."

    "It''s allowed because each arena has its own match cap," Zara explained. "She fights in different arenas and times her matches perfectly. It''s pretty incredible actually."

    Adrian, a little bitter, chimed in.

    "I''m participating too, you know. I''m doing my part."

    Zara smirked, nudging Eratz.

    "Adrian''s good, but he does maybe four matches a day... once in a while."

    Adrian rolled his eyes but didn''t argue. After their chat the previous day, Eratz couldn''t help

    but feel a growing respect for Mercury.

    Carrying the agency''s weight alone, she was stronger than he had imagined.

    The air inside the arena crackled with anticipation as Mercury''s name was announced over the

    loudspeakers.

    A wave of cheers erupted from the stands, her reputation preceding her. Eratz and the others watched as she made her way to the battlefield, her expression cold and focused, her eyes set straight ahead, as if nothing and no one could distract her from the task

    at hand.

    The crowd''s roaring seemed distant to her, like white noise that she barely registered.

    Mercury had one goal today, like every other day, and her eyes never left the battlefield.

    Face to her, her opponent strutted onto the arena floor, clearly enjoying the spotlight. He was a teenager, maybe a couple of years younger than Mercury, with a smug grin plastered

    on his face. He wore a flashy outfit, bright greens and yellows.

    He waved to the crowd, soaking in their cheers.

    "I''m honored to face the water prodigy," he called out with a mocking tone, his grin

    widening. "But today, I''m afraid you''re going to be surprised."

    Mercury''s eyes remained icy, her face expressionless. She didn''t even acknowledge his words.

    There was no witty banter, no reaction to his taunts, only a sharp focus in her gaze. Her opponent frowned slightly, but his confidence didn''t waver. With a dramatic move, he

    summoned his beast, a massive, thorny creature that emerged from the ground with a

    rumble.

    The ground beneath it cracked and split as the beast rose, its body covered in thick, twisting vines, sharp as blades. Its head resembled that of a horned lizard, with glowing red eyes peeking through the mass of brambles and leaves.

    The crowd gasped at the size of the creature, it was a Verdant Drakkon, popular for its powerful resilience against water-based creatures.

    "Perfect," the teenager muttered with a smirk. "Let''s see you try your little water tricks

    against this."

    The Verdant Drakkon let out a low, rumbling growl, the vines around its body tightening and snapping as it prepared for battle.

    The air was thick with tension, the kind that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

    Eratz, watching from the stands, could feel it, the heavy weight of expectation from

    everyone, this was a match at the top level.

    Mercury however didn''t even blink.

    With a smooth motion, she summoned her own beast, a magnificent creature that shimmered

    like liquid silver as it materialized.

    It was slender, sleek, and elegant, its body flowing with the rhythm of the waves. Its scales

    shimmered in shades of blue and silver, and long, ribbon-like fins extended from its back, giving it an almost ethereal appearance.

    This was the Aqua Seraph, one of the most beautiful and rare beasts known in the circuit.

    Its eyes, a deep, luminous blue, locked onto the Verdant Drakkon with calm. Mercury remained still, her hand barely moving as she commanded the Aqua Seraph with a

    flick of her wrist.

    The Aqua Seraph shifted in place, its body flowing like water itself, waiting for the first move.

    There was no visible tension, no aggression.

    The teenager grinned, confidence flooding his features as he pointed at the Aqua Seraph.

    "Poor choice, Drakkon, now!" he ordered.

    The Verdant Drakkon roared in response, its thick vines snapping out toward the Aqua Seraph

    like striking whips. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The vines twisted and turned, sharp enough to cut through stone, as they aimed to bind Mercury''s creature, but Mercury didn''t flinch.

    Her eyes narrowed slightly, she saw everything, from the trajectory of the attack to the

    exposed body of the boy in front.

    With a barely perceptible movement, the Aqua Seraph glided across the battlefield like a ripple across a calm lake, effortlessly avoiding the incoming vines.

    The teenager''s smug expression faltered for a moment, but he wasn''t done.

    "Bind it! Don''t let it move!" he shouted.

    The Verdant Drakkon growled, its vines doubling in speed and volume, whipping across the

    battlefield in a chaotic frenzy.

    The ground around it cracked under the weight of the beast''s attack, the air filled with the

    sound of snapping and crashing as the vines tore through the earth.

    But once again, the Aqua Seraph danced through the chaos, its body moving with an almost unnatural fluidity. Every attack from the Verdant Drakkon missed by mere inches.

    The Aqua Seraph glided, twirled, and flowed through the battlefield, its movements so

    graceful it looked more like a performance than a battle.

    The boy was growing frustrated, and for a moment, he focused all his attention on the Aqua

    Seraph, and then... silence.

    Mercury took a step forward, the ground rippled as if it had turned into a still lake. Eratz felt

    the little change, an invisible shift in the air.

    The Aqua Seraph''s body glowed softly, its eyes glowing a deeper blue as it responded to its

    master''s will.

    Before anyone noticed, Mercury vanished from her spot.

    In the blink of an eye, she was beside her opponent, her movements so fast they were

    impossible to follow, so fluids that no one could tell how she moved.

    The ground beneath her rippled like water, and with a single, graceful step, she passed

    through him as if she were gliding on air.

    A moment later, a massive geyser of water erupted from the ground beneath the teenager, launching him into the air.

    The Verdant Drakkon roared, trying to retaliate, but it was too late.

    The Aqua Seraph''s form blurred as it shot across the battlefield, its body becoming one with

    the water. With a powerful burst of energy, it sent a stream of water crashing with high pressure into the Verdant Drakkon, overwhelming the beast in an instant.

    The force of the water sent the massive creature sprawling across the arena, its vines shredded and its body soaked.

    The crowd erupted into cheers as the referee declared Mercury the winner. Her opponent lay unconscious, drenched and defeated, while Mercury stood calmly at the center of the arena, her expression unchanged.

    She didn''t bask in the cheers or acknowledge the crowd. She simply turned, her eyes cold and

    focused, and left the battlefield as though it was just another day at the office.

    Ryder and Eratz stared in awe.

    "She''s incredible," Ryder muttered, his voice filled with admiration.

    Eratz nodded, his smile growing. "Better than I ever imagined... And now I''m sure about what kind of monster she use."

    Zara, watching Mercury''s exit, smiled knowingly.

    "That''s Mercury for you. A complete powerhouse."

    Adrian, trying to maintain his composure, smirked. "That''s what high-level looks like. Think you''re ready for that?"

    But Eratz didn''t respond.

    His eyes were locked on Mercury as she walked away, her power and precision still fresh in his

    mind.

    He had found the challenge he had been craving, and now, more than ever, he was dying for a

    battle.

 Chapter 42: First Steps in the Arena

    Chapter 42: First Steps in the ArenaAs she exited the battlefield, Mercury checked her phone, her expression cool and composed. She typed quickly, asking Zara if everyone had arrived. The response came almost immediately.

    "We''re in the stands, come join us!"

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, she came to the stands and started scanning the crowd, but she couldn''t spot them.

    With a small sigh, she made her way up the stairs to the stands and located them after a while.

    She kept her usual calm facade intact, but as she approached the group and her eyes landed on Eratz, something shifted.

    A playful smirk tugged at her lips, and her cheeks puffed out slightly under a teasing gaze. It was a look she almost never wore, and it caught everyone off guard.

    Adrian, standing nearby, flinched, his confident posture briefly faltering.

    ''Wait, did I just see that right?'' He blinked in disbelief. Mercury was always serious and composed, never one to show her playful side. ''Is she... smiling?'' His mind raced. ''She must be happy to see us... So that''s mean that I''m also special for her...''

    His confidence erupted, oblivious that her gaze wasn''t on him, but locked on Eratz.

    In a silent exchange, Mercury''s teasing eyes seemed to say, "One minute, that''s how you do it, M."

    Eratz, with a slight grin and a raised eyebrow, met her gaze, the vein popping on his temple, the message was perfectly conveyed.

    Mercury reached the group, her expression back to normal. Zara and Ryder greeted her enthusiastically.

    "Girl, you were amazing out there!" Zara said, her eyes lighting up.

    "Yeah, you destroyed that guy!" Ryder added in laughter.

    Mercury gave a small nod of thanks, her voice steady.

    "Thanks, Ryder. Glad you''re all here."

    Adrian, as a new man, stepped forward.

    "Well, Mercury, I made sure to book my match after you, so the two leads will set a good example for everyone, right?" he said, flashing a smile that he was sure would get her attention.

    "Mm-hmm," Mercury hummed, her eyes drifting back to Eratz.

    "So, Eratz," she began, "have you fought yet?"

    Before Eratz could reply, Adrian cut in smoothly.

    "Oh, he couldn''t fight before me, obviously. You are the announcement and I am the warm- up. I''ll make sure to set the standard."

    Mercury barely acknowledged him, her focus still on Eratz.

    "What time''s your match?" she asked, her tone light but teasing.

    "10:30," Eratz replied with a grin. "I came early but either people are sleeping in the arena either there''s something I don''t know about the registration protocol."

    Mercury smirked.

    "That''s what you get for focusing on the power and not learning the bases."

    They settled in to watch the rest of the morning''s matches. Ryder bounced excitedly in his seat, barely able to contain his energy.

    "Man... So I''m the last? I''m up at 11:30!"

    Adrian crossed his arms confidently.

    "It''s not a big deal, you have the time to prepare. In my case, it''s harder, I''m up soon but I''ll show you all how it''s done," he said with a smile, his eyes scanning the arena. "These other challengers are... Not bad, but... well, they''re not quite at our level, right, Mercury?"

    He glanced at the girl, but to his dismay, she was locked in a quiet, teasing conversation with Eratz.

    They were seated next to each other, their voices barely audible to the rest of the group, and their tone showed that she was taunting him.

    "You''re going to use that thing today, right?" Mercury asked.

    Eratz gave a disgusted glare.

    "I could have... If someone had let me train with it."

    Mercury chuckled softly, leaning back in her seat.

    "Ahh, you''re saying you''re not ready? I thought mister I use a technique right after evolving

    my monster wouldn''t need a training to master a dragon."

    "... You know what? I won''t use it at all... I will save it for you, for you only."

    "Oh? So you''re giving me your first time?"

    "Ye-What the?!" Eratz shook his head in surprise.

    Adrian, catching snippets of their conversation, leaned in with his usual swagger.

    "Hm, by the way, uh... Man, You know, battles aren''t just about raw power. It''s all about strategy, finesse. No offense but a strong fighter is nothing against a master and his beasts." He flashed a grin, but Mercury rolled her eyes and picked Eratz''s arm to get back his attention.

    ''What are they even talking about?''

    Adrian thought, growing more frustrated by the second. He couldn''t focus on anything else.

    But then, it was his turn. He stood up.

    "Well, I guess it''s my time to shine." He stretched, ready for his match, then glanced at Mercury with a playful smirk. "Watch closely, Mercury. I''m gonna beat your time."

    Mercury barely reacted, her eyes half-lidded as she waved a hand.

    "Good luck," she said, her tone indifferent.

    Adrian strode into the arena, oozing confidence. His opponent was a young boy, likely a newcomer to the professional beast-fighting world, but the kid had a determined look on his

    face.

    The referee gave the signal, and the boy immediately summoned two beasts, muscular humanoid creatures with glowing fists.

    They charged at Adrian''s side of the arena, their raw power on full display.

    Adrian smiled, brushing a hand through his hair.

    "Alright, let''s give them a show." He summoned his ace, a dark, sinister creature with the appearance of a dark elf and a gremlin. Its red eyes glinted, and shadows coiled around its

    body like a cloak.

    "Umbraxis, let''s dance," Adrian called out, his voice steady and confident.

    The battle began, and at first, Adrian played it cool, letting Umbraxis dodge and weave

    between the boy''s fighting beasts.

    The crowd watched in awe as the Umbraxis darted through the battlefield, disappearing into shadows and reappearing behind its enemies with lightning speed.

    It seemed like Adrian was toying with his opponent.

    But the boy wasn''t going to get down easily. He called for his beasts to launch a coordinated

    attack, using their raw strength to corner Umbraxis.

    The brawlers punched the ground, sending shockwaves through the arena that made the

    shadowy creature stumble.

    Adrian''s smug grin faltered as he realized the boy was taking control of the fight.

    "Get up, Umbraxis!" Adrian shouted, frustration creeping into his voice.

    But the Umbraxis was struggling. The boy''s beasts continued their relentless assault, forcing

    Adrian to think fast.

    The crowd watched intently as Adrian''s face twisted. He hated how close this was getting.

    He wanted to show off, to impress Mercury and the others, but it wasn''t going according to

    his plan.

    Finally, with a surge of frustration, Adrian commanded Umbraxis to unleash its most

    powerful attack.

    Umbraxis conjured a swirling ball of dark energy, launching it at the boy''s beasts. The impact

    shook the arena, sending the creatures flying backward.

    The boy, too close, was knocked off.

    Adrian stood there, panting, relieved that he''d managed to win.

    "That''s how you do it." He shouted.

    He glanced back at the stands, expecting to see Mercury impressed. But she was still

    engrossed in conversation with Eratz, laughing at something he had said.

    Adrian''s jaw clenched in annoyance. ''They didn''t even see me win?''

    Up in the stands, Eratz groaned.

    "So, even if everyone finishes their matches quickly, it doesn''t speed up the schedule? I''m

    doomed to be here at 8 PM?"

    Mercury chuckled.

    "Exactly. No point in rushing it. The battles are programmed ahead of time. Even if we finish

    early, the next match won''t start until its scheduled time."

    Eratz leaned back.

    "That will teach me to be impatient..."

    Mercury chuckled softly, ignoring Adrian, who was making his way toward them, clearly

    irritated.

    Zara, checking the schedule flinched.

    "Eratz, you''re up after the next match, You should already do a little warm up."

    Mercury just shrugged.

    "Oh? At long last."

    Eatz stood up to leave, and Ryder cheered him on, clapping him on the back.

    "Go get ''em, man!"

    Zara smiled, adding,

    "It''s a level 1 arena, ok? They''re beginners... Just go easy on your opponent, alright?"

    "I''ll see how to deal with it." Eratz said.

    Mercury, with a tap on the shoulder, leaned closer.

    "Imagine losing your very first match."

    Eratz smiled.

    "You wish."

    Adrian, still trying to remain in the conversation, added,

    "You know, in battle, it''s not just about muscle. There''s strategy, timing..."

    But Eratz was already leaving.

    A little later, Eratz entered the arena for his very first battle, and the small crowd began to

    stir.

    His opponent, a confident young woman, gave him a polite nod.

    "Good luck," she said, her voice steady.

    Eratz nodded back, his mind briefly flashing back to his days at the academy. ''I''ve come a long

    way.''

    The referee signaled the start of the match, and the girl summoned her beast, a towering fire- type creature with a mane of flames that crackled around its body.

    But Eratz didn''t move. He stood still, arms relaxed, watching her with a calm, focused gaze.

    The girl hesitated, confused by his lack of response. With a frown, she decided to take the sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    initiative.

    Her body became enveloped in a fiery aura as she rushed toward him, her beast close behind her, planning to overwhelm him with her speed and power.

    The crowd leaned forward, sensing the intensity of the moment. Ryder, Zara, and Adrian

    watched closely, while Mercury remained calm, her eyes locked on Eratz.

    But just as the girl closed the distance, something shifted in the air. Her vision blurred, and an

    overwhelming sense of danger flooded her instincts.

    RUN!

    Her mind screamed, but it was too late.

    She raised her arms defensively, but as her eyes met Eratz''s glowing gaze, she knew she was

    finished.

    A blinding flash of light exploded from the center of the arena, shaking the ground with a powerful blast. Cracks spread across the stone floor, and the entire arena seemed to tremble. As the dust from Eratz''s explosive attack settled, the arena was enveloped in stunned silence.

    The ground was cracked, fractured by the immense force of his attack, and in the center of the destruction stood Eratz, calm and unbothered.

    His opponent lay unconscious in a smoking crater, the fire beast she had summoned flickering

    out.

    For a few seconds, no one moved. The entire crowd seemed frozen in place, as if they were

    still processing what had just happened. The sheer intensity of the blast had left everyone in

    shock.

    Then, like a wave, the cheers erupted. The crowd roared with amazement and disbelief. Spectators leapt to their feet, their voices booming with excitement as the realization of

    Eratz''s instant win.

    "Did you see that?!"

    "That was insane!"

    "No way! He knocked her out in one hit!"

    The energy in the stands surged. People who had been casually watching now leaned forward,

    their eyes wide, their faces lit up with awe.

    In the stands, Ryder''s jaw had practically dropped to the floor. His hands trembled, fists

    clenched with excitement.

    "Holy... Eratz, you absolute monster!"

    His voice was barely audible over the crowd''s roar, but the awe in his tone was unmistakable.

    Zara''s eyes widened as she gripped the edge of her seat. Her heart raced, and she gazed at Mercury.

    "What in the world... That was more power than during the selection matches. Way more... What kind of training did you two do in the forest?"

    Adrian, who had been smugly awaiting Eratz''s match, now sat frozen, his arms limp at his

    sides.

    His usual bravado had been wiped clean off his face, replaced by wide-eyed disbelief. He tried to speak, but no words came out. His mind was racing, replaying the explosion of

    power that had shaken the entire arena.

    He glanced over at Mercury, expecting her to be as shocked as he was. But when he saw her expression, his stomach tightened.

    Mercury wasn''t shocked. She was smirking, and not just a normal smirk. Her eyes glinted, a vein popped subtly on her temple.

    "Ah, so that''s how you''re taking it, huh?" she muttered under her breath, her gaze stayed

    locked on Eratz, who, from the center of the arena, looked directly at her and raised his two

    hands in the air, a small smirk tugging at his lips. It was a simple message: I did it in ten seconds.

 Chapter 43: The Price of Success

    Chapter 43: The Price of SuccessRyder stood at the edge of the arena, his fists clenched and eyes sharp. The moment the signal was given, he summoned his wind Lycaon. His opponent, a tall, lanky boy, quickly called forth two bird-type monsters that swooped down from above.

    Without missing a beat, Ryder commanded his wolf to attack. The wolf moved with speed and precision, leaping into the air to swipe at the birds. One was taken down instantly, crashing into the ground. The other tried to circle around, but Ryder kept his focus, pushing forward.

    His opponent looked nervous, scrambling for a new plan, but it was too late. Ryder''s lycaon lunged at the second bird, knocking it out of the sky with a quick strike. The match ended almost as fast as it began, the crowd letting out a brief cheer as the referee called it.

    With a grin, Ryder leaves the arena to rejoin the group, already talking excitedly about his victory.

    Now that the battles are over, the group starts preparing to leave the arena. Adrian, full of renewed confidence, takes this moment to suggest a celebration.

    "So, what do you say we all head out? I know a great place to grab drinks, maybe even get to know each other a little better," Adrian says with a smile, his eyes lingering on Mercury as if hoping for her approval.

    Mercury barely lifts her head, glancing at him briefly before returning her gaze to the crowd. Before she can muster a reply, Eratz stepped in.

    "I pass, I think I''d rather do what Mercury does, hit up more arenas. If it''s allowed, then I would like to do more battles."

    Mercury''s eyes flicked toward him, her lips curling into a satisfied smile.

    "Now you''re talking my language. Want me to show you some? I know the best spots for a starter."

    Ryder''s face lights up with enthusiasm, quickly chiming in.

    "I''m all for it! One match is nothing, I''ve got more in me."

    Adrian''s confident expression falters for just a second, but he quickly covers it up, not wanting to seem out of place.

    "Well... sure, I''ll come too. We''re all in this together, right?" His tone is forced, trying to maintain the cool image he so desperately wanted to project.

    But Mercury, without skipping a beat, shoots him a teasing smile.

    "Actually, why don''t you help Ryder? I mean, you''re right, we''re the elders, so we should help the new recruits, right?," she says smoothly.

    For a moment, Adrian''s face betrays his shock.

    "Wait... but you... but why..."

    Mercury nods nonchalantly, her smirk widening.

    "Yeah, why not? He could use a hand, and we''ll cover more ground if we split up. Let''s do that, I go with Eratz and you go with Ryder."

    Adrian''s mind races, trying to process the subtle sting in her words. She didn''t usually ask for his help, she wouldn''t even answer to his innuendos. It was the first time she associated with him as elder, and it was to stay with Eratz, him again.

    Something was different, and it was starting to nag at him. He glances at Eratz, then back to Mercury. The realization sinks in slowly, there was something between them, something dangerous. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Still, with no one opposing Mercury, Adrian forced a grin.

    "... Alright, I go with the guy, how could I say no to you?"

    "Great, good luck on your way too, Ryder. Let''s meet again here tonight."

    As the day progressed, Eratz teared through the arenas with Mercury by his side, and he quickly melted in the universe of arena battle like in his element.

    His fights were fast, brutal, spectacular, every opponent he faced ended unconscious. Much like his selection, there''s no real challenge for him, the only difference, and sadly for the other challengers, was that he was a little overwhelmed by the joy of battling in official matches, with a real public, with official records, so he always too much energy and destroyed whoever had the misfortune of putting a little resistance.

    During one match, Eratz faced a tougher opponent, someone who, like him, was fighting with beastification. A worthy challenge, and a trigger for Eratz. He summoned his Thunder Lycaon, and together, they massacred the opponent''s beasts before burying him in a 2v1 relentless assault.

    It was only the first day, but Eratz already caught the attention of many people.

    As the evening settled in, the group gathered back at the arena, the adrenaline from the day''s battles was still fresh. Eratz had just finished his final match for the day, walking out to a crowd that cheered louder after another instant win.

    His body oozed with energy, the toll the battles he had fought felt like a warmth up, but the daily limit had been reached.

    As he reached his friends, Zara, was the first to show her surprise, with wide eyes and an astonished laugh.

    "Twelve wins in one day? You just matched Mercury''s regimen like it''s nothing."

    Mercury gave a wide smirk, patting Eratz lightly on the back.

    "Well, I couldn''t expect less from you, partner." she said, the teasing tone in her voice unmistakable.

    Ryder, though tired, couldn''t contain his surprise.

    "Twelve matches? Man, I barely made it through four... how do you guys do to fight for so

    long?"

    Adrian, who had been unusually quiet throughout the evening, stood off to the side, arms crossed and brooding.

    His confidence had taken a huge hit, though he tried his best to hide it behind a nonchalant expression.

    As the group began to make their way out of the arena, Mercury suddenly turned to Eratz.

    "So, how about we get you that phone now?" she asked, her tone light but carrying a hint of

    insistence.

    "Phone? I told you earlier, I''m as rich as an honest pastor."

    Mercury chuckled.

    "Eratz, you do know we get paid for every match, right?" she said, her voice laced with mock

    exasperation.

    Eratz''s confusion only deepened.

    "...We get paid?"

    "Fifty Dyns per win," Mercury explained with a shrug, enjoying his cluelessness. "You won twelve matches today. That means you earned 600 Dyns. After the 10% arena fee, you should

    have about... 540 Dyns normally."

    Eratz''s eyes widened, his jaw practically dropping.

    "Five hundred and forty Dyns? You mean to tell me I made more today than I ever did in a

    month working as a delivery boy?"

    Mercury chuckled, leaning against the nearby wall, arms crossed.

    "Delivery boy? That''s an interesting story I want to hear. Welcome to the life of a pro beast master and quick money. Come on, let''s go check your earnings."

    They made their way to the machines where beast masters could check their stats and earnings. The dimly lit hallway buzzed with activity as other fighters and staff passed by, but Eratz''s mind was fixated on what Mercury had just told him. Could it really be that easy?

    At the machine, Eratz swiped his card, and the screen blinked to life.

    Sure enough, his total was displayed: 540 Dyns.

    He stared at the number in shock, unable to process how quickly everything had changed. Together, him and his family could make 75 a day, and now he had exploded their record. "I... I can''t believe it," he whispered, more to himself than to anyone else. Mercury, leaning over his shoulder, glanced at the screen before nudging him with her elbow.

    "Well, there it is, your first paycheck. What are you gonna do with all that money? Maybe a

    drink to celebrate?"

    Eratz laughed softly, shaking his head in disbelief.

    "I guess drinks really will be on me for a long time," he chuckled.

    However, Mercury straightened up, a spark in her eye.

    "Good. Let''s go celebrate. There''s a great place not too far from here. We could use a drink."

    For a moment, Eratz paused. His mind was thinking about how he''d finally get to celebrate his first day as a professional beast master, how he''d share the moment with the people who had supported him the most, those who made this moment possible.

    His aunt, uncle, and Colin. They were struggling with their new lives and had put everything on him, and now, he had something real to show them.

    "I... actually," Eratz began, his voice quieter now. He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling a

    little awkward. "I really want to head home. I wasn''t expecting to make this much money today, and I want to show it to my family."

    Mercury''s smirk faltered, just for a second. A flash of disappointment crossed her face, subtle

    but there.

    She quickly masked it, shrugging nonchalantly.

    "... Ah, the family man. I should''ve known," she teased, though her voice had lost some of its

    usual edge.

    "Why don''t you come with me?" he suggested suddenly.

    Mercury blinked, clearly caught off-guard by the invitation.

    "We can all celebrate together. My aunt and uncle would love to meet you, and you could

    bring Milo too."

    For a moment, Mercury stood there, processing his words, her usual teasing demeanor dropping slightly.

    But then, she smiled, though it was softer than before, almost wistful.

    "That''s sweet of you, but you need to read the mood, you don''t present a girl to your family so casually," she said, her voice quieter now. "But... I was a little inconsiderate, I think you should celebrate with your family first. They''re the ones who deserve this moment. It''s better

    that way."

    Eratz was a little taken aback by her words, but he couldn''t shake the feeling that she was holding something back.

    "Are you sure? I mean, I would like them to know there''s really hope, and I want them to meet

    the people who help me and Colin... And I feel like if I start drinking with you, with our history

    of training, I''m not going home until midnight." Mercury chuckled, her smile returning, though it didn''t quite reach her eyes.

    "You''re really an idiot... but You''re not wrong. The first drink you have to celebrate something

    should go until you drop dead. I think it''s safer for you to have that first moment with them."

    A brief silence passed between them, both of them standing there, caught in the strange balance of familiarity and distance.

    Eratz wanted to push further, to insist that she come, but something about the way she said it made him realize she wouldn''t join either way.

    "Well, in that case," Eratz said, his tone lightening, "we''ll do it tomorrow. You choose the

    place, and I''ll cover everything."

    Mercury''s eyes widened in surprise, her smile returning. "You''re serious?"

    "Completely," Eratz replied with a grin. "You pick the spot, and I''ll be there. Your rules, my

    pocket."

    For a moment, Mercury looked at him, her expression softening.

    She seemed to relax, as though something had been lifted from her shoulders. "Alright then,"

    she said, a playful glint returning to her eyes. "But I warn you, you''ll regret letting me pick."

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    "I''ll be ready." The two of them exchanged a long look, Mercury''s gaze lingering for a second longer, and

    then, almost abruptly, she looked away.

    "Well," she muttered, stepping back and waving a hand dismissively. "That''s a plan then, no

    turning back... And don''t forget to buy that phone."

    Eratz smiled as he watched her walk away. He looked back down at the screen, the 540 dyns

    still glowing on the display.

    Everything was falling into place, faster than he''d ever imagined.

    As he stood there, staring at the sum of money, he couldn''t help but think about how much his

    life had changed in such a short time.

    It was only the beginning, but he knew he was on the right path. The doors to the stars were

    opening, and everything he had worked for was finally paying off.

    But as Eratz''s world was brightening, elsewhere, things were growing darker.

    Far away, in another city, the atmosphere was drastically different.

    A large crowd stood silent, their faces filled with shock. Among them were Genova''s teachers, Rowan, the academy''s director, Lisa, and Crystal.

    They were all staring at the arena with wide eyes, their disbelief palpable.

    The speaker''s voice echoed through the arena as the winner of the final match of the first

    round of the tournament was announced.

    The screen displayed the image of a young girl with an ice bird perched gracefully on her shoulder, stood tall, waving at the spectators, barely sparing a glance at her opponent. Meanwhile, on the ground, bruised and on all fours, Kenny''s shaky eyes stared at the floor.

 Chapter 44: Demise

    Chapter 44: DemiseThe crowd erupted into cheers, their voices echoing throughout the arena as the victor of the match raised her hand in acknowledgment.

    The girl who had just defeated Kenny soaked in the applause, her icy blue eyes gleaming with satisfaction. Her sleek ice bird perched on her shoulder, its feathers shimmering in the light like frozen crystals.

    She gave a little wave, her demeanor almost diva-like in its casualness, before turning to her bird.

    "See? I told you there was nothing to worry about," she said with a smirk, her voice laced with playful arrogance.

    The ice bird chirped in response, shaking its feathers, seemingly unimpressed by her confidence. She chuckled, patting its head lightly.

    "He was no challenge at all."

    Down on the arena floor, Kenny remained on all fours, bruised and battered. Patches of ice clung to his skin, chilling him to the bone where the girl''s attacks had struck him.

    He could hear her words, mocking, belittling, but he couldn''t muster the strength to react. His vision blurred, his pride shattered into pieces.

    This was supposed to be his moment of redemption, but instead, he found himself lying defeated once again.

    In the stands, whispers and murmurs spread like wildfire. The academy students, teachers, and spectators exchanged shocked glances, their expressions ranging from confusion to disbelief.

    "How could he lose like that?" one of the teachers whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief.

    "Has Rowan been neglecting Kenny''s training?" asked Eliza, the academy''s councilor, who had been instrumental in getting Eratz expelled.

    Her sharp eyes narrowed at Rowan, who sat nearby, her expression accusatory.

    Rowan kept his head down, his shoulders slumped.

    "No," he muttered, avoiding Eliza''s accusing gaze. "I''ve taught him everything I could, but Kenny never listens. He doesn''t follow instructions."

    Eliza''s eyes narrowed, her voice dripping with disdain.

    "This is disgraceful. He was supposed to be our academy''s pride."

    In the crowd, the students'' voices filled the air, confusion and disappointment evident in their words.

    "Kenny lost again?"

    "What happened to him? He used to be unbeatable."

    "He''s not the same out of the academy... Not in public tournaments."

    Crystal stood among the students, her eyes wide, unable to process what she was seeing. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach, her hands gripping the railing until her knuckles turned white.

    Sitting a few rows above, Lisa covered her mouth with her hands, her eyes filled with shock.

    "This can''t be happening... not again."

    (Weeks Later, Genova Academy)

    The final days of the academic year were fast approaching, and the usually bustling corridors of Genova Academy now carried a weighty silence.

    Whispers followed Kenny wherever he went, his once-proud stride reduced to a slow, defeated shuffle.

    His hands were stuffed deep into his pockets, his gaze firmly planted on the ground as he walked through the hallways.

    Behind him, Crystal followed at a distance, her steps hesitant. She wanted to reach out, to say something, anything that could lift the weight off Kenny''s shoulders, but the judging eyes of other students pinned her in place.

    Every time she gathered the courage to approach, she felt their stares, cold and unforgiving, and quickly diverted her path, avoiding him altogether.

    Students whispered behind their hands as Kenny passed by.

    "That''s Kenny... He lost in the first round this time."

    "Can you believe it? He used to be the best of our academy."

    Kenny clenched his jaw, hearing every word. Each murmur felt like a needle pricking his already fragile heart. He was angry, embarrassed, but mostly... he was lost.

    He kept walking, never lifting his eyes from the ground, unable to face anyone around him. In the staff room, the atmosphere was no less tense. Eliza sat at the head of a large wooden table, her gaze like a knife pointed at Rowan and the academy''s director. The director, an older woman with graying hair, looked between them, her eyes tired but expectant.

    "We need to discuss Kenny''s future," Eliza said, her voice cold and direct. "He was supposed to be our top beast master. Now... now he''s just an embarrassment."

    Rowan stayed silent, frustration evident in his expression. The director looked at him, her voice calm but firm.

    "Rowan, you''ve been Kenny''s mentor for months. Can you explain why this is happening? Why has he declined so drastically?"

    Rowan let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples before speaking.

    "Kenny is passionate about monsters, that''s true. But somewhere along the way, his focus shifted. He''s more interested in earning elemental spirits through achievements at the academy, instead of honing his skills as a beast master. He''s forgotten the fundamentals of beast taming."

    "Forgotten? Or was he never really capable of it?" Eliza shot back, her eyes narrowing. "The academy''s structure is supposed to nurture talent, yet here we are, watching our supposed prodigy fall apart."

    Rowan''s frustration grew evident in his voice.

    "The academy''s structure isn''t the issue. These students need real experiences. They need to face real challenges, not just controlled tests and domesticated spirits. They need to be out there, with real monsters. Kenny is... stuck. He''s not growing because the environment isn''t allowing him to grow."

    The director considered Rowan''s words, her brow furrowed in thought.

    "So, is there any way we can bring Kenny back on track? Or should we start preparing to cut

    our losses?"

    Rowan hesitated, guilt weighing heavily on his heart.

    "I... I don''t know. I''ve already seen one student''s future fall apart, and now I''m watching it

    happen again."

    Eliza leaned forward, her expression cold and unyielding.

    "Maybe if you had fought harder for Kenny, this wouldn''t be happening. Maybe if you had

    been more supportive, more proactive, you wouldn''t be watching another student crumble."

    Rowan looked up sharply, anger flashing across his face.

    "You think I didn''t try?"

    "Permission to take over Kenny''s case," Eliza said, her voice cutting through the tension like

    a blade. "I have an idea that might work."

    The director raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

    "Go on."

    Eliza gestured to the door.

    "Lisa, come in."

    The door creaked open, and Lisa entered, her head bowed. She kept her gaze fixed on the floor,

    her shoulders hunched as though she wished she could disappear into the background.

    Rowan''s eyes widened.

    "Lisa? What''s going on?"

    Eliza''s smirk widened as she spoke.

    "Lisa is close to Kenny. She''s given me valuable insight into why he''s struggling."

    The director folded her hands, watching Lisa.

    "Please, Lisa. Tell us what you know."

    Lisa swallowed hard, her voice shaky.

    "Kenny... Kenny was stronger before because he had someone pushing him forward. He''s

    never been the same since that student got expelled."

    Eliza nodded, leaning back in her chair.

    "Explain further, Lisa. Why is Eratz so important for Kenny''s progress?"

    Lisa shifted uncomfortably, her eyes darting towards Rowan for a moment before returning

    to the ground.

    "Eratz and Kenny were always in competition. Eratz was someone who could challenge him in every way. Without that competition, Kenny doesn''t have the same drive. He needs someone

    to push him, someone who won''t let him rest on his laurels." Rowan sighed, his expression a mixture of frustration and resignation.

    "So you''re saying Kenny can only succeed if he has someone to compete against? That sounds

    like a weak foundation."

    Lisa shook her head quickly.

    "No, it''s not just competition. Eratz was... more than that. He was a motivator, an inspiration. Kenny admired him, even if he didn''t always show it. They made each other better. When Eratz was expelled, Kenny lost that spark. He''s just been going through the motions ever

    since."

    Eliza leaned in, her voice challenging.

    "But why Eratz specifically? There are plenty of strong students here. Why not anyone else?"

    Lisa''s gaze finally lifted, her eyes meeting Eliza''s.

    "Because Eratz wasn''t just strong. He was different. He kept challenging himself, he wasn''t handed opportunities. He was a real genius, and Kenny saw that. It made him want to be better, not just for himself, but to prove that he could match someone like Eratz. Without him,

    Kenny feels like there''s nothing to prove."

    The director listened intently, nodding slowly.

    "So you''re suggesting that bringing Eratz back would reignite Kenny''s motivation? That he

    would once again find purpose?"

    Lisa nodded, her expression earnest.

    "Yes. I truly believe that if Eratz comes back, Kenny will have the push he needs to get back on

    track."

    The director''s gaze turned colder, cutting off Lisa before she could say more.

    "Eratz was expelled for cheating. Are we to simply overlook that for Kenny''s sake?" Lisa bit her lip, hesitation flickering across her face. For a brief moment, it seemed like she

    might argue, that she might say it was a false accusation, but she swallowed her words. She couldn''t risk revealing everything, not here, not now.

    Eliza leaned forward, taking over before Lisa could say anything else.

    "Director, I understand your concerns, but the most important thing right now is to boost

    Kenny back to his full potential. We need our ace to shine again. Bringing Eratz back might be unconventional, but it''s a risk we need to take."

    The director sighed, leaning back in her chair as she considered Eliza''s words. She turned her attention back to Lisa, her eyes narrowing.

    "And you, Lisa. Are you sure this isn''t just about something personal? You were close to Eratz,

    were you not?"

    Lisa felt her heart skip a beat. She forced herself to look the director in the eyes, her voice

    steady.

    "I care about Kenny, Director. This is about him. I want to see him succeed again."

    The director studied Lisa for a moment longer before giving a curt nod.

    "Very well. Eliza, proceed with contacting Eratz''s family. Let''s see if this plan can indeed

    bring Kenny back to where he needs to be."

    Eliza''s lips curled into a smile. "Understood, Director. I''ll make the arrangements."

    Rowan shifted uncomfortably, clearly annoyed by the decision. He glanced at Lisa, who kept

    her head bowed, her expression unreadable.

    "You''re dismissed," the director said, her tone signaling the end of the discussion. Rowan stood, giving a brief nod before turning and leaving the room. Lisa followed suit, her

    footsteps heavy as she made her way to the door.

    Later in the Hallway Outside the Staff Room, Rowan was pacing, his mind racing as he

    processed everything that had happened in the meeting. He looked up when Lisa emerged, her face pale and tense.

    "You really think this is the answer?" Rowan asked, his voice tinged with frustration.

    Lisa stopped, biting her lip, her eyes avoiding Rowan''s.

    "I don''t know," she said, her voice breaking slightly. "I just know that Kenny isn''t the same

    without Eratz. And maybe this is the only way to help him."

    Rowan sighed deeply, shaking his head.

    "Lisa, do you have any idea what kind of fire you''re playing with? Eratz was expelled under

    serious accusations, because of someone you''re close to, and now you''re pushing for his return as if nothing happened."

    Lisa looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mixture of determination and sadness. "I know it''s complicated. But I also know that sometimes we need to take risks to help the

    people we care about. I believe in Kenny, and I... I believe that bringing Eratz back will make things better."

    Rowan stared at her for a long moment, his expression softening slightly. He wanted to

    argue, to criticize her choice, but he could see the desperation in her eyes, the hope that she

    was clinging to.

    He sighed again, his voice quieter this time.

    "Let''s hope you''re right, Lisa. Because if this backfires, it won''t just be Kenny who''s hurt. You

    know that, right?"

    Lisa nodded, hardly processing the reason beyond Rowan''s insistence.

    "I know."

    Rowan hesitated for a moment before reaching out, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.

    "Take care, Lisa. And think about what you''re doing, really think about it."

    She nodded, her voice barely a whisper.

    "I will."

    Rowan turned, walking away down the hallway, his shoulders slumped. Lisa watched him go,

    her heart aching with uncertainty.

    She wished she knew if she was making the right choice, but for now, all she could do was

    hope, and pray that everything worked as she wished.

    (Back in the Director''s Office)

    Eliza stood up, a pleased expression on her face as she addressed the director.

    "With your permission, I''ll reach out to Eratz''s family. It shouldn''t be too difficult to arrange

    a meeting."

    The director nodded, but her face was serious.

    "Do what needs to be done, Eliza. But remember, if this doesn''t work, we''ll have a much

    bigger problem on our hands." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eliza smirked, her confidence unwavering.

    "It will work, Director. Kenny will be back to his prime, and the academy will reap the

    rewards."

    The director watched as Eliza left the room, her heart heavy with doubt. She leaned back in her chair, closing her eyes for a brief moment, allowing herself to breathe in peace.

 Chapter 45: Parental Gambit

    Chapter 45: Parental GambitKenny stood in the training ground, beads of sweat rolling down his forehead, as he concentrated on controlling all of his elemental spirits simultaneously.

    The spirits danced around him, each representing a different element: water, fire, lightning, earth, and wind.

    The challenge was immense, to channel the power of each one without losing control, and Kenny was struggling.

    His fire spirit flared up unpredictably, while his water spirit faltered and became barely visible.

    Crystal watched from a distance, her gaze tired and flat.

    She murmured softly to herself, her voice laced with both weariness and disappointment.

    "It''s always the same thing," she said, barely audible.

    Her eyes showed a deep exhaustion, a result of seeing Kenny''s continuous struggle and lack of progress.

    Suddenly, Lisa appeared beside her. Crystal barely acknowledged her at first, continuing to watch Kenny, but then something caught her attention.

    She flinched, turning back towards Lisa, who wore an oddly bright smile, too bright, in fact.

    It was unnatural, the first time in months that she smiled like that and it had to be after Kenny''s fall.

    Lisa quickly noticed Crystal staring and looked away, but she couldn''t quite hide her smile. Crystal''s eyes narrowed with concern. "What... what''s with her?" she murmured to herself. Her eyes shifted back to Kenny, who was still struggling to maintain control of his spirits. Something was wrong. She could feel it.

    At the same time, Rowan and Eliza sat in an office, their eyes scanning over pages of student records.

    They were focused on one task, finding the information they needed to contact Eratz.

    With them was Melcin, the same teacher who had hurled racist insults at Eratz during the debacle that led to his expulsion.

    He was visibly annoyed, slouched in his seat.

    "Why are we doing all this work for a criminal?" Melcin muttered under his breath.

    Eliza shot him a sharp glance.

    "Keep your venom for later, Melcin, and maybe try to work as hard as Rowan here. He''s certainly putting in the effort... perhaps because he''s particularly interested to meet again a certain student." She smirked, casting a knowing look at Rowan.

    Rowan ignored the comment, flipping through the files until he finally found the one he was searching for.

    "Got it," he said, lifting the file slightly. He scanned the page and found the contact information for Eratz''s parents.

    "We can reach out to his parents."

    Later that day, Rowan and Eliza contacted Eratz''s parents, surprising them with a request to meet.

    Eratz''s parents, Liora and Marcus, were both taken aback, considering it a divine opportunity. They agreed and arranged to meet at a fancy caf¨¦ in Grushia.

    The caf¨¦ was upscale, the atmosphere refined and elegant. Liora and Marcus sat across from Rowan and Eliza, their demeanor polite and dignified.

    Rowan, however, seemed distracted, his eyes scanning the surroundings before settling on the couple.

    After a few pleasantries, Rowan got to the point.

    "Did Eratz come with you today?"

    Liora and Marcus exchanged a glance, a hint of discomfort passing between them. Liora spoke first, her voice tinged with a hint of disdain.

    "We refuse to have an animal in our house. We didn''t raise our children to act that way. It''s something Eratz must have picked up from his... Genes, but it certainly doesn''t belong in our home."

    Rowan''s brow furrowed, Liora''s words were terrible, but there was a visible tragedy: she had white hair and a dark skin, she was herself an Ishtarian.

    Eliza murmured under her breath.

    "Some people are so disgusted by their own roots that they deny them completely and try to act like someone else. It''s always fascinating to watch."

    Marcus cleared his throat, trying to maintain his composure.

    "Eratz has been living with his aunt and uncle in the countryside," he explained.

    Rowan was taken aback by the way they described Eratz, the disdain evident in their words. But it was a potential consequence. He pushed forward.

    "We''d like to offer Eratz a chance to return to the academy," he said, his tone steady. "We believe he deserves another opportunity."

    Liora and Marcus were stunned, exchanging another glance, this one filled with confusion and hesitation.

    They both hesitated, and then Liora spoke, her voice uncertain.

    "Are you sure about this? Our other children are also very talented, Kian and Lila have always followed the rules, they''ve shown nothing but dedication. They deserve this opportunity more." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Rowan shook his head, his eyes narrowing.

    "We aren''t here to talk about Kian or Lila. We''re here for Eratz."

    Eliza leaned forward, her expression firm, cutting in before Liora could respond.

    "We want Eratz, only Eratz." she said, her voice leaving no room for argument.

    A brief silence followed. Liora looked visibly annoyed, her lips pressing into a thin line.

    Marcus, who had been listening intently, cleared his throat, glancing at his wife before leaning back in his chair.

    A sly smile formed on his lips as he spoke.

    "Fine," he began slowly, "as his parents, we''ll allow Eratz to return... on one condition. You must also recruit our other two children, Kian and Lila."

    Rowan''s jaw tightened.

    "What are you..." he began, but Marcus raised a hand, cutting him off.

    "Kian and Lila are just as capable, if not more so. If you want Eratz back, then you take all

    three. Otherwise, you can forget about it."

    Eliza tilted her head slightly, a smirk tugging at her lips.

    "Finally showing your true colors?" she said, her tone mocking. "The apple doesn''t fall far

    from the tree."

    Liora''s expression turned cold.

    "You can mock us all you like, but the fact is, Kian and Lila are exceptional. They''re the ones who should be given opportunities, not someone who tried to abuse a young girl."

    Rowan let out a frustrated sigh.

    "We''re trying to give Eratz a second chance. This isn''t about Kian or Lila," he said, his tone

    sharp. "Eratz deserves..."

    Marcus cut him off again, his voice firm.

    "You want Eratz back? Then you take all three of them. That''s the deal."

    Eliza held up a hand, silencing Rowan before he could respond. She looked at Marcus and

    Liora, her eyes narrowing slightly.

    "You''re really going to bargain your own son like this?"

    Liora crossed her arms, her expression unyielding.

    "We''re doing what''s best for all of our children. If Eratz is going to be given a second chance,

    then Kian and Lila deserve theirs too."

    After a few moments of tense silence, Eliza finally leaned back in her chair, a reluctant nod

    following.

    "Fine," she said, her tone begrudging. "We''ll take Kian and Lila too. But make no mistake,

    this isn''t definitive, even for Eratz. He will have to prove himself, and so will your other

    children."

    Liora gave a tight smile, while Marcus nodded, satisfied.

    "That''s all we ask," Marcus replied.

    The tension hung in the air for a moment longer before Eliza stood, signaling the end of the

    meeting.

    "We''ll be in touch," she said curtly, turning to leave.

    Back at their home, Liora, Marcus, Kian, and Lila were celebrating. The atmosphere was

    lively, the two youngsters beaming with pride.

    Liora and Marcus sat at the head of the table, glasses of wine in hand, their smiles wide and

    triumphant.

    "You see? We knew it would work out," Marcus said, raising his glass in a toast. "Our family deserves the best. And now, Kian and Lila, it''s your time to shine."

    Kian leaned back in his chair, a smug grin on his face.

    "Of course, Father. Unlike Eratz, I actually know how to make the most of an opportunity. I

    won''t let you down."

    Lila, sitting beside him, nodded in agreement, her expression just as smug.

    "We''re not going to embarrass the family like he did, We know what it takes to succeed."

    Liora smiled approvingly, her eyes flicking between her two younger children. "That''s right. You two are nothing like him. You''ve always followed the rules, always shown dedication, and you don''t look like him. Now, you have the chance to prove yourselves. Just

    remember, we expect nothing but the best from both of you."

    Kian and Lila exchanged a look, their eyes gleaming with ambition. "Don''t worry, Mother," Kian said. "We''ll make you proud."

    "Yeah," Lila chimed in. "We won''t be losers like Eratz. We''re going to show everyone what

    real talent looks like."

    Marcus chuckled, nodding in agreement. "That''s the spirit. Just remember, this is your chance

    to shine. Don''t let anything, or anyone, stand in your way."

    The celebration continued, the family reveling in their perceived victory.

    Days later, Liora and Marcus, along with Rowan and Eliza, arrived at Cassie and Roger''s old

    house. But when they knocked, there was no answer. The place seemed empty.

    Eliza''s patience wore thin, and she turned to Liora and Marcus.

    "Are you playing games with us?"

    Marcus looked bewildered. "There must be an explanation," he said, but Liora was already on her phone, dialing a

    number.

    Farther away, Cassie picked up, her voice cautious. She was in an empty room, away from the

    noise outside, where Eratz, Colin, and Roger were loading their belongings into a car,

    preparing to move to a new home.

    "Where are you?" Liora demanded, her tone cold and sharp.

    Cassie hesitated, her heart pounding.

    "We''re at Lugina... but why do you care, Liora?... Are you planning to come and apologize to

    Eratz?"

    Liora scoffed.

    "Apologize? Don''t be ridiculous. Stop with these foolish questions. We''re coming to take

    Eratz back."

    Cassie felt her heart sink, her face flushing with both fear and anger. She took a deep breath,

    trying to steady herself.

    "... Eratz doesn''t need to go back with you, Liora. He''s happy here. He''s made a life for

    himself, and we treat him like our own."

    "Hm? What are you saying? Cassie what''s that? You think you can replace us?" Liora snapped,

    her voice rising. "Eratz belongs with his family, not in some backwater village. You have no right to keep him from us."

    Cassie''s hands trembled as she gripped the phone.

    "Liora, please... Just think about what you''re doing. Eratz deserves at least an apology from

    you, not more orders. You don''t even listen to him. He deserves respect." "Respect?" Liora''s voice was filled with anger. "He''s been nothing but trouble. We''re giving

    him a chance to come back, to be part of something. You think you know what''s best for him,

    but you don''t. We''re his parents."

    Cassie''s eyes welled with tears, her voice trembling.

    "He''s not just some possession, Liora. He''s a person, and he''s finally happy here. Please,

    don''t take him away from us. I love him as if he were my own son."

    Liora paused, taken aback by Cassie''s words, but then her resolve hardened again.

    "Stay out of this, Cassie. We''re coming to take him, and that''s final."

    Cassie''s heart pounded, her fear turning into desperation.

    "No. He will stay with us," she said, her voice breaking with emotion.

    And before her sister could respond, she hung up the phone.

    Liora and Marcus, visibly furious, relayed the situation to Rowan and Eliza. Eliza, however,

    seemed unfazed. In fact, a satisfied smile spread across her face.

    "Well, now we know where to find him," she said, her tone almost gleeful. She turned to

    Rowan. "We''ll change the location of the summer expedition to Lugina." Rowan was a mix of emotions, disappointment that they hadn''t found Eratz right away, but also something else. His heart pounded at the thought of seeing Eratz again.

    The announcement was made at Genova Academy, the summer expedition would be to Lugina, and excitement buzzed among the students.

    They were oblivious to the true intention behind the change in plans.

    On the day of departure, several buses were lined up, ready to transport the students and staff.

    The air was filled with chatter and excitement. Kenny sat in the back, groaning as he looked out the window, disinterested. Lisa, on the other hand, seemed unusually happy, a smile playing on her lips. Crystal watched her with a worried expression, unable to shake the feeling that something

    was wrong.

    On another road, car, Liora, Marcus, Kian, and Lila were in a car, also heading toward Lugina. Everyone was converging on the same point, unaware of the storm that was about to unfold.

 Chapter 46: Tension Rising

    Chapter 46: Tension RisingThe buses from Genova Academy rolled into Lugina, the bright morning sun reflecting off their shiny exteriors. Students inside were excited, their chatter filling the air as they looked out of the windows at the unfamiliar city.

    On the other hand, staff members were trying to maintain an air of professionalism, giving the students final reminders about the purpose of this expedition.

    Eliza stood at the front of one of the buses as she addressed the students.

    "Alright, everyone, listen up, we''re here in Lugina for the summer expedition, and the focus is twofold. One, you''ll be studying professional beast masters in the arena. Watch how they strategize, how they bond with their beasts and learn from their successes and failures. Two, we''ll be exploring the surrounding region to tame monsters, an experience to sharpen your own skills as beast masters. You are to observe, learn, and, most importantly, participate, understood?"

    The students nodded, some of them more enthusiastically than others. Kenny stared out of the window, clearly uninterested, while Crystal tried to take everything in. Lisa, meanwhile, was sitting with her eyes glued to Eliza, listening carefully to every word she said.

    Once the buses came to a stop, the students were ushered out. Their guide, a young man in formal attire with black hair, greeted them with a slight bow.

    "Welcome to Lugina. My name is Victor, and I''ll be your guide during this expedition. As you''ve heard from your counselor, your time here will be split between studying professional beast masters and participating in monster-taming activities. We''ve arranged for you all to be divided into smaller groups to maximize your learning experience, If you have any questions, now would be the time to ask."

    A student raised her hand.

    "Will we get to participate in the arena matches too? Or is it just observation?"

    Victor smiled.

    "That''s a good question. The arena matches for professionals are highly competitive. You will primarily observe, but if your instructors deem you ready and if circumstances allow, you might get a chance to test your skills. For now, focus on learning from the pros."

    Another student spoke up.

    "How dangerous are the monsters in the region?"

    Victor nodded.

    "The monsters vary in difficulty. You will be working under supervision, and our priority is your safety. However, expect a challenge. This is an opportunity to push yourselves and to test your limits in a controlled, yet realistic environment."

    After a few more questions, the students were grouped into smaller teams, each assigned a different area of Lugina to explore. Lisa, Kenny, Crystal, and another boy named Julian found themselves grouped together. Julian was tall, lanky, with a carefree attitude and an easy smile.

    "Alright, team," Victor addressed them. "Your first task is to head to the arena and observe today''s matches. This will give you insight into the mindset of professional beast masters and the strategies they use. Take notes, and if you have questions, feel free to ask one of the staff members present."

    Lisa glanced at Kenny, who had his hands shoved into his pockets, his expression sour. "Hey, it''ll be fun."

    Kenny gave her a sideways glance, his eyes narrowing slightly.

    "Since when are you this enthusiastic?"

    Lisa smiled, a little too brightly.

    "Since I realized how much we can learn here. Come on, Kenny, it''ll be worth it."

    Crystal, who had been observing the exchange quietly, raised an eyebrow, her suspicion growing. Lisa''s sudden enthusiasm was... strange, to say the least. She watched as Lisa nudged Kenny, trying to coax a smile out of him, something she had never seen her do before.

    Julian grinned, his eyes bouncing between his teammates.

    "Well, the guide says to watch arena matches, so let''s get to it! Who knows, maybe we''ll have a chance to throw hands."

    Kenny sighed but relented.

    "Fine, let''s just get this over with."

    The group made their way towards an arena, Lisa relieved. She needed an excuse to slip away and meet somehow with Rowan. She was counting on the fact that he would be visiting the different colleges around the city. She just needed a moment alone with him, a chance to get information about Eratz''s whereabouts.

    Meanwhile, Eratz, Cassie, Roger, and Colin were finally done moving into their new home. The apartment was located in the heart of Lugina, a stark contrast to their previous apartment.

    The space was bright and spacious, with three bedrooms, a large bathroom, a cozy living room, a neat kitchen, and even a balcony that overlooked the bustling city below.

    "Wow! This is amazing," Colin exclaimed as she stepped into the living room, her eyes wide. She spun around, taking it all in, her face lighting up in delight.

    "Look at all this space," Roger said, dropping a box down in the kitchen and stretching his arms. "I think we have finally found our little paradise."

    "Our little paradise for now," Eratz dropped off a few bags.

    Cassie smiled, running her hand along the countertop in the kitchen.

    "It''s definitely a change... everything keeps changing."

    Colin''s face, however, soon turned into a pout as she peeked into the rooms.

    "Wait... Eratz and I don''t get to share a room anymore?"

    "Aww, are you going to miss me that much?" Eratz grinned at her.

    Colin crossed her arms, trying to act tough

    "N-No way! I just thought it was fun sharing a room... like in the forest."

    Eratz laughed, reaching over to ruffle her hair.

    "Don''t worry, little one, you''ll have more space now to do whatever you want, like cleaning

    the room yourself."

    Colin huffed, swatting his hand away, though a smile tugged at her lips.

    "I can do that too, I''m not a kid, you know."

    "Sure, sure," Eratz said.

    The atmosphere was light, everyone in high spirits as they unpacked and settled in. Roger and Eratz exchanged teasing remarks as they moved boxes around.

    After a while, Eratz spoke up, his tone more thoughtful.

    "I have some matches soon, and I''ll do some shopping after, do you guys need anything?"

    Cassie looked at him, her eyes softening. She was silent for a moment, then she gave a sad

    smile.

    "Why don''t we finish putting everything in its place before adding more stuff?"

    Eratz nodded

    "Got it, Aunt Cassie."

    Roger clapped Eratz on the shoulder, giving him a grin.

    "Look at you, acting all responsible. Why don''t you show them the kind of faces you show in

    the arena?"

    Eratz smirked.

    "I could, but I''m afraid to take your throne, Boss."

    Roger laughed, shaking his head. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Alright, alright, just get out of here you little freak."

    With a laugh, Eratz grabbed his phone and headed toward the door. He paused for a moment, looking back at them. Cassie gave him a nod, her smile still in place but her eyes betraying her worry. Eratz returned the nod before stepping out, the door clicking shut behind him.

    Cassie, as soon as he left, hurried to the bathroom. She closed the door behind her, her shoulders slumping as she leaned against the sink.

    Tears welled in her eyes, her heart filling with fear. She was terrified that Eratz might bump into his family, that they would take him away. She regretted mentioning their location so

    casually.

    She covered her mouth, stifling her sobs, the weight of her fears overwhelming her. Eratz had become like a son to her, and the thought of losing him was unbearable.

    Outside, Eratz checked his phone. He sent a quick text to

    Mercury:

    [How many matches so far?]

    The reply was almost instant:

    [7 since morning.]

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    [7? Pathetic I''ll do 8]

    Mercury''s response came swiftly:

    [Break a leg.]

    Eratz smiled, tucking his phone back into his pocket.

    Mercury, meanwhile, was sitting at a cozy caf¨¦ near a bridge next to an arena. She wore a stylish outfit, a light blue blouse that complimented her eyes, tucked into a high-waisted black skirt. Her shoes were elegant, matching her skirt. She looked effortlessly fashionable,

    and smirked, showing her teeth, to Eratz''s messages.

    "Mercury!" a voice called, and she looked up, her smirk turning into a bright smile.

    Two girls approached her, both dressed elegantly.

    One had long, dark hair cascading down her back, her outfit a mix of flowing fabrics that made

    her look graceful and poised. The other was shorter, with a bob haircut and a sharp, confident

    expression. She wore a tailored jacket over a floral dress, giving her an air of chic

    sophistication.

    "Hey, girls," Mercury greeted, her eyes lighting up.

    "We haven''t seen you for so long," the taller girl said, her tone playful. "You''re always so

    busy." "True," added the one in the jacket. "I thought you forgot all about us, being the ''water prodigy'' and all."

    Mercury laughed, waving her hand dismissively.

    "Hey, I haven''t forgotten you two. I''ve just been busy with matches and training, you know

    how it is. But I''ve got more time now." She winked. "I''ve got a very good pal helping me, so

    I''m free for the rest of today."

    They took a seat around her table, and Mercury looked at both of them with a genuine smile. "Alright, enough about me. Tell me, what''s been happening in your lives?"

    The three began chatting, their voices filling the cozy caf¨¦ with laughter and stories.

    At the same time, Lisa, Crystal, Kenny, and Julian entered the same caf¨¦, their group finding a

    table not too far from where Mercury and her friends sat.

    Julian looked around, clearly in high spirits. He stretched his arms, grinning widely.

    "This place is perfect! Let''s grab some drinks and enjoy the day."

    Crystal sat down, her eyes scanning the caf¨¦ distractedly. She had been on edge ever since the

    expedition started, watching Lisa closely.

    Lisa, on the other hand, seemed determined to keep a cheerful demeanor. She smiled at

    Julian''s suggestion.

    "Yeah, sounds good. We deserve a little break, right?"

    Julian raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Whoa, Lisa''s agreeing with me? You''re really in a good mood today, huh? I like this version

    of you." He looked over at Kenny and nudged him with a playful grin. "And look at us! Two

    boys and two girls, it''s practically fate. Right, Kenny?"

    Kenny shot Julian a withering glare.

    "Don''t push it, Julian."

    Julian put his hands up defensively, a grin still on his face.

    "Alright, alright, I''m just saying." He then looked back at Lisa. "But seriously, it''s nice to see

    you smile. You''re always so... serious."

    Lisa felt a little annoyed and glanced at Kenny, the boy barely reacting, but she kept her smile.

    "Well, maybe I''m trying to change that. We''re here to learn, right? Might as well enjoy it too." Crystal narrowed her eyes, her suspicion growing. She watched the interactions, her mind filled with questions. Lisa was definitely acting differently, and it was making her more uneasy by second.

    Julian laughed, shaking his head.

    "Yeah, yeah, we''re here to learn. But I think we''re also here to live a little."

    He then leaned in, giving Kenny a cheeky grin.

    "Who knows, Kenny? Maybe you should start thinking about focusing on one girl, you know?

    Might help you with that attitude."

    Kenny scowled, clearly annoyed. He looked away, trying to ignore Julian''s comments. As he

    glanced around the caf¨¦, his eyes suddenly froze. There, across the room, he saw Mercury.

 Chapter 47: Crossroads

    Chapter 47: CrossroadsMercury was sipping on her iced tea as her friends chatted away. Her friend with the flowing maroon dress spoke animatedly, gesturing with her hands while laughing.

    Next to her, the bob-haired girl was wiping tears from her eyes.

    "I can''t believe you really dropped college to become a pro beast master, Mercury... You''re so lucky!" She cried dramatically, her voice causing the nearby customers to glance over in curiosity. "Classes are too hard, and you get to escape it all. Why can''t we all do that?!"

    Mercury chuckled, tilting her head.

    "I had to, Mina. It wasn''t easy, but it''s what I needed."

    The tall girl chuckled, shaking her head.

    "Look at her, pretending she''s mature. You just love kick everyone''s ass, right? You maniac."

    Mercury had a quick burst of laugh, leaning forward.

    "You know me too well, Sera. But, hey, I''m still a good girl, look, I''m spending my free time talking to my buddies instead of sleeping or watching TV, like usual, while you keep studying."

    "You bitch."

    The three of them laughed together, their voices blending in with the ambient hum of the cafe.

    Across the room, Kenny stared at Mercury. He couldn''t take his eyes off her, everything about her seemed almost magnetic.

    There was a raw, effortless beauty to her that captivated him, the mix of her tomboy demeanor with her sublime beauty leaving an impression that was impossible to shake.

    Kenny''s gaze drifted over her, greedily absorbing every detail. The way her blouse hugged her body, hinting at her toned stomach and perfectly curving over her full chest, it was like she was built to be admired.

    Her long legs were emphasized by the high-waisted skirt she wore, and each movement she made seemed to draw his eyes, and it was crazily attractive.

    His eyes moved back to her face, tracing the sharp line of her jaw, the perfect smoothness of her skin.

    There was a beauty mark under her eye that added a hint of playfulness to her. Her lips, gently moving as she laughed, looked soft and inviting.

    Another beauty mark sat just above her chest, partially hidden by the open collar of her blouse, and Kenny''s gaze lingered there longer than it should have.

    Her chest, full, voluminous, was impossible to ignore. The fabric of her blouse clung to her figure, drawing attention in a way that made his pulse quicken.

    Kenny swallowed hard, he had seen plenty of beautiful girls, but there was something about Mercury that struck him harder than anything he''d experienced before.

    She had an aura of effortless sensuality that left him both fascinated and slightly intimidated.

    "Kenny?" Lisa''s voice cut through his trance, a hint of sadness in her tone as she noticed what had captivated his attention. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Julian''s eyes followed Kenny''s gaze, and with a sigh, he kicked Kenny under the table.

    "Snap out of it, man, You''re gawking at her like a dog."

    Kenny snapped back, scowling.

    "Shut up, Julian. I''m not... I''m just thinking... we need a guide. Maybe they can help."

    He tried to sound tough, but the damage was already done and there was an unmistakable hesitance in his voice.

    Julian snorted, shaking his head.

    "Yeah, right. You want a guide? How about focusing on the girls already sitting at this table?" He smirked, then stood up, "Let the scene to a true free man."

    Julian strode towards Mercury''s table, his steps deliberately confident, though his heartbeat quickened with each step.

    He wasn''t used to this, most of the girls at the academy were plain compared to Mercury. She was different, and it threw him off balance.

    "Hey there, sorry to interrupt, but we''re new in town, and a little lost, to be honest. Any chance you could point us in the right direction?"

    Sera and Mina exchanged glances, unimpressed. Mercury tilted her head slightly, one

    eyebrow raised, her sharp eyes assessing him.

    "You''re new in town?" she asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and boredom.

    Julian nodded.

    "Yeah, we''re from a foreign institution, Genova Academy, we''re students and pro beast masters, you know? Figured we could use some guidance."

    As Mercury glanced past Julian, she noticed Kenny awkwardly lingering near their table, with Lisa and Crystal sitting behind him.

    Her gaze hardened slightly, the academy name sounded familiar, but she couldn''t remember when she heard it.

    "Is this serious?" she muttered to herself.

    Kenny stepped forward quickly, sensing an opportunity.

    "Hey! Sorry about him," he said, giving Julian a pointed look. He turned back to Mercury, trying to muster his own confidence. "We''re students at Genova Academy, pro beast masters. Thought we could use some advice from someone who knows the area."

    He gave a wink, attempting to inject some charm into his voice.

    Julian smirked, adding.

    "Yeah, we''re here to learn from the best. And you seem like you know your way around."

    Mercury looked between the two boys, her gaze then shifting to Lisa and Crystal, who looked down without joining the conversation.

    Her eyes narrowed as she realized what this was, a lame attempt to flirt.

    She sighed, her voice turning icy.

    "Look, guys, we''re not interested. If you need directions, there are plenty of other people in the room to ask. We''re just here to relax."

    Kenny wasn''t about to give up that easily. He pulled out his student ID card, showing it off with a slightly shaky hand.

    "We''re really from Genova Academy, one of the best academy for future pro beast masters. We are in fact actual pros." he said, trying to sound impressive.

    Sera, Mercury''s tall friend, couldn''t help but laugh.

    "Wait, they''re really using that to show off? Pff, It at least confirms you''re not lying about being from another town. You don''t even know that this girl here is one of the top beast masters in this city, the ''Water Prodigy''."

    Kenny''s eyes widened, her words hitting him like a slap. He remembered the harsh words from his last tournament before biting the dust, the girl who defeated him telling him he had no place among real beast masters.

    The shame and sting of that defeat rushed back, and for a moment, he was speechless.

    Mercury glanced at her friends, nodding slightly.

    "Alright, time to go. We''re leaving," she said, getting up from her seat. Sera and Mina

    followed suit.

    Julian rubbed the back of his neck, apologizing quickly.

    "Sorry about him... he doesn''t know how to talk without joking about being a pro... We''re just

    really lost and need a guide to the arenas."

    Mercury shook her head, her voice firm.

    "Ask someone else. I finally have time to spend with my friends, and I''m not wasting it on you

    guys."

    With that, Mercury and her friends left the cafe, leaving Kenny standing there, stunned into

    silence.

    Crystal let out a breath of relief. She murmured softly.

    "That''ll teach you to stop being a jerk."

    Julian groaned, slumping back into his chair as they returned to their table. He threw Kenny an

    exasperated look.

    "Way to ruin the mood, Kenny. We could''ve just had a chill conversation, but no, you had to be

    annoying."

    Kenny''s face reddened, and he glared at Julian.

    "I didn''t ruin anything! And you were as lame too... Besides, I got something interesting out

    of it."

    Crystal frowned.

    "What?"

    Kenny''s lips tightened into a smirk.

    "Her nickname."

    Meanwhile, a group of students from Genova Academy found themselves seated in a bustling

    arena, eager to watch the matches that were about to unfold.

    The stands were packed, and the excitement was palpable, this arena was more popular than

    the others they had visited earlier in the day.

    "This place is amazing!" one of the students, a young man, shouted over the noise. "Look at

    all these people! Imagine being the one standing in the center of that arena!"

    His friend, a girl, nodded, her eyes wide.

    "One day, that''ll be us. Right in the spotlight."

    The students chatted among themselves, their eyes glued to the arena floor. The energy in the

    crowd shifted suddenly as the speakers crackled, and the announcer''s voice boomed across

    the arena.

    "Ladies and gentlemen! The moment you''ve all been waiting for is finally here!"

    The arena erupted into cheers, the students looking around in awe as the excitement reached

    a fever pitch.

    The girl turned to the boy.

    "Max, what''s going on? Who''s coming out?"

    Max shrugged, equally curious.

    "No idea, Aya... but it must be someone big!"

    The announcer continued, his voice full of enthusiasm.

    "Introducing Lugina''s rising star, a force of destruction, the one and only..."

    The crowd''s cheering grew louder, and the Genova students leaned forward in anticipation.

    "Give it up for the ''Juggernaut''!"

    The name echoed across the arena, and the crowd roared in response. The students exchanged glances, their excitement replaced with curiosity and a bit of unease.

    As the gates to the arena floor opened, the figure stepped forward. His long white hair tied in ponytail and his red eyes glowing.

 Chapter 48: The Juggernaut

    Chapter 48: The JuggernautThe moment Eratz stepped into the arena, the cheers of the public were deafening.

    The massive screens displayed his image, capturing perfectly his appearance.

    He was dressed in a sleek black outfit, with crimson lines running along the seams. Fingerless gloves covered his hands. The arena spotlights reflected off his long ponytail, his red eyes glowing.

    Genova''s students exchanged glances. There was something oddly familiar about him, a nagging feeling in the back of their minds. It wasn''t until the name "Eratz Pandora" flashed across the screen that they realized why.

    "Wait, is that... him?" A girl whispered, her eyes wide with disbelief.

    Another boy leaned forward, squinting at the screen, then back at the figure in the arena.

    "It can''t be... Eratz Pandora? The one who was expelled from the academy for cheating and aggression?"

    Aya shook her head slowly, the initial excitement draining from her face.

    "It''s really him."

    The shock spread through the group, replacing the earlier cheer. The students fell silent, unable to believe that it was really Eratz, the student whose name had become synonymous with scandal at Genova Academy.

    Opposite Eratz, another gate opened, and a young boy stepped forward. He seemed younger than Eratz, surrounded by an aura contrasting with him.

    The boy, wearing a determined grin, approached the center of the arena and gave a quick bow to Eratz.

    "I''m impressed to face one of the top beast masters in the circuit. Quite an honor." Eratz simply nodded.

    "Yeah."

    The boy laughed, shaking his head.

    "Come on, man. You should be a bit more humble, say something nice too."

    Eratz smirked.

    "We''re not in a playground, this is an arena. If you want me to be nice, give me a good challenge."

    The boy chuckled, shaking his head again.

    "That''s the Juggernaut for you."

    He turned to the corner, preparing for the upcoming battle.

    From the stands, Genova''s students watched in silence, disbelief painted across their faces.

    "What is he even doing here?" Max muttered. "He was expelled. There''s no way he belongs here."

    Frederica, the second girl nodded, her gaze locked on Eratz.

    "Right? I mean, they called him a top beast master. How can that be?"

    The students continued to watch, skeptics. They remembered the stories, the accusations, to them, Eratz should be too weak to stand in the arena, let alone deserving to receive compliments from his opponent.

    The battle was about to begin. The young boy took a deep breath and summoned his beast, a massive creature that stood over fifteen feet tall.

    It was covered in thick green scales, each one glistening in the spotlight. Its eyes glowed yellow, and smoke came out from its nostrils as it let out a roar that reverberated through the

    arena.

    The boy grinned, giving a proud nod. "I''ll go directly with my ace, the Verdrix."

    The crowd cheered as the wyvern stomped its foot, shaking the ground beneath it. Its wings unfurled, casting a shadow over Eratz as it loomed above him. Eratz, however, simply smiled. "Ah?"

    Without warning, the Verdrix lunged forward, its massive claws striking the ground where Eratz had been standing.

    The earth shattered, chunks of rock flying into the air. But Eratz was already gone. He reappeared a few feet away, still smiling.

    "... Guess I''ll need the big guns."

    The ground beneath him seemed to darken, his shadow expanding and taking shape.

    From the darkness, a pair of glowing eyes emerged, followed by a sleek black figure, the Thunder Lycaon. The beast''s electric mane stood on end as it growled at the wyvern, lightning crackling around its paws.

    The arena held its breath for a moment before the beasts charged at each other, the clash sending a shockwave that rattled the walls of the stadium.

    The Verdrix swung its tail, aiming for the Lycaon, but the smaller beast ducked, dodging beneath the massive appendage and countering with a slash of lightning that struck Verdrix''s side. The wyvern let out a roar of pain, and the crowd erupted in cheers.

    The two monsters continued their fierce battle, lightning and wind tearing across the arena floor. The Verdrix''s thunderous roars shook the stands, but the Lycaon moved with deadly precision, evading attacks and retaliating with lightning-quick strikes.

    The boy watched the battle unfold, his heart pounding. He knew the hardest part was still ahead, Eratz would eventually join the battle himself. But to his surprise, Eratz remained still, watching calmly.

    The boy''s eyes met Eratz''s, and he saw the challenging smile on Eratz''s face. It was as if Eratz was daring him to come to him.

    The boy gritted his teeth, feeling the pressure. He covered himself in lightning, his body crackling with energy.

    With a roar, he rushed forward, his speed blinding. The arena trembled as he made contact, only to find himself stopped by a shimmering shield of light that surrounded Eratz.

    The boy grinned, despite the shock.

    "You might regret underestimating me," he said, his voice strained.

    Eratz''s smile widened, his brow furrowing.

    "Don''t say it, do it."

    The boy vanished, moving at lightning speed, striking from multiple angles. Each time, his attacks were met by the same impenetrable shield, his blows unable to reach Eratz.

    Up in the stands, the Genova students watched in awe.

    "Look at his speed," Frederica said, her voice filled with disbelief. "This is what real pros are like."

    Cole, the second boy, nodded, his eyes wide.

    "It''s just like when Kenny fought in the tournament... The pros are on a completely different level. There''s no way Eratz wins."

    But Eratz remained calm, his eyes never leaving the battle between the Thunder Lycaon and

    the wyvern.

    He watched as the two monsters clashed, their roars echoing through the arena. The boy''s wyvern was strong, almost managing to overpower the Lycaon, Eratz''s smile faltered.

    "Great... He''s strong too. Time to use ''that''."

    A spark of light appeared at Eratz''s side, drawing gasps from the crowd. The energy grew, a sphere of blinding light that pulsed with power.

    "Is that...?" someone in the crowd whispered, their voice filled with awe.

    The boy''s eyes widened in realization. He tried to jump back, but it was too late. Instead of falling, his body floated, suspended in the air, his eyes wide with fear.

    "S-shit... He tricked me!"

    The light grew brighter, the energy intensifying. And then, with a deafening roar, a massive

    beam of light shot forward, engulfing the boy and his wyvern.

    The beam was immense, a column of energy that tore across the arena, dying in the protection shield deployed to keep the spectators safe.

    The sound was deafening, the force so powerful that the entire stadium seemed to quake.

    The audience shielded their eyes, the brightness too much to bear. The roar of the crowd was drowned out by the sheer power of the attack, the light filling every corner of the arena. When the beam finally subsided, a faint glow lingered next to Eratz, slowly fading away. Eratz stood with his arms still crossed, his gaze fixed on the other side of the arena.

    The boy lay unconscious, his body battered and bruised. His wyvern, stunned and disoriented,

    struggled to rise.

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to the wyvern, his eyes narrowing. A pulse of light shot from him, striking the wyvern and stunning it further.

    The Thunder Lycaon moved in a blur, unleashing a rapid combination of electric strikes.

    The attacks hit their mark, the wyvern letting out one final roar before collapsing, its form S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    dissolving as it returned to the boy''s shadow.

    The crowd erupted in cheers once again.

    "That''s the Juggernaut for you!" someone yelled, their voice barely audible over the

    deafening applause.

    "He actually used ''that'' monster!"

    "It''s so rare to see it in action!"

    The Genova students sat in stunned silence, their disbelief evident in their wide eyes and slack

    jaws. Aya turned to Max, her voice barely a whisper.

    "How is he that strong?"

    Max shook his head, unable to answer. They had heard the stories, they had believed the

    accusations, but seeing Eratz now, there was no denying his power. He was on a completely different level, more than anyone they saw till now.

    Eratz gave a calm wave to the cheering crowd, his expression calm. As he walked out of the arena, the students could only watch, petrified, as they were forced to accept the truth. Eratz was no longer the student they had once known, he was a monster of the arena. Later, Eratz left the arena, as he stepped outside, he noticed a familiar car waiting for him.

    He approached it, opening the door and sliding inside. Victoria sat in the driver''s seat, her lips curling into a smile as she looked at him.

    "Well done, Eratz," she said, her voice warm. "Another win, let''s go to the next arena... hm? You seem... off. What''s bothering you?"

    Eratz sighed, leaning back against the seat.

    "I''m not satisfied with the way my battles are going. I want the first monster I summon to

    finish off weaker opponents, and I want to handle the final part myself. But it never goes that

    way."

    Victoria nodded, her expression thoughtful.

    "I understand, but the higher you climb, the stronger your opponents will be. It won''t always

    be that easy. You already have three wonderful monsters..."

    She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly, then smiled.

    "Wait, what do you mean by that?"

    "My goal isn''t just three monsters, I want a pack. And the more I train, the less I improve. The

    forest isn''t enough anymore. I know there are stronger opponents out there, I need to get

    stronger."

    Victoria''s lips curled into a smile, her eyes gleaming.

    "That''s the spirit of a true warrior." She glanced out the window, then back at him.

    "If you feel like you''re not improving, maybe it''s time to travel a bit. Explore the region, or

    even beyond. Pro beast masters do that all the time, and it allows them to participate in many different tournaments."

    Eratz''s eyes lit up at the suggestion, a spark of excitement in his expression.

    "You and Mercury are the strongest beast masters in our agency. You should both do it,"

    Victoria continued. "Mercury refused before because Milo was in school, but now that it''s the holidays, maybe a trip with Ryder and Adrian too would be good for all of you."

    Eratz felt a rush of excitement at the thought of having a new hunting zone. "I''m in. Let''s do

    it."

    Victoria''s smile widened.

    "That''s what I like to hear."

    As they drove away, a car passed them, heading in the opposite direction. Inside, Eratz''s

    parents sat, their expressions tense.

    His mother dialed Cassie''s number again, her frustration growing when there was no answer.

 Chapter 49: Hunters

    Chapter 49: HuntersThe car came to a halt near an empty sidewalk. Liora clenched her teeth as she dialed Cassie''s number again, her knuckles trembling as she gripped her phone.

    The line was silent, and after a few beeps, the call dropped. She glared at the phone, her eyes flashing with fury.

    "Blocked again?" Marcus, asked, his voice tired as he glanced sideways at her.

    Liora''s lips were a tight line.

    "She''s blocked us. She must be keeping Eratz away from us on purpose, I knew it."

    She threw the phone onto the dashboard, a frustrated growl escaping her lips.

    Marcus sighed, rubbing his temples.

    "We''ll find him, Liora. We just have to keep trying."

    Liora scoffed, crossing her arms.

    "She''s playing games, Marcus, but we won''t stop. We need to know what''s going on with that boy. We need him back. Without him, Kian and Lila won''t get an opportunity to get into

    Genova Academy... Cassie is ruining everything."

    Marcus''s grip on the steering wheel tightened.

    "We should have handled this differently. Maybe we should involve the authorities."

    Liora''s expression twisted with anger.

    "If Cassie thinks she can take Eratz from us, she''s got another thing coming. Maybe it''s time we see the police."

    It was late in the evening, and Kenny sat at the desk in his shared room, eyes glued to his tablet.

    His gaze was locked on the screen as he scrolled through search results for the "Water Prodigy" online.

    He had been searching for any information about Mercury, desperate to find out more about her.

    After a while, his eyes widened, and a grin spread across his face.

    "Got you," he muttered to himself, his eyes gleaming.

    He had found her identity, and her next match details. He jumped up from his chair in excitement.

    Julian, who was lounging on his bed, raised an eyebrow at Kenny''s sudden outburst.

    "What''s got you all hyped up?"

    Kenny turned to him, his grin widening.

    "I found her, Mercury Banks, nineteen. I''ve got her match schedule, she''s fighting tomorrow."

    Julian rolled his eyes, a playful grin on his face.

    "Oh, you''re still on about her? Seriously, Kenny, what''s the deal? You got shut down just today, and it wasn''t pretty."

    Kenny shrugged, trying to sound casual.

    "You know me, Julian. I don''t give up that easily. She''s different."

    He paused for a moment, picturing her, her confident aura, the way she carried herself with such power and elegance. It was intoxicating.

    Julian snorted, leaning back on his pillow.

    "Different, huh? Or maybe it''s just her looks you''re after. Let me guess, it''s about those huge knockers isn''t it? It''s true we don''t have that size in the academy." He smirked.

    Kenny laughed, unabashed.

    "Well, I mean, have you seen her? She''s got everything at the good places. The looks, the attitude, the voice... The way she talked to me... she thinks she''s untouchable? I gotta have her. Man... A sport girl is just the best."

    Julian shook his head, amused.

    "Typical Kenny. Always chasing after what you shouldn''t have." He paused, then added with a sly grin, "But hey, you go ahead and try. I''ll be right behind you, ready to swoop in when you mess it up again."

    Kenny shot Julian a look, catching the hint of competition.

    "Just watch, Julian. Tomorrow, I''ll get her attention. You''ll see."

    Julian chuckled, patting Kenny on the shoulder mockingly.

    "Sure thing, Kenny. You already have two girls stuck to you despite your losing streak, but go for a third one. Just don''t say I didn''t warn you when she shuts you down again." He gave Kenny a playful wink.

    Deep down, though, Julian was interested in Mercury too. She wasn''t like the girls back at the academy, she had something more, something they both craved.

    Rowan and Eliza sat in yet another college director''s office, the exhaustion visible in their

    eyes.

    The director, an old man with thinning hair, shook his head, his expression apologetic.

    "I''m afraid we have no record of an Eratz Pandora enrolled here."

    Rowan sighed, leaning back in his chair. He rubbed his eyes, his frustration barely contained.

    "That''s the fifth one today. Are we missing something here? He has to be somewhere."

    Eliza leaned back, a smirk tugging at her lips.

    "Or maybe he''s just hiding from us, Rowan. Did you ever think he might not want to be found?"

    Rowan frowned, his eyes narrowing slightly.

    "I don''t get it. He was one of our best. Why disappear like this? It just doesn''t make sense."

    Eliza shrugged, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

    "He was one of the best because he cheated, professor. It sounds logic that he would run away from the world of beast masters, so maybe it''s not impossible that he just decided to hide

    forever?"

    Rowan shot her a look.

    "Even though, I mentored him for a while, the passion he had wasn''t cheating."

    Eliza rolled her eyes, sighing.

    "I don''t know, Rowan, the fox sing a swan song to the crow before stealing it." She paused, her eyes softening. "We really look desperate, I''m starting to wonder if it wouldn''t be easier

    to just give up on Kenny and form a better ace."

    Rowan shook his head, determination in his eyes.

    "It''s only the first day, we have time."

    Eliza sighed, looking at Rowan with a mixture of exasperation and pity.

    "You''re a fool, you know that? The other option would be to be a better tutor for Kenny,

    maybe you should also suffer the consequences of his fall?"

    Later at nightfall, the forest was silent, a deep darkness spread across its entirety as night descended.

    Eratz stood at the edge, his red eyes glowing faintly in the darkness. He let out a slow breath, closing his eyes as his aura began to unfurl, the immense energy within him gradually spilling out, reaching every corner of the area.

    His beasts emerged from his shadow, each one releasing a powerful aura, their presence filling the edge of the forest.

    The Thunder Lycaon, its mane of electricity flickering with life, stood on Eratz''s right. Beside him, the Aetheri, with its new form, glowed, radiating light that pushed back the dark. And to his left, the Terrakrus, its amber eyes piercing through the night.

    As Eratz surveyed his surroundings, he could feel the connection between him and his beasts.

    There was no need for words, they knew what they had to do, this was the beginning of a hunt, and they would leave no stone unturned.

    He could sense each of his beasts'' presence as clearly as his own heartbeat.

    The Thunder Lycaon moved with an electric ferocity, its thoughts intertwining with Eratz''s as

    it led one division of the beast army.

    Eratz felt its hunger for the thrill of battle, the way it reveled in the rush of lightning through its veins, and it made his own blood pump faster.

    The Aetheri glided above, its energy connecting with Eratz''s own aura in a meditative state.

    It shared its clarity, keeping the forest in check, to protect its allies. Eratz felt its calmness flow into him, giving him a sense of control even in this chaos.

    On the other side, the Terrakrus was a force of raw, unstoppable power. Eratz could feel the dragon''s muscles coiling, ready to unleash devastation.

    He could feel their strength like his own, and it made him want to prove himself worthy of leading such a powerful army.

    He moved like a shadow, his beasts flanking him on all sides, each of them acting as an extension of his will. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    They moved in perfect harmony, each creature responding to his thoughts before he even had

    to give a command.

    It was exhilarating, the way their connection worked. It was like he could feel every muscle in their bodies, every surge of energy as they moved, attacked, defended.

    The ground shook beneath their combined steps, the sheer weight of their power making the

    forest tremble.

    Eratz could sense every shift in the environment, every movement of the creatures around him. It was as if the entire forest was an extension of his own body.

    He continued deeper into the forest, and a powerful aura began to build within him as he initiated a beastification.

    The spiritual energy of the Aetheri, the raw elemental power of the Thunder Lycaon, and the formidable strength of the Terrakrus converged within him, creating a force unlike anything he had ever felt before.

    Eratz could feel the change, his aura growing, his power intensifying. The more he connected with a monster, the stronger the feeling grew in him.

    He grinned, the thrill of the hunt filling him as he unleashed the fire burning him.

    The forest responded in kind, creatures from all corners sensing the shift, feeling the pressure

    that came with the presence of a true apex predator growing everywhere.

    From a distance, the forest moved, a ripple of energy spreading outwards, shaking the

    foundation of the trees.

    The connection between Eratz and his beasts deepened, and it felt almost funny to him. He

    was everywhere, he had no ceiling.

    With a deep breath, he let out a burst of aura, an explosion of black and white energy crossed

    with blue lightning.

    The power surged out of him, causing the ground to shake and the air to vibrate.

    It wasn''t a massive explosion, but it was enough to send a shockwave through a part of the forest, the sheer force of it causing branches to sway and smaller creatures to scatter in fear. His aura flared brightly, surrounding him in a swirling storm of dark and light energy.

    The blue lightning crackled around him, adding a raw, electric edge to the power he was

    releasing.

    His eyes glowed with intensity, and a grin spread across his face as he felt the surge of

    strength.

    This was a new form of Beastification.

 Chapter 50: Superpredator

    Chapter 50: SuperpredatorEratz released a formidable burst of aura. The explosion of power emanated from his body, his jacket shredded into pieces, leaving him in a black tank top.

    The power coursing through him felt like nothing he had experienced before, he was lighter, far too light, yet simultaneously overflowing with raw strength.

    He felt the combined states of his three aces flowing through him, the formidable strength of the Terrakrus, the lightning speed and agility of the Thunder Lycaon, and the calmness with access to immense aura from the Aetheri.

    He felt like his aura was now something he could control with nothing more than his will. He decided to test it further, pushing himself to draw more energy.

    The moment he did, his aura burst once more, dark and white energy coursed around his body, with blue lightning crossing through it.

    Unlike the traditional beastification forms that would created marks on his body related to the beast he used, his body remained perfectly intact.

    Eratz clenched his fist, feeling a surge of pleasure. He didn''t know what he had done or how this had become possible, but he had never felt this powerful before.

    A large tree stood in front of him, its branches spreading far and wide, its trunk thick and unyielding.

    He fixed his gaze on it and, with an intake of breath, launched himself toward it.

    His jump was so forceful that the ground beneath his feet exploded upon jumping, sending rocks and dirt flying in all directions.

    The shockwave rippled outwards, flattening the grass and sending leaves spiraling into the air.

    In an instant, he was in front of the tree, his body twisting into a punching pose.

    For a moment, it felt like his mind shut down, his entire being turning into that one singular punch, then came the light, a brilliant explosion rocked the forest, and the massive tree was obliterated.

    The blast did not stop there, a cyclone of lightning and raging wind erupted, tearing through the forest, ripping apart trees and scattering the landscape in every direction.

    Eratz stood in the middle of the devastation, his aura still enveloping him.

    He blinked in surprise, staring at the destruction he had caused. A large area of the forest was leveled, trees shattered, and the ground torn asunder.

    After a moment, his shock transformed into a grin, his lips curling upward as his eyes gleamed with excitement.

    The next morning, the forest was still. The soft sun light filtered through the treetops, casting a soft golden glow across the land.

    The air was fresh and calm, the only sounds being the rustling of leaves in the breeze.

    But as the sunlight moved deeper into the forest, the landscape gradually changed.

    Trees lay broken, splintered into pieces, craters marred the earth, and the remains of the cyclone''s path were present in several places.

    A group of Genova Academy students had slipped into the forest, led by a young woman beast master serving as their guide.

    The students had come to see the magical creatures of the forest, to observe and learn about the beasts in their natural habitat, but as they ventured deeper and saw the devastation, their expressions turned to worry.

    "What happened here?" one of the students asked.

    The young woman, their guide, turned back to the group, her expression serious.

    "Be careful. It looks like something big came through here recently."

    The students exchanged uneasy glances, the atmosphere suddenly heavy.

    The woman paused, her brow furrowing. She felt something, a presence, a force, coming toward them at an alarming speed. Her heart began to pound, and her instincts screamed at her.

    "Everyone, we need to leave. Now!" she said, her voice trembling slightly.

    The students looked at her, their confusion evident.

    "What? Why? What''s happening?" one of them asked, fear creeping into his voice.

    The woman didn''t answer, her eyes scanning the forest as the force drew nearer.

    She summoned her beasts, two creatures, well-suited for scouting and guarding. One was a sleek, wolf-like beast with heightened senses, and the other was a hawk-like creature, its keen eyes scanning the surroundings.

    But before they could react further, something burst through the trees. A massive, bear-like monster charged toward them, its roar echoing through the forest.

    The students screamed, fear gripping them as the beast rushed forward. The young woman braced herself, her beasts stepping in front of her defensively.

    Suddenly, a powerful impact hit the bear-like creature, and the monster was thrown to the side, crashing into the ground.

    Dust and debris filled the air, and everyone stared, their eyes wide in shock. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As the dust settled, they saw what had hit the beast, the Terrakrus. The black dragon stood there, its eyes glowing with an intimidating amber light as it faced the bear-like creature.

    The students were terrified, stepping back instinctively. The young woman felt her blood run cold.

    The power radiating from the two beasts was overwhelming, far beyond anything her own creatures could handle.

    The bear groaned, struggling to rise, but before it could, the Terrakrus struck the ground with its massive claw.

    The earth trembled, a localized quake erupting beneath the bear, causing the ground to explode and sending the creature sprawling. It roared in pain, unable to regain its footing. The Terrakrus then enveloped itself in a dark coat of aura, its muscles coiling as it launched itself at the bear.

    The impact was devastating, the force of the blow creating another crater in the ground. The bear lay unconscious beneath the Terrakrus, its massive form sprawled in the pit.

    The Terrakrus stood over its fallen opponent, one foot on the bear''s chest as it let out a deep, menacing growl.

    Its gaze turned toward the group of academy students and their guide, its amber eyes locking

    onto them.

    The young woman felt her legs weaken, her heart pounding as the dragon''s gaze bore into

    her.

    She was petrified, the aura of the Terrakrus making her feel as if she were in the depths of hell. "Stop," a voice called out, cutting through the tension.

    The Terrakrus''s growl ceased, its body relaxing as it turned its head. The students and their guide looked in the direction of the voice, their eyes widening as they saw him, Eratz.

    His body was battered and bruised, his clothes torn, but he stood tall, seemingly unfazed by

    his condition.

    He walked toward the Terrakrus, his eyes on the bear-like creature.

    "Leave them. The hunt is over for today, we need to rest for the afternoon training at the agency."

    The Terrakrus stepped off the bear, moving back toward Eratz. The young woman and the students stared at him, their minds reeling from what they had just witnessed.

    Without sparing them a glance, Eratz spread his aura, the pressure washing over the area as he absorbed the bear-like creature.

    The process was effortless, the bear''s form dissolving into energy as it was taken into Eratz''s

    command.

    The young woman felt her breath catch as the aura washed over her.

    There was something primal about it, something that made her instincts scream in fear, as if

    she were in the presence of something far more terrifying than the Terrakrus or the bear. One of the students suddenly froze, her eyes locked on Eratz as he spoke to the Terrakrus.

    There was a look of recognition in her gaze, her mouth opening slightly as if she had realized something about him.

    Eratz turned his attention to the young woman, his gaze briefly flicking to her summoned

    beasts.

    "Those monsters of yours look like a fine snack," he said before turning around, his Terrakrus following him as he walked away.

    The young woman remained frozen in place, jaw dropping as she watched him leave. The students stood in stunned silence, their eyes wide.

    For a moment, no one moved. The only sound was the rustling of leaves in the wind, the aftermath of destruction laying heavy on the forest floor.

 Chapter 51: Obsessions

    Chapter 51: ObsessionsThe morning light filtered into the hotel lobby, giving it a warm, soft glow. Eliza stood in the middle of the hallway, arms crossed, her gaze fixed on Rowan.

    She was frustrated, her patience wearing thin as Rowan sighed for the third time.

    "I''m telling you, Rowan, I should go alone to look for Eratz. You stay here and train Kenny, help him with his hunting, be a good mentor for God''s sake!"

    Rowan looked at her, equally annoyed.

    "And I''m telling you, Eliza, if I let you go on your own, you won''t do it. You''ll wander off neglect the task the same way you''re neglecting him." He waved his hand dismissively, shaking his head.

    "I can''t trust you with this task."

    Eliza''s eyes narrowed, and she took a step closer to him.

    "Oh, please. Like you have any idea how to look for Eratz in a town this big. We''ve been wasting our time and the expedition is putting the students'' learning at risk. We can''t keep going like this."

    Rowan opened his mouth to argue back, but before he could, they heard a familiar voice.

    "Excuse me," Lisa said, approaching them. Her voice was soft, and she looked slightly uncomfortable interrupting. "Sorry to intrude, but I need to ask you something."

    Rowan and Eliza turned to look at her, both sets of eyebrows raised. Lisa took a breath, her eyes darting nervously between them.

    "It''s about Kenny. He''s suddenly getting really interested in getting stronger again. He''s planned to spend all day watching arena matches, and I was wondering if maybe I could help with the search for Eratz instead."

    Both Rowan and Eliza blinked, clearly surprised.

    "Wait," Rowan said, his curiosity piqued. "Kenny''s interested in training? He wasn''t before... What, you mean he''s suddenly dedicated to work harder? Where did that come from?"

    Eliza arched an eyebrow, her annoyance growing.

    "What''s gotten into him, Lisa? We''re supposed to be looking for Eratz, and you''re telling me it''s useless? Kenny is suddenly better?"

    Lisa hesitated for a second before answering, choosing her words carefully.

    "I think he might have seen someone impressive... and maybe got motivated?"

    Eliza looked skeptical, tilting her head. "Seen someone? Eratz? When? How? Where would he have seen him? We''ve looked everywhere the whole day yesterday, where did he see him? It''s not like you''re just walking around out there, right? You were tasked to visit..."

    She stopped and exchanged a look with Rowan, their eyes widening as realization dawned. "The arenas!" they both said in unison, the pieces falling into place.

    Kenny and Julian were already at the arena, sitting in the stands, watching as the crowd started to gather.

    It was still early in the morning but there was already a buzz of excitement in the air. Julian groaned, slouching in his seat. "Why did we have to come so early? It''s been hours." Kenny shot him a glare.

    "I didn''t want to miss her. Besides, I see you, man, I''m not letting you screw this up for me." He crossed his arms, his gaze fixed on the entrance to the arena floor.

    Julian snickered, nudging Kenny. "You''re really into her, huh? The mighty Kenny, acting like a lovestruck fanboy."

    Kenny just scowled, ignoring Julian''s taunts.

    Lisa arrived at the stands with Rowan and Eliza, her eyes scanning the crowd.

    They didn''t know exactly where Kenny was sitting, but Lisa had a strong feeling that he wouldn''t be there once a particular match with a specific fighter was over.

    The roar of the crowd suddenly grew louder, and Lisa turned her attention to the arena floor.

    Mercury made her entrance, stepping confidently onto the battlefield. The cheers were deafening.

    Eliza''s brow furrowed, her frustration boiling over.

    "Lisa, we''re supposed to be looking for Eratz, why are we wasting our time on someone else?"

    Lisa shifted uncomfortably, trying to keep her voice steady.

    "I think Kenny might be interested in this girl too. Maybe she''s the reason he''s been acting differently..."

    Lisa swallowed nervously, feeling a knot forming in her stomach. She had hoped to help find Eratz while Kenny''s new obsession would be the perfect excuse to slip out, but now it seemed like things were spiraling.

    Eliza looked at Lisa, her annoyance flaring.

    "So, let me get this straight, you dragged us all the way here to watch some girl fight in the arena? And you think Kenny''s interest in her is a good reason to waste our time?"

    Lisa shook her head, her voice shaking slightly.

    "No, I mean, I thought if Kenny was interested, maybe there was something important about her." She paused, her mind racing. "And... maybe Kenny is more interested in her than he is in

    finding Eratz."

    Eliza''s expression shifted slightly, her interest piqued. She exchanged a look with Rowan,

    who sighed. Her gaze fell down again on Lisa

    "What have you been up to since we came here?"

    Rowan watched, his gaze moving between Lisa and Eliza, a sigh escaping his lips.

    "Alright, let''s calm down and just see what''s going on here."

    On the arena floor, Mercury faced off against her opponent, another young woman, who looked equally confident.

    The opposing beast master used aerial monsters, combining their flight abilities with her own beastification to take to the skies.

    Mercury, however, remained grounded, summoning her panther Seraph.

    The battle was intense, the aerial monsters swooping in with coordinated attacks while Mercury commanded her beast to leap and counter their assaults.

    The fight seemed evenly matched, with the aerial advantage giving Mercury''s opponent an

    upper hand.

    Mercury found herself being pushed back, cornered by the relentless attacks from above.

    She glanced up at her opponent, feeling the tension rising. She wanted to end this quickly so she could head back to the agency and finally see Eratz after a few busy days.

    "... Alright, I''ll just use it."

    Her lips curled into a smile, her eyes narrowing as she took a step forward. The air seemed to ripple, and a sudden shift swept across the arena.

    She looked up at her opponent, her gaze sharp and focused.

    The atmosphere changed. It felt heavier, as if the very air had thickened, making it harder for

    her opponent to stay aloft.

    Mercury took another step, her aura spreading across the battlefield.

    The crowd erupted, some spectators cheering in excitement. They recognized the technique, a

    field spell.

    Kenny and Julian exchanged incredulous looks, while Eliza and Rowan leaned forward, their

    interest piqued.

    "Is this really happening?" Rowan whispered, his eyes wide.

    "It''s..." Eliza began, her voice trailing off.

    The woman in the air struggled, her movements slowing as she felt herself being weighed

    down.

    Around her, small bubbles began to form, floating in the air, and her eyes widened in

    realization.

    She was in an aquatic zone, one where the air had been altered to mimic the properties of

    water.

    Mercury clenched her fist, water swirling around her hand, gathering strength. With a swift motion, she shot an Aqua Beam, a concentrated jet of water aimed directly at her opponent.

    The impact was immediate, a powerful explosion of water engulfing her opponent, sending her plummeting to the ground.

    The crowd erupted in cheers, the entire arena filled with the sound of excitement and awe.

    Rowan watched, his eyes wide with admiration.

    "This generation really is blessed with prodigies," he muttered.

    Lisa remained silent, her gaze fixed on Mercury. She was stunned by this display of power

    especially at this level.

    She remembered Mercury from the day before, but the contrast between the fashionista and the warrior was stunning.

    With the power that Mercury possessed, the excuse that Kenny might have been interested in

    her for that was starting to make sense, sadly for her.

    After the match, Mercury made her way out of the arena, her body still buzzing from the adrenaline of the fight. She pulled out her phone, hesitating for a moment. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She wanted to call Eratz, to taunt him about her victory, to see if he wanted to go together to the agency. But then she hesitated, her finger hovering over his contact.

    "What am I doing?" she muttered to herself, her brow furrowing. "We''re going to meet at the agency in a few minutes anyway. It''d be weird to call him now."

    She sighed, pocketing her phone, her thoughts still lingering on him.

    She wanted to see him, but she didn''t understand why it felt so urgent to contact him, maybe

    just to ask him to hangout after? But then again, they would meet at the agency.

    Suddenly, a voice called out from behind her.

    "Hey! That was an amazing match!"

    Mercury turned, her expression immediately shifting to one of irritation as she recognized his

    face.

    Kenny stood there, a wide grin on his face, clearly pleased with himself.

    "Congratulations, I mean, that trick you used? I''ve never seen anything like it. You''ve got

    some real talent."

    Mercury sighed, her eyes narrowing. She crossed her arms, her stance shifting to one of clear

    disinterest.

    "What do you want?" she asked bluntly, her voice cold.

    Kenny blinked, caught off guard by her lack of enthusiasm.

    "Uh, I just wanted to say you did great, you know? I mean, that technique, it was amazing,"

    he said, trying to recover.

    Mercury looked at him, her gaze flat and unimpressed.

    "I don''t need your compliments. If you''re done, I have places to be."

    She turned on her heel, ready to leave.

    "Wait," Kenny called after her, a hint of desperation in his voice. "I''m serious. You''re really

    something special. I just... I wanted to get to know you better."

    Mercury paused, glancing back at him, her eyes like ice.

    "I don''t, leave me alone." She turned again, walking away without a second thought. Kenny stood there, his smile faltering as he watched her leave. The rejection stung more than

    he expected, frustration and determination welling up inside him. He clenched his teeth, his fists tightening at his sides.

    He remembered the words of the girl who defeated him at the tournament, how she had belittled him, made him feel small. He wasn''t going to let that happen again.

    "I''ll show you," he muttered under his breath, watching Mercury''s back. "I''ll become someone worth noticing. You will drop on for leg in front of me." A grin returned to his face.

    He was used to challenges, but this felt different.

    It wasn''t just about winning a match anymore, not even being the best. The girl he couldn''t

    reach, the sacred place he couldn''t see, the forbidden fruit he wasn''t allowed to eat was more tempting that any snack he got till now.

    Imagining this unbreakable tower knelling in front of him made his adrenaline rush in. From afar, Eliza had been watching the entire interaction unfold. She leaned against the wall,

    a sly grin tugging at her lips as she observed Kenny''s reaction. She had her suspicions before,

    but now it was clear.

    "So that''s what this is all about. This is going to be interesting."

 Chapter 52: Rising Stars

    Chapter 52: Rising StarsThe Crescent Moon Agency''s headquarters looked busier than usual as the front side was undergoing renovations. The scaffolding was set up, workers were busy hammering, drilling, and taking measurements, the sounds of construction that filled the air.

    The new updates were thanks in large part to the increase in the agency''s income, a surge that had nearly doubled with Eratz''s performances.

    He stood at the entrance for a moment, watching the construction workers. He couldn''t help but smile, the agency was growing, thriving, and he was a big part of that growth.

    He adjusted his bag and made his way inside.

    "Hey, Eratz!"

    "Morning, Eratz!"

    Several staff members greeted him warmly as he made his way down the hall. He returned their greetings with a nod and a smile. Everyone noticed when Eratz walked in. He had become the kind of person you couldn''t ignore, with his reputation, and the aura that surrounded him.

    Some whispers rose as he passed by, people talked about him, their voices full of admiration. "That''s him."

    "Yeah, did you see his last match? He''s incredible."

    Adrian stood off to the side, hearing every word. His eyes narrowed as he listened to the praise heaped onto Eratz. The compliments grated on him, and he clenched his jaw in frustration.

    Eratz walked into the locker room, opened his designated locker, and put his bag away. After a quick stop at the bathroom, he headed towards the training room.

    The moment he walked in, it was like the atmosphere shifted. People turned to look, their eyes widening slightly as they watched him. There was respect and curiosity in their gazes, Eratz was not just another trainee, He was one of the two aces. The murmurs started up almost immediately.

    "There he is."

    "Wow, he comes so rarely..."

    "Yeah, hey, let''s ask his contact infos."

    Eratz gave a small wave to those who met his eyes and then moved to the section reserved for warming up. He began his stretches, feeling the eyes still on him, the whispers still going. It wasn''t unusual anymore, people always seemed curious when he arrived and he was now used to it.

    Adrian standing further away, doing his best to ignore him. his expression was tense, his jaw clenched as he heard the admiration for Eratz echoing around the room. Many things had changed in a month.

    "Eratz!"

    Eratz turned to see Zara walking towards him, with Ryder beside her. A grin broke across his face as he waved them over.

    "Long time no see."

    "Tell me about it," Ryder said, a smile on his face. "It''s so rare to see you around!"

    Eratz chuckled.

    "You would see me more often if there was monsters to tame around. How are you doing?" Ryder''s eyes lit up with enthusiasm.

    "Training, mostly. Been working on using beastification in combat with each of my monsters, not bragging but I''m trying to match up to your physical strength and I think I''m finally able to counter your strongest point."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Which one?"

    Ryder laughed nervously.

    "Boastful..." he said, scratching the back of his head.

    Zara shook her head, her gaze settling on Eratz''s physique. She couldn''t help but notice the change. He seemed sharper, stronger.

    "Every time we see each other, you''re always stronger. Maybe it''s really time..." She murmured to herself.

    Eratz gave her a questioning look, but before he could ask, a commotion erupted from across the room.

    Mercury had just entered, and her presence was just as magnetic as always. The moment she walked in, heads turned. People watched her with a mix of admiration and awe.

    She had that same effect as Eratz, her reputation preceded her, and her confident stride only reinforced it.

    "There she is, our other superstar."

    "Mercury and Eratz... they''re like the power duo of this place." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "She''s amazing... we''re so lucky to be in this agency."

    Ryder leaned in, nudging Zara.

    "Look at them, Mercury and Eratz, they''ve become the celebrities of this place."

    Zara nodded, her expression amused.

    "Well, you could be too, you know. But you focus too much on training and forget to meet

    your quotas."

    Ryder sighed dramatically.

    "Oh, please. Eratz and Mercury are geniuses, you can''t ask everyone to meet their quotas."

    Eratz shrugged.

    "I prefer hard workers, and it''s not like we take every match. We''ve reduced the number since we always hit the 500-point quota by Thursday."

    Suddenly, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned around to see Mercury, her signature smile

    in place.

    "If it''s no big deal, why do you always do one more match than me?"

    Eratz smirked.

    "Meeting the quota is one thing. Asserting dominance is another."

    They both laughed, and Zara, feigning indignation, pointed an accusing finger at Mercury.

    "You know, you could hang out with me if you weren''t always so busy with matches!"

    Mercury crossed her arms, an innocent look on her face.

    "Hey, I''m free in the afternoon, but you''re always busy at that time."

    Zara''s eyes widened as she pretended to cry.

    "Swap schedules you morons! Hang out with me in the morning too."

    Eratz shook his head, a playful smile on his lips.

    "Sorry, Zara, but night matches are too good to pass up."

    Mercury gave a slight, knowing smile. It wasn''t known to others, but she and Eratz had chosen their schedules to make sure she had time in the afternoon for her friends. It was just how

    things worked best for all of them.

    Across the room, Adrian watched, his face twisted in frustration. He could hear the whispers around him, people talking about how well Eratz and Mercury fit together, how they were both prodigies, the untouchable stars of the agency.

    "They''re like a perfect match," one of them murmured, drawing an annoyed groan from

    Adrian. He crossed his arms, glaring at the ground.

    Before he could dwell on it further, Victoria entered the training room. The chatter died down

    as she clapped her hands to get everyone''s attention.

    "Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for being here on time," she began, her voice carrying through the room. "I want to take a moment to acknowledge how far we''ve come as

    an agency, and how much we''ve achieved together."

    She paused, her eyes scanning the crowd, her smile proud.

    "Thanks to all of you, our resources have improved significantly, and we''re able to take on

    bigger challenges. I want to give a special thanks to Zara, you''ve been the heart of this agency. Without you, there would be no hope, no foundation for us to build on. You''re the core of our

    operations."

    Everyone clapped, and Zara gave a modest smile, her cheeks flushing slightly.

    Victoria continued.

    "And Mercury, thank you for carrying us with your strength and dedication. You''ve been one

    of the pillars holding us up through thick and thin. You and Zara are the two feet of this agency, and you''ll always have a special place here."

    The applause grew louder, and Mercury gave a small nod, her lips curving into a smile.

    "And now," Victoria said, her gaze shifting, "I want to thank our new recruit, Eratz. You''ve made an incredible difference since joining us. You''ve nearly doubled the amount of points we''ve accumulated as an agency. I knew you were capable of great things, but you''ve surpassed all my expectations."

    The applause for Eratz was loud and enthusiastic. He felt a swell of pride, a grin spreading across his face. From the sidelines, Adrian crossed his arms tighter, his face darkening as he

    looked away, a groan escaping his lips.

    Mercury leaned in, her elbow resting on Eratz''s shoulder. She grinned at him.

    Victoria wrapped up her speech, her tone becoming more serious. "Thanks to everyone''s hard

    work, we''re now in a position to take the next big step forward. Crescent Moon Agency has accumulated enough points to register our agents in the regional league."

    A collective gasp filled the room. Mercury''s jaw dropped, and Zara''s eyes shone with excitement. Eratz blinked, looking around at the sudden buzz of energy.

    The excitement in the room was palpable, Eratz noticed Mercury''s eyes sparkling with

    excitement and Zara''s jaw dropping.

    "The regional league?"

 Chapter 53: The Regional League

    Chapter 53: The Regional LeagueVictoria stood in front of the assembled agents. The room was buzzing with murmurs.

    After a moment, she raised her hand, and the room fell silent.

    "Alright, everyone, let me explain what the regional league means for us." Her gaze moved across the room, her eyes meeting each one of them.

    "The regional league is the official competition for the strongest beast masters of the region. It''s the real deal, a level above anything we''ve faced before. The battles are more intense, the stakes are higher, and this is the first big step for those of you aiming to become professional beast masters."

    She paused, letting the words sink in.

    "This means that you''ll be competing in some of the biggest arenas in the largest cities across the region. And depending on your results, you might even get the chance to participate in the regional tournament, a prestigious event where only the best of the best of each city get to fight."

    The room filled once again with murmurs, some people exchanging nervous glances, others whispering with excitement. Victoria waited for them to quiet down before continuing.

    "This level is above what you''ve seen so far in the Lugina arena. The challenges will be different, harder, and more demanding. You can expect opponents who are at an entirely different level than the average fighters here in Lugina." She looked around.

    "Any questions?"

    One of the trainee raised his hand, looking slightly confused.

    "Uh, I thought we could already participate in tournaments? Now you''re saying we couldn''t until now? I''m a bit lost."

    Victoria nodded, smiling kindly.

    "Good question. Let me clarify that for you. You can participate in tournaments, but right now we''re registered only in Lugina''s league. That means our agents are limited to competitions within this city. With the regional league registration, you''ll be able to compete in other cities across the region, opening up far more opportunities."

    Zara raised her hand, and Victoria gestured for her to speak.

    "Basically, anyone with enough point can participate to Lugina''s tournament, but in the regional division you can go to others cities, and participate in regional tournament. Look, imagine a school tournament, that''s what you can do now, but in the regional division it will be a... a majestic grand inter city tournament!

    Her eyes movied across the room.

    "If you pay attention to your professional card, you would notice that under your ID there''s a title, Type D. It means that you''re allowed to participate only in a specific town, depending on where you got your license. The type D means one city, but those we''re talking about are type C, and it will allow you to compete in many town of the same region, then there''s B for a whole country, A for a continent and at S you are a world star. The regional league is the highest level of the city tier. We''re talking about competing against people who are like Eratz and Mercury, on average."

    The room grew quiet, and several people swallowed nervously. Eratz and Mercury had set the standard for what a top-tier beast master looked like, and it was clear to everyone that this level wasn''t for anyone''s sanity.

    Another one spoke up, his voice shaky.

    "But is it a good idea for us to compete? I mean, we''re no match for them."

    Victoria nodded.

    "It''s not going to be everyone competing in the regional league, at least not for now. Only the agents who have proven they can handle this level will be selected. The two names currently on the list are Eratz and Mercury."

    She looked toward Ryder and Adrian.

    "There are others who are close, Ryder, you need to increase your match quota, and Adrian, you need to improve your performance level."

    Ryder scratched his head, looking worried.

    "... I didn''t realize focusing on training would limit my chances."

    Zara nudged him playfully.

    "Just fight more, Ryder. You already have the skill level for it. You just need to get out there." Eratz listened intently, impressed. This was exactly what he wanted, a real challenge, the next step forward. He clenched his fists, determination building inside him. Mercury''s eyes were shining with excitement, her gaze moving towards Eratz.

    "We can''t slack off anymore," she whispered.

    Eratz nodded.

    "The forest won''t suffice anymore."

    Victoria smiled, pleased with the energy in the room. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I''m glad to see everyone so motivated. Keep doing your best, and let''s show the regional league what Crescent Moon is made of."

    The room erupted in chatter as everyone spoke excitedly about what was to come. The atmosphere was electric, Eratz felt the adrenaline running through his veins, he wanted to train now.

    Mercury turned to him, nodding toward the fitness tools.

    "Another competition?"

    Eratz grinned.

    "You speak my language."

    Ryder perked up.

    "Hey, count me in!"

    Before he could take a step, Zara grabbed the whole surface of his head.

    "Enough, you little brat. We did things your way, so now, we do it my way. We''re going to the arenas."

    She pulled him away, Ryder giving Eratz a helpless look as he was dragged towards the exit.

    From behind, Adrian watched the group, the excitement, the camaraderie. He felt a tight knot in his chest, a growing sense of frustration. He watched as Mercury and Eratz walked towards the training area, chatting with each other. What had he done wrong? Why was he being left

    behind?

    Later that evening, Liora and Marcus sat in a police station, their expressions tense. Marcus''s foot tapped against the floor impatiently as they waited. They were speaking to a pair of policemen, explaining their concerns about Cassie keeping Eratz away from them.

    The policeman in front of them frowned slightly, glancing at his notes.

    "We understand your concerns, Mr. and Mrs. Pandora, but from what we gather, you''re the

    ones who sent him to stay with Cassie."

    Liora''s face flushed with annoyance.

    "We had to. It was because of his attitude, he was out of control."

    The officer sighed.

    "That may be, but you need to understand that Eratz is now eighteen years old. If he''s not being held against his will, then he has every right not to return to you."

    Liora and Marcus exchanged looks, this was a big complication to their plan. Before they could argue further, another policeman entered the room, a folder in his hand. He looked at

    them, a strange expression on his face.

    "I think you''ll want to see this," he said, holding up the folder.

    "You won''t believe what we found."

    Meanwhile, Rowan arrived back at the hotel, exhaustion etched across his face. Lisa was

    beside him, her steps light, her demeanor almost carefree. Rowan glanced at her, his brow

    furrowing.

    "Lisa, your attitude lately has been... concerning. You''re playing a dangerous game, and I

    don''t think you understand the consequences."

    Lisa looked at him, her expression calm.

    "I''m doing what I think is best for everyone."

    They walked past a group of students huddled together, their heads bent over a tablet. Rowan

    frowned, pausing for a moment, rubbing his temples. He could hear the muffled sound of an

    arena commentator, and he sighed, muttering under his breath.

    "It''s not just the academy''s environment, it''s the people too..."

    He stepped closer to the students, his arms crossed.

    "Shouldn''t you all be doing something useful as beast master apprentices?"

    One of the students looked up, a bit hesitant.

    "We are... sort of. We''re watching some pro matches."

    Rowan groaned, shaking his head.

    "Fine, but make sure it''s worth your time." He turned away, continuing down the hallway,

    Lisa following close behind.

    "Hey, wait, is that really him?" one of the students whispered, his eyes glued to the screen.

    "Yeah, it''s written right there," another student replied.

    "That''s Eratz."

    Lisa froze, her eyes widening. Ahead of her, Rowan stopped, his body petrified. He turned

    slowly, his eyes, his face pale.

    "What did you say?"

 Chapter 54: Thunder Approaches

    Chapter 54: Thunder ApproachesIn the Crescent Moon Agency gym, Eratz was deep into his workout routine. He was on the treadmill, running at a relentless pace of 24 km/h.

    The machine''s timer blinked, nearing the hour mark. Eratz''s breath was steady, feeling no fatigue. He moved seamlessly to lifting weights, then to shoulder training, and more. He didn''t rely on his beast power, this training focused purely on his raw strength.

    From afar, Victoria watched him, a proud smile on her lips.

    "Seems like it was more effective than I thought," she murmured to herself.

    The gym was filled with others beast masters doing their own routines. For them, it was a rare opportunity to watch Eratz''s work ethic, but they soon regretted it and became more intimidated.

    Adrian was among those struggling to keep up. He was on his own mat, breathing hard, exhausted. He glanced across the gym, his eyes catching sight of Mercury.

    She was doing squats, weights loaded on her shoulders, her body barely showing signs of fatigue even after doing push-ups for an hour.

    He let out a groan, laying on his back, feeling like he was on the verge of passing out.

    "What''s... the deal... with these two?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    After a long and grueling workout, Eratz headed to the bathroom to clean up. With a towel wrapped around his waist, he stood in front of the mirror, his hair still wet, droplets of water dripping down his chest.

    He reached for his phone, only to notice it had almost no battery left. He stared at the blinking low battery icon, wondering if it was time to buy a new one.

    He scrolled through his messages and checked on Ryder''s progress on the Beast Masters Website. Seeing that Ryder had won five matches today, Eratz smiled.

    It felt good knowing that everyone was making waves, pushing themselves.

    Suddenly, his phone vibrated, a message from Mercury.

    Eratz glanced read it, then his fingers moved over the screen to type a response.

    [Ok. I''ll buy a new phone on the way too.]

    In the girl''s changing room, Mercury was sitting on a bench, her own towel wrapped around her. She had her phone in her hand, her eyes locked on the screen, waiting for Eratz''s response.

    When the reply finally came in, a grin spread across her face. She pumped her fist into the air, a quiet celebration that drew the attention of the other girls.

    "What''s with her?" one of them whispered.

    "She''s so different these days," another added.

    At the same time, in an inn across town, Liora and Marcus sat on the edge of their bed, staring at Marcus''s phone screen. The room was silent, the only sound the hum of the air conditioner. Both of them were in a state of disbelief.

    "Is this for real?" Liora whispered, her eyes wide as she read the article about Eratz''s achievements.

    Marcus ran a hand through his hair, looking just as stunned.

    "He''s a well-known pro beast master now... and successful here. How did we not know about this?"

    Liora''s face twisted between shock and something else, anger, perhaps, or maybe confusion. She couldn''t believe it. The boy they''d sent away, the one they believed had no future, was suddenly a success.

    In the next room, Kian and Lila were equally dumbfounded. They looked at the screen, their faces scrunched up in disbelief.

    "No way," Kian said, shaking his head.

    "There''s no way he''s legit. He must have cheated."

    "Yeah," Lila agreed, her expression mirroring her brother''s disdain.

    "There''s no way he could do all that without cheating... we should report him."

    Liora, blood had reached a wonderful temperature.

    "We''re going to find him. We''ll see where his next matches are. We need to see this for ourselves."

    Outside the agency, Mercury was waiting. She stood by the entrance, dressed in a cute, stylish outfit that caught the attention of several passersby.

    She looked gorgeous, her fashion sense sharp, a blend of casual yet eye-catching. Some people glanced her way, admiring her elegance. Mercury, however, paid them no mind, her gaze turned skyward, lost in thought.

    "Excuse me," a voice called out, pulling Mercury from her thoughts.

    She turned, coming face to face with a woman she didn''t recognize.

    "Hello," the woman said, offering a polite smile.

    "My name is Eliza. I''m a councilor at Genova Academy."

    Mercury blinked, a little surprised.

    "Oh, uh, hello."

    Eliza studied Mercury for a moment, her smile never wavering.

    "You''re quite well-known in Lugina. I''ve seen your matches, and I must say, I''m very impressed by your abilities, miss Water Prodigy."

    Mercury tilted her head slightly, unsure where this was going.

    "Thank you," she replied cautiously.

    Eliza took a small step closer, her eyes locking onto Mercury''s.

    "I''ll get straight to the point. I''d like to invite you to enroll at Genova Academy. Your talent is remarkable, and I believe you could benefit greatly from the resources and opportunities we

    can provide."

    Mercury blinked again, taken aback by the offer. She took a moment to gather her thoughts before responding.

    "I appreciate the offer, really. But I have a place here at Crescent Moon, and I''m happy with

    where I am."

    Eliza nodded, though Mercury could see the disappointment in her eyes.

    "That Crescent Moon?" Eliza asked.

    "I''ve heard... mixed things. A talent like yours deserves the best, and from what I''ve heard,

    Crescent Moon isn''t exactly thriving."

    Mercury''s expression hardened slightly.

    "Crescent Moon is exactly where I want to be," she said firmly.

    "I owe a lot to the people there. They''ve supported me, and I''m not interested in leaving."

    Eliza could sense the shift in Mercury''s tone, and she raised her hands slightly in a placating

    gesture.

    "I understand," she said.

    "I didn''t mean to offend you. Please, take my card, at least think about it. We''d be honored to

    have you."

    Mercury took the card, glancing at it briefly before slipping it into her bag.

    "Thank you, but my answer is the same."

    Eliza nodded, giving a polite smile.

    "Of course. I''ll be on my way, then. But do consider it, alright?" She turned and left, her figure

    disappearing into the crowd.

    As soon as she was out of sight, Mercury pulled out the card and tossed it into a nearby trash can. She hated people like that, coming in and assuming they knew what was best for her without understanding anything.

    Suddenly, the agency door swung open, and Mercury''s mood did a complete turnaround. Her eyes lit up as she saw Eratz stepping out, his expression relaxed.

    "About time," Mercury called, her hands on her hips.

    "What took you so long?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his eyes narrowing.

    "Hey, I waited for you for so long that I ended up going back inside to chat with the janitor.

    Did you know he had a very long life? Full of women and illegitimate children."

    Mercury let out a laugh, shaking her head.

    "You can save those stories for the after-party. Let''s get going."

    Eratz nodded, stepping beside her. Together, they began to walk away from the agency, the

    evening stretching ahead of them.

    But from afar, still like a statue among the crowd, Eliza watched them, her eyes wide with curiosity. She had good eyes, good enough to recognize someone.

 Chapter 55: Night of New Lights

    Chapter 55: Night of New LightsEratz and Mercury moved from spot to spot, the night unfolding like a series of quick adventures.

    The city felt different at night, and for Eratz, this was something new. It was the first time they hung out this late, and Mercury seemed like a completely different person.

    She was more vibrant, more carefree. She had always been the responsible one, calm and focused, but tonight, she was lightened and joyful.

    There was a certain charm to her laughter, echoing under the city lights, that Eratz hadn''t noticed before.

    First, they visited a bustling street food market. Mercury led the way, her eyes lighting up at the sight of different foods. She picked out iced drinks while Eratz grabbed skewers.

    They found a spot at a standing table, and as they ate, Mercury joked about Eratz''s sweet tooth, teasing him for always picking the sugary treats. He shook his head with a grin, throwing a playful comment back about how her love for spicy food could influence Milo and he would be roasted.

    Their next stop was a small arcade. The flashing lights, loud music, and clattering tokens created a lively atmosphere.

    Eratz watched as Mercury jumped from one game to another with a gleeful energy he had never seen before.

    They had money to do everything, and this everything triggered another of their bad habits: their competitiveness.

    They processed to beat beat each other narrowly, and after having tripled the daily income of the arcade, they ended up at a riverbank.

    The breeze was cool, carrying away the day''s heat. They leaned against the railing, watching the reflection of the city lights ripple across the water.

    Mercury picked up a stone, attempting to skip it across the surface, but it plopped right in.

    Eratz couldn''t help but laugh, taking another stone and showing her how to do it properly. The result was a missile threatening the life of the marine wildlife.

    Eratz also noticed something else tonight, Mercury''s passion for fashion. She always dressed casually in the agency, but tonight her style stood out even more under the neon lights and the glow of the city.

    Her outfit was a mix of casual and chic, perfectly balancing comfort and elegance.

    It was something he hadn''t paid much attention to before, but now he realized how much thought she put into every detail.

    Their final stop was a nightclub, the neon lights casting a colorful glow across the bustling room. The music thumped loudly, a heavy bass vibrating through the walls.

    Mercury, energized by the night, moved to the dance floor among a group of girls, her body flowing smoothly to the rhythm. She danced with an effortless joy, her movements full of confidence and life.

    Eratz stood back, leaning on the bar as he watched. He held a drink in his hand, the cold condensation dripping between his fingers, but he hardly paid attention to it.

    His eyes were locked on Mercury, seeing her in a completely new light. She was so different tonight, free-spirited and carefree, a side of her he never imagined existed.

    Mercury seemed like a young woman embracing life to its fullest, her smile radiant, her laughter infectious. She truly looked like a girl their age, enjoying a moment without worry.

    Meanwhile, back at Genova Academy, Rowan was sprinting through the hallway, rushing towards the director''s office. His footsteps echoed, and just as he rounded a corner, he nearly bumped into Eliza, who was also hurrying in the same direction.

    "I need to talk to the director!"

    "No, I need to talk to her first!"

    Rowan narrowed his eyes.

    "Move aside, Eliza. This is urgent."

    Eliza shot back.

    "Like yours is more important than mine? It''s past bedtime, go to sleep."

    "You always think you''re so important."

    "Because I am, step aside!"

    "I''ve got big ne-"

    "I''ve got something big t-"

    "I swear, if you get in my way..."

    "Oh, don''t be such a drama queen, Rowan!"

    Finally, the door swung open. The director stood there, her hair disheveled, wearing pajamas.

    She frowned at the sight of the two of them.

    "I certainly hope you have a good reason to make noise at my door this late."

    Rowan and Eliza exchanged a look, then burst out simultaneously.

    "I''ve found him!"

    In the hall of the academy, Crystal walked absentmindedly, her gaze unfocused as she

    thought about Kenny.

    Lately, he''d been ditching their group to chase after another girl, and it stung more than she wanted to admit.

    She looked out a window, wondering why she kept putting up with it.

    Suddenly, she noticed a group of students gathering outside.

    There was an unusual buzz in the air, but Crystal didn''t really care, not until a few girls

    approached her, concern in their eyes.

    "Crystal, are you alright?"

    She blinked, confused by the question.

    "Don''t worry, I''m used to it, I''m fine," she muttered, trying to brush them off.

    One of the girls exchanged glances with the others, then spoke up hesitantly.

    "We were so worried... after everything that happened."

    Crystal frowned, puzzled.

    "What do you mean? Everything what? Girls, it''s ok, I don''t mind what he does or who he''s

    flirting with."

    Another girl stepped forward, her voice gentle.

    "Maybe you should tell someone, you know? What he did to you... it''s not right."

    Crystal''s confusion deepened, her brows knitting together.

    "What are you talking about? Did something happen... He''s just following a girl, right? He

    didn''t commit a crime... did he?"

    The first girl looked at her sympathetically.

    "Maybe you should tell the newspaper about it. People deserve to know. It''s unfair for how he

    treated you."

    Crystal''s heart skipped a beat, a cold feeling washing over her.

    "There''s no need to go that far," she said, her voice shaky.

    The third girl, who had been silent until now, blurted out.

    "But he... he assaulted you, right?"

    Crystal felt her stomach drop, her mind going blank.

    A little while later, Crystal pushed her way through the crowd of students gathered outside.

    She shoved her way to the front, grabbing the tablet they were all huddled around.

    Her eyes scanned the screen, her breath catching as she saw the headline.

    The footage showed him, the rising star of Lugina, the Juggernaut.

    Her heart pounded in her chest as she watched.

    The news spread like wildfire among the students, Eratz, the outcast, was now a star.

    Later that night, Eratz walked Mercury home. It was nearly midnight, and Eratz looked

    around the quiet street, a little uneasy.

    "Next time we should really put an alarm... everyone must be so worried."

    Mercury waved a hand dismissively, a playful grin on her lips.

    "Normally, a real after-party goes till 3 AM, you know. Besides, it''d be easier if we had our

    own place."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his gaze thoughtful. Mercury realized how it sounded, her cheeks

    turning pink.

    "I mean... separate places! Each of us having our own place!"

    Eratz chuckled.

    "I know. But I was thinking... if we''re going to be competing in different cities, maybe we

    should consider moving away from our houses."

    Mercury looked at him, her expression softening.

    "But what about Milo and Colin? It''d be hard for them. Maybe we can just leave for the

    matches and come back afterward? Besides, Milo could probably come along during the S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    holidays."

    Eratz nodded thoughtfully, then glanced at her with a small smile.

    "Actually, I had an idea. Since my uncle and aunt know about us four training together, maybe

    they could help. What''s about they keep Milo while we''re away."

    Mercury looked at him closely, her gaze softening further. A soft laugh escaped her lips.

    "Do you even understand what it means to introduce someone to your family?"

    "I don''t see what''s weird. I just want my family to meet the people who are important to me."

    Mercury blinked, her heart skipping a beat. She looked down for a moment, her cheeks

    growing warmer. She hesitated, then murmured.

    "You know, I only hang out like this with my close friends..."

    She paused, her voice dropping even lower, "It''s the first time that..."

    She didn''t finish the sentence. Before she could continue, a bright light beamed from one of

    the windows upstairs.

    She jumped, her eyes widening.

    "Damn! Milo! I said no beast inside!"

    Milo''s small head peeked out of the hole.

    "S-Sorry! Monica got mad when the Earth Prince chose the peasant instead of the childhood

    friend..."

    Mercury groaned, rubbing her temples.

    "I''m so sorry, Eratz. I have to quickly fix that... at this hour probably with a drawer... We''ll talk

    tomorrow."

    She looked at Eratz, but the young man had an expression of pure shock.

    "The king rejected Kaera... what... what the hell is wrong with that author?" he murmured,

    clearly just as invested in the show.

    Mercury watched in astonishment then let out a laugh, shaking her head.

    "I think I''ll accept your offer, you two look so good together. Alright, Goodnight, Eratz. Go

    home safe."

    "... Yeah... Goodnight, Mercury."

    "And me?" Milo shouted from the window.

    "Prepare for your future training, I''ll teach you to spoil me!"

    "Is it a bad time to say that the credits said there''s no season 2?"

    Eratz fought himself to not show him his honest opinion in front of Mercury, he massaged his

    sinus and just waved at Mercury and walked away.

    She looked at him for a bit, then entered the house.

    Just as he rounded the corner, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the notification, his eyes

    widening.

    His licence had been promoted to Type C, he could now compete at a higher level.

    His smile grew, excitement flowing in his veins.

 Chapter 56: Lugina Garden

    Chapter 56: Lugina GardenThe streets were bustling as Kenny and Julian emerged from the beast master arena, having just registered for upcoming battles.

    They had used their academic cards to sign up, eager to get as much experience as possible.

    Julian grinned, glancing sideways at Kenny, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    "You know, Kenny, you just signed up to face your worst nightmare."

    Kenny rolled his eyes, shaking his head.

    "Shut up, Julian. I need to fight more. Get stronger. Who knows, maybe I''ll fight Mercury one day. I want to be ready."

    The two continued on their way to the hotel, their steps growing slower as they noticed a commotion by the entrance. Students were gathered, their voices raised in arguments.

    "What''s going on?"

    Julian frowned, watching as the crowd seemed to part. Suddenly, a girl rushed towards Kenny, her eyes wide.

    "Kenny! Hurry! Lisa and Crystal need you!"

    Kenny blinked, taken aback.

    "What? What happened?"

    "Just come!" she insisted, grabbing his wrist and pulling him forward.

    Kenny and Julian exchanged a glance before hurrying after her.

    As they reached the fountain in front of the hotel, Kenny saw Crystal, sitting on the fountain''s edge, her face blank and her eyes staring into nothingness.

    Her friends surrounded her, trying to get her to respond, shaking her gently, but she didn''t react at all.

    "Crystal?" Kenny called, his voice tinged with confusion.

    Before he could step closer, Lisa turned towards him, her eyes blazing with fury. The glare she shot him was enough to make him freeze in place.

    "What''s... what''s going on?!"

    Kenny stammered, stepping back, intimidated by the anger in her gaze.

    Lisa''s lips curled into a scowl.

    "You..." she hissed, her voice dripping.

    She took a step closer, and Kenny instinctively moved back, almost bumping into Julian.

    "Where were you? What are you doing all this time?!"

    Kenny blinked, confused.

    "What are you talking about? I didn''t do anything."

    "You didn''t do anything?" Lisa''s voice rose, her anger boiling over. "You think you''re smart? You think I''m an idiot?"

    Kenny swallowed, his eyes widening in fear. He had never seen Lisa this angry. He took a step back, his voice trembling.

    "Lisa, I... I don''t understand..."

    "You think you can just do whatever you want, don''t you? That celebrities can get as many girls as they wish?" Her voice was shaking, her eyes narrowing.

    "They''re rich, famous, so no one complains. That''s why you could be so annoying. But guess what, Kenny? You''re not a celebrity, you''re not even average, you''re just a piece of trash! The dirtiest piece of trash in the world! You have no value at all! You are a total disgrace, and a fucking worthless womanizer!"

    Kenny''s mouth opened and closed as he tried to find something, anything, to say in his defense. What was even happening?

    But Lisa didn''t give him a chance. She turned on her heel, her voice shaking with emotion as she yelled.

    "Don''t you dare come near me again! We''re done!" With that, she stormed off, her footsteps echoing across the courtyard.

    Kenny stared after her, stunned, speechless.

    "Kenny."

    The voice was quiet, almost lifeless.

    He turned and found himself facing Crystal, her red-rimmed eyes meeting his.

    She had a tired smile, a sad, almost resigned look on her face. She stood up slowly, taking a step toward him. Kenny didn''t move, his feet rooted in place.

    "Why do you keep playing games? Why do you want to humiliate us like that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    She held up a tablet, her fingers trembling. Kenny''s eyes dropped to the screen, and his eyes widened in shock.

    Word spread like wildfire, Eratz Pandora''s name passing from one person to another, growing louder with each retelling.

    It became the talk of the night, and then the next day, his reputation, his matches, the way he fought, all of it was dissected in hushed whispers, shocked voices, and excited speculation. Many students gathered in different corners of the academy, their eyes glued to screens. They watched the replays of Eratz''s matches, witnessing the power he wielded with deft control.

    No one could believe that. The outcast, the one expelled for cheating and aggression, was now shining under the brightest lights of Lugina.

    As the news spread, testimonies began to surface. Some students claimed they had seen him in the forest, commanding monstrous creatures with a terrifying aura.

    Others recounted the battles they had seen, how effortlessly he fought, how easily he seemed to win.

    Soon, everything converged into one undeniable truth, a headline that brought everyone to a standstill.

    Eratz''s next match was tonight, at Lugina''s Garden, one of the largest arenas in the city.

    It would be his first match at the regional level, a part of the preseason matches that featured several other fighters.

    Tickets sold out in minutes, and even the high-priced online tickets were gone as quickly as they appeared. Among those buying were Liora and Marcus, their expressions unreadable.

    Back at Genova, the students were buzzing with excitement and tension.

    They gathered wherever they could, in the hall, the dining area, or their rooms, their eyes glued to the screens, waiting for the match to start.

    Kenny rushed through the crowded streets of Lugina, his heart pounding as he made his way

    to the arena.

    His eyes were wide, his breath coming in gasps. He had to see this for himself.

    As he arrived, Kenny was struck by the sheer size and grandeur of the arena. Lugina''s Garden was a massive structure, more magnificent than any other arena in the city.

    The night sky was visible through the open ceiling, stars twinkling above as if watching over the event.

    The stands were packed with people from Lugina and even from neighboring towns, eager to see the battles of their own prodigies.

    Kenny moved through the crowded corridor, the muffled sounds of cheers and conversations growing louder with each step.

    As he finally made his way into the public zone, he was greeted by a sight that took his breath

    away.

    The arena was vast, an open expanse with towering lights shining down, illuminating the

    field below.

    Vendors moved through the aisles, selling food and drinks, their voices blending with the

    hum of the crowd.

    The scent of grilled meat and sweet treats filled the air, a mixture of excitement and tension

    palpable. Music played over the loudspeakers.

    The lights were bright, illuminating the massive stadium.

    Kenny stood there for a moment, catching his breath, his eyes scanning the crowd.

    He spotted familiar faces, the academy staff sitting together, their expressions tense.

    Eliza and Rowan were there, both looking worried, and even the director had joined, her eyes focused on the field below. Kenny could see some of the teachers too, like Melcin, who appeared visibly nervous.

    The voice of the speaker suddenly echoed across the stadium, the noise of the crowd fading as

    they listened.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Lugina''s Garden! We are thrilled to kick off tonight''s fixture, featuring some of the most talented up-and-coming beast masters."

    As the speaker continued his introduction, Eratz was in the locker room. He stood before a

    sink, splashing water on his face.

    He paused for a moment, staring at his reflection in the mirror.

    "Here we are," he whispered, his eyes narrowing as he took a deep breath.

    He turned away, moving towards the door that led to the corridor. His footsteps echoed in the quiet space, his face tense, focused.

    As he moved, he passed by other challengers, but Eratz barely noticed them, his ears tuned to the distant roar of the crowd. The sound reverberated through the walls, growing louder with every step he took, the energy in the air wrapping around him, charging him.

    Back in the inn, Kian and Lila sat in the living room, the little screen displaying the scene at the arena. Their eyes were glued to the broadcast, their expressions a mix of disbelief and S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    envy.

    "There''s no way," Kian muttered, his brows furrowed.

    "He''s... he''s really going to fight here?" Lila''s voice was barely a whisper, her eyes wide.

    The speaker''s voice carried across the stadium, his words reaching every corner, echoing through the massive space.

    "Tonight, we have two rising stars competing for glory! Let''s introduce the first challenger!"

    In the hallway of the academy, Crystal stood among her classmates, her eyes glued to the screen set up in the common area.

    Her heart raced, her mind struggling to process what she was seeing. Eratz, the boy she had sacrificed to get close to her first love was standing on the edge of greatness.

    Eratz moved up the stairs leading towards the arena. The noise of the crowd grew deafening, the light from the exit shining bright, almost blinding.

    "A fighter who needs no introduction, a rising star with an undefeated streak of 495 matches

    in the rookie division!"

    In the club seating zone, Roger, Cassie, and Colin watched with excitement, their faces lighting up as the speaker continued.

    "This young beast master has taken the rookie division by storm, earning himself the

    nickname ''The Juggernaut''!"

    Eliza shook her head, her eyes wide as she glanced at the director. The director''s face was

    unreadable, her eyes focused on the arena below.

    Lisa sat in her bedroom, her friend Clara beside her, both staring at the TV. Lisa''s hands were trembling, her face pale.

    The name, the nickname, it all echoed in her mind, the reality of it sinking in.

    Eratz was in the dark corridor, the light at the end drawing closer. He moved forward, each

    step echoing, time seeming to slow down.

    He could hear the roar of the crowd, feel the energy vibrating through the walls, seeping into

    his skin.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to the arena... ERATZ PANDORA!"

    Eratz stepped into the light, the roar of the crowd washing over him.

    He took a deep breath, his eyes scanning the massive arena, the faces of the thousands of spectators blurred by the bright lights. This was it, his moment. The moment he had been waiting for.

 Chapter 57: Monsters in Human Suit

    Chapter 57: Monsters in Human SuitEratz stepped into the field, his footsteps echoing across the massive arena, which seemed to stretch endlessly around him.

    He glanced up, his eyes widening as he took in the sight. A sea of people, almost vertiginous in its sheer number, filled the seats, their cheering like a deafening roar that echoed in his bones.

    Projector lights shone brightly from every angle, and above, the night sky was visible, stars twinkling.

    Fireworks exploded on either side of the field as Eratz made his way towards the center, each boom reverberating in his chest, leaving him feeling slightly overwhelmed.

    He realized this was what it felt like to be on top, to be standing in the limelight. This was what the peak looked like.

    His eyes wavered, the intensity of the moment almost making them shaky. He pushed down the trembling within him and kept walking, his posture firm, his head held high as he stepped into the spotlight.

    The crowd roared louder, the noise vibrating through his body, making his bones feel as if they were trembling.

    On the large screens hanging above the arena, his image was projected and everyone could

    see.

    His face was focused, his black and red attire glowed under the bright lights, a long black coat with red lining, adorned with crimson patterns, and fingerless red gloves completing the look.

    It made him look both menacing and impressive.

    In the stands, Rowan watched in awe. His voice barely a murmur, he spoke to no one in particular,

    "It''s really him."

    "He''s changed a lot," a student whispered in the hotel, the disbelief clear in their tone.

    Eratz continued towards the middle of the arena, stopping only when he reached the designated point. He took a deep breath, and the announcer''s voice boomed across the entire stadium,

    "And now, from Aralyn, a rising star with 356 wins in the rookie division, please welcome the feline fighter, Catarina, also known as ''The Midnight Claw''!"

    From the opposite end of the arena, a young girl appeared.

    She had a striking appearance, her black hair flowing down to her shoulders, and her dark skin glistened under the lights.

    She wore a unique outfit, a sleek black bodysuit with silver accents that hugged her petite frame, and as she walked, her most distinctive features were revealed: black cat ears atop her head and a long black tail swaying behind her.

    The audience murmured with excitement as she made her way towards the center of the

    arena.

    "She''s adorable!"

    "Look at those cat ears!"

    "My god... My dream came true..."

    Catarina waved enthusiastically at the audience, a big grin plastered on her face.

    As she reached the center of the arena, she looked at Eratz and gave a nervous chuckle.

    "Wow, this place is massive," she said, her eyes wide.

    She then turned to Eratz with a smile, her voice carrying a hint of nervousness.

    "I''m really glad to face another rookie here. I get so nervous around strangers, so it''s nice to be here with someone who understands me."

    Eratz blinked.

    "I am a stranger."

    "... Yes, but you''re also a baby rookie too, like me. I talked to three people in the locker but they all refused to answer, one even ask me to go find a rat somewhere, can you believe it?" He let out a small chuckle. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Are you sure you''re nervous? But I got you, I was feeling a little nervous too. But you know, it''s just the same thing we do every day. It''ll be alright."

    Catarina''s eyes lit up.

    "That''s such a good way to think of it! The same little fight as usually, I come, I crash, you fell, and we become friends.... Hey, you won''t ghost me after, right? You''re a lot nicer than most opponents I''ve faced... Hm, ok, I know, I''ll give you an handicap, I promise I won''t go too hard on you, ok? I can even let you give the first punch."

    She turned her back to walk to her position, but as she did, the air around her shifted.

    She quickly turned, her eyes meeting Eratz''s. His gaze was cold, and the aura he emitted caused a shiver to run down Catarina''s spine.

    She froze, feeling the intense pressure weigh down on her, something primal triggering her

    instincts.

    "Your funeral." he said quietly.

    He then turned and walked to his starting point.

    Catarina swallowed, her eyes wide.

    "What was that...?" She watched him for a moment longer before turning, trying to shake the

    feeling.

    "... I felt a predator."

    Both fighters took their positions, standing across from each other. The audience held their

    breath, the tension in the arena so thick it was almost tangible.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the space once more.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the first fight of the night: Eratz versus Catarina!"

    In the stands, familiar faces watched, their eyes glued to the scene below, Kenny, Marcus, Liora, the academy staff, each of them filled disbelief.

    A bell sounded, signaling the start of the match. The moment it rang, the atmosphere shifted.

    Both Eratz and Catarina let their spiritual pressure explode, their powerful auras clashing in midair.

    The force of their combined power created a shockwave that swept across the arena, causing the audience to gasp.

    Catarina acted first, summoning her monsters.

    Shadows erupted beneath her feet, spreading outward and materializing into dozens of black

    cats.

    They were sleek, with glowing eyes, and they spread across the field in an instant, charging at Eratz from every direction.

    Catarina suddenly twisted her body to the side, narrowly avoiding Eratz as he flashed towards

    her like a blur.

    He landed behind her, his brow furrowing slightly.

    "God dammit," he murmured.

    Catarina pouted, her eyes narrowing playfully.

    "You didn''t even summon your monster? That''s just disrespectful!" She snapped her fingers, and the army of cats lunged towards Eratz, their claws extended. "Time for some

    punishment!"

    Eratz didn''t flinch, his eyes focused solely on Catarina. His gaze flicked to her cat ears and tail, something about them catching his attention.

    As the first wave of cats reached him, the audience collectively held their breath, expecting

    him to be overwhelmed.

    But in the blink of an eye, a dark aura erupted from Eratz, expanding outward like a

    shockwave.

    The entire army of cats was thrown back, scattered across the arena floor as the crowd erupted

    in shock.

    Catarina''s eyes widened, her mouth hanging open.

    "What in the world...?"

    Eratz''s hands were enveloped in black energy, forming claws around his fingers, and

    electricity began to crackle around his body, arcs of lightning dancing across him.

    He looked at Catarina, his expression calm yet intense.

    "I usually don''t summon my monsters, because most opponents can''t stand long enough. But

    today, I want to give it my all."

    The electricity surrounding him grew stronger, his aura intensifying.

    The ground beneath him seemed to tremble as a massive figure began to materialize behind

    him.

    The tension was so thick it was almost suffocating.

    A low growl echoed through the arena as the Thunder Lycaon emerged, a hulking figure of

    dark fur, its eyes glowing with an eerie blue light.

    The crowd erupted in cheers and gasps, the presence of the beast leaving many speechless.

    "That''s... A Thunder Lycaon!"

    Kenny stood in the stands, his eyes wide, his mouth agape.

    Rowan was trembling, barely able to keep himself standing.

    "This is... the Beastification... He really did it..."

    Eratz''s body had transformed. Dark, jagged marks covered his skin, glowing faintly, as

    shadows intertwined with crackling lightning, forming claw-like energy along his arms and

    hands.

    His eyes held a fierce glow, the power of the Thunder Lycaon coursing through him.

    Catarina swallowed hard, her heart racing as she stared at the hulking beast and Eratz''s

    transformed state.

    She gave a shaky smile, her eyes shining with determination.

    "Alright... I guess it''s time to take this seriously."

    She spread her arms wide, her shadow stretching out beneath her, forming into larger, more

    menacing feline figures.

    Two monsters emerged, one a slender, long-armed cat that stood on its hind legs, its claws razor-sharp, and the other a massive tiger-like creature, its muscles rippling.

    Eratz grinned, his eyes narrowing.

    "I see. Now I understand your appearance."

    Catarina smirked, her ears twitching.

    "Cats are the best, and I''ll show you why."

    The audience watched, captivated, as the two fighters faced off, their monsters at their sides.

    The tension in the air was electric.

    With a sudden roar, the two sides clashed. Catarina''s shadow cats leaped forward, charging towards Eratz and his Thunder Lycaon. Eratz moved with precision, his beast charging alongside him.

    The impact of their collision sent shockwaves through the arena, the ground shaking beneath

    their feet.

    The Thunder Lycaon lunged, its massive paws striking down the shadow cats, its fangs bared

    as it tore through the dark figures.

    Eratz moved in perfect sync with his beast, his clawed hands slicing through the shadows with ease, his movements fluid and precised.

    Catarina was agile, her body twisting gracefully as she dodged Eratz''s strikes.

    The shadows around her seemed to come alive, swirling and coiling before jumping towards

    Eratz like spears.

    Eratz dodged, his body blurring as he weaved between the attacks. He glanced up at Catarina,

    This eyes locking onto hers.

    With a burst of speed, he launched himself into the air, his clawed hand reaching for her.

    Catarina''s eyes widened, and at the last moment, she flipped backward, narrowly avoiding his

    strike. She landed on the ground, breathing heavily, her heart pounding.

    She looked up at Eratz, a mixture of fear and excitement in her eyes.

    "You''re really something," she said, her voice shaky.

    Eratz landed a few feet away, his eyes never leaving her.

    He could feel the adrenaline coursing through his veins, the thrill of the fight unlike anything

    he had experienced before. He grinned, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

    The two charged at each other once again, their monsters following close behind.

    The clash was explosive, the energy from their attacks lighting up the arena, the roar of the

    crowd growing louder with each passing second.

    The Thunder Lycaon lunged at Catarina''s larger tiger-like beast, their massive forms

    colliding with a deafening crash.

    Lightning crackled around them, the energy surging through the arena as they grappled, each trying to overpower the other.

    Eratz and Catarina moved in tandem with their beasts, their bodies clashing in a series of

    rapid strikes and counters. Eratz''s claws met Catarina''s, sparks flying with every impact.

    They moved like blurs, their speed almost impossible to follow, their athleticism on full

    display. Catarina ducked low, sweeping her leg out in an attempt to trip Eratz, but he leaped over her, his body twisting in midair as he aimed a punch at her.

    She blocked with her forearm, the force of the impact sending her sliding back. She grinned,

    her eyes gleaming with excitement.

    "Maybe it''s time I go all out."

    Eratz smiled, his eyes shining with the same intensity.

    "It''s all I ask."

    The two fighters stood facing each other, their auras exploding around them, the energy

    surging like a tidal wave.

    A shockwave spread through the air, the sheer force of their power causing the crowd to gasp.

    In the stands, Kian and Lila watched, their eyes wide with disbelief. Roger, Cassie, and Colin''s faces lit with excitement.

    Crystal stood among her classmates, her eyes locked on the screen, her heart pounding. The energy around Eratz and Catarina continued to grow, their bodies transforming under the

    intensity of their power.

    Catarina''s form shifted, her body becoming more feline, her ears elongating, her eyes glowing with a predatory light.

    Claws extended from her fingers, her entire form embodying the essence of a true catwoman.

    Catarina grinned, but before she could react, a violent wind blasted her backward, sending her tumbling through the air.

    She twisted in midair, landing gracefully on her feet with a feline agility, her eyes wide with

    surprise.

    The crowd erupted in murmurs, pointing and whispering in shock.

    "It''s the first time I''ve really had to give it my all." Eratz''s voice rang. "Thank you for being a

    great challenger."

    His body began to transform, dark, jagged patterns forming across his skin, glowing faintly

    with the power of the Thunder Lycaon.

    Shadows intertwined with crackling lightning, creating claw-like shapes around his hands.

    His aura became more savage, more violent.

    He stepped forward, emerging from the shadows, and behind him, a pair of glowing amber eyes appeared: the Terrakrus.

 Chapter 58: Monsters

    Chapter 58: MonstersEratz''s transformation had left everyone speechless. The public, the academy staff, even Catarina herself, all of them stood frozen in awe as Eratz''s transformation became complete.

    The Terrakrus, loomed behind him. Its amber eyes glowed menacingly, casting a dark, intimidating aura that made the crowd hold their collective breath.

    The speaker, his voice cracking with excitement, shouted into the microphone,

    "This is... Unbelievable! This is a Terrakrus, one of the rarest and powerful dragons known, has entered the arena! What an unbelievable sight! This beast is known for its unparalleled strength, a true powerhouse, and now it''s on the field commanded by the Juggernaut!"

    In the hotel, the students of Genova Academy were in absolute shock. Whispers of disbelief spread like wildfire.

    "How is this even possible?"

    "How could he have tamed a dragon like that?"

    "An outcast? There''s no way!" Their voices were filled with awe, confusion, and a hint of envy.

    The director of Genova Academy stood rigid, her face a mask of disbelief. Slowly, she turned her gaze toward Rowan and Eliza, who both appeared equally stunned.

    Rowan''s hands were trembling, his mouth slightly agape, while Eliza stared with wide eyes, speechless.

    On the field, Catarina instinctively took a step back, her feline eyes widening in shock. The Terrakrus''s aura was overwhelming, a palpable weight pressing down on her. She could feel the threat it represented, her heart pounding in her chest.

    The dragon''s gaze alone felt like it could pierce through her very soul.

    But then, Eratz''s voice cut through the intensity.

    "Stay focused."

    Catarina''s eyes shifted from the dragon to Eratz. He was partially obscured by the dark shadowy aura, his eyes glowing brightly, like twin embers burning in the darkness.

    Before she could even blink, he was above her, his fist descending in a wide, circular arc aimed at her head.

    She barely managed to leap out of the way, the force of his punch creating a massive crater in the ground where she had been standing.

    Dirt and rocks exploded into the air, and Catarina''s heart skipped a beat as she glanced at the impact site while she moved.

    "If I had taken that blow directly..."

    But Eratz gave her no time to think. He moved with her, mirroring her direction, appearing right in front of her path.

    His foot lashed out in a powerful kick, and Catarina twisted her body, narrowly dodging it. She spun, attempting to regain her footing, but Eratz was relentless.

    He followed up with a back kick, and she had to duck quickly, barely avoiding the attack.

    The kick connected with the ground, and another explosion of force followed, sending shockwaves across the field.

    The tiger-like beast, and the swarm of shadow cats moved to assist her, rushing towards Eratz.

    But before they could get close, the Thunder Lycaon emerged from the earth, its body crackling with lightning as it intercepted the swarm of shadow cats, engaging them in a fierce battle.

    The tiger-like beast continued to chase after Eratz and Catarina, but as it moved closer, a massive shadow loomed above it.

    The Terrakrus came crashing down from above, its body slamming into the ground where the tiger had been.

    The tiger managed to leap aside just in time, barely avoiding being crushed. It turned to face the Terrakrus, growling low as the dragon roared back, the sound echoing across the entire

    arena.

    The battle was spectacular. The audience was in heaven, witnessing something far beyond what they had expected.

    In the hotel, Genova Academy students sat glued to their screens, their eyes wide, amazed by the intensity of the fight.

    "This is way better than in the tournament," one student whispered, unable to tear their eyes away.

    Lisa sat in her room, her eyes fixed on the screen, unable to comprehend what she was witnessing.

    Ryder, sitting in the stands with Zara and Milo, was equally stunned, his eyes wide with excitement.

    "This is insane!" He exclaimed.

    This was a real battle between professionals. The beasts were going all out, giving everything they had.

    The Terrakrus unleashed devastating area-of-effect attacks, its body crashing into the ground and creating shockwaves that destroyed large portions of the field.

    The tiger-like beast fought, attacking the Terrakrus with all its might, but each attack only seemed to make the dragon stronger, its special ability allowing it to grow more powerful with every hit it took.

    The more the tiger fought, the more devastating the Terrakrus''s attacks became.

    Meanwhile, the Thunder Lycaon was engaged in an intense battle of its own.

    The shadow cats, numerous and agile, were able to land attacks, forcing the Lycaon to move swiftly, dodging and countering with its lightning-infused strikes.

    It was a battle of agility, speed, and endurance, each side trying to outmaneuver the other.

    The fight reached its peak, the intensity almost unbearable. Catarina dodged another monstrous strike from Eratz, her breathing ragged, her body feeling the strain.

    She could feel herself being cornered, the pressure from Eratz and his beasts pushing her to

    her limits.

    Desperation began to creep in, her mind racing for a way out.

    "... I can''t lose... Not today... Not like this!"

    Suddenly, something changed. Catarina''s eyes widened, a spark igniting within them.

    She let out a roar, her aura expanding around her, spreading like wildfire, enveloping her and even swallowing Eratz in its wake.

    The crowd gasped, the sudden surge of power catching everyone by surprise. The atmosphere shifted, a strange, mystical energy settling over the arena.

    In that moment, it felt as if time slowed, the air becoming thick and heavy, infused with an a magical presence.

    The scene seemed to change, an haze falling over everything, a bizarre, almost artistic transformation began to unfold.

    The first sound was soft mewling, then another, each echoing in the eerie silence.

    The cries seemed to ripple across the arena, their resonance growing more profound, as if emerging from a deeper plane of existence.

    Then, in the midst of the haze, a single cat''s eye opened, gleaming with an intense, almost

    hypnotic light. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Colors twisted and swirled, shifting in an unpredictable dance, the edges of the vision blurring, pulsing with an unnatural rhythm.

    Catarina''s aura twisted, swirling around her, her eyes glowing with a fierce, almost primal

    light.

    She stood taller, her posture more confident as she stared down Eratz.

 Chapter 59: Predator VS Superpredator

    Chapter 59: Predator VS SuperpredatorThe arena fell into stunned silence as the world around Eratz and Catarina transformed into something surreal.

    The space had darkened, and cat heads floated eerily in the air, mewling sounds echoing, with colorful floating balls and dangling cat toys adding to the absurdity of it all.

    The audience was completely taken aback by what they were seeing, unsure how to react to such a bizarre turn of events.

    "What the hell is this?" Eratz muttered, his eyes darting around, trying to make sense of the strange environment.

    Catarina stood confidently a few paces away.

    In the stands, Zara narrowed her eyes, her face suddenly turning from bewilderment to realization.

    "It''s a field spell," she exclaimed in shock.

    The scene inside the arena was unlike anything anyone had seen before.

    Typically, field spells were elemental, meant to amplify the power of elements like fire, water, or earth, but Catarina had created something that was directly tied to her monsters.

    Cat heads floated everywhere, and even the ground seemed to shift underfoot, patterned like an enormous cat''s scratching post.

    Eratz was stunned.

    "How is this even possible?"

    Catarina pouted, though her eyes remained focused and sharp.

    "It''s frustrating to have to use this on my first match, but you''ve given me no choice!" She raised her hand, cat-like claws extending from her fingers.

    With a fierce slash through the air, a gigantic ethereal claw appeared above Eratz, descending on him with blinding speed.

    He narrowly dodged, rolling to the side, just missing the impact that shattered the ground beneath it. Catarina smirked, hopping into the air.

    She kicked the air, and suddenly, a massive cat paw materialized beside Eratz, slamming into him and sending him flying across the field.

    Eratz''s body smashed into the ground with a heavy thud, but before he could even attempt to recover, Catarina punched downwards, and another massive paw crashed into the earth, crushing him under its weight.

    The audience roared, their cheers echoing across the entire arena, a mix of awe and concern. In the club seating zone, Cassie, Roger, and Colin stood up, their faces etched with worry. "Eratz! Get up!" Cassie shouted, her voice almost lost in the cacophony of noise.

    The academy staff sat in utter disbelief, many of them trembling at the display of power. In another room, Mercury clenched her teeth, her heart pounding anxiously.

    But then, a phenomenon occurred. Eratz slowly began to stand, and as he rose, a more violent aura erupted around him.

    The shadows twisted, and arcs of lightning flashed as the air around him seemed to buzz with energy.

    Catarina flinched, her confident demeanor cracking slightly as she clenched her jaw.

    "Oh no, you don''t!" Catarina shouted, her cat-like eyes narrowing.

    She lunged, throwing a punch, but Eratz moved at an incredible speed, leaping toward her.

    Catarina gasped, dodging his advance, but Eratz followed seamlessly. He was relentless, keeping pace with her every move.

    Catarina swung her arm downward in a desperate attempt, and another massive paw swiped at Eratz.

    This time, he used the force of the attack to propel himself, zigzagging towards her like a bolt of lightning.

    Catarina tried to brace herself, but before she could react, the ground beneath her glowed an eerie yellow and exploded upwards. She was flung into the air, her body spinning from the

    force. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    In her dazed state, she caught sight of the Terrakrus, its massive claws still embedded in the earth, the tiger-like beast lying wounded beside it.

    Catarina''s heart skipped a beat as fear coursed through her veins.

    "How did he... My field spell should have made them stronger!"

    High above her, Eratz''s silhouette appeared, his body a dark outline against the bright stadium lights.

    He launched himself at her, his fist pulled back, ready to strike. Catarina twisted her body just in time, narrowly avoiding the direct blow.

    But Eratz''s feet stopped, it was a feint, he rotated mid-air, delivering a powerful knee straight into her stomach. Her pupils dilated in shock, and the impact sent a shockwave through the air.

    The audience collectively gasped as Catarina was slammed down towards the ground, her body moving with such speed that they feared the consequences of her fall.

    Eratz followed her descent, his focus razor-sharp, while below them, the Thunder Lycaon prowled, waiting for the right moment.

    Catarina''s eyes went white, her consciousness fading briefly, but a powerful roar erupted from her throat. A red aura enveloped her, igniting her fighting spirit once more.

    She spun mid-air, her claws slashing in every direction, creating a swirling tornado of attacks that cut through everything in its path.

    Eratz and his beasts were caught in the onslaught. The Thunder Lycaon let out a pained howl as it was shredded by Catarina''s slashes before retreating back into Eratz''s shadow.

    The Terrakrus endured the damage, its thick scales being pierced while Eratz shielded his face, the cuts leaving deep marks across his arms.

    Catarina landed gracefully, her aura still flaring as she let out another roar, her claws glowing bright red.

    She pushed off the ground, her body moving at a fantastic speed as she spun around Eratz, her claws leaving afterimages in the air.

    An hurricane of slashes erupted around hir his body marked by cuts, his eyes losing us.

    Catarina moved in for the final blow, her expression fierce, her claws aimed at Eratz''s exposed

    back.

    And suddenly, a dark and terrifying energy burst from Eratz.

    His aura exploded outward, and with it, the ability of the Terrakrus activated, every hit, every wound he had taken had only served to make him stronger.

    The shockwaves repelled Catarina, while Eratz landed heavily on his feet.

    The crowd was murmuring, pointing, unable to believe what they were seeing.

    Slowly, Eratz stepped forward.

    "It''s the first time... I''m having so much fun," he said, his eyes glimming with euphoria, sending chills down the spines of those watching.

    His aura swirled around him, black, electric blue, and white, as shadows twisted across his

    body. He looked at Catarina, leaning forward.

    "Thank you for being such a great challenger!"

    And then, his aura erupted. An explosion directed to the sky, mixing black, white and the blue from lightning. The ground shook beneath its feet and flew in the air.

    The audience erupted in shock and awe, unable to comprehend the power that Eratz wielded.

    In the stands, Mercury''s eyes widened, her breath caught in her throat.

    "... He''s really doing it... He can pull that." she whispered.

    Kenny fell on his bottom, his eyes wide and disbelieving.

    Rowan was trembling, his body barely able to contain the rush of adrenaline coursing through him. The director slowly turned to look at him and Eliza, both of whom were frozen in place, unable to comprehend what they were seeing.

    Catarina took a hesitant step back, her confidence wavering for the first time. The Terrakrus let out a deafening roar, the force of its voice sending a shiver down her spine.

    Eratz, now standing before her, radiated an aura so fierce that it felt like it was crushing her

    spirit.

    Catarina swallowed, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and awe. She lunged, her claws glowing with power, but Eratz was faster.

    He moved like lightning, his form disappearing and reappearing in an instant, leaving only thunderous footsteps echoing across the arena.

    Catarina swung her claws, her attacks wild and desperate, but each time she struck, she met

    nothing but air.

    The steps grew louder, closer, but she couldn''t see him. Her heart pounded in her chest as

    panic began to set in.

    And then, with an explosion of power, Eratz appeared before her. His aura had changed, the beastification with his three aces fully unleashed.

    His body was covered in black, jagged marks, the patterns glowing with a fierce energy, and lightning crackled around him, blue and white bolts arcing through the air. Catarina''s eyes widened, her body trembling as she tried to react, but it was too late.

    Eratz unleashed his power, his fist swinging with all his might, a swirling mass of black and white energy surrounding it.

    The impact was cataclysmic, a black-and-white vortex erupting from the point of contact, swallowing Catarina in its power, a storm of energy and lightning crashing into the ground. The audience watched, their eyes wide, their breaths held as the shockwave from the attack rocked the arena, the force of it so great that the very earth beneath them trembled. Dust and debris filled the air, obscuring the view of the battlefield.

    In the stands, Liora and Marcus sat in stunned silence, their eyes glued to the field. Roger and Cassie stood, their mouths agape, while Colin clenched her fists, a mixture of fear and admiration in her eyes.

    Crystal''s heart raced, her eyes locked on the scene below, her mind unable to process what she

    was witnessing.

    The dust began to settle, revealing the field below. Eratz stood in the middle of a massive crater, his body scarred, his chest heaving with each breath.

    His muscular torso was exposed, covered in marks from the battle, and scars from his road,

    his aura still dissipating around him.

    At his feet lay Catarina, unconscious and badly injured. Her body was battered, her clothes torn, her cat-like features still visible, but her aura had completely dissipated.

    The audience erupted in cheers, their voices deafening as they roared in approval.

    Eratz stood tall, victorious.

    The thrill of the fight still coursed through his veins, his heart pounding with excitement.

    The announcer''s voice echoed across the stadium, filled with awe and excitement.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this incredible battle.... ERATZ PANDORA!" The roar of the crowd grew louder, their cheers filling the night sky as fireworks erupted above, casting colorful lights across the arena.

    Eratz took a deep breath, his eyes closing for a moment as he allowed himself to savor the

    moment.

 Chapter 60: Flaming Fury VS Water Prodigy

    Chapter 60: Flaming Fury VS Water ProdigyThe roar of the crowd filled the air, echoing off every corner of the massive arena.

    Eratz stood in the center, his body aching but his spirit soaring as thousands of voices cheered for him. It felt surreal.

    He took a moment to catch his breath, wiping sweat from his brow as he waved to the audience, his heart still pounding from the intensity of the battle.

    The lights shone brightly, fireworks exploded in colorful patterns above, making the entire arena sparkle in celebration of his victory.

    Cassie had her hands covering her mouth, tears glistening in her eyes as she watched Eratz bask in the applause.

    Her heart swelled with pride, and she could barely contain her emotions as she looked down at Colin, who was jumping and shouting excitedly.

    "Look, Mom! Everyone is cheering for my big brother! He''s amazing!" Colin exclaimed, shaking Cassie''s arm joyfully.

    Roger stood beside them, placing a comforting hand on Cassie''s shoulder, his eyes also misting over.

    "He did it, Cassie. Our boy showed everyone what he''s capable of."

    Cassie sniffled and nodded, her tears finally spilling over as she whispered.

    "Yes, Roger... He''s truly incredible. I''m so glad for him."

    Meanwhile, in the stands, Liora locked eyes with Marcus.

    Back in the reserved seating area for the Genova Academy staff, everyone was silent.

    The director''s expression was tight with confusion.

    She looked over at Eliza, who was watching Rowan with an uncertain look.

    "What''s the meaning of this?" the director muttered, her gaze then shifting to Rowan, who seemed lost in thought, his eyes distant as he watched his former student wave to the cheering crowd.

    Kenny sat slumped on the ground, his eyes downcast, staring blankly at the floor beneath him.

    The cheers of the crowd felt deafening, a reminder of how far Eratz had come, and how much down Kenny was.

    In the hotel, Crystal silently rose to her feet and made her way to her room. Her eyes were empty, her expression blank. But as she moved, a slow frown began to form, her thoughts swirling.

    "Turn it off, please," Lisa muttered.

    Her friend nodded and closed the live stream on her phone, giving Lisa a worried glance.

    The first battle had ended, but the night was far from over. After a short break, the fourth match was about to begin.

    Catarina blinked, staring at the blurry ceiling above her.

    Slowly, the room began to come into focus, and she realized she was lying in an infirmary bed, surrounded by the smell of disinfectants and the quiet hum of machinery.

    "Where... where am I?" she murmured groggily, her head pounding.

    "Ah, finally awake," Eratz said, grinning.

    Catarina''s eyes shot open, and she screamed.

    Back in the arena, the fourth match was about to begin.

    Kenny, still sitting on the ground, was lost in his thoughts, his mind racing with everything he''d seen.

    But as the announcer''s voice boomed through the stadium, his head shot up, his attention captured.

    "Next, we welcome a fighter with over 1,000 wins in the rookie division, the Water Prodigy herself!"

    The arena erupted in cheers as Mercury stepped into the light.

    Kenny''s eyes widened in awe as he watched her enter.

    She walked with confidence, the formidable energy of Lugina''s Garden washing over her.

    She took a deep breath, savoring the moment before walking forward, ready for battle.

    In the infirmary, Eratz was watching the live feed on the screen, his eyes lighting up with excitement.

    "I''m glad they''re letting Mercury fight today too. This will be the perfect opportunity to see her full potential."

    Catarina, still hiding under her blanket, peeked out, her eyes narrowing.

    "What... what are you doing here?" she mumbled, her voice muffled.

    Eratz glanced at her, smiling innocently.

    "You''ve piqued my interest, cat girl. I''ve never seen someone use a field spell like that, with a monster''s appearance. Is it only possible with cats, or can you use it with other beasts too? I thought field spells were only for elemental manipulation, how did you do it? What''s your trick? I want to know."

    His eyes gleamed with genuine curiosity, but his innocent face was as ominous as the way he stared into her soul, Catarina shrank further under the blanket, trembling slightly.

    "P-please... just spare me!"

    The announcer''s voice boomed across the arena.

    "Face to her, another monster with a four digits number of wins in the rookie division, the Flaming Fury herself, Kaida!"

    She had striking red hair styled into large, voluminous pigtails, and wore a cropped top with flame patterns and red baggy pants.

    Face to Mercury, her petite body made her appear way younger.

    The girl seemed annoyed, her eyes scanning Mercury''s figure, particularly her chest. She let

    out an audible groan.

    "Boastful."

    Mercury blinked, taken aback.

    "What... what did I do?"

    The announcer''s voice echoed once again.

    "A battle of two elemental geniuses, the Water Prodigy versus the Flaming Fury!"

    The bell rang, signaling the start of the match. Mercury wasted no time, summoning her monsters, Seraph, and her Azure Windrider.

    Her opponent responded with two massive fire monsters, each resembling fierce, bipedal creatures. One had flaming fists, a broad chest, and fiery spikes jutting from its back, while the other was covered in molten armor, with glowing cracks running along its muscled frame.

    Their hulking forms made Kaida look almost even tinier, radiating intense heat. Back in the infirmary, Eratz watched with fascination. He tilted his head thoughtfully.

    "I wonder... I''ve met people who only focus on one type of monster, and now I''m realizing my impression was right. It''s almost like a handicap, the opponent just have to use the weak

    element technique."

    Catarina, still hiding under her blanket, peeked out again.

    "Not against Kaida... she''s different. She wouldn''t lose even in disadvantage."

    Eratz glanced at her curiously.

    "You know her?"

    On the field, Mercury''s monsters lunged at their opponents, charging powerful water attacks.

    But before they could land a hit, the petite girl smirked, her expression twisting with

    annoyance.

    "Let''s get real," she muttered, her voice filled with irritation.

    Suddenly, the air shifted, becoming red with heat.

    Mercury''s eyes widened in realization, and she quickly unleashed her own aura, a surge of

    blue energy clashing against the red.

    The arena was caught in the middle of a spectacular scene, the air itself seemed to shimmer, first igniting into blazing flames, then cooling into rushing water, and finally evaporating

    into steam.

    The clashing auras caused the field to transform, the entire area shifting in response to their

    power.

    In the stands, Zara leaned forward, her eyes wide.

    "It''s a clash of two field spells," she murmured, her voice filled with awe.

    The field had transformed into something entirely new, a landscape of swirling mist and

    steam, reducing visibility a little.

    Mercury blinked, taken aback by how quickly their spells had neutralized each other. Her opponent stepped forward confidently, her petite frame surrounded by a fierce red aura.

    Red marks began to spread across the girl''s skin, glowing with intensity. She held two short hammers in her hands, her fire monsters walking beside her, their presence exuding more

    heat.

    The girl looked Mercury directly in the eye.

    "Get ready. I''m not holding anything back."

    The beastification of Kaida was unique, her skin marked with glowing patterns, and her eyes

    burning with energy.

    Everyone watched with intrigue, wondering where her weapons had come from, it seemed

    unlike any typical beastification.

    Eratz leaned closer to the screen, his eyes narrowing in curiosity.

    Kaida grinned, pointing her hammer at Mercury.

    "You think you can match me, water girl? I''ll smash your brain out!"

    With a powerful leap, Kaida launched herself towards Mercury, her hammers raised high. Mercury''s eyes widened, and she leaped to dodge the incoming attack.

    Kaida''s hammers slammed into the ground, causing a massive explosion of steam and dust.

    Mercury realized just how powerful her opponent was, her heart pounding. She clenched her teeth, summoning her resolve.

    Her body began to glow, entering her own beastification, melding with the Seraph. The transformation covered her with sleek markings, enhancing her agility. The two fighters stared each other down, their auras flaring as they prepared to clash. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kaida moved first, swinging her hammers with reckless abandon, her strength undeniable.

    Mercury dodged swiftly, her movements feline-like as she twisted and flipped, narrowly avoiding each crushing blow.

    Every time their powers collided, steam erupted, filling the arena. Kaida''s attacks were brutal and relentless, while Mercury''s were swift and graceful.

    They seemed evenly matched, their different styles creating a stunning visual contrast that

    left the audience in awe.

    The monsters joined the battle, Kaida''s fire beasts roaring and charging, while Mercury''s

    Azure Windrider soared above, launching bursts of water to counter the searing flames. The battle grew more intense, each hit more powerful than the last.

    The air was filled with the sound of clashing elements, the ground cracking under the weight

    of their strikes.

    The crowd was on the edge of their seats, captivated by the sheer spectacle.

    Kaida''s monsters were heavier, their movements raw and full of power. Mercury''s monsters, on the other hand, were agile, darting in and out of combat, striking

    with precision.

    But as the battle raged on, it became apparent that something was shifting.

    Mercury took a direct hit from one of Kaida''s hammer strikes, her body sent tumbling across

    the field.

    Her vision blurred for a moment, her eyes wide with shock.

    She pushed herself up, her breathing labored, feeling the need to vomit. She realized that,

    despite her best efforts, Kaida''s raw power was overwhelming her.

    Her beastification with her Seraph Panther wasn''t enough to match Kaida''s destructive

    strength. "This... can''t be... We are both using beastification... Why am I being so much overpowered?" Kaida''s form seemed different, her beastification was more complete, more intense. Mercury struck her repeatedly, but Kaida seemed almost unbreakable, eating hits and coming

    again, each blow only slowing her momentarily before she pressed forward once more.

    It had become a battle of attrition.

    Mercury moved fast, landing strikes wherever she could, but Kaida''s resilience was terrifying.

    Each time Kaida managed to land a blow, it was devastating, each impact sending Mercury

    reeling.

    In the stands, Colin watched with wide, worried eyes.

    "Mercury..."

    Cassie bit her lip, her eyes filled with concern.

    "She''s strong, Colin. She won''t give up."

    Eratz clenched his teeth, his eyes glued to the screen. He could feel the intensity of the battle,

    the desperation in Mercury''s eyes.

    The two girls were battered, their bodies covered in bruises and marks from the relentless

    combat.

    And then, with one final clash, the two met in the center of the field, their auras exploding outward in a burst of red and blue energy.

    Kaida was thrown backward, her eyes going wide, her body losing balance. She stumbled, her legs giving out beneath her.

    But just as everyone thought she was done, she froze, her eyes narrowing.

    She twisted her body forward, her head slamming into Mercury''s in a devastating headbutt

    echoing in the whole arena.

    Everything seemed to freeze in that moment. Mercury''s eyes went blank, her body swaying before she slowly began to fall backward.

    Time seemed to slow as she fell, her body crumpling to the ground, landing with a heavy

    thud.

    Kaida stood there, her breathing ragged, her legs trembling. She was on the verge of collapsing herself, but she held on, her gaze white.

    The crowd held its breath, the tension unbearable.

    The announcer''s voice broke through the silence. "Ladies and gentlemen... the winner of this match, the Flaming Fury, Kaida!"

    Kaida let out a shaky breath, her body finally giving in. The crowd erupted in cheers, their voices echoing throughout the arena.

 Chapter 61: Crack

    Chapter 61: CrackThe crowd''s roar was deafening, filling the massive arena as Kaida collapsed onto her back, utterly exhausted.

    She had won, but she could barely muster the energy to celebrate.

    Mercury lay unconscious on the ground, her body motionless, a stark contrast to the fiery cheers that echoed around her.

    In the stands, Zara and Ryder both stood in stunned silence, their mouths hanging open in disbelief. Milo, usually so joyful, had his jaw dropped.

    Colin, who had been jumping up and down just moments ago, slowly lowered her arms, her enthusiasm fading.

    Her face fell, the brightness in her eyes dimming.

    She turned to Roger, who wore a similarly sad expression.

    Cassie, sitting beside them, clenched her fists and punched her chair softly, muttering a frustrated,

    "Damn!"

    In the infirmary, Eratz grit his teeth, fist clenched.

    On the opposite side of the room, Catarina was dancing on her bed.

    "That''s my bestie, Kaida! She''s unstoppable!" she cheered, hopping up and down.

    Eratz glanced at her, his gaze sharp and intrigued. Catarina froze mid-dance, noticing his eyes on her.

    She stammered, quickly jumping down from the bed.

    "Uh, I-I mean, I know Kaida! We''re best friendies, so... if anyone tries to hurt me, she''d totally come for revenge!"

    She attempted a weak smile, backing away slightly.

    Eratz rolled his eyes, turning his attention back to the screen, where the crowd continued to cheer.

    Kenny, still kneeling on the ground in the arena, looked lost in his thoughts, staring blankly at the aftermath of the battle. His mind swirled with thoughts of failure, of how far he had fallen behind Eratz and others like him.

    Later, Mercury''s eyes slowly fluttered open. The first thing she noticed was the sterile scent of the infirmary, and the second was the dull ache coursing through her body.

    She struggled to sit up, her vision blurry. Confusion settled over her, and she mumbled,

    "Where am I? What happened? The battle... did I... did I win?"

    Before she could process more, Zara rushed over, her face filled with concern.

    "Mercury, are you okay?"

    Ryder and Eratz stood nearby, their expressions less optimistic.

    Mercury''s eyes widened as she looked between them.

    "What happened?" she repeated, her tone sharper now, panic rising in her chest.

    Ryder hesitated before answering,

    "You did your best, really..."

    Eratz cut in with a sigh,

    "It went terribly."

    Her heart sank.

    "No..." Mercury whispered, clutching her head, her fingers digging into her scalp as if trying to shake the reality away.

    But the pain from the impact caused her to flinch, and she fell back onto the bed, grunting in pain.

    "Be careful, Mercury!" Zara warned, reaching out to steady her.

    But Mercury wasn''t listening. She moaned in frustration, her voice thick with disbelief.

    "I can''t believe I lost... my first match... this can''t be real. It''s a nightmare."

    Her fingers pressed hard against her forehead. She had trained for so long, fought in so many battles, and yet, when it mattered most, she had failed.

    Her brain burned with disbelief as the weight of her defeat pressed down on her like a boulder.

    Zara, Ryder, and Eratz exchanged glances. The atmosphere in the room felt heavy.

    Ryder broke the silence first.

    "I''m really sorry, Mercury. You gave it your all."

    Zara, trying her best to cheer her up, added,

    "You were incredible out there. It wasn''t your day, but you''ll come back stronger!"

    But Eratz shrugged and said,

    "The worst part is that the other girl didn''t even bother to stick around. She''s already left. Didn''t feel like wasting her time here."

    Both Zara and Ryder shot him disapproving looks, but before they could scold him, Mercury sat up again, her face contorted with frustration.

    She forced a strained smile at Eratz.

    "Fuck..."

    "Stay down, You''re not fine," Ryder said, stepping forward in concern.

    "I''m okay," Mercury insisted, her words quick. "Everything''s okay, really. It''s fine."

    She repeated the words like a mantra, though her body was trembling slightly from the strain. Her eyes were half-closed, exhausted.

    "I was so used to easy battles... I forgot what it feels like to face someone who actually

    thinks."

    Her voice cracked, and she let out a dry laugh.

    "Groaning here isn''t going to change anything. I lost. It''s over. Right here, in the biggest

    arena I''ve ever fought in."

    A sad, rueful smile tugged at her lips as she placed a hand on her forehead.

    "But it''s fine," she repeated softly.

    She stood up, wobbling slightly on her feet, and nearly collapsed.

    Zara rushed forward, catching her before she could fall.

    "Mercury, please be careful!"

    Mercury sighed, looking defeated yet resolute.

    "I need to get stronger. Quickly."

    She glanced over at Eratz, who smiled reassuringly.

    "I''ve got something. Rest today, and tomorrow we''ll talk about it."

    Mercury nodded slowly and gestured for Zara to let her go.

    "I''m fine, I just... need to go to the restroom."

    Zara looked ready to protest, but Ryder gently placed a hand on her shoulder and shook his

    head.

    Mercury left the room, her steps slow and heavy. She made her way down the corridor and into

    the restroom.

    Once inside, she turned the faucet on, splashing cold water onto her face.

    The coolness stung her skin, but wasn''t enough to ease the burning sensation in her eyes.

    As the water trickled down her face, she realized it was mixed with tears.

    She punched the sink softly, whispering to herself,

    "Fuck..."

    The battle of the night was over, and most of the arena had emptied.

    Back in the reserved seating area, Rowan, Eliza, the other teachers and the director gathered

    together. The tension was thick as the director folded her arms across her chest, her eyes

    narrowing in thought.

    "I want to understand what happened tonight," she said, her voice sharp. "That boy, Eratz, what exactly happened when he was suspended?"

    Eliza shifted uncomfortably, reminding the director.

    "He was suspended for cheating, but he got expelled for sexual assault. There''s nothing else

    to it." Rowan, looking more contemplative, added quietly,

    "But Eratz was brilliant in both practice and theory. There was something off about his suspension... something that doesn''t make sense."

    One of the other teachers, Professor Gardel, frowned, glancing between Rowan and Eliza.

    "Did we accuse him too quickly? Did he ever actually admit to it, or did we just take the accusations at face value?"

    Eliza shot Gardel a sharp look, her eyes narrowing.

    "I did what was necessary. We had evidence that he was cheating, using the device to create and strengthen elemental spirits. That was the official report. We all saw it." Gardel, however, wasn''t convinced. "That''s not what I saw tonight, he didn''t just cheat his way to power. Karinite 4 can increase elemental power, not control monsters or trigger beastification. What we saw was a skilled, powerful beast master. There''s more to this." The murmurs among the other teachers grew louder, doubt creeping into their voices. Professor Kelsa added.

    "Maybe we didn''t give him a fair trial. Maybe we were too eager to get rid of him."

    Eliza''s face flushed with anger.

    "Fair? We did everything by the book! The investigation was thorough. He had cheated, and

    assaulted a student."

    "Maybe it was for the best. Let''s not forget where he came from. With people like him, it was only a matter of time before something went wrong."

    The room fell silent at Melcin''s words. A tense, suffocating silence. Rowan and the other teachers exchanged uneasy glances, but Eliza''s reaction was swift and furious.

    "Excuse me? Are you implying that we made the right decision because of where he was from? Because if anyone here is the problem, Melcin, it''s you. We didn''t kick Eratz out because of his race! But the problem in your head... It''s worse than anything he did!"

    Melcin''s eyes narrowed. "Don''t twist my words, Eliza. I''m not the one who ignored the facts. You led that investigation, you were the one eager to throw him out before anything else could surface.

    Maybe you were the one who felt threatened by him."

    Eliza''s face reddened, her fists clenched.

    "I did my job! You''re the one who refused to even consider the possibility that he could be

    innocent. You wanted him out from day one because of where he came from, because of your... your prejudices. You didn''t care about the truth."

    "I cared about protecting the academy!" Melcin snapped, his voice rising. "Someone like him? With that much raw power, with ties to people with beast blood? It was only a matter of

    time before he became a threat."

    The accusations hung heavy in the air. The other teachers exchanged uncomfortable glances, but no one dared to interrupt the escalating argument.

    Professor Gardel, sensing the tension, cleared his throat and tried to calm the situation. "Let''s calm down for a moment. We need to be rational about this, what we saw tonight... it

    forces us to reconsider the case."

    But Eliza wasn''t having it. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Rational?" She turned on Gardel, her voice thick with frustration. "I did what I had to do. We

    had the evidence. We had witnesses. And I won''t be made the scapegoat for something that

    was decided by all of us!"

    Melcin scoffed.

    "Oh, spare me, Eliza. You were the one pushing for his expulsion faster than anyone else.

    Don''t pretend like you were following some noble cause." "You''re unbelievable," Eliza shot back. "Do you even hear yourself? You''re standing there,

    acting like I''m responsible for Eratz''s expulsion, when all you''ve ever cared about was his

    race."

    Melcin''s eyes flashed with anger.

    "Maybe because his race mattered! We had students to protect, and he wasn''t one of them. He was dangerous, and now, look at him. You saw what he did tonight. We all know he has no talent, so his genes must be the cause! Are you really going to stand there and tell me he''s not a threat? Someone with a power like that would have injured everyone by accident!" "How is a fucking racist like you even allowed to teach in a learning environment?!"

    Rowan, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke, his voice low and firm. "That''s enough. This isn''t about race or background. It''s about the truth. And the truth is, we

    might have been too quick to make a decision without fully understanding what was happening."

    Melcin glared at him.

    "And you''re just as responsible, Rowan! You didn''t speak up then, did you? You stood by and

    let it happen."

    Rowan''s face tightened.

    "I regret that now. But we''re not going to fix anything by pointing fingers."

    The director, who had been watching the exchange in silence, finally raised a hand, silencing

    them.

    Her voice was calm, but the weight of her words was dangerous. "That''s enough. I''ll re-open the case. If Eratz really did cheat, we''ll proceed with Kenny''s

    case as planned. But if I learn that mistakes were made... there will be consequences. Some heads might fell. Eliza, Melcin, come to my room tomorrow by 8 AM."

    Her gaze swept over the staff, lingering on Eliza and Melcin before she turned on her heel and

    left the room.

    The tension hung in the air, thick and uncomfortable. No one moved or spoke for a long time.

    Meanwhile, outside the arena, the tension between Eratz''s parents, Liora and Marcus, was escalating.

    They had tried to force their way into the beast master zone inside, claiming to be Eratz''s parents, but security had blocked their entry.

    Liora, her face flushed with fury, was practically shouting at the guards.

    "Do you have any idea who I am? That''s my son in there! Let me through!"

    The guards remained unfazed, their expressions stern. "Ma''am, we need proper authorization. No exceptions." Liora''s temper flared, and she stepped closer, her eyes blazing with rage.

    "Authorization? I don''t need your damn authorization! I''m his mother!"

    Marcus, standing beside her, placed a hand on her arm, trying to pull her back.

    "Liora, enough. Let''s handle this a different way."

    But Liora shook him off, her anger boiling over.

    "No, I won''t! I''ve waited long enough! I need to see him!"

    Marcus sighed, stepping forward as Liora continued to argue with the guards. He pulled out

    his phone.

    "We''ll find another way."

    Liora turned to him, confusion briefly crossing her face.

    "What do you mean?"

    Marcus''s eyes gleamed as he scrolled through his contacts.

    "I''ll hire a detective. We''ll find out where he''s living. Then, we''ll deal with this on our terms."

    Liora''s fury gave way to a slow, sly smile.

    "You always were the clever one."

    Marcus smirked, pressing the phone to his ear.

    "Leave it to me. We''ll find him."

 Chapter 62: Bonds

    Chapter 62: BondsBack in the locker room, Mercury returned to find Eratz, Ryder, and Zara sitting quietly. Sensing the gloomy mood, she grinned and playfully tapped Eratz on the shoulder.

    "Cheer up, guys! It happens. I''m not invincible."

    "Are you really okay?" Ryder asked.

    She winked.

    "I''m only angry because I lost and Eratz won. It''s a competition, after all."

    Eratz smiled back.

    Zara let out a breath, grateful to see Mercury''s spirits lifting.

    "You''re strong, Mercury," she said softly.

    Mercury nodded, but her expression shifted when she noticed Eratz''s face.

    "Let''s focus on something else for now. The things these girls used." Eratz said, his tone suddenly more serious.

    Mercury blinked, her arms crossing over her chest as she tilted her head.

    "What do you mean?"

    "The way Kaida and Catarina fought," Eratz began, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Their beastification wasn''t just the usual stuff. And their field spell... It was connected to their monsters instead of elements. It''s different from what we''ve seen."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow.

    "Yeah, I found it weird too. You think there''s something more to it?"

    "I know there is. The way Catarina''s cats were implied in her field spell. And Kaida? Her transformation was... advanced, more complete. We need to figure out what they''re doing." Mercury''s eyes flickered with curiosity, but she kept her stance casual.

    "So, what''s your plan?"

    Eratz''s grin widened.

    "Glad you asked. Zara, Ryder, and I are going to crack this mystery."

    Zara, who had been listening quietly, perked up.

    "Wait, you''re including me in this?"

    Eratz nodded, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

    "Of course. You''re our resident scholar. I need you to dig into everything we''ve got on advanced beastification and field spells. Anything that could explain what we saw out there."

    Zara''s face lit up.

    "You want me to research advanced beastification techniques? I''m on it!"

    Eratz gave her a mock salute.

    "That''s the spirit!"

    "And me?" Ryder chimed in, raising an eyebrow.

    "You''re our test subject, I want you out there training all night. Test different combinations of field spells and beast synchronization techniques. See if you can feel any changes."

    Ryder grinned.

    "... I''ve been training all day for this moment, the night training."

    "Alright, listen up!" Eratz barked in a mock-serious tone. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Zara and Ryder instinctively straightened up, their eyes glinting.

    "We''ve got work to do," Eratz continued, "What Kaida and Catarina showed us out there wasn''t just flashy moves, it was something deeper. A connection between their beasts, their environment, and their power. This is something beyond anything we''ve ever achieved and the urgency to master it is at our door. So listen, here''s the mission!"

    "Yes, Boss!" Zara and Ryder shouted altogether.

    "Zara!" Eratz turned to her dramatically, "You''re now the Head Researcher! Your task is to find every scrap of knowledge about advanced beastification techniques, field spells, and how they affect the battlefield. I expect a full report by sunrise!"

    Zara''s eyes lit up with excitement. She stood at attention, saluting playfully.

    "Sir, yes, sir!" she said, her voice brimming with energy.

    Eratz then spun around to face Ryder, pointing at him with equal intensity.

    "Ryder, you''re going to train all night. I want you mastering every field spell and beast synchronization technique you know, and I want you to figure out how to push them even further. You''re our field agent!"

    Ryder grinned and nodded, standing up from the bench.

    "You got it, boss. I''ll train until my beasts can''t move! Or my body! Or both!"

    Eratz''s voice grew more dramatic, his arms spread wide.

    "This is the moment we stop being spectators and start being the ones who make everyone else nervous. We''re going to uncover the secret behind Kaida and Catarina''s abilities, and when we do, we''ll Make Crescent Moon Great Again!"

    He clapped his hands suddenly.

    "Now go! Move, move, move!"

    Zara rushed to the door.

    "For the M.C.M.G.A. Boss!" she shouted as she disappeared down the hallway.

    Ryder roared.

    "I''ll be back... with weapons!" he said before jumping out of the room.

    As Mercury turned to follow, Eratz called out after her.

    "Stop, you don''t need to follow them, I already got the infos I needed."

    He held up his phone, showing a number.Mercury blinked in confusion.

    "What''s this?"

    "Catarina''s number."

    Mercury stared at the phone in Eratz''s hand, a flicker of something crossing her face.

    "You got Catarina''s number? Why?"

    Eratz didn''t miss a beat, pocketing his phone as if the question didn''t matter.

    "It''s for the beastification and spell field thing. You saw what she did out there, it was different than us, something I want to figure out."

    Mercury''s brow furrowed.

    "You want to learn about beastification from her?" She crossed her arms, an edge creeping into her voice. "You know I could have taught you that, right? I mean, I''ve been using beastification and field spell for a while."

    Eratz smiled, not in the teasing way she was used to, but in a softer, more genuine way.

    "I know you could''ve taught me, Mercury. And you''re good, really good." He paused, looking her straight in the eyes. "But this is... different. There''s something specific about what Catarina did and I need Zara''s input too. It''s something she said and I want to pull something

    from it."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow.

    "What? You don''t trust me to handle it?"

    "It''s not about handling it, there''s just... more to get from her, and not just about what I said. Something I need to pull, and I need Zara for that. For now I just want to handle it with Zara,

    you''ll see it soon."

    The way he said it made Mercury pause. It wasn''t that he was shutting her out, there was just something deeper going on, something he wasn''t ready to talk about. She could feel it, but instead of pushing, she decided to let it go for now.

    "Okay, fine," she said, unfolding her arms but still watching him closely. "But I''m still better

    at this stuff than Catarina. Just saying."

    "No doubt about that."

    There was a brief silence between them, but it wasn''t uncomfortable. Mercury could feel a

    shift in the atmosphere.

    "So... what now?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.

    "Well, I''ve got another plan. Tomorrow, I want you and Milo to come over to my uncle and aunt''s place. I''ve already discussed it with them, so don''t even think about backing out."

    Mercury blinked, taken off guard.

    "Wait... why? You want me at your family''s house?"

    "Yeah, You''ve had a tough day, and I think hanging out with family might help. Plus, I think it''s about time you met my aunt and uncle, they''re pretty great."

    Mercury hesitated, clearly nervous.

    "I don''t know... Family stuff''s not really my thing. I wouldn''t want to intrude or anything."

    "Intrude? Come on, Mercury. They''ll love having you there. It''s not some formal thing, it''s

    just a way for you to unwind, hang out, and forget about today. Last time we did your thing,

    now this is my turn."

    She let out a shaky laugh, rubbing the back of her neck.

    "I don''t know... It sounds a little awkward, and I''m not sure I''d fit in."

    "Awkward? Mercury, you handle Milo like it''s nothing. I''m pretty sure you can handle dinner

    with my aunt and uncle."

    She looked away, still unsure.

    "I don''t know... Milo is pretty easy to deal with."

    "Look, I''m not asking you anymore. You remember our challenge? I won, and you lose, so

    now you do my wish, ok? I really want you to meet my family."

    Mercury let out a long breath, her walls starting to crumble a little. For some reason, this proposal made her feel more exposed than she wanted to admit.

    "Alright," she finally said, her voice softer. "I''ll come. But if your aunt or uncle gets hate me,

    I''m out."

    Eratz grinned, the playful spark returning to his eyes.

    "They took me when everyone hated me, they will adore you."

    Mercury couldn''t help but laugh, the tension in her shoulders easing.

    "Okay, okay. But if this turns into some awkward family bonding moment, I''m blaming you."

    "That''s the point."

    She shook her head, smiling now, though her nerves were still bubbling underneath.

    "You''re impossible."

    "Yep, that''s me," Eratz shot back, smiling as he stepped aside to let her pass.

    Mercury turned toward the door, pausing just for a moment to glance back at him.

    "I''ll be there. But seriously, don''t make me regret this."

    Eratz smiled, softer this time.

    "I won''t. Promise." As she walked out, Mercury felt the last remnants of her earlier insecurities fade away.

    Eratz had a way of getting under her skin, but tonight, it wasn''t about teasing or games.

    He genuinely wanted her in his precious garden, and somehow, that made the weight of her defeat feel just a little lighter.

 Chapter 63: Sweet Home

    Chapter 63: Sweet HomeThe morning sun bathed the city in a warm glow as Mercury and Milo made their way to Cassie and Roger''s apartment.

    The building stood tall and modern, with large windows reflecting the sky.

    Potted plants decorated the balconies, and a small garden full of colorful flowers welcomed them at the entrance.

    Mercury took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. She wasn''t used to family gatherings, especially not ones like this. Milo, on the other hand, was practically bouncing with energy.

    "This place looks so big... I bet I could summon all my monsters inside!" Milo exclaimed, his eyes wide as he gazed up at the building.

    "No, you don''t, but Yeah, it''s something... Must be where all the money is going."

    "Absolutely!" he replied, grinning from ear to ear.

    They entered the cozy lobby, where a friendly doorman greeted them with a nod. The elevator ride to the tenth floor was quick, and soon they stood before a door with a cheerful home sweet home mat.

    Before they could knock, the door swung open to reveal Cassie, her face lighting up with a bright smile.

    "Nailed it, Mercury! Milo! So glad you could make it!" she said warmly, pulling them both into a gentle hug.

    Her energy was infectious, and Mercury felt some of her nerves fade away.

    "Come on in," Cassie said, stepping aside. "Make yourselves at home."

    They entered a spacious apartment filled with natural light. The living room was cozy, with comfortable sofas, colorful cushions, and family photos lining the walls. The aroma of something delicious cooking wafted from the kitchen.

    Roger appeared from around the corner, wiping his hands on a dish towel. His kind eyes crinkled as he smiled.

    "Welcome! It''s great to finally meet you both."

    "Thanks for having us," Mercury replied, shaking his hand.

    "Yeah, thanks!" Milo added enthusiastically.

    Just then, Colin peeked out from behind a doorway. Her eyes brightened when she saw them.

    "Hi, Mercury. Hi, Milo," she said softly.

    "Hey, Colin!" Milo waved. "Your home is really cool!"

    She smiled gently.

    "Thank you. I''m glad you could make it."

    Eratz emerged from his room.

    "Took you long enough, You two didn''t get lost, did you?"

    Mercury rolled her eyes playfully.

    "Never let Milo know where you go before arriving. We lost one hour at home."

    "I was looking for my sandals!" Milo complained.

    Cassie clapped her hands together. "Alright! Who''s up for helping me in the kitchen? We''re making a feast!"

    "I''ll help!" Milo volunteered eagerly.

    "Perfect! Follow me," Cassie said, leading him toward the kitchen. "We''ll start with the dessert. Do you like baking?"

    "No, but I like eating."

    As they disappeared into the kitchen, Roger turned to Mercury. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Would you like something to drink? We have lemonade, iced tea..."

    "Lemonade sounds great, thank you," Mercury replied.

    "Coming right up," he said, heading toward the kitchen.

    She waited until he disappeared to lean on Eratz.

    "Beer."

    "Under the bed."

    Later, Milo made a beeline for Colin. They quickly set up a card game on the living room floor, settling into the friendly banter of siblings, with a single pattern.

    "You''re going down again!" Milo announced, setting his cards.

    Colin''s jaw fell in disbelief, laying down her card, a dragon.

    "... How can an elf beat a dragon?"

    Milo smirked, flipping his final card. "Because the dragon''s in love with the elf."

    Colin blinked, dumbfounded.

    "That doesn''t even make sense!"

    "That''s what a loser would say! Haha!" Milo teased, sticking out his tongue.

    "You... You grade schooler!" Colin shouted with the softer voice possible, pouting.

    Milo looked offended, puffing up his chest.

    "Leave my grades out of this!"

    Mercury couldn''t help but laugh at the adorable exchange as she watched from the couch.

    Soon, it was lunch. Cassie guided them all into the kitchen to help setting the table.

    The air filled with laughter, light-hearted teasing, and the scent of food.

    "So, Eratz," Roger said with a playful grin, "how long before you introduce us to Mercury

    officially?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, staying calm and mature as always.

    "As long as it takes to see Colin introduce a thug to you."

    Roger made the mistake of visualizing it and grimaced, but the idea alone also made Eratz

    grimace slightly.

    "Actually... never mind. She doesn''t have a boyfriend, right?"

    "Does a male friend count?"

    "... Who?"

    Dinner was a real highlight. The table was filled with dishes, many of them with a sugar taste. Ishtarian food had a unique flavor profile, something that Mercury hadn''t fully expected.

    Roger leaned over with a smile.

    "We made separate plates if you''re not up for the traditional stuff. It can be... Surprising."

    Mercury waved it off.

    "No, I want the real thing. I''m part of you today so I want to eat like you."

    She took a bite of the sugary-spiced dish and blinked in surprise.

    "Okay, I get it. This is why you''re obsessed with sweets."

    Eratz just gave her a smile.

    "I''m not obsessed, just honest."

    As the day was winding down, Mercury and Milo were getting ready to leave.

    Cassie, however, wasn''t having it.

    "Why don''t you two just stay the night? We''ve got room."

    Roger chimed in with a smile.

    "It''s no trouble."

    Mercury hesitated.

    "I don''t want to impose..."

    "You!? You don''t want to impose?" Eratz gave her a teasing look.

    She gave him a playful punch on the arm. There was a bit of debate about the sleeping arrangements, and meanwhile, Milo and Colin returned to their card game, the rivalry

    growing more intense, until Milo lost for the first time.

    "I want my revenge!" Milo shouted, his eyes glinting.

    Colin, arms crossed and smug, leaned back with a satisfied grin.

    "I refuse."

    Milo looked at her, almost in disbelief. "What? Why?"

    "Because I won, losers have no opinion. That''s what you said."

    Cassie giggled from across the room.

    "If we don''t stop them, they''re going to go at it all night. I think this will solve the bedroom

    question?"

    Mercury, who had been watching with mild amusement, suddenly realized something.

    If Milo and Colin stayed at this all night, she might end up sharing Eratz''s room.

    However, Eratz, calm as ever, stood and scooped up Milo in one swift motion, coughing

    lightly.

    "That''s enough, son. We go."

    Milo flinched, realizing what Eratz meant. "Oh... Fine... I''ll go with Eratz," he muttered,

    resigning himself to defeat.

    Mercury let out a small, exasperated sigh, slightly annoyed, followed a louder sigh from

    Cassie and Roger.

    After bath, Mercury and Colin were in Colin''s bedroom, in their pajamas. The room was quiet

    as Mercury sat behind Colin, brushing her hair.

    Colin, leaning back against Mercury, reached out absentmindedly, her hand brushing against

    Mercury''s chest.

    Mercury blinked, slightly startled but didn''t say anything.

    Colin then moved her hand to Mercury''s stomach.

    "C-Colin?"

    "Are you feeling okay? After the battle?"

    Mercury was a little surprised, but quickly smiled down at her.

    "I''m fine, Colin, I''m tougher than that."

    "I hate seeing you being hurt, I don''t want others to say that you or big bro lost..."

    "Come on, I''m telling you it''s ok. It happens to lose, I''m not bothered. It''s not the first nor

    the last time."

    Colin looked up at her, eyes wide.

    "You know... I''m glad you''re here, not just for training. I like being with you too. You''re very nice... so... If you want... I guess I can share my big bro with you. Just this once."

    Mercury''s heart softened at the words, a warm feeling spreading through her. She ruffled

    Colin''s hair playfully.

    "Thanks, Colin. That means a lot."

    The two of them settled in for the night, the bond between them growing stronger with each

    little interaction.

    In the opposite room, another bonding was taking place. Eratz and Milo had settled down in

    bed but were watching the first episode of ''We go'', a little girls'' show. Eratz was completely engrossed while Milo hummed the opening music.

    The warmth of the family day left a lasting impression on Mercury. For the first time in a

    while, she felt completely at home.

    This wasn''t just a family day or a temporary escape, this felt like she was truly part of

    something special, like she''d found her place in the world.

    Meanwhile, back at the academy hotel, the atmosphere was entirely different. A group of girls

    huddled together, giggling over a picture of Eratz from his last match, his back and pecs

    exposed.

    "Wow, look at him now," one girl whispered. "He''s so hot."

    Another girl nodded eagerly.

    "Seriously! Do you think we could meet him again? I mean, we were all in the same academy,

    he might remember us."

    As they strolled through the hallway, their conversation was interrupted when they accidentally bumped into Lisa. They quickly apologized, then one of them hesitated before

    speaking up. "Hey, Lisa, weren''t you and Eratz good friends? Do you guys still keep in touch?"

    Lisa paused, her expression tightening for a moment before a strange smile crept across her

    face.

    "We were close... Very close. But... a lot of people turned their backs on him... And now that

    he''s famous..."

    The girls exchanged puzzled glances.

    "Come on, we just want to congratulate him," one of them said, brushing it off. "Why are you

    so defensive? Besides, you''ve got Kenny now, right?"

    Lisa''s smile faltered slightly, her fingers clenching the strap of her bag a little tighter.

    "... Kenny?"

    The girls seemed unfazed by the tension in her voice, ignoring of the events of the previous

    days.

    "Then what''s the problem?" another girl asked. "You should totally help us meet him again! I mean, you two were close, right?"

    Lisa looked down for a moment, her mind racing, emotions swirling between guilt and denial.

    "I don''t know if he''d want to meet me again. A lot happened."

    The girls exchanged confused looks, one of them stepping closer.

    "But if you were good friends, he''d understand. Maybe you two should get back in touch."

    Lisa''s gaze flickered as memories of her betrayal resurfaced. She forced a smile.

    "Maybe... maybe we should get back in touch," she repeated, her voice shaky. "It''s been a

    long time now."

    One of the girls beamed.

    "Exactly! No big deal. Let''s set something up."

    Lisa hesitated, her smile stiff and forced, but she nodded slowly.

    "Yeah... I''ll think about it."

    In his hotel room, Kenny sat frozen in front of the TV, his wide eyes glued to the screen as

    Eratz''s victory replayed over and over. Each shot of Eratz, each cheer of the crowd, sent a shockwave through his chest.

    "He''s not supposed to be successful..." Kenny muttered, his voice trembling with disbelief.

    "This... isn''t possible... This is unfair..." Crystal stood beside him, her gaze void.

    "Eratz was always different, It''s only natural that he''d rise again to the top. He did it at the

    academy already."

    Kenny''s fists clenched, his face twisted with frustration.

    "No, he cheated. He must''ve cheated again."

    Crystal leaned in, her voice dropping to a soft, chilling whisper.

    "Of course, he cheated. That''s why he was expelled, right? Because he was never any good...

    just a cheater." Kenny''s body stiffened, his breath catching in his throat. His eyes looked the ground. Crystal leaned even closer, her eyes staring straight at him, a few centimeters between their

    heads.

    "It''s funny, isn''t it? He falls, and suddenly you''re at the top. Everything just... worked out so perfectly."

    Kenny''s mind raced, his heart pounding in his chest.

    "Shut up..." he whispered, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

    Crystal smirked, her voice cold as ice.

    "Or maybe... maybe it wasn''t a cheat? Maybe it was set up for you? Eratz falls, and you rise.

    Convenient, don''t you think?"

    Kenny''s face hardened, his mind spinning.

    "I didn''t... I didn''t do anything wrong..."

    Crystal''s smirk grew wider, her eyes spiraling.

    "Didn''t you? You were just there, ready to take his place. But that''s not the problem... you''re

    weak, Kenny, too weak to defend yourself... think about me, think about Lisa... what happens

    if she turns back to him? He''s successful, Kenny. She doesn''t need the academy if she can go back to him. What if she clears her conscience? What if she says something?"

    Kenny''s stomach dropped, panic seizing him as the thought took root. Crystal''s voice lowered further, her lips almost brushing his ear.

    "If you don''t get stronger, Kenny, Lisa might leave you. She''ll go back to Eratz. And you?

    You''re the perfect scapegoat."

    Kenny felt like the room was closing in around him, the weight of her words suffocating. He

    couldn''t breathe.

    Crystal straightened up, her gaze cold and detached.

    "Your life depends on it."

    With those final words, she turned on her heel and left the room, leaving Kenny alone in the

    crushing silence.

 Chapter 64: Negotiations

    Chapter 64: NegotiationsThe day was bright and bustling as Eratz sat in an outdoor caf¨¦, casually glancing at his phone.

    The city moved around him, the daily life moving at it''s own rhythm.

    Soon enough, Zara came rushing into view, panting, looking as though she''d just sprinted across town. She stumbled toward Eratz, almost tripping on a chair, before finally collapsing into the seat in front of him.

    "Got your message!" she gasped, trying to catch her breath. "What is this about? What the hell is that?"

    Eratz smirked and leaned back, completely unfazed.

    "Relax, Zara, take it easy, get yourself a drink, my treat."

    Zara stared at him, exasperated.

    "Eratz, what''s this about the contract in your message! What are you doing?!"

    "Coffee, tea, maybe something cold?" Eratz asked, his tone teasing. "You''ll want to be calm for this."

    She gave him a skeptical look but signaled the waiter for the cheapest wine.

    "Fine. But seriously, what do you mean by this contract you mentioned? You better not be messing with me."

    Eratz leaned back in his chair, his relaxed demeanor completely opposite to Zara''s.

    "Follow the mood, Zara. Things are about to get interesting."

    Before Zara could argue further, there was a loud crash nearby. Both of them turned to see someone stumble into a trash bin, sending it tumbling to the ground.

    A girl untangled herself from the mess and walked over, brushing off her clothes.

    "Catarina?!" Zara exclaimed, wide-eyed.

    Catarina gave a sheepish grin, rubbing the back of her head.

    "Oops, I tripped, hehe," she chuckled, straightening her jacket with an awkward laugh.

    "You didn''t see that, right? No one saw that, right... Oh... Hello, Boss."

    "Hi." Eratz waved.

    "... Um... Oh, yeah... Nya."

    She gulped, then tilted her head.

    Zara looked between Eratz and Catarina, clearly confused.

    "Why is she here? What''s going on, Eratz?"

    Eratz sighed dramatically, giving Zara a pointed look.

    "This is why I told you to calm down first."

    He waited until Catarina was a bit more settled, then turned to Zara.

    "Alright, so here''s the thing. I want the agency to recruit Catarina."

    Zara nearly choked on her wine, but didn''t let a single bit drop.

    "What? You want to recruit both of them? Right now?! After we registered you and Mercury and all the new rookies?! We can''t totally do that right now! We''re flirting with the red line with our current roster. Ryder''s about to rank up. We can''t add more people without now skyrocketing fees! We need more time!"

    Eratz nodded, but his calm smile didn''t waver.

    "I know, but I found a workaround."

    Zara narrowed her eyes.

    "A workaround? You?!... Since when are you so invested in contracts?"

    "Since someone tried to sign me for life, you genius. There''s a way to make this work, but it involves you, and madam Victoria."

    Zara blinked, her nerves kicking in. "Me?"

    Catarina, now seated between them, fiddled with her fingers nervously.

    "Um, about that... It''s not just me, nya. There''s Kaida too."

    Zara raised an eyebrow.

    "Kaida? The fiery one from the tournament?"

    Catarina nodded, her eyes wide like a kitten in trouble.

    "Yeah, we''ve been trying to start our own agency, you know, with all the passion we have, but..."

    Her voice trailed off, and she twisted her fingers together.

    "It didn''t go as planned. We''re basically a two-person agency, nya."

    Zara looked from Catarina to Eratz.

    "You''re telling me that you want Crescent Moon to take on not one, but two more fighters, both of whom couldn''t make their own agency work?"

    Catarina pouted, her ears almost perking up defensively.

    "It''s not our fault, nya! We had a dream, okay? But... things went wrong. We put everything we had into it, and now we''re running out of time."

    Eratz leaned back, folding his arms.

    "That''s why I called you, Zara. We need them, and they need us."

    Zara''s expression softened slightly, but she still seemed conflicted.

    "But we can''t afford this right now. The fees alone..."

    Eratz cut her off, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

    "That''s where you come in, Zara. I need you to handle the numbers. We have a way to make

    this work, but it''ll take some creative thinking."

    Zara let out a long sigh, knowing Eratz was always up to something.

    "I can''t believe you''re dragging me into this, Eratz. There''s rules you know?

    "This is where madam Victoria comes into the picture."

    Catarina chimed in, her tone surprisingly upbeat despite the seriousness of the situation.

    "It''ll be fun, nya! We''re a package deal! Kaida and I work best together."

    A little later, they all gathered in Crescent Moon Headquarters. Victoria''s office was an elegant mix of minimalism and sophistication.

    Large windows covered by black curtains framed the room, flooding the space with little

    light.

    The walls were lined with subtle artwork, nothing extravagant.

    A large, polished desk stood at the center, with soft leather chairs arranged in front of it. Behind the desk, a bookshelf filled with legal texts, and business management guides. Eratz, Kaida, Catarina, and Zara entered, each with their own mood feeling the space.

    Kaida, with her arms crossed, stood firm, her eyes scanning the room with disdain, while Catarina trailed beside her, ears twitching nervously.

    Zara, holding a folder filled with documents, glanced at Eratz, who seemed as calm as ever, quietly watching everything unfold.

    Victoria sat behind her desk, her demeanor serene as always, a small smile playing on her lips

    as she welcomed them.

    "Please, have a seat," she said softly, her voice smooth and controlled.

    Kaida snorted, not budging from her spot.

    "I''ll stand, thanks," she muttered. "Not here to get comfy."

    Catarina, in contrast, flopped into one of the chairs, fidgeting nervously.

    "Kaida, nya... don''t be so uptight."

    Kaida shot her a sharp glance, her expression fiery.

    "We''re not here to play nice, Catarina."

    Victoria remained composed, her eyes glinting with understanding.

    "I see you''re quite passionate about this, Kaida. I admire your dedication to your agency."

    Kaida''s fists clenched.

    "Yeah? Well, I''m not about to let you or anyone else swallow up what we built. We''ve worked too damn hard to just roll over and sign whatever contract you wave at us."

    Eratz, who had been observing in silence, finally spoke up.

    "No one''s asking you to give up anything, Kaida. We''re here to discuss possibilities."

    Kaida shot him a glare.

    "Possibilities? Like what? Signing away everything we''ve worked for so we can be part of your

    team? No way in hell that''s happening."

    Zara, sensing the tension rising, jumped in, her tone cautious.

    "Kaida, I get where you''re coming from. But Crescent Moon isn''t trying to take over. This is

    about partnership, not takeover. We can work together."

    Kaida scoffed, leaning forward slightly, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

    "Partnership? Is that what you call it when one side holds all the power? I''m not dumb,

    alright? You want to recruit us and make us part of Crescent Moon, but in the end, we''re the

    ones losing control. Our agency will disappear."

    Victoria, unfazed, leaned forward slightly, her gaze soft but direct.

    "I understand your hesitation, Kaida. But consider this, your agency is struggling. You don''t

    have the resources to compete with larger agencies. You''re putting everything on the line, but

    without proper backing, how long can you survive?"

    Kaida''s eyes flashed with anger.

    "Survive? We''re doing just fine without your help. We might not be rolling in money, but

    we''re standing on our own two feet!"

    Catarina, trying to ease the tension, chimed in.

    "Kaida, nya... we''ve been struggling a bit. Maybe this could help. We wouldn''t be alone."

    Kaida''s voice rose, her frustration boiling over.

    "Struggling doesn''t mean giving up! We''ve fought for this, Catarina! You want to throw it all

    away?"

    Victoria remained composed, her soft smile never faltering.

    "No one''s asking you to give up. We''re offering support. A way for you to grow, to expand

    your agency''s reach." Kaida''s fists slammed onto the desk, her fiery temper finally exploding.

    "Support? You think you can just throw money at us and call it support? That''s not how we do

    things! I''m not about to be some pawn in your game!"

    The room fell silent for a moment, the tension thick in the air. Eratz glanced at Zara, who

    nervously murmured.

    "Throwing money? We''re almost drowning..."

    He then turned his attention back to Kaida.

    "Kaida, no one''s trying to buy you off. I wouldn''t have called you here if that was the case. But

    we both know you''re up against the wall. You''ve got talent, no doubt about that, but talent

    only gets you so far." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kaida''s eyes narrowed, her jaw clenched as she glared at him.

    "So, what? You''re saying we need to sell out to survive?"

    Eratz shook his head, his tone patient.

    "No. I''m saying there''s a better way. Why does it have to be one or the other? Why does

    joining Crescent Moon mean you have to give up your agency?"

    Kaida frowned, her fiery temper still smoldering.

    "Because that''s how this works, isn''t it? You recruit us, and we become part of your team. End

    of story."

    Eratz leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with quiet confidence.

    "Not necessarily. What if there was a way for you to keep your agency alive while still working

    with Crescent Moon? A partnership. We take you on loan, you stay independent, but we both

    benefit."

    Catarina''s ears perked up, her eyes wide with excitement.

    "That sounds... pretty clever! We get to keep our agency, but we also get Crescent Moon''s

    backing! Eratz, you''re so smart!"

    "Ehem..."

    "Oh, I forgot... Nya!"

    Kaida blinked, clearly caught off guard by the idea.

    "A loan? Like... we still run our agency, but we fight for Crescent Moon?"

    Eratz nodded, his smile widening. "Exactly. You stay independent, but with the support and resources of Crescent Moon. You

    fight for us, on our agency''s name, but you get the backing you need to keep your agency

    existing."

    Zara, finally relaxing, added,

    "It''s a win-win. You wouldn''t be giving up anything. You''d be working with us, not for us."

    Kaida leaned back, her arms still crossed but her expression less aggressive. She was clearly thinking it over, weighing her options.

    "I''ll admit... that''s a clever idea. But what''s the catch?"

    Victoria''s calm voice cut in, her eyes soft but direct. "There''s no catch. I have a project in mind, but for now I prefer focus on our current situation.

    We''ll sign a partnership with your agency. You remain in control until you decide otherwise."

    Kaida took a deep breath, the fire in her eyes dimming slightly as she looked over at Catarina, who nodded enthusiastically.

    "I guess... it could work."

    Eratz gave her a reassuring smile.

    "It will work. Trust us."

    It seemed like the decision had been made. Kaida was ready to give in, Catarina was

    practically glowing with excitement, and Zara had finally relaxed. But just as Kaida was about to agree, a pang of hesitation crossed her face.

    Victoria, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke, her voice steady and reassuring.

    "Kaida, you''re not giving up. You''re making the smart choice. But I''ll offer you one final thing, when Crescent Moon has the resources, when the time is right, I propose we merge our agencies. You won''t just be working for Crescent Moon, you''ll be an associate. And your agency will live on, stronger than ever."

    Kaida''s eyes widened, the weight of Victoria''s words sinking in.

    "A merger?"

    Victoria nodded, a small smile playing on her lips.

    "Yes. But only when it makes sense for both of us. Until then, you stay independent, with

    Crescent Moon''s full support. Live your experience with us, and one day I''ll ask you the same question, and if you accept, we''ll combine our agencies into a big one."

    Catarina''s face lit up like a child''s at a carnival. "That''s perfect, nya! We get to stay us, but we also get stronger!" Kaida, for the first time since entering the office, smiled. It wasn''t the fiery grin of a fighter,

    but something softer, more hopeful.

    "I''ll admit... that''s more than I expected. You''ve got a deal."

    Victoria''s smile widened, a quiet triumph.

    "I''m glad to hear that. Welcome to the future of Crescent Moon."

    Kaida, Catarina, and Zara exchanged glances, the battle of wills had ended in victory for both

    sides.

    As they signed the paperwork, Eratz couldn''t help but smile to himself. Everything had played out exactly as he''d planned, and he knew that with Kaida and Catarina on board, Crescent Moon was about to enters a new world.

 Chapter 65: Alliance of Power

    Chapter 65: Alliance of PowerThe evening sun was starting to set, casting long shadows across Victoria''s office.

    The bright room now felt quiet, with the last rays of sunlight under the curtain creating a soft glow on the polished wood desk.

    Zara leaned back in her chair, letting out a deep breath. She was relieved. After the tough negotiations with Kaida and Catarina, things had finally settled down.

    "Well, I''m just glad we got through that without too much trouble," Zara said, glancing over at Eratz and Victoria.

    Victoria sat behind her desk, her fingers lightly tapping the surface. Eratz was across from her, arms crossed, looking as calm as ever.

    Neither of them had spoken much since the negotiations ended, and the silence was starting to make Zara feel uneasy.

    She shifted in her chair, unsure why the room felt so tense.

    "But we still have to figure out how we''re going to deal with the salary cap. Adding two regional fighters on top of our roster is going to stretch us thin. Even with the league fees handled, we''ve still got the salary cap to deal with, and..."

    Victoria interrupted her smoothly.

    "That''s already been taken care of."

    Zara blinked, clearly confused.

    "What do you mean? We only ensured that the agency wouldn''t have problems with enrolling the fees for their league matches, but the salary cap issue still exists. We can''t just pretend it''s not there. We''re overextending..."

    Eratz cut in.

    "It''s only a problem if their salary is regular."

    Zara frowned, not following.

    "Wait, what? What do you mean ''regular''?"

    Eratz smiled faintly, gesturing toward the contracts lying on the desk. Zara grabbed them, her face falling as she read through them more carefully.

    Catarina''s contract had no salary listed. Instead, she was only entitled to 100% of the revenue she brought in personally and the agency would pay the 5% fee for the league. As for Kaida, her contract listed her as an associate first, with no formal salary at all. In fact, she was technically indebted to the agency for any support they provided her during matches.

    Zara''s eyes widened, and she jumped to her feet, her voice rising in shock.

    "This is insane! This... this can''t be legal! This is robbing! You can''t just rob them like this, they could sue us!"

    Eratz held up a hand, signaling her to sit back down.

    "Relax, Zara. It''s not as bad as you think."

    "Not as bad?! They''re basically working for free! This is a trap, Eratz! How could you even..."

    Victoria spoke softly, her tone soothing yet firm.

    "Calm yourself, Zara. It''s not what it seems. There''s a plan here."

    Zara turned to her, still flustered.

    "How can you be okay with this? You''re the head of this agency, Victoria! How could you let them sign contracts like this?! It''s a disaster if it''s known!"

    Eratz sighed, leaning back in his chair.

    "This is exactly why I wanted to keep the audience minimal. There''s more to this than just the numbers, Zara. Let me explain."

    Zara stared at him, her heart still racing from the realization of what the contracts entailed.

    "We couldn''t pass the salary cap with both of them on board, even with a loan. Their contracts needed to be structured differently. But that doesn''t mean they''re being robbed. It''s only... temporary."

    Zara was still reeling, her mind trying to catch up.

    "Temporary? How? This is a huge situation!"

    Eratz gestured to the contracts again.

    "Look, at our current level, the reward for one match win is 100 Dyns. The agency gets 5%, and the league takes another 5%, leaving 90 Dyns for the fighters. Normally, we''d pay them monthly based on their match earnings. But now, with the structure we''ve set up, Kaida and Catarina will only receive the 95 Dyns per match win, nothing more."

    Zara stared at him, still not getting it.

    "And that helps us how?"

    Eratz smiled slightly.

    "With me, Mercury, Ryder, and now Kaida and Catarina, we have enough to bring in about 25 Dyns per match. To keep the agency running smoothly, we need to make about 125 Dyns per week. That means we need at least five wins per week. By the way, it''s the minimum, we''re going to do more than that."

    Zara''s eyes widened in realization as Eratz continued.

    "With additional income from advertisements and future competitions, we''ll solve our financial issues. Kaida and Catarina''s situation will only be temporary. By the end of the month, we''ll renegotiate their contracts. Until then, they get by with the bare minimum while we build up the agency''s funds."

    Zara sank back into her chair, stunned.

    "So you''re saying... you basically tricked them into signing contracts that pay them almost nothing?"

    Eratz nodded, his expression unapologetic.

    "Yes. But it''s not about tricking them, Zara. It''s about survival. They wanted to survive, and we needed to make sure we didn''t drown in expenses. Once the salary cap issue is solved, they''ll get proper contracts. Win-win."

    Zara rubbed her forehead, still trying to process everything. Victoria spoke again, her voice calm and soothing.

    "This was a necessary sacrifice, Zara. They need an agency to explore the full extent of the league, and we''re giving them the chance to make that happen. This will also allow all of us to participate in team tournaments, so even better benefits for them. Their situation will be fixed soon, and by the end of the month, we''ll make sure they''re on proper contracts. In the meantime, this is how we keep the agency stable."

    Eratz leaned forward, his voice soft but serious.

    "It''s a short-term sacrifice for long-term gain. We had to play the long game. Madam Victoria played her part perfectly, implying that we''d swallow Kaida''s agency so that they''d focus on that instead of reading their contract. We''ll just keep them busy so they don''t think about it too much, and if they did, they''d be so happy with us that they wouldn''t mind."

    Zara''s jaw dropped.

    "You manipulated them... You, who refused to sign my lifelong contract, you tricked innocent

    girls, how''s that different?!"

    Eratz shrugged lightly.

    "It''s only different because I noticed what you were doing, they didn''t. It''s okay, only for a month, madam Victoria know someone working for the league so we''ll pass by him to make their contracts pass the controls and I''ll personally pay for their needs if they need more

    money."

    Victoria''s smile grew slightly, her eyes glinting with amusement.

    "It''s been a while since I''ve felt this excited, it''s like a movie. I''m really good with mind games, and Kaida and Catarina will be fine, Zara. They''re strong, and soon, they''ll be part of

    something even bigger."

    Zara slumped back in her chair, shaking her head.

    "You''re both insane."

    Eratz and Victoria shared an amused glance, both of them satisfied with how everything had

    played out.

    The next morning, the Crescent Moon agency felt alive with energy. The gym was buzzing

    with activity as the beast masters prepared for their day.

    Some were stretching, talking strategy, and getting ready for the matches ahead.

    Mercury was off to the side, stretching her arms and legs, focused on her routine. She felt

    clear-headed.

    Eratz, walked up to her.

    "You''re ready? This time the loser pay for dinner."

    Mercury rolled her eyes but smiled back.

    "This time, I''m warning you, not before midnight."

    Before Eratz could answer, the door to the gym swung open, and the whole room went silent.

    All eyes turned toward the entrance.

    Standing there were Zara, Kaida, and Catarina. Ryder''s jaw dropped as he saw them.

    "What the... what are they doing here? With Zara... No way... they..." Ryder mumbled, unable

    to hide his shock.

    Eratz, playing it cool, just shrugged and smiled.

    "What is this abnormality?"

    Zara stepped forward and cleared her throat, her voice loud enough to grab everyone''s

    attention.

    "Listen up! There''s been a change to the agency, and it''ll be announced officially later today by the director. I''d like to introduce our two new members. Please give them a warm welcome, Kaida and Catarina."

    The room erupted into excited murmurs and whispers. No one believe it. Kaida and Catarina

    were well-known since the first fixture of the regional league, and now they were part of

    Crescent Moon.

    One of the trainee near Ryder couldn''t contain his excitement.

    "Kaida! I saw you fight in the tournament! You were incredible! I can''t believe you''re here!"

    Another gushed over Catarina.

    "Your cat spell was legendary! I can''t believe we get to work with someone like you!"

    Kaida crossed her arms with a grin.

    "Thanks, but don''t expect me to go easy on any of you. I''m here to fight just as hard as the rest

    of you."

    Catarina, her playful cat-like demeanor on full display, smiled and waved at everyone. "Nya~! We''re excited to be here! Let''s all work hard together, nya!"

    As the room buzzed with excitement, the crowd around Kaida and Catarina grew larger.

    Questions were thrown at them from every direction.

    "What was it like at your old agency?"

    "Do you eat only salmon? Can you talk with cats?"

    "How old are..."

    Then, the room suddenly quieted down when Mercury stepped forward, her gaze locked on

    Kaida.

    The memory of their fierce battle in the tournament was still fresh in everyone''s minds.

    It was as if the air itself had grown heavier, and the fighters who had been buzzing with

    excitement moments ago now watched with bated breath, unsure of what was about to

    unfold.

    Whispers spread through the room like wildfire, the trainees exchanging nervous glances. "Are they going to fight here?" one voice muttered.

    "I don''t know... it''s only been a few days," another murmured. "You don''t think they''ll go at sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    it again, do you?"

    Ryder, standing nearby, shifted

    nervously, his wide eyes flicking between Mercury and Kaida.

    "No way... This can''t be happening, right?"

    Catarina, sensing the tension too, fidgeted nervously with her jacket, her ears twitching as she

    shot Kaida a concerned glance.

    "Uh... Kaida, maybe tone it down... Uh! nya?" she whispered.

    Kaida, for her part, stood her ground, arms crossed and eyes sharp. Her usual fiery demeanor

    was on full display, but there was something different about her now.

    She wasn''t sure what Mercury was about to do, but she wasn''t backing down.

    The gym''s energy shifted, the tension thickening, the crowd held their breath, some

    expecting an all-out confrontation, others hoping things wouldn''t escalate. Eratz stood off to the side, watching.

    Finally, Mercury stopped in front of Kaida, her expression unreadable. The room was deathly

    silent, the air thick with anticipation.

    For a long moment, the two women just stared at each other. Kaida''s eyes narrowed slightly,

    the fire in her gaze flaring.

    Mercury''s voice broke the silence.

    "You put up a hell of a fight last time, Kaida."

    Kaida''s eyes flickered, her arms still crossed tightly over her chest.

    "Yeah? That''s the arena for you, not a playground, you didn''t make it easy on me either."

    There was a brief pause, and the fighters around them held their breath, unsure of where this

    was going.

    Mercury tilted her head slightly.

    "I don''t plan on going easy on you just because we''re on the same team now. Now I have you available to correct what happened there."

    A few trainees in the crowd exchanged nervous glances.

    "Oh man, it''s happening..." someone whispered under their breath.

    Kaida, not one to back down, gave a small, defiant smirk.

    "Anytime girl, I''m always ready."

    For a split second, it seemed like the tension might explode, the atmosphere charged with

    electricity. But then, Mercury''s expression softened just slightly, and she extended her hand. "That being said... I''m glad we''re on the same side now. Let''s work hard for the agency."

    The fighters watching blinked in surprise, the sudden shift in mood catching them off guard.

    Kaida looked at Mercury''s outstretched hand for a moment, clearly caught off guard by the gesture.

    The fire in her eyes dimmed slightly, and for the first time since the confrontation began, her tough exterior cracked.

    "... Oh...ehr... Hm! Well, that''s nice..." Kaida muttered, glancing at Mercury''s hand. She

    seemed to hesitate for a second before her own expression softened.

    "About the fight, I get pretty salty when my blood boils. Sorry if I said some things I shouldn''t

    have."

    Mercury gave her a small nod, her hand still extended.

    "Whatever happens in the arena, stays in the arena. Let''s make this a good partnership."

    Kaida''s smirk returned, she finally reached out and took Mercury''s hand, shaking it firmly.

    "Yeah, let''s work hard together."

    The tension in the room melted away, and the fighters who had been on edge let out a

    collective sigh of relief. Some of them even chuckled at how intense the moment had been. "Phew, I really thought they were going to throw down again," one trainee said muttered with a grin.

    "Man, they''re both badass, the agency will be so great!" another said, admiration clear in

    their voice.

    Eratz, watching from the sidelines, crossed his arms and gave a small, satisfied nod. Everything had gone exactly as he had hoped.

    As the two women shook hands, the atmosphere in the gym shifted from tense to hopeful.

    Everyone could feel it, Crescent Moon was stronger now. With Kaida and Catarina on board, their future was looking bright.

    Mercury smiled, her eyes gleaming with determination.

    "We''ll show everyone what Crescent Moon is capable of."

    Kaida grinned, her fiery spirit reignited. "You better believe it. We''ll shake the world."

    With the tension finally broken, the fighters around them relaxed, the gym returning to its

    usual lively energy. But now, there was a new sense of excitement in the air. With the addition

    of monsters like Kaida, and Catarina, Crescent Moon had taken a huge step forward.

 Chapter 66: Edge of Evolution

    Chapter 66: Edge of EvolutionThe air in the director''s hotel room was thick. Eliza and Melcin stood before the director.

    The director, seated in a leather chair by the window, stared at them, her face unreadable but her eyes cold.

    "I hope you both understand, the full extent of what you''ve done to this academy."

    Eliza''s heart raced, but she held her ground, though the desperation flickered in her eyes.

    "You led the charge in Eratz''s expulsion," the director continued, her gaze settling on Eliza. "And look where that''s gotten us. Genova is losing its prestige with the student you pointed as our ace, while the boy you threw out is rising to prominence."

    Eliza swallowed hard. Her voice came out steadier than she felt.

    "We... we did what we believed was right at the time. Eratz was a..."

    "A cheater?" the director cut her off, her tone like ice. "You keep saying that. But are we sure it''s the whole story? How come he was just a cheater but as soon as he''s outside he shines again?"

    Melcin, pale and visibly sweating, stammered.

    "Director, I-I was only trying to protect the academy''s reputation."

    The director''s glare sharpened.

    "You were protecting your own prejudices, Melcin. You acted out of bias, and now we''re paying the price." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Melcin''s breath caught, but he had no defense left.

    The director''s voice grew even colder.

    "You are suspended, effective immediately. The board will review your role here. Consider your career hanging by a thread."

    Melcin''s mouth opened in shock, but no words came.

    Eliza, standing beside him, felt the pressure mounting. She couldn''t let it end like this, not for her.

    "I-I know things look bad," Eliza said, her voice trembling slightly, "but I can fix this."

    The director''s gaze turned back to her, unimpressed.

    "And how exactly do you plan to fix this?"

    Eliza took a breath, her mind racing. She knew this was her last chance.

    "We... we need someone strong to restore Genova''s reputation," she said, her voice picking up speed. "If we can''t bring Eratz back, then we should focus on Mercury. She''s rising fast in the pro ranks."

    The director raised an eyebrow.

    "Mercury? The girl you mentioned a few days ago? She wasn''t even a student here. What makes you think she''d join us?"

    Eliza''s desperation seeped through her words now, her voice pleading but determined.

    "She''s young, ambitious. If we offer her the right opportunities, something she can''t get elsewhere, she''ll consider it. We just need to be smart. If we get Mercury, we can show the world that Genova still produces the best talent."

    "And you think this will be enough to save the academy?" the director asked.

    Eliza''s pulse quickened. She could feel the director''s judgment bearing down on her, but she couldn''t stop now.

    "Yes. And... and if we get Mercury, it might even open the door to Eratz. I saw something... and I think there''s a connection between them. If we can bring her in, maybe he''ll follow."

    The director leaned back, considering her words, her fingers tapping lightly on the armrest. "You believe bringing in Mercury will lead to Eratz?"

    Eliza nodded, though her throat felt dry.

    "I do. This is our best chance."

    The room fell into a heavy silence as the director mulled over Eliza''s desperate plea. After a long moment, she finally spoke.

    "You have one chance, Eliza. Convince Mercury to join us, or find another way to fix this mess. But if you fail..."

    "I won''t fail," Eliza said, her voice firmer now, though inside she felt like she was standing on the edge of a cliff.

    In the Crescent Moon Agency gym, the atmosphere was electric. The room was filled with the sounds of heavy breathing and the crackle of energy as Eratz, Mercury, Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina pushed their limits in their advanced beastification training.

    Kaida stood at the center of the room, her eyes scanning the group as they prepared for the next step. As the most experienced in this field, she played the role of the teacher.

    "This isn''t like basic beastification," she said. "You''re not just borrowing power. Advanced beastification is about merging with your beast, its mind, its instincts. You become one with

    it."

    She stepped forward, summoning her beast, her form shifting as her body became infused with primal energy. Her body covered with glowing red marks, her muscles rippled, her eyes glowing with a fierce intensity, and her entire being seemed to pulse with power.

    "This is advanced beastification," she continued. "This is like a fusion of body and mind. Become your beast."

    Ryder, eager to improve, summoned his lightning bird. He felt the familiar surge of power course through him as he entered a basic beastification. His body crackled with electricity, his

    movements faster, sharper.

    But it wasn''t enough.

    Kaida frowned, watching him closely.

    "You''re lacking bro," she said bluntly. "You''re treating your body like a vessel for your besst.

    You need to let it become part of you, to fuse with you."

    Ryder gritted his teeth, trying to push deeper, but the barrier remained.

    Catarina, her cat-like ears twitching playfully, grinned from the side.

    "Nya, you''ve got to live with the beastification," she teased, flicking her tail. "I don''t turn mine off, even when I''m not fighting. That''s how you keep the connection strong." Mercury stepped forward next, summoning her Seraph. She felt the power flow through her as she entered a soft beastification, her movements becoming more fluid and feline.

    But as she tried to deepen the connection, flashes of her defeat in the tournament crept into her mind, causing her to falter.

    "This isn''t enough... Not with this level," she muttered, frustration boiling in her voice. "We need stronger monsters if we want to really evolve."

    Ryder nodded in agreement.

    "We need to push faster, the regional league is really something. It feels like we''re on the edge of something, but we''re not breaking through."

    Eratz stepped forward.

    "Victoria mentioned we''ll be leaving the city soon. We''ll be exploring on our own other regions for our battles. This will be the opportunity to hunt stronger monsters, so let''s focus

    on this beastification with our current beasts."

    Mercury frowned.

    "Wait... But that means we''ll split up, right? We''ve only just started training together."

    "It''s temporary," Eratz assured her. "We''ll meet back at the agency every two weeks. It will

    be fun seeing how far we''ve come. But for now, we need to focus on mastering this technique.

    It''s the only way we''ll be ready."

    Kaida, her fiery temper softened, gave a nod of approval.

    "You''ve got the right idea, mate. Let''s make these next days count."

    The next few hours were grueling. The team pushed themselves harder than they ever had

    before, trying to hold their beastified forms for longer periods.

    The energy surged through them, wild and uncontrolled, making it difficult to maintain the transformation.

    "You''re leaking too much energy," Kaida observed, watching Eratz as he struggled to maintain his form. "You need to focus on the weakest form possible in your transformed

    state. Pull it back."

    Eratz, his brow furrowed, and suddenly had an idea. He resumed his beastification as usual but this time, he with the aetheri.

    As he connected with the aetheri, his aura flared brightly, but he began to slowly pull it back, focusing on containing the energy.

    It was like trying to hold a specific amount of water in his hands, but with each breath, he gained more control. The light dimmed, the energy becoming more focused, more precise. The room went silent as they watched him. Kaida''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    "The... Fuck... how did you do that so quickly?"

    Eratz, panting slightly, smiled.

    "Is that it?"

    Kaida shook her head in shock.

    "Is that it? ... in a single day? That''s not supposed to be easy so quickly, what the hell? How

    did you manage that so quickly?"

    "... Nothing much, I''m built different?"

    She fired off a barrage of questions, her voice a mixture of awe and curiosity.

    "Stop being a clown, seriously, what are you? How did you know when to stop? Did you do

    that before? What''s your training regimen?"

    Eratz chuckled.

    The others watched, amazed. Mercury felt a slow burst of adrenaline watching him and felt

    her determination ignite.

    "If he can do it on the first day..., then I''ll be the first one with the field spell," she smiled.

    For the rest of the day, the team pushed themselves relentlessly, each trying to maintain their beastified forms while keeping their energy in check.

    It was exhausting, but by the end of the session, they had all managed to hold their forms for

    longer than before.

    Though their control wasn''t perfect yet, they were making progress. And with each step forward, they were one step closer to mastering the advanced techniques they needed to exist

    in the new division.

    As they sat together, their bodies tired but their spirits high, Mercury looked around at her teammates, a fire burning in her eyes.

    "We''re going to show everyone what Crescent Moon is capable of."

    Kaida grinned.

    "That''s the spirit."

 Chapter 67: The Core of Power

    Chapter 67: The Core of PowerThe sun had just begun to rise, casting a soft, golden light over the dense forest. Eratz stood at the edge of a towering cliff, his white coat fluttering in the early breeze.

    His hair, glowing faintly white, shimmered under the first rays of daylight, and his blue eyes, an effect of his beastification with the aetheri, looked calm but focused.

    Taking a deep breath, he stepped off the edge and dove into the air below.

    The wind rushed past him, pulling at his clothes, but his eyes stayed closed. He let go of control, trusting his instincts, feeling the air currents and the cliff walls. Everything around him seemed sharper, more vivid.

    He allowed himself to fall, calm and relaxed.

    Then, suddenly, a twinge of danger flickered in his senses.

    His eyes snapped open.

    With a swift movement, he conjured a glowing platform beneath his feet, slowing his descent just in time to avoid slamming into the rocks below. He pivoted on the platform, leaping off it and using the momentum to glide toward the forest.

    His body twisted through the air, narrowly dodging branches and trees.

    But then, he miscalculated.

    As he swerved to the right, a tree loomed in front of him too quickly, and he couldn''t avoid it in time.

    He crashed into the trunk with a loud thud, tumbling to the ground.

    "Damn it..." Eratz groaned, pulling himself up and brushing off the dirt.

    He wasn''t hurt, just irritated.

    "I''m still not anywhere close to Catarina''s level."

    He thought back to how effortlessly Catarina had dodged his attacks during their fight.

    He realized that his power meant nothing if his opponent could just dodge everything and now he was really interested in this power.

    "This form is interesting, but I need more control... Hm? Maybe... Maybe it''s the beast?"

    He paused, thinking.

    "Catarina uses felines... they''re naturally agile. Maybe that''s why she''s so good at dodging. But then... if it''s different for each beast... what if..."

    A new idea sparked in his mind.

    "What if I use stronger monsters? What if I use more monsters at once?"

    His eyes brightened with excitement.

    He remembered the chaotic power he had tapped into when he combined three beastifications at once.

    "I need to try again... With this form!"

    He stood up and took a deep breath.

    Farther into the forest, the ground began to tremble.

    Animals scattered in every direction, fleeing from what felt like an earthquake. Trees shook violently, their branches snapping, and the earth cracked beneath the force of the energy erupting from the center.

    At the heart of the chaos stood Eratz, breathing heavily. His clothes were torn, and his body was tense.

    He had been trying to control the power of multiple beasts in one form again, but the result had been more destructive than he anticipated.

    He looked around at the wreckage, the trees uprooted, and the cracked earth.

    Sitting down in the middle of the destruction, Eratz sighed, wiping the sweat from his forehead.

    "Hard to keep a permanent form with this."

    But then, a small smile crept onto his face. He froze like a statue, his mind racing.

    "It''s strong... But not a mistake. This form is definitely a beastification. I need to do it with this form!"

    The rest of the day was spent training, taking the control of the beastification with his aces and reducing the power until he could maintain it permanently.

    But Eratz''s mind kept birthing new ideas and he always found a way to improve his training. He summoned his three ace monsters, Thunder Lycaon, Aetheri, and Terrakrus, and stood before them.

    "We''re doing this together," he said quietly."

    The beasts stood before him, their eyes gleaming with curiosity and hesitation.

    "We''re going to do this together, We are one entity, I share your power and I am your core, so you should also be able to use my power with it''s exact attribute. I''ll give you my power, and we''ll hold this form as long as possible."

    The beasts exchanged glances. Eratz focused, reaching deep within himself to draw out his

    energy.

    A surge of power flowed through him, and he extended it to his monsters, creating a strong bond of shared aura.

    Their forms shimmered as the formidable energy courses through their veins.

    Hours passed as they fought to maintain the state, their bodies growing weaker with each

    attempt.

    Eratz could feel his energy draining faster than expected, and his beasts were showing signs

    of fatigue.

    But then, his eyes flashed with excitement, a wild grin spreading across his face.

    "I understand it now!" he shouted to no one in particular. "The link between us, the way to deepen it, it''s through this! By sharing our power together like this!"

    He spread his arms wide, summoning his entire army of beasts in one go. His shadow stretched out, and every monster under his command appeared before him.

    "This day is going to be long."

    Meanwhile, deep beneath the still waters of a lake, Mercury stood at the bottom, arms crossed. Her body was glowing faintly with the power of beastification, her aura blending seamlessly with the water around her.

    She could feel every living creature within the lake, the movement of fish, the currents of the

    water, the subtle shifts of the underwater plants.

    Several aquatic monsters swam above her, circling like predators.

    But Mercury remained calm, completely in control.

    With a slight movement of her head, the monsters disintegrated, their bodies breaking apart

    as they were absorbed into her aura.

    Her power surged, filling the water with her presence.

    Slowly, she lifted her head, her glowing blue eyes piercing through the darkness.

    At the gym, Ryder was in the middle of a brutal workout, pushing his limits. His beastification form made him look like a human-tiger hybrid, his muscles bulging with raw power. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he lifted massive weights, his body straining with the effort. The gym-goers who stood at a distance exchanged worried glances.

    But Ryder didn''t notice. He was focused entirely on his training, determined to master his

    new form.

    The next day at Crescent Moon Agency, the atmosphere was electric.

    The second round of the regional league was happening that night, and everyone could feel

    the pressure building.

    But instead of intense training, the day was more relaxed. The aces were saving their energy

    for the battles ahead.

    Adrian, leaning against a wall, was surrounded by a few girls, boasting as usual.

    "You either have it, or you don''t," he said with a cocky grin.

    The girls giggled, pretending to be impressed.

    But their attention quickly shifted as the door opened.

    Mercury stepped into the room, and everything went silent.

    She was taller now, much taller. Her body had become more imposing, her muscles more defined, and there was a raw power about her that hadn''t been there before.

    But what really caught everyone''s attention was her chest, which had noticeably grown. The

    boys in the room, though they tried to be respectful, couldn''t help but stare, their jaws

    dropping in shock.

    "Is that... Mercury?" one boy whispered. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Did she... work out all night?" another stammered.

    "... What with all these... Weapons?"

    Mercury sighed.

    "I knew this was going to happen," she muttered, crossing her arms, an action that only made

    the staring worse.

    Behind her, Ryder entered, his beastification form bulkier than ever. His muscles bulged, and

    his size was even more intimidating than before.

    The room stayed silent as everyone took in their transformations.

    Ryder, trying to close the door, accidentally gripped the handle too hard and snapped it off.

    "Damn, again," he muttered, holding up the broken piece.

    Mercury rolled her eyes.

    "Careful, I broke my locker too this morning, we can''t make the agency pay for everything."

    "Yeah," Ryder sighed. "I also have to buy new earphones."

    As they walked further into the gym, the crowd couldn''t stop staring. Adrian, who had been boasting moments before, stood frozen, his confidence crushed. There was a crack in the

    ranks of the agency and it was now unmistakable.

    They entered the training room where Eratz, Kaida, and Catarina were waiting.

    Catarina, a mischievous grin on her face, was the first to speak.

    "Nya! Look at you two! You''ve definitely been playing all wrong with beastification, huh?"

    Eratz, stunned, glanced at them.

    "When I thought about changing the agency I wasn''t thinking about a circus but..."

    "Oh don''t start." Mercury groaned.

    Kaida crossed her arms.

    "You''re not in perfect phase with your beasts... And Mercury, what did you absorb to make

    that happen?" she asked, nodding toward her chest.

    Mercury groaned.

    "It wasn''t intentional. And it wasn''t a problem until I got back to town."

    Kaida raised an eyebrow.

    "What kind of natural selection is that?!"

    Eratz, watching with amusement, shook his head.

    "It''ll take time for you to adapt. It''s all about the bottom and the feeling, like feeling happy

    and returning your heart over your skin to be a ''happy body''."

    Mercury shot him a puzzled look.

    "What the.... And what''s about you? You don''t look different. Don''t tell me you''re not

    training."

    Eratz smiled.

    "I am."

    Kaida rolled her eyes.

    "Let it go. He''s an anomaly. I''ve stopped questioning myself about this guy."

    They shared a laugh, though that Mercury and Ryder were still adjusting. They talked about

    their progress, sharing tips and techniques.

    Eratz clenched his fists.

    "Tonight, we''re going to show everyone what Crescent Moon is made of."

    That night, the atmosphere at Lugina Garden was electric.

    The stands were filled with excited fans, buzzing with anticipation for the battles ahead.

    Victoria and Zara sat in the stands, their eyes focused on the arena below, while Cassie, Roger,

    Colin, and Milo sat nearby, cheering for Crescent Moon.

    The night had arrived.

    The battles were about to begin.

 Chapter 68: Crescent Moons Captains

    Chapter 68: Crescent Moon''s CaptainsThe battles at Lugina Garden were in full swing, and the atmosphere was electric. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager to see what the next fighters would bring.

    Mercury stepped into the battlefield, her imposing figure immediately drawing the attention of the spectators. As she walked to her position, whispers spread through the audience.

    "Whoa, look at her! She''s... huge," one boy muttered, his eyes locked on her.

    "Is that Mercury? She looks... Oh my God..." another voice added.

    More whistles came from the stands, as boys couldn''t help but ogle her enhanced physique.

    Mercury clenched her jaw.

    "Ignore it... Just ignore it."

    She didn''t care about the attention her body was getting. This was a battle, and she was going to prove why Crescent Moon was a rising force.

    Her opponent, a young boy with fierce determination in his eyes, was already preparing his field spell. With a deep breath, he summoned a thick green mist, and tall grass began to grow across the battlefield.

    Mercury narrowed her eyes, her muscles tensing as she summoned her own field spell. Water began to swirl around her feet, and with a simple motion, it spread rapidly across the grass. The two field spells clashed, grass against water.

    Zara, sitting in the stands, leaned forward in disbelief.

    "Wait, water is supposed to be weaker than grass. How is Mercury''s field spell overpowering his?" she muttered to herself.

    The boy''s face twisted in frustration.

    He focused harder, pouring all his energy into strengthening his field spell.

    He couldn''t afford to lose control of the battlefield.

    "Come on, come on!" he growled, his hands shaking with the effort.

    But his focus made him vulnerable, and Mercury was already on the move.

    She leapt into the air, her powerful legs propelling her forward. Before the boy could react, she was on him, slamming him into the ground head first with incredible force.

    The crowd gasped as the boy groaned, trying to stand but finding himself unable to focus. Mercury''s water was now spreading faster, overtaking the battlefield completely. The ground beneath him shimmered, and a massive geyser of water shot up from below.

    "Argh!" the boy shouted, barely dodging the blast.

    He was desperate now, summoning his strongest monster, an enormous grass ape. The creature roared and charged at Mercury, its massive fist raised to crush her.

    Mercury smirked, her eyes glowing blue. As the ape''s fist came down, a geyser erupted from the ground, severing its arm in one clean strike.

    The ape stumbled back, and before it could recover, another jet of water blasted through its head, sending the massive creature back In it''s master''s shadow.

    The boy''s eyes went wide with fear.

    "I-I can''t win this..." he whispered, panic creeping into his voice.

    In a last-ditch effort, he summoned a group of smaller monsters to shield himself. But Mercury wasn''t concerned.

    Her eyes flashed as she gathered more water into her field spell, creating a massive wave.

    With a single movement, she sent the wave crashing down on him and his monsters, completely overwhelming them.

    The force of the water obliterated everything in its path, leaving the boy and his creatures defeated.

    "Winner, Mercury!"

    The arena erupted into cheers as the crowd roared, thrilled by her display of power. Mercury stood tall, her chest rising and falling with each breath, her body glowing from the adrenaline of victory.

    Zara exhaled, finally relaxing.

    "She did it. She really won," Zara said, shaking her head in awe.

    Victoria nodded, her eyes gleaming.

    "Why are you surprised? It''s only natural, she''s a force to be reckoned with."

    In the stands, Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo jumped, celebrating Mercury''s win.

    Mercury looked around the arena, hearing the cheers, feeling the energy from the crowd. She raised her fist in triumph, letting a small smile cross her face.

    "I won," she whispered, allowing herself a moment of satisfaction.

    In the corridor after the match, Mercury leaned against the wall, breathing heavily.

    She had returned to her normal form, her body exhausted from the use of spell. Maintaining the beastification state took a toll on her after the fight, no matter how well-prepared she thought she was.

    Just then, her team appeared. Catarina was the first to rush over.

    "Nya~! Mercury, you were amazing! That kid didn''t stand a chance!" Catarina purred, nudging her head playfully against Mercury''s arm.

    Kaida approached with her arms crossed, a small smirk on her face.

    "Your field spell was definitely better this time. You''ve improved."

    Ryder was right behind her, grinning from ear to ear.

    "That was sick! I''m so fired up right now, I can''t wait to get out there!" he said, slapping Mercury on the back.

    Mercury chuckled, still catching her breath. She glanced at Eratz, their eyes met for a brief moment, and she gave him a knowing look.

    He didn''t say anything, just gave her a slight nod in response, the kind of subtle exchange

    only they understood.

    With a grin, Mercury fist-bumped him.

    "We''re leaving with a blast."

    Eratz smirked.

    "Pick a place for the after party."

    She looked at the others, her eyes sparkling.

    "Let''s show them what Crescent Moon is made of."

    Catarina''s turn was next, and her opponent wasted no time, summoning multiple monsters to surround her. The battlefield filled with creatures, closing in on Catarina from every direction. But Catarina wasn''t one to be overwhelmed. She darted between the monsters with cat-like

    grace, dodging their attacks effortlessly.

    "Nya~! You''re too slow!" she teased, jumping out of the way of another strike.

    However, the sheer number of monsters was starting to become overwhelming. Catarina

    knew she needed to change tactics.

    "Alright, time to get serious," she purred, activating her field spell.

    The battlefield warped as her mystic field spell took effect. Glowing cat heads and eerie dolls appeared everywhere, transforming the arena into a bizarre feline playground.

    Her opponent''s monsters hesitated, confused by the sudden change in the environment.

    In this space, Catarina had the upper hand. Shadowy cat paws emerged from the ground, attacking her opponent''s monsters from a distance. She moved swiftly, attacking them from

    distance one by one.

    The boy''s panic was increasing.

    "Where are these attacks coming from?!" he shouted, spinning in place as he tried to defend

    against the relentless onslaught.

    Catarina smiled, leaping gracefully through the battlefield.

    "Nya~! Finally I can show off!"

    With a final burst of energy, she appeared behind her opponent, claws extended. He barely

    had time to react before she struck, ending the match in a swift, decisive blow.

    "Winner, Catarina!"

    The crowd cheered as Catarina gave them a playful wave, her tail swishing behind her.

    Ryder''s battle came next. He faced off against a girl with cute, spirit-like monsters floating around her. She smiled sweetly as she activated her field spell, transforming the battlefield into a sparkling, mist field.

    With a flick of her hand, she sent a wave of energy crashing toward Ryder. The crowd watched

    in suspense, waiting to see how he''d respond.

    But when the attack hit, Ryder didn''t even flinch. He stood still, completely unfazed by the

    impact.

    "Huh... that didn''t hurt at all," he muttered, scratching his head in confusion.

    The girl''s eyes widened in shock.

    "What? How did you...?" Panicked, she launched another wave of attacks, but it was no use. Ryder stood strong,

    completely unaffected.

    "I don''t feel anything..." he murmured, genuinely puzzled. Frustrated, the girl tried again, but Ryder decided it was time to end the fight. He switched his

    beastification, his body morphing into the form of his thunder bird. With a flash of lightning, he dashed across the battlefield, closing the distance in an instant.

    Before she could react, Ryder switched again, using his wind Lycaon to increase his speed. He delivered a powerful lariat, sending the girl spinning across the field and crash on the head.

    "... Hm?! Holy shit! You ok???"

    The crowd gasped.

    "Winner, Ryder!"

    Ryder scratched his head, looking down at his hands.

    "What the..." he said, sounding more confused than triumphant.

    He rushed to his opponent unconscious and helped her to get outside with the help of the

    medics.

    Zara, watching from the stands, leaned back in her seat.

    "They''re really getting strong, unbelievable that this change happened just in a few days," S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    she whispered.

    Victoria nodded, her eyes scanning the battlefield.

    "The real challenges are yet to come."

    Kaida was in the arena next. Across from her stood Taro, a tall man with a turtle-like shell beastification, his monsters surrounding him like an impenetrable wall.

    Kaida grinned, cracking her knuckles.

    "You ready for this?" she called out, her voice full of energy.

    Taro didn''t answer, his face set in determination. He crouched behind his shield, guiding his

    tanky monsters to attack Kaida''s creatures.

    "Interesting strategy," Zara commented. "He''s using a perfect defense, his shell will absorb most of Kaida''s attacks, while his monsters chip away at hers. He could make it better by

    using them directly on her."

    With her beastification activated, Kaida charged forward, her hammers blazing with fire. Each

    strike created a burst of flames, but Taro''s shell absorbed the blows. He felt the heat building but remained calm, confident in his defense.

    "She''s fast, but she''s not doing enough damage," he muttered under his breath.

    Kaida''s attacks rained down, hammering Taro''s defense with relentless force. Flames erupted

    from every strike, but it seemed like she wasn''t making a dent.

    Her two bulky beasts were tearing through his monsters, but Taro himself remained steadfast

    behind his turtle-like shield.

    Taro, inside his shell, grinned to himself.

    ''Just a little longer, she''ll tire out.''

    Kaida, however, wasn''t one to play the waiting game. She knew what Taro was thinking, yet

    she was ready to burn all her stamina.

    "You came here just to sleep? I''ll help you with that!"

    With a roar, Kaida activated her field spell. The ground beneath her ignited, and flames surged

    up around her, transforming the battlefield into a fiery wasteland.

    Fire rolled off her body in waves, and the temperature in the arena spiked dramatically.

    Taro, hidden inside his shell, felt the heat intensify. Sweat dripped down his forehead as the

    flames swirled around him.

    "This could be a problem...''

    With the field spell empowering her, Kaida charged at him again, this time with even more

    speed and power.

    Each strike from her hammer sent a massive eruption of fire cascading over Taro''s shield, and the crowd could feel the heat from the stands.

    The flames grew higher, creating a blinding spectacle. The audience couldn''t see what was

    happening inside the inferno, but they could hear the relentless impacts as Kaida''s attacks shook the ground.

    "Get out you self preserved, coward-blooded tank!!" Kaida shouted through the flames. "Is this how you reached this level?!"

    Inside his shell, Taro could feel the heat rising to unbearable levels. His breathing became labored, and the temperature inside his shield was reaching dangerous levels.

    He tried to summon his monsters to support him, but they were immediately engulfed by

    Kaida''s beasts, their cries of pain echoing through the arena as they were torn apart.

    The heat was too much.

    Taro''s thoughts became muddled as he struggled to keep his defense intact. He could barely

    see through the flames, his mind racing with panic.

    ''I have to get out of here...''

    The flames continued to spiral around him, hotter and hotter. His shell was becoming like an

    oven, and his strength was fading fast. He couldn''t hold on much longer.

    ''I... can''t... breathe...''

    Kaida''s attacks only grew stronger, her hammers striking with brutal force. The flames

    danced around her, feeding on her power, as Taro''s shell cooked him alive.

    With a gasp of desperation, Taro undid his beastification and dropped his shield. But it was

    death sentence.

    Kaida''s hammer slammed into him, a massive eruption of fire followed, lighting up the battlefield in a blinding blaze.

    The crowd erupted in cheers, the stands shaking.

    Kaida stood tall, her hammer raised high in victory, flames swirling around her like a crown.

    "Winner, Kaida!" the referee called out.

    Zara gulped, her face pale with shock.

    "That girl is terrifying," she whispered, watching Kaida bask in the heat of her victory.

    The final battle of the night was about to begin, and the crowd''s energy was at its peak. Eratz stepped into the arena, taking in the roar of the spectators. The lights, the noise, the anticipation, it was everything he thrived on.

    His opponent was a boy his age, with dreadlocks hanging down to his shoulders. His sharp

    eyes met Eratz''s, and the two locked in a silent staring contest.

    The tension in the air was palpable as the arena fell silent. The audience held their breath,

    waiting for the first move.

    "And now, the final battle of the night! The ''Juggernaut'', Eratz Pandora! And face to him, Darian Kingston ''The Riptide''!" the announcer''s voice boomed.

 Chapter 69: Apex Predator

    Chapter 69: Apex PredatorThe crowd erupted in cheers, Eratz remained calm, a subtle smile playing on his lips. He could feel the eyes of everyone on him, all watching with anticipation from the stands.

    He cracked his neck and took a deep breath, his heart steady. This was the moment he loved, that rush of adrenaline before a fight. The world around him shifted as the sound of the start rang.

    Darian unleashed his army of reptiles, large, agile creatures, each one a dangerous monster in its own right.

    Massive snakes-like and crocodiles-like monsters surged through the water, their sharp teeth gleaming as they moved in on Eratz.

    Eratz smirked, his red eyes flashing with amusement.

    "So we''re doing this..."

    His shadow stretched and shifted, then, hundreds of beasts erupted from them, like a living wave of darkness.

    The crowd roared, shocked at the sheer number of creatures Eratz had summoned.

    "This... this is insane! That''s more than usual." someone in the audience gasped. For the first time, they were witnessing the large number of Eratz''s army.

    Darian''s reptiles collided with Eratz''s swarm, and the battlefield turned into chaos. Snakes and crocodiles monsters slashed and bit, but despite their phenomenal defense, they were quickly overwhelmed. Eratz''s monsters were faster, stronger, oozing aura, tearing through Darian''s forces like a storm.

    Darian, watching the battle unfold, clenched his fists. His monsters were falling too quickly, his strategy unraveling in front of him.

    ''I need to change this,'' he thought. ''I can''t win like this.''

    With a fierce expression, Darian activated a field spell. The ground shifted, transforming into a thick, dark forest. Water filled the low points, creating a maze of roots, murky ponds, and dense vegetation.

    The crowd gasped again.

    "A field spell? It''s a special one, like Catarina''s," Zara commented, leaning forward.

    Eratz''s gaze remained calm, his eyes scanning the dense forest now surrounding him. A large snake slid through the water near his feet, its scales gleaming in the eerie light of the swamp. "This could traumatize someone."

    Just as he said this, a massive, humanoid crocodile, Darian''s ace monster, lunged from the shadows, aiming for Eratz, but before it could land the hit, a crack of lightning split the air, and the creature was thrown back, smoking from the impact.

    Darian''s eyes widened in shock.

    "What just happened?"

    The Thunder Lycaon materialized in front of Eratz, its body crackling with electricity, its eyes glowing with feral intensity.

    "You can''t reach the king that easily," Eratz said casually, his eyes on the side.

    The Thunder Lycaon let out a powerful roar, sending ripples of energy through the swamp. The electricity crackled around it..

    Darian''s face twisted in frustration.

    ''I need to finish this. There''s no time for games.''

    With a deep breath, Darian entered his beastification form. His body morphed into that of an enormous humanoid reptile, his skin thick with scales, his eyes glowing like a predator''s.

    Without warning, he dove beneath the water, moving swiftly toward Eratz like a shadow beneath the surface.

    Eratz, standing in the center of the swamp, watched calmly. He felt the shift in the water, the ripples spreading under his feet.

    "Very bad choice of field," he mused to himself. "You''re not the only one who knows how to play in the forest."

    The water beneath him darkened, and a fresh wave of insectoids and reptilian monsters surged from his shadow. They spread across the field, attacking Darian''s reptiles as they hid in the forest.

    Darian emerged from the water, his claws aimed at Eratz, but Eratz was already gone. The arena around him was swarming with his beasts, Darian''s own monsters being plucked out of the trees and dragged into the water.

    ''What... what is happening?'' Darian thought, his heart racing.

    No matter where Darian looked, Eratz''s monsters were overwhelming his own. He tried to summon more, but they were immediately attacked, disappearing into the dark shadows of the trees and the swamp.

    Zara leaned forward, watching the battle with wide eyes.

    "His own field spell is turning against him," she murmured.

    Darian flinched, sensing something dangerous closing in. He turned around, his instincts screaming at him to run.

    ''There''s... something here... a predator?''

    The atmosphere around him had changed. It was no longer a battle. It felt like a hunt, and Darian was the prey.

    Without warning, he dove back into the water, hoping to escape. But as he swam deeper, he found himself face to face with the gaping jaws of the Terrakrus.

    An explosion shook the water, and Darian was thrown out of the swamp, his body spinning through the air uncontrollably. He crashed into a tree, struggling to stay on it.

    Pain shot through his chest, his breath ragged. He could barely move.

    "This... this isn''t normal... I... I can''t fight like this," Darian thought, his mind racing with

    panic.

    "Even though this is your field?"

    Darian''s heart stopped. Eratz was standing right next to him, leaning casually against the tree.

    Before Darian could react, a bolt of lightning shot from above, striking him directly. The Thunder Lycaon appeared pinned Darian''s head into the mud, his vision going dark as he lost

    consciousness.

    "Winner, Eratz Pandora!"

    The field spell dissolved, and the crowd roared as Eratz regained his footing, retrieving his

    monsters.

    Up in the stands, Zara let out a long breath.

    "They did it, they really did it!" she whispered, a look of awe on her face.

    Victoria smiled, her voice calm but filled with satisfaction.

    "Yes, everyone won tonight."

    As the night at Lugina Garden came to an end, the team gathered together, their victories solidifying their place as rising stars in the regional league. The future of Crescent Moon

    shone brighter than ever.

    The battles at Lugina Garden had ended, but the buzz of excitement didn''t die down.

    The streets of the city were alive with energy, and social media platforms were flooded with reactions to Crescent Moon''s stellar performances.

    People couldn''t stop talking about the rising stars of the regional league.

    As Eratz, Mercury, Kaida, Ryder, and Catarina made their way back to the locker room, the online world exploded with comments.

    [Man, you''ve seen how Eratz moves in the arena? This guy''s a predator, lol] one post read, already racking up hundreds of likes.

    [Eratz Pandora? Dude''s basically a one-man army. I wanted to see him fight like last time dammit!] another user added.

    [Petition for him to only fight without his beasts]

    The sheer number of creatures Eratz had summoned during his fight had left spectators

    speechless. His control over strong monsters and his raw power in battle fuelled a new

    nickname, Apex Predator, starting to gain traction.

    [If he keeps this up, the Apex Predator is gonna be the most feared beast master in the league.

    Hands down.]

    [No one''s taking down Eratz Pandora. He''s the king of the battlefield.]

    Mercury wasn''t far behind in the growing wave of popularity. Her powerful water attacks and commanding presence in the arena had earned her a new nickname as well, Raging Wave. [That water attack was like something out of a dream. The poor guy didn''t stand a chance!] S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    [Can we talk about how Mercury''s field spell dominated the grass one? Water was supposed to lose, but she made it look easy. She''s unstoppable.]

    As they reached the locker room, Mercury noticed Ryder scrolling through his phone, grinning

    widely.

    "Ryder, what are you smiling about?"

    He looked up, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

    "Have you seen what they''re saying about us? We''re blowing up online!"

    Ryder was quickly becoming a fan favorite for his impressive beastifications. His fair play and

    ability to switch forms effortlessly had everyone talking.

    [Yo, Ryder''s beastifications are on another level. Did you see how fast he took her down?

    Guy''s a beast!]

    [He''s so cute with his monster ears, and he''s so gentle in battle]

    [Not tonight lol]

    Kaida, who had left the arena in a blaze of fire, was also trending. Her fiery attacks and

    unrelenting power had earned her the nickname Blazing Tempest.

    [Flaming Fury is right. Kaida''s fire attacks were insane. Dude never landed a hit!]

    [Those flames... wow. She''s like a volcano on the battlefield! I love how the arena change with

    her, it feels so different. Can''t wait to see more from her.]

    Catarina, with her playful yet deadly style, had captivated the audience as well. Her mystic

    field spell, with its eerie cat heads and dolls, was unlike anything people had seen before. She

    had quickly gained the nickname Feline Phantom.

    [Catarina''s field spell is the coolest! Those cat heads and dolls? How did she do that?]

    [Not gonna lie, that match was like watching a movie, she''s so cool!]

    Ryder showed his phone to Eratz, his grin growing wider. "Dude, you''ve gotta see this! They''re calling you the Apex Predator!"

    Eratz glanced at the screen and chuckled softly, his red eyes glinting with amusement.

    "Apex Predator? Not bad."

    Mercury smirked as she leaned against the wall, scrolling through her own phone. "Looks like we''ve got new nicknames. I''m apparently the Raging Wave now."

    Kaida, overhearing, crossed her arms and gave a proud grin.

    "Blazing Tempest. I like it, Fits me perfectly."

    Catarina jumped in.

    "And I''m the Feline Phantom! Nya~! They love me!"

    Ryder scrolled to find his and quickly grimaced. "Hm?? The Furry Gentleman?! Where does that comes from???"

    The group shared a moment of laugh, each of them realizing just how far they had come.

    Soon they separated for the day, after that night, their schedule would differt and they would

    split for weeks.

    Eratz and Mercury were walking through the corridor, heading outside where their family

    waited for them.

    "So, what''s next for us?"

    Mercury asked, a hint of annoyance in her voice. She already knew the answer but still wasn''t

    thrilled about it.

    "We''re splitting up for a while, huh?"

    Eratz glanced at her, noticing the edge in her tone.

    "Yeah, just for a bit," he said calmly. "Milo''s staying with my family, so now you can go all out without problem."

    Mercury nodded, her expression softening.

    "I''m glad about that. Milo will have fun, but... I will miss training together,"

    she admitted, though she tried to keep her tone casual.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, sensing the slight frustration behind her words. He smirked and

    nodded.

    "How about this? We meet here every Friday for Colin and Milo''s training. Unless we''ve got a

    fight over the weekend, of course."

    Mercury''s eyes lit up, though she tried to hide her excitement.

    "Every Friday?"

    she repeated, pretending to think it over.

    "I guess... if you insist."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "Tomorrow''s Friday, by the way."

    Mercury shot him a sideways glance, unable to hold back her smile.

    "Fine. But only because it''s for Colin and Milo,"

    she said, acting tough, though the happiness in her eyes betrayed her.

    As they settled in for the night, outside the hotel, the streets were still buzzing with excitement. Social media continued to light up with comments and posts about the Crescent Moon fighters.

    "Eratz, Mercury, Kaida, Ryder, Catarina... these guys are unstoppable."

    "If they keep this up, I can''t wait to see Crescent Moon in team tournaments, they''re going to

    break everyone!"

    The next morning, the fame of Crescent Moon only grew. Everywhere they went, people

    recognized them.

    In the academy hotel where other students stayed, rumors about Eratz spread like wildfire.

    In one of the hallways, a group of girls chatted excitedly.

    "Did you hear? They''re saying Eratz might be sponsored by some hotel agency. He could be -coming here!"

    Another girl scoffed.

    "No way. I doubt he''d come here. He''s way too big now."

    Meanwhile, in the lobby, Kenny stood with Julian, preparing to head out for their own battles.

    Kenny''s jaw tightened as he overheard the conversation. His fists clenched in frustration.

    ''Eratz... always Eratz,'' Kenny thought bitterly. Suddenly, Rowan appeared, arms crossed.

    "If you''re going to fight, Kenny, then go. Standing around won''t help you, or perhaps do you

    need an audience to know you''re heading out?"

    Kenny shot him a glare.

    "I don''t need your advice. I''ve never needed anyone''s help."

    Rowan''s eyes narrowed.

    "Still stubborn as ever. You got plenty but You never listened."

    Kenny''s temper flared.

    "There''s no point talking. You should go cheer on your favorite, Eratz, instead."

    Rowan''s expression hardened.

    "Eratz may have made mistakes, but he''s earned everything he has today. You''ve had more

    opportunities than him, and you''ve squandered them."

    Kenny, face flushed with anger, leaned in. "He''s a cheater. You know it."

    Rowan met his gaze, the tension thick in the air.

    "Is he, Kenny? Is that what truly happened? He was talented because he cheated, you exposed

    him, but strangely now he is even better. Did he really cheat?"

    Kenny hesitated for a brief moment, both locking eyes, then he stormed out of the lobby with

    Julian following close behind.

    Julian caught up to Kenny, his voice calm.

    "You need to cool off, man. Getting worked up over Eratz won''t help."

    But Kenny''s mind was already racing.

    ''I need to get stronger. If I stay here, I''ll never reach his level.''

    Determined to take matters into his own hands, Kenny made a decision. "We''re not going to the arena, Julian. We''re heading to the forest."

    At the same time, in another part of the academy, a group of students was preparing for their

    own expedition into the forest.

    Among them were Lisa and Crystal, both quiet as they followed the guide. Melcin, demoted to

    the role of an assistant, trudged behind them.

    As dark clouds gathered in the sky, the day seemed to promise an immense surprise ahead.

 Chapter 70: Storm on the Horizon

    Chapter 70: Storm on the HorizonThe students of Genova Academy gathered at the edge of the forest. The air was cool, and a light breeze stirred the leaves overhead.

    The sky, already clouded with a looming storm, added to the sense of unease. Melcin, now relegated to the role of an assistant, stood next to a guide, a seasoned beast master who had been hired to oversee their exploration.

    The guide cleared his throat, stepping forward to address the group. He was tall, with a rugged look, his eyes sharp and alert.

    "Listen up, everyone, the forest here is dangerous. Stick together, follow my lead, and don''t wander off. Some of the beasts here are territorial and unpredictable, so it''s important to stay focused."

    The students nodded, though a few exchanged nervous glances. Among them, Lisa stood quietly, checking her bag. Next to her, Clara fidgeted with her gloves, looking around nervously.

    "I''m so nervous... You okay?" Clara asked, her voice a little shaky. "I know you''ve been all serious since... well, you know."

    Lisa didn''t respond right away. She zipped up her bag and sighed, her eyes distant.

    "I just... I want to take this seriously," she said, her voice soft. "I''ve put everything on someone else for too long."

    Clara gave her a reassuring smile.

    "Yeah, but that''s what I like about you. You''re back to being like you were before."

    Lisa managed a tired smile but murmured, "Like before?... There''s still something missing."

    Overhead, thunder rumbled, the sky growing darker. Some of the students in the group looked up, their faces filled with concern.

    "Do you think it''s safe to be out here with that storm coming?" one of them asked.

    The guide didn''t seem too worried. He glanced up at the sky and motioned for the group to start moving.

    "Let''s get going. We''ve got some beasts to find before the weather gets worse."

    As they moved deeper into the forest, the atmosphere became more tense. The thick trees closed in around them, and the sound of distant wildlife filled the air.

    Meanwhile, not too far from them, Kenny and Julian were making their way through the woods. Kenny walked ahead, his expression determined, while Julian trailed behind, looking a bit uneasy.

    "I still think we should have waited until we got back to Grushia," Julian muttered, glancing around nervously. "I heard the monsters here are dangerous."

    Kenny didn''t slow down or look back. His eyes were fixed ahead, his jaw set.

    "I''m not going back," Kenny said firmly.

    Julian frowned, surprised by the conviction in Kenny''s voice.

    "What do you mean you''re not going back?"

    Kenny stopped and turned, his face hard with resolve.

    "The academy... it''s not the best way to become famous. It''s not even interesting anymore. I was second strongest, Julian. If that bastard could become successful here, then I will too."

    Julian hesitated, then murmured, "But Eratz was a cheater. Maybe he''s cheating again." Kenny groaned, his fists clenched.

    "Once I''m a celebrity, no one''s going to bring that up again."

    Thunder rolled overhead, the sky groaning with the promise of rain. Julian looked up, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

    "Yeah, we''re real lucky today."

    At the same time, deeper in the forest, Colin and Milo stood with their eyes closed, focusing intensely. They were practicing beastification, their bodies surrounded by their monsters'' auras. Colin''s body was marked with faint traces of fire, while Milo''s body glowed with soft pink markings. Nearby, Eratz''s and Mercury''s monsters stood guard, watching over the two younger beast masters as they trained.

    The forest around them showed signs of a recent battle. Trees were broken, rocks scattered, and a path of destruction led to a murky swamp. Further away, a clear stream shimmered under the dark sky.

    At the edge of the stream, Eratz and Mercury emerged from the water, their clothes covered in mud from the swamp. Mercury wrung out part of her tank top, while Eratz shook the mud off his hands, frowning slightly.

    "Where was this thing weeks ago?" Eratz muttered, glancing at the swamp with a scowl.

    Mercury, far less concerned, flicked some mud off her arm and shrugged.

    "It''s just a bit of mud. We''ve been through worse. Let''s get back to business." She smirked, taking a fighting stance.

    Eratz pulled off his tank top and tossed it to the side, where a bird monster swooped in, grabbed it, and flew off to dry it.

    Mercury chuckled, her eyes glinting with amusement.

    "Afraid of a little dirt?"

    Eratz rolled his eyes, though a faint smile tugged at his lips.

    "I only have one spare because someone rushed us out here without time to pack. I''m not going home naked."

    Mercury''s grin widened, her playful energy growing.

    "Going home with destroyed clothes is the mark of a good training session."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "And walking home naked? How''s that supposed to look?"

    "Shows we trained hard," Mercury countered, her tone light but with a teasing edge.

    Eratz snorted, shaking his head.

    "Or it just shows we''re idiots who didn''t plan ahead."

    Mercury shrugged, still smirking.

    "You never know when you might end up losing everything in a fight. Better be prepared for

    it. Think about itwhat happens if all your clothes get torn off mid-battle? You gonna freak

    out?"

    Eratz chuckled, folding his arms over his chest.

    "You''re really pushing this, huh? What, you want to start training naked?"

    Mercury''s eyes sparkled with mischief, and without missing a beat, she responded,

    "Maybe. It''s not a bad idea."

    Eratz stared at her, unsure if she was serious or just messing with him. But the way she looked

    at him, her body slightly leaning forward, made him wonder. She seemed far too comfortable

    with the idea.

    "Your nudism is showing again."

    Mercury laughed, her cheeks slightly flushed.

    "Come on, it could be fun. Just think about it, no restrictions, nothing holding us back. We''d be completely free. No worries."

    Her fingers hooked into the hem of her tank top, and before Eratz could stop her, she tugged it off, revealing a sports bra that clung perfectly to her slightly toned body, highlighting her chest in a way that made Eratz pause. His gaze lingered on her longer than usual before he

    snapped back to reality.

    Mercury noticed his reaction and smirked.

    "Hmmm?"

    Eratz didn''t flinch, but his voice had softened.

    "You''re playing a dangerous game."

    Mercury''s grin never faded. She tossed her tank top to the side and spread her arms, standing there confidently. There was no nervousness in her movements, no awkwardness.

    "Enough talk, come here," she said, her voice quieter now, but there was still that playful

    edge.

    Eratz let out a small laugh, his gaze steady on hers. He knew they were both aware of what was happening between them, the tension growing with every word.

    "I would like to, but we''ve got company," he said, gesturing toward the side. Mercury''s eyes flickered with surprise. She glanced back toward the trees, behind which Colin

    and Milo were still training under the watchful eyes of their monsters. She let out a sigh and

    nodded.

    "Yeah... I guess this isn''t the place... Shoot, we should have come alone," she admitted, her

    voice losing some of its playful edge.

    Eratz smirked. "That''s not what a teacher says... but if they get independents it would be easier."

    Mercury laughed, a genuine laugh that broke the tension between them, though she didn''t

    bother picking her tank top backup.

    "If we were alone, though...?"

    Eratz smiled.

    "If we were alone, you''d really be in danger."

    Mercury''s laugh was soft, and she raised an eyebrow at him.

    "Deal."

    The storm overhead rumble again, announcing

    approaching storm.

    Meanwhile, deeper in the forest, the Genova students had gathered around a group of wild

    boar-like monsters known as Grunters. The guide pointed at them.

    "These Grunters are tough. I''ll keep them busy while you use your spirits to strike from a

    distance. Stay close to each other and don''t lose focus."

    The students nodded eagerly, but there was an undercurrent of anxiety in the group. Lisa glanced at Clara, who looked equally nervous.

    "Can we just get this over with?" Melcin muttered, clearly annoyed.

    The sky above rumbled louder, and the Grunters began to snort, their eyes locking onto the sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    stormy clouds. Sensing the shift in the atmosphere, the guide summoned a pack of dog-like monsters to engage the Grunters. The battle began swiftly, but the students quickly realized somethingnothing was going according to plan.

    The Grunters charged with terrifying speed, and the students'' elemental spirits were too weak

    to make any real impact. Panic set in as the boars closed in.

    "Fall back!" the guide shouted, summoning a larger, fire dog to scare the beasts away. Melcin reluctantly joined in, his own monster adding to the fray.

    But the Grunters were relentless. One of them broke through the line, rushing directly at Clara.

    She screamed, narrowly dodging the beast''s charge as Lisa reacted quickly, launching a fireball to distract it.

    The Grunter turned its focus on Lisa, snorting and stomping its feet in preparation to charge

    again. The guide''s

    voice echoed across the clearing.

    "Stay close! Get back to me!"

    But before the Grunter could charge, a fireball shot through the air, striking the creature

    directly. Everyone turned in surprise as a firebird swooped down, and from the bushes emerged Kenny, covered by his elemental spirits, with Julian following close behind. "Get out of the way!" Kenny shouted. "Come at me!"

    The boars hesitated, their eyes scanning Kenny. The guide, Melcin, and the rest of the

    students stood frozen in shock. The Grunters seemed terrified by Kenny''s presence, and suddenly turned tail and ran.

    The students erupted into cheers, amazed at what they had just witnessed. Kenny stood tall, a

    little boastful as the adrenaline rushed through him, but his expression faltered when he noticed Crystal watching silently from the back of the group.

    "What are you doing here?" A student asked, breaking the tension.

    "We''re training," Kenny replied coolly, his confidence slowly returning. "Just like you."

    The guide, however, was more puzzled than impressed.

    "That boy''s monster was weaker than the boars... how did he scare them off?''

    Before anyone could question it further, a massive roar of thunder shook the sky. Rain began

    to pour down in sheets, and everyone looked up in shock as the storm intensified.

    In the stream, Eratz and Mercury glanced at the sky, their playful mood vanishing as the

    storm grew more violent. Milo and Colin, nearby, huddled together as the rain pounded down, the air charged with a sense of looming danger.

    Lightning cracked across the sky, and above them, through the dark clouds, a massive bird- like figure descended, its body covered by lightning.

 Chapter 71: Calamities

    Chapter 71: CalamitiesThe sky was dark, heavy with clouds that churned and sparked with lightning. The air felt thick, almost hard to breathe.

    A deafening cry echoed through the forest. The students froze, looking up at the sky, their eyes wide with fear.

    From the swirling storm clouds, the massive bird descended, its body crackling with electricity.

    Every flap of its enormous wings sent bolts of lightning crashing into the ground, lighting up the sky with flashes of bright yellow.

    The bird''s feathers seemed to glow, pulsing with energy, as if it were made of pure lightning. The thunderbird screeched again, and this time the trees around them began to shake from the sound. Thunder rumbled, rolling through the forest like a drumbeat.

    "Run!" someone screamed, but no one moved.

    The sight of the massive lightning bird had stunned them all into place. Some students fell to the ground, others just stared, mouths open, unable to understand what they were seeing. The power of the creature was too much to grasp.

    Then, before anyone could make sense of the first bird, another ear-splitting screech came from above.

    Through the clouds, a second bird appeared, even more massive than the first, its body swirling with water and wind.

    The rainbird''s wings spread wide, casting a shadow over the forest on its path. As it flapped its wings, torrents of water poured down like a flood, and the wind howled, bending the trees. Its body shimmered with blue, waves of rain and wind swirling around it like a living storm. The two birds locked eyes for a moment before charging at each other, their collision sending shockwaves through the air. Lightning met water, and the entire forest shook as their battle began.

    Destruction followed in their wake, trees snapped, the ground was torn up, and the wind whipped violently in every direction.

    "Run! Now!" the guide shouted again, but the students were too scared to move.

    Everyone stood frozen, watching in disbelief. None of them had ever seen anything like this. The power of the two birds was unlike anything they''d ever faced.

    Before anyone could react, a ball of lightning shot down toward the students. Lisa gasped, unable to move, her body frozen in fear. Clara screamed and threw her hands up in a desperate attempt to shield herself.

    But before the lightning could strike, a figure leapt forward, intercepting the attack with nothing but his own body.

    Eratz.

    The lightning hit him hard, and his entire body tensed, muscles rippling with the sheer force of the impact. Electricity coursed through him, his white hair crackling and sticking to his rain-soaked skin. His red eyes burned through the storm as he took the hit head-on.

    He stood there, his chest heaving from the force, steam rising from his soaked skin. But he didn''t fall. He simply groaned, his voice low and steady.

    "... Felt that one."

    For a moment, there was only stunned silence. Everyone''s mind was racing, struggling to comprehend what had just happened.

    Lisa, her heart pounding in her chest, stared in shock. She could barely manage a whisper. "... Eratz?"

    Her voice trembled, as if speaking his name might shatter the fragile reality she found herself in. She hadn''t been so close to him in what felt like an eternity.

    And now, out of nowhere, he was standing in front of her, taking a blow that would have destroyed anyone else. Protecting them, protecting her.

    Kenny''s heart raced, his pulse quickening with every second. His gaze locked onto Eratz, disbelief and anger fighting for dominance inside him.

    But before he could process his emotions, something else pulled his attention.

    From the edge of the forest, another figure burst into the clearing, Mercury.

    Her entire body covered in a blue aura, she raised her arms and summoned a field spell.

    Water surged from the ground, swirling around them before solidifying into a protective dome, shielding the students from the destruction outside.

    Kenny''s eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. Seeing Eratz was one thing, but Mercury? Here? Now?

    His mind was a whirlwind of emotions, unable to comprehend how both of them, the two people who had come to dominate his thoughts, were standing in the same space.

    On one hand, Eratz, the boy who had cast him into the shadows, stoking his hatred. On the other hand, Mercury, the object of his desires, the one woman who had filled his dreams with fantasies of power, of her submitting to him.

    And now she was right here, her rain-soaked clothes clinging to her skin, every detail of her toned figure visible in the dim light.

    His stomach twisted painfully with a mix of desire and disbelief, his mind barely able to function. He couldn''t tear his eyes away, no matter how hard he tried.

    "Eratz, and ... Mercury?" Julian murmured.

    Melcin, who had been acting so confident just moments before, now stood rooted to the spot, his face pale.

    He blinked rapidly, trying to process what he was seeing. Eratz? Here? How? Why was this happening?

    Crystal, standing a few steps behind Kenny, stared at Eratz, her mind blank with fear. She had framed him, played a role in his downfall, and now, here he was, stronger than ever.

    She felt her heart race, panic setting in. She wasn''t ready for this. She wasn''t ready to face him. Her legs trembled as she watched him, her mind screaming at her to run, but she couldn''t move. She felt like she was suffocating.

    The students around them were too stunned to speak. Their brains couldn''t keep up with what was happening, first the giant birds, and now Eratz and Mercury. No one knew what to say, no one knew how to react.

    Inside the dome, the air was heavy with tension, thick with unspoken emotions and shock. Every eye was locked on the two figures standing in front of them, figures that had been missing from their lives, and yet here they were, larger than life.

    Eratz, still feeling the sting of the lightning deep in his bones, lifted his gaze to the sky. The birds were still locked in battle, their immense powers ripping through the forest with every strike. The ground shook beneath them as thunder and wind tore through the trees.

    "You''re thinking about it, aren''t you?" Mercury''s voice broke the silence, calm and steady

    despite the chaos around them.

    Eratz, muscles still tense from the lightning strike, nodded.

    "Aren''t you?" he asked.

    Mercury let out a short laugh, but her eyes were serious.

    "You really need to learn not to bite off more than you can chew... Wait... One of them is a

    water type?"

    This detail reversed the choice of action.

    They exchanged a quick glance, a wordless agreement passing between them. Everyone watching could feel the connection between them.

    Eratz soared through the air, using the full extent of his beastification with his aces.

    The thunder bird unleashed a devastating bolt of lightning, the air around it sizzling with

    power.

    Mercury''s field spell spread wide beneath them, creating swirling a space like water that allowed her monsters to swim through the sky, but she was struggling.

    Every time the thunder bird lightning hit the water, it propagated through her entire field, shocking her with searing bolts.

    The electricity coursed through her body, causing her muscles to tense painfully. She grit her teeth, fighting through the pain as she tried to maintain control of the battle.

    She dodged another strike, but the water around her betrayed her, conducting the electricity

    directly to her body. Her beasts were suffering too, dissolving as they were overwhelmed by the relentless electrical assault.

    Eratz barely had time to realize her situation as he was forced to dodge a burst of wind from

    the second bird.

    Water spun violently around the beast, forming powerful torrents that crashed against Eratz''s

    body, forcing him back.

    He saw Mercury getting hit again by another wave of the thunderbird lightning, her body convulsing as the energy surged through the water field.

    The thunderbird screeched, its massive wings sending gusts of wind strong enough to tear

    apart trees.

    Its lightning attacks were erratic, unpredictable, and every time they made contact with Mercury''s water, the shockwaves reverberated across the field, hitting her and her creatures

    mercilessly.

    Eratz focused his gaze on the two calamities in the sky, trying to find an opening.

    But it was chaos, every time he or Mercury made a move, the birds countered, their destructive synergy too much to handle together.

    "We can''t keep this up, Mercury!" Eratz called, his voice strained as he dodged a wind-

    enhanced torrent from the rain bird.

    Mercury gasped for air, her soaked body trembling from the constant shocks.

    "We need to split them up," she repeated, her breath heavy. "... this lightning is going to kill

    me."

    Eratz''s red eyes flickered. He knew she was right. The thunderbird''s lightning attacks were too devastating when combined with Mercury''s water-based field spell. They needed to take out one bird at a time, or they''d both be overwhelmed.

    His aura bursting around him, Eratz pushed forward, his muscles aching as he called upon his

    full force.

    With a powerful burst of energy, he threw his fist forward, his knuckles burning with aura.

    His punch landed against the thunderbird''s head, the impact sending shockwaves through the

    sky.

    The bird screeched in agony, its body jerking from the blow as bolts of electricity flickered across its feathers.

    For a moment, it felt like victory was near. Eratz had landed a real hit, and the monster flight

    faltered.

    But before he could press the advantage, the rainbird swooped in, its massive wings churning the air as a tidal wave of water crashed into Eratz''s side.

    The force was staggering, knocking him into Mercury''s field spell. He struggled to regain control, his body tumbling through the sky until he managed to stabilize himself, landing heavily on one of Mercury''s water beasts.

    The impact rippled through the field spell, causing the water to shake around them. Mercury, fighting to keep the field intact, grunted as the thunderbird''s lightning struck again.

    This time, the electricity hit her directly, her muscles seizing up as she let out a sharp cry of

    pain. Her beasts dissolved under the relentless assault, leaving her vulnerable for a brief but dangerous moment.

    Eratz saw it, every lightning strike that hit the water field connected directly to her. He clenched his fists, realizing how dangerous this was for her.

    "Mercury! You need to shut down the field! It''s propagating his attacks!"

    "I can''t!" she shouted back, her voice barely audible over the thunderous roar of the storm.

    "Without the field, we can''t stay in the air!"

    The rainbird dove in from above, sending a massive tidal wave crashing toward them.

    "Dammit!" she hissed, her voice strained.

    She forced herself back to her feet, summoning another wave of water to send crashing

    toward the beast.

    The bird twisted its body, dodging the attack before countering with a blast of wind so strong

    it tore through Mercury''s water defenses. She felt the gust hit her full force, her body whipped

    backward into the storm.

    Eratz, seeing her struggle, leaped toward the thunderbird again. His fists glowed with raw

    strength as he charged, unleashing a flurry of powerful strikes that connected with the thunderbird''s head, chest and wings.

    Every hit landed with devastating impact, feathers crackling with energy as the bird screeched in agony.

    The thunderbird retaliated, summoning a massive bolt of lightning that tore through the sky.

    Eratz barely had time to react before the lightning hit, the electricity tearing through his body

    like fire. His muscles spasmed, his body momentarily paralyzed by the sheer force of the

    attack.

    But he didn''t stop.

    Gritting his teeth, he pushed through the pain and charged forward again, his eyes locked on

    the bird as he swung his fist into its wing.

    The bone-crushing impact sent the monster spiraling through the sky, its screech echoing

    through the storm.

    Mercury, recovering from the wind blast, summoned her beasts once again. She hurled them at the rainbird, their water-infused bodies slamming into the bird with surprising force.

    The bird shrieked as the water beasts bit and clawed at its wings, causing streams of water to pour from its body like blood.

    But she wasn''t done, it was time for revenge.

    With a burst of energy, she summoned a massive torrent of water, sending it crashing into the

    beast''s side.

    The bird let out another pained screech as the wave engulfed it, momentarily disorienting the

    creature.

    Seeing a window of rest, Eratz''s eyes flickered. They had to end this, but every attack they made was countered by the other monster. They needed to change their strategy.

    His eyes narrowed as he concentrated on the lightning bird, and suddenly, the stats appeared

    before him.

    [Name: Raijinara, The Thunderous Storm

    Affinity: Wind/Lightning

    Rank: Calamity

    Abilities: Thunderous Wrath - Summons lightning storms of immense power, Windstorm

    Mastery - Controls wind currents to create devastating tornadoes and gusts.]

    Eratz clenched his fists, the realization hitting him hard. This wasn''t just any monster. This

    was a rank he never saw before, an incarnation of the storm itself. The sheer power it wielded

    was beyond anything they had ever faced.

    But there was another.

    His eyes flicked to the water bird, the second force of destruction in the sky. He locked onto it,

    and its stats appeared.

    [Name: Zephyraquiel, The Deluge

    Affinity: Water/Wind

    Rank: Calamity

    Abilities: Torrential Fury - Controls water to create powerful tidal waves and storms, Gale

    Force Enhances wind speed and attacks.]

    But the moment of peace was short-lived.

    Raijinara recovered from Eratz''s assault, its eyes glowing with fury as it unleashed a barrage

    of lightning bolts that arced through the sky, targeting both Eratz and Mercury.

    The lightning hit Mercury''s field spell, the electricity surging through the water and striking

    her once again.

    She screamed, her body convulsing in pain as she was thrown back, the water beasts dissolving around her.

    "Mercury!" Eratz shouted, his voice hoarse.

    He lunged toward her, desperate to shield her from another attack, but Zephyraquiel swooped

    in, its wind and water combining into a devastating whirlwind that slammed into him,

    sending him tumbling through the sky.

    Their attacks had real impact, Raijinara and Zephyraquiel were visibly damaged, but the

    birds'' power was too great.

    Every time they tried to land a decisive blow, the other bird would intervene, and their efforts

    were reset. It was like fighting two unstoppable forces at once. Raijinara screeched again, summoning a super bolt of lightning that lit up the sky, splitting through the clouds with a deafening roar.

    The bolt struck Mercury''s field spell, and the water exploded in a shower of steam and

    electricity. She screamed in pain as the shockwave hit her once more, her beasts dissolving into nothing.

    Eratz roared in frustration, his aura flaring as he charged at Raijinara again, but Zephyraquiel

    blocked his path with another powerful burst of wind and water, sending him crash alongside

    Mercury.

    Colin and Milo, watching from below, were desperate.

    "We have to help them!" Milo shouted, his voice breaking with fear.

    Colin''s eyes were wide with panic, her body trembling.

    The students, watching the battle in stunned silence, gasped in horror as Eratz and Mercury

    both fell. Kenny fell to his knees, his eyes wide with despair. He could never fight like that. He could

    never match the power Eratz and Mercury wielded. The realization crushed him, leaving him hollow and defeated. "We''re going to die," Clara whispered, her face pale with terror. Melcin stood in stunned disbelief, his hands shaking. He had never seen power like this

    before. The reality of their situation was finally setting in, and it terrified him. As Eratz and Mercury hit the ground, the two birds let out simultaneous screeches, their

    combined power creating a massive explosion of wind, water, and lightning that ripped through the sky. The storm intensified, and the ground trembled beneath the students'' feet. Colin''s heart pounded in her chest as she saw Eratz and Mercury fall from the sky, their bodies

    crashing into the ground with a sickening thud. Her vision blurred, and her legs began to

    move before her mind could even catch up. "Eratz! Mercury!" she screamed.

    Her eyes were fixed on the broken forms of Eratz and Mercury lying motionless.

    "...no...no..." she cried, her voice cracking.

    She raced toward them, her small feet pounding against the wet earth, her heart burning with

    desperation.

    Every step felt heavier, the world around her becoming distant, muffled, as if time had

    slowed. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The storm above raged, lightning flashing and thunder cracking, but none of it mattered. All she could see was Eratz and Mercury, now lying there, lifeless, and she couldn''t bear it. Flames flickered at the edges of her vision, dancing along her skin. Her heart raced faster, her

    blood boiling with a heat that was almost unbearable. She was running, but it felt like she was

    on fire, burning from the inside out.

    Her chest tightened, and her eyes flickered between blue and red. The fire within her was

    growing, spreading, until it was all she could feel. "No... NOOOO!!!!"

    She screamed, her voice echoing through the storm.

    Her body erupted in a blaze of crimson fire, the heat so intense that the rain evaporated

    before it could touch her. Her eyes switched from blue to a deep red, glowing, and the flames

    around her grew higher, wilder, as if they were alive.

    The others could only watch in stunned silence, too afraid to move, too shocked to

    understand what was happening.

    The air around her crackled as her eyes glowed a fierce red, and Melcin, watching in disbelief,

    whispered.

    "An... She''s an Ishtarian?" Above, the birds, screeched in unison. The thunderbird called forth a storm of lightning bolts,

    while the rainbird unleashed a cyclone of water, their combined attacks exploding against the

    ground in a wave of destruction.

    Colin reached Eratz and Mercury, Milo was running, and the ground erupted.

    As the ground buckled, the battlefield was consumed by a final blast of energy, and everything

    went dark

    ***

    Kenny awoke to silence. Blinking against the dim light, he found himself in a vast underground cave, the dripping of water echoing through the space. The air was thick and damp, but what captured his attention were the figures lying nearby. Eratz and Mercury, their bodies battered and bruised, lay unconscious next to Milo and Colin.

 Chapter 72: Fierce Hearts, Small Hands

    Chapter 72: Fierce Hearts, Small HandsThe air inside the cave was damp and heavy, the tension thick among the students.

    They slowly began to stir, waking up one by one, confusion and fear clouding their minds.

    Melcin stood in the middle of the cave, his face pale, and the guide, just as shaken, stayed near him.

    No one spoke at first, their eyes slowly adjusting to the dim light, trying to make sense of their surroundings.

    The first thing they noticed was the massive creature lurking in the shadows.

    The Terrakrus, its dark, scaled body coiled protectively behind two figures, let out a low growl.

    Its glowing eyes scanned the cave as if warning them to stay back. The students froze, their breath catching in their throats.

    It was the first time any of them had seen something so terrifying up close.

    Julian whispered, his voice barely audible,

    "What... what is that thing?"

    Kenny, standing beside him, didn''t answer. His eyes were wide, his mind still reeling from the battle they had just witnessed outside.

    The two colossal birds were still fighting, their screeches echoing through the sky, but now, they were safe, cut off from the chaos for the moment.

    Near the beast, lying motionless, were Eratz and Mercury.

    Milo and Colin were by their side, both visibly distressed. Colin''s hands glowed faintly, a soft warmth emanating from her, and her flames covered gently at Eratz''s and Mercury''s injuries.

    The students began to murmur, their voices filled with a mix of awe and fear.

    "Is... is that really Eratz?"

    "What''s happening? Are those kids... healing them?"

    Melcin sneered, his eyes narrowing at the sight of Colin''s power.

    "This... this isn''t natural. This Ishtarian, what is she doing?"

    The guide, looking more cautious, stepped forward slightly.

    "Those flames... What is she doing? It doesn''t look like they''re burning."

    Lisa''s heart pounded in her chest as she stared at Eratz.

    She had been looking for him for so long, haunted by guilt and regret, and now he was right in front of her, injured, unconscious, and so vulnerable.

    Without thinking, she rushed forward.

    "Eratz!" she cried, desperation choking her voice.

    She needed to make sure he was okay, needed to see him up close, to know he was still alive.

    But before she could reach him, Milo stepped in front of her, his arms outstretched in a protective stance.

    "No!" he shouted, his voice shaking. "Stay back!"

    His voice cracked, the fear in his eyes betraying his brave front.

    From their point of view, he was just a kid, desperate to protect his friend and the two people lying unconscious in front of them.

    Lisa''s heart raced as she saw Eratz lying there, so close, yet she couldn''t get to him.

    She took a step forward, her voice trembling with desperation.

    "Please, let me see him! I need to help."

    But Milo shook his head, his eyes fierce.

    "No! You stay away!"

    Lisa faltered, tears welling up in her eyes.

    She had waited so long, searching for him, wanting to make things right, but now she was being blocked by a child.

    "I... I just want to make sure he''s okay," she whispered, her voice breaking.

    Clara stepped forward, placing a hand on Lisa''s shoulder.

    "Let her through, she''s just trying to help," she said, her voice soft but firm.

    The students began to take sides, some agreeing with Clara, others unsure.

    The guide, growing impatient, took a step forward.

    "We need to do something! We can''t just stand here..."

    Before he could finish, a low, ominous growl echoed through the cave. Everyone froze, their eyes slowly turning toward the source of the sound.

    The Terrakrus.

    The massive black dragon stood in the shadows, its glowing red eyes watching over Eratz.

    The sight of the beast sent a wave of fear through the students, the guide, and Melcin. No one dared to move.

    No one dared move after that.

    The guide took a step back, his face pale. "We... we''ll wait."

    The students, terrified and unsure of what to do, stood in stunned silence, watching as Colin continued her desperate attempt to heal Eratz and Mercury.

    Milo remained by her side, his eyes darting between the group and the fallen warriors, ready

    to fight at any moment.

    Lisa''s chest tightened, her hands trembling.

    She could barely hold herself together.

    The one person she had wanted to see for so long, the person she had been trying to reach,

    was lying there, hurt, and she couldn''t do anything to help.

    Kenny stood quietly beside Julian, his fists clenched at his sides.

    He had seen everything, Eratz standing strong in the storm, Mercury wielding her power with

    ease.

    He felt small, insignificant in comparison to what they had done. His obsession with Mercury, his hatred for Eratz, all of it seemed to dissolve in the face of their power.

    "They... they''re monsters," Julian muttered under his breath, unable to take his eyes off the

    Terrakrus.

    Minutes passed, the tension thick in the air.

    Colin was exhausted, her small body trembling as she continued to channel her power, the flames barely flickering now.

    Milo, seeing her struggle, summoned his fairy-type monsters. They fluttered around her, sending soft waves of energy into her, helping her maintain her healing.

    Their small bodies trembled with fear and exhaustion.

    Colin''s hands hovered over Mercury and Eratz''s chest, her flames glowing faintly as she tried

    to heal them, her heart pounding in her chest.

    She wasn''t sure how she was doing it, but she kept going, determined to save them. Tears welled up in her eyes, blurring her vision, but she refused to stop.

    Every second felt like an eternity, and after a while, Milo saw it first, Eratz stirred.

    "... Eratz?" Milo whispered, his voice shaky.

    Colin''s breath hitched as Eratz''s eyes fluttered open, his face twisted in pain.

    He groaned softly, his body tense and aching, but he was awake.

    "Eratz!" Milo cried, his voice cracking as tears immediately spilled from his eyes.

    At the same time, Mercury''s eyes flickered open, a low groan escaping her lips as she rubbed

    her head.

    Colin''s heart leaped.

    "M-Mercury...," she whispered, her voice trembling.

    The sight of them waking up, after everything, was too much. Relief washed over her, and the

    tears she had been holding back fell freely.

    They were safe. They were going to be okay.

    Milo''s sobs grew louder as he threw himself onto Mercury, wrapping his arms around her

    tightly.

    "You''re okay! You''re okay!" Milo cried, his voice breaking with every word.

    Colin followed, her body trembling as she clung to Eratz, her tears raining on his chest.

    "I-I thought... I lost you!" she sobbed.

    Eratz, still groaning from the pain, forced a small, pained smile as he pulled Colin into a weak

    hug.

    "Hey... ow...," he grunted, trying to play tough. "We''re fine... just... a little burning... Piercing my skull like a pile-driver."

    Mercury, rubbing her aching head, let out a breathless laugh, though the movement hurt.

    "Ugh... It''s ok... Don''t be worried, we''re fine... ow, ow."

    But when they felt the kids sobbing louder against them, Eratz and Mercury exchanged a glance, their eyes filled with shared guilt.

    They both shifted, wrapping their arms around Milo and Colin together, pulling the two kids

    into a shared, protective embrace.

    Milo, feeling the warmth of both Eratz and Mercury, sobbed harder, his small hands clutching

    onto their bodies tightly as if afraid they might disappear if he let go.

    "Hey... it''s okay. We''re okay. I''m sorry we scared you," Eratz whispered.

    Mercury, despite the throbbing pain in her body, wrapped her arms around Colin, pulling her

    close.

    "Shh... It''s alright. We''re here, we''re not going anywhere," she whispered, her fingers gently running through Colin''s hair.

    Milo and Colin sobbed harder, unable to hold back the flood of emotions.

    They had been so scared, so sure that they would lose their big siblings, but now, feeling their

    warmth, hearing their voices, they couldn''t stop crying.

    For a while, the cave was filled with the sounds of their sobs, the quiet reassurances from Eratz and Mercury, and the soft crackle of Colin''s flames as they continued to heal.

    Then, as Eratz held Milo, he glanced down at Colin and his breath was caught in his throat.

    Her eyes had changed.

    They were glowing red, just like his.

    "Colin...," Eratz whispered, his voice filled with surprise, pride, and sorrow.

    "You''ve awakened... you''ve grown so much."

    Colin sniffled, looking up at him with wide, tear-filled eyes.

    "I... I didn''t want to lose you," she whispered, her voice small.

    Eratz''s chest tightened, and he hugged her close.

    "Now I really feel bad," he said softly, his voice thick with emotion.

    Mercury, glancing over at Eratz and Colin, smiled weakly.

    "We were reckless," she admitted, her voice gentle as she held Colin close. "Too reckless...

    We''re sorry for making you worry."

    Milo clung tighter to Eratz, his small body shaking with fear. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "You... you can''t leave us..., never again!" he whispered through his tears.

    Eratz and Mercury shared a smile.

    From a distance, the students watched, too stunned to speak.

    "Is that really Eratz...?" one student whispered.

    "The guy who was expelled?"

    "And... that''s Mercury," another murmured. "Why are they together?"

    "Who are those kids with them?"

    someone else asked, their voice filled with curiosity.

    No one had answers, and the black dragon motivated them to keep their distances.

    They just stood there, watching the scene unfold in front of them, their eyes wide with

    disbelief.

    Eratz, still holding Colin, slowly looked up. His eyes scanned the group of students.

    For a brief moment, it seemed like everything was normal again.

    But then, his gaze landed on one person in particular.

    Lisa.

 Chapter 73: Dark Water

    Chapter 73: Dark WaterThe air between Eratz and Lisa felt heavy, filled with emotions neither of them could speak aloud. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, Lisa''s heart pounded so hard she thought it might burst.

    This was the moment she had been waiting for, months of guilt, regret, and hope all mixed together into this one chance to make things right.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, her voice shaking, barely holding back the tears she had carried for so long.

    She took a small step forward, her body trembling with the weight of everything she wanted to say but couldn''t find the words for.

    For a second, Eratz''s gaze softened, and it seemed like he, too, felt the pull of their past. There was a flicker of something familiar, something that reminded them of what they once had.

    In that brief moment, it felt like the world around them faded, leaving just the two of them, standing at the edge of everything that had been broken between them.

    Lisa''s heart was filled with hope, maybe they could fix what they had, they never talked, there was no conclusion between them, not even a sequel.

    But just as quickly, Eratz''s expression turned cold, the warmth in his eyes disappearing. Without a word, he turned his head to look at the other students, breaking the moment, leaving Lisa standing there, her heart sinking, shattered all over again.

    The silent devastation on Lisa''s face was hard to miss, but the other students were too wrapped up in their own surprise at seeing Eratz again, their minds whirling as they processed the situation.

    Mercury''s eyes turned to Eratz for a second, her usual confidence faltering slightly. There was something in the way Lisa looked at him that made her uneasy like she was missing part of the picture.

    "What''s going on here?" she asked.

    She glanced at Lisa, then back to Eratz. Eratz sighed and turned to her.

    "Remember that time I told you about the academy that expelled me?" His voice was light, almost too casual like he was discussing the weather.

    Mercury blinked, taken aback by the shift in the conversation.

    "Wait... you mean this is them?" she asked, her eyes darting toward the group of students who were watching them nervously.

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yeah, that''s them."

    Mercury stared at the students, her tension easing into something else. Relief washed over her, more powerful than she had expected.

    "Oh..." She paused, shaking her head with a faint smirk, "I thought... never mind."

    She almost let out a laugh. She glanced at Lisa again before returning her gaze to Eratz.

    "So, these are the ones who made your life miserable?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow at her reaction, a little amused.

    "I wouldn''t say miserable anymore but you get the picture,"

    The students around them began to murmur among themselves, some casting nervous glances at Eratz. They had hoped he would have forgotten about them, maybe even forgiven them. They were expecting indifference, sure, but this casual distance felt like a slap in the face.

    "He''s just... acting like it doesn''t matter," one student whispered, guilt creeping into their voice.

    "Did he really forgive us, or does he just not care anymore?" another asked, uncertain.

    Kenny, standing beside Julian, couldn''t take his eyes off Eratz. His stomach twisted uncomfortably. This wasn''t how he had imagined seeing Eratz again. He had expected anger, maybe some kind of confrontation, but not this cold dismissal.

    Julian shifted uneasily.

    "It''s like we don''t even exist to him anymore... well, he''s a celebrity now after all."

    Lisa stood frozen, her heart breaking. She couldn''t believe how quickly Eratz had turned away from her as if everything they had shared meant nothing now. She had imagined this reunion so many times, with many scenarios, anger, miracles, sadness, but this... this was nothing like what she had hoped for.

    Clara, standing beside her, noticed the look on Lisa''s face and felt a pang of sympathy for her friend.

    "Eratz, maybe you should talk to her... You haven''t seen each other for so long, she''s been looking for you," Clara said softly, trying to break through the wall of indifference Eratz had built.

    But Eratz didn''t even glance back at them.

    "Why should we? This isn''t how we lived before," he said plainly, his voice devoid of emotion. "We had no contact at the academy so why change it now? This is perfectly normal."

    The casualness of his words hit Lisa like a punch to the gut. Everything she had held onto, the hope of reconciliation, the possibility of fixing what had been broken, it all crumbled at that moment. Her eyes filled with tears, but she blinked them away, refusing to let them fall.

    Crystal, who had been lingering at the back of the group, shrank even further into the shadows. She had been afraid of facing Eratz, but this... this indifference was somehow worse. Something in that was kind of annoying.

    And then, Melcin''s voice cut through the growing tension.

    "Well, well, well... I never thought I''d see the day when the great Eratz Pandora would be so harsh to the girl who he always teamed with, was that all interest?" Melcin sneered, stepping forward with a smirk.

    The venom in his voice was unmistakable, and the students tensed at his words. His confidence was growing, fueled by the fact that Eratz seemed to acknowledge what they had done.

    "You think you can just come back here like none of it matters? You were expelled for a reason, boy, and I doubt anyone here is the problem" Melcin continued, his voice growing

    louder, angrier.

    Eratz didn''t react. He was simply sitting there, his expression unreadable, as if Melcin''s words were nothing more than background noise.

    The lack of response only seemed to fuel Melcin''s frustration. His face twisted with anger, and he took another step forward, his voice rising.

    "You''re no better than a washed-up cheater! Does anyone at the top know that about you? That you were a dirty cheater? Is that even past news? And now you''re hiding behind some half-breed to heal you? What happened to you, Eratz? Where''s that pride you used to have in the arena?" Melcin''s words were biting, dripping with spite.

    The students exchanged nervous glances, unsure of what to do. Even Mercury, who had been sitting calmly beside Eratz, stiffened slightly at Melcin''s words. She glanced at Eratz, watching him closely, but he didn''t move.

    Melcin''s anger was growing with each passing second, his frustration boiling over as he

    realized Eratz was ignoring him.

    "You''re nothing but filth now... just like that Ishtarian brat next to you! Be a man and tell everyone the truth!" Melcin spat, his eyes darting to Colin with pure disdain. The racial slur hung in the air like poison, silencing the entire cave.

    Everyone froze. The students stared at Melcin in shock, their mouths open in disbelief. Even those who had once mocked Eratz shifted uncomfortably, realizing just how far Melcin had

    gone.

    For a moment, the cave was silent, the tension so thick it was suffocating.

    And then, Eratz switched.

    His entire attitude shifted. He turned to Mercury, his voice calm, disturbingly calm.

    "Mercury," he said quietly, "cover Milo and Colin''s ears."

    Mercury blinked, her eyes narrowing as she studied his face. There was no anger, no fury, just

    a cold, eerie calm.

    She nodded, using her water magic, she created soft earphones for the kids, blocking them

    from hearing what was about to happen.

    Milo and Colin, confused, looked at her.

    "It''s ok," Mercury murmured to them, "Just wait a little bit."

    They remained close to Mercury, who kept their heads turned away from the scene.

    With the kids safely out of earshot and vision, Eratz turned back to Melcin, who had gone pale, the confidence draining from his face.

    Eratz''s steps were slow, deliberate, each one echoing ominously in the cave. The students

    watched in stunned silence, their hearts racing as they felt the shift in the air. Something

    terrible was about to happen.

    Melcin, now realizing the danger, took a step back, his voice shaking.

    "I-I''m warning you, Eratz..."

    The chill pace in Eratz''s advance and his silence froze Melcin in place. He tried to speak again,

    but fear had gripped him, his legs trembling as Eratz drew closer.

    Without a word, Eratz stopped in front of him.

    His fist shot forward, connecting with Melcin''s face with brutal force. The loud crack of bone

    and skin echoed through the cave, blood splattering onto the stone floor.

    Clara''s hand flew to her mouth, closing her eyes, she turned to the side.

    Melcin fell back, clutching his nose, a scream of pain tearing from his throat. Blood poured between his fingers, his eyes wide with shock and terror.

    The students gasped, horror spreading through the group as they watched the scene unfold.

    Melcin rolled on the ground, writhing in agony, his face contorted in pain as blood continued

    to pour from his broken nose.

    "Get up," Eratz said coldly. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Melcin struggled, his body shaking, trying to push himself off the ground, with confusion and anger boiling in him. But when he fully stood, Eratz delivered another punch, this time to his

    stomach.

    Melcin doubled over. His body convulsed, his limbs trembling uncontrollably.

    Lisa winced, tears filling her eyes, unable to look away.

    "Stand up," Eratz ordered again, his voice ominously calm.

    Melcin groaned, barely able to move, his body too weak to comply. But Eratz wasn''t done. He

    stepped closer, placing his boot on Melcin''s foot, his voice low and filled with cold menace.

    "If you don''t get up, I''ll start breaking your bones, one by one... from your toes to your hips."

    Melcin''s eyes widened in fear, his body shaking violently as he struggled to stand. He managed to rise, barely holding himself upright.

    Eratz watched him for a moment, then delivered another brutal punch to Melcin''s stomach.

    The sickening echo filled the cave, and Melcin screamed, collapsing to the ground in a heap.

    He convulsed and vomited the content of his stomach.

    Julian felt his knees weaken as he watched, his stomach twisting.

    The students could do nothing but watch in stunned silence, too terrified to intervene.

    Eratz crouched beside Melcin, his voice eerily calm.

    "Get up."

    Melcin sobbed, his body wracked with pain, tears, and vomit staining the floor. But he knew

    he had no choice. With trembling hands, he held Eratz''s legs to stand, managing to raise

    himself, his knees shaking.

    Eratz observed him for a second, and then... Another punch in the stomach.

    Melcin grunted, dropping to his knees. His body convulsed, his sobs growing louder as the

    pain overwhelmed him.

    "Please... stop..." one of the students whispered, her voice trembling.

    Crystal, watching from the back, felt her knees buckle. She wanted to run, but her legs

    wouldn''t move.

    Eratz ignored the plea. His focus remained on Melcin, who was now crying on the ground.

    "Get up," Eratz repeated.

    Melcin tried, his body shaking uncontrollably, moving the mud mixing his vomit and drops of

    blood, but he couldn''t stand.

    Kenny stood frozen in the back, his face turning blue, unable to process what was happening.

    "Your feet aren''t broken, so you can stand. Get... up."

    Melcin''s body convulsed. He struggled to rise, almost slipping on his vomit. It took him

    almost a minute to fully stand. Eratz observed him for a moment, a few centimeters between

    their heads. Then another punch to the stomach.

    "PLEASE STOOOP!" A student screamed.

    Melcin gave a loud and cracked scream drowned by blood and vomit. He convulsed on the

    ground, moving in his own excretion. He was conscious, fully conscious, feeling everything.

    Eratz watched him for a moment, then sighed.

    "Yep."

    He glanced to the side, not looking at anyone in particular.

    "Now I really don''t care anymore."

 Chapter 74: Breaking the Storm

    Chapter 74: Breaking the StormThe cave was silent except for the soft drip of water echoing in the background. All eyes were on Melcin. He lay there, bathing in his own vomit, tears, and blood, his body convulsing slightly, muscles twitching from the pain.

    His face was a mess, blood streaking from his nose, bruises swelling across his skin, but his eyes... his eyes were what drew everyone''s attention.

    They twitched, flickering as if trying to focus, but there was no power behind them. His mind was awake, painfully aware of everything.

    The humiliation, the overwhelming pain, the despair that wrapped itself around his broken body like a vice.

    He could feel the weight of everyone''s gaze, the judgment, the shock, and worst of all, the pity.

    Tears rolled down his face, not in loud sobs but in silent streams, falling from his eyes unconsciously. He wasn''t even aware of crying, his body too shattered to make any sound. His lips trembled, but no words came. Only the quiet, shaking breaths of someone who had lost everything.

    Eratz turned away without another glance. He walked back toward Mercury and the kids.

    The students shifted, their eyes wide with terror. None of them dared move, too afraid to do anything but watch.

    Kenny, his face pale, crouched down, trying to make himself small, hoping to disappear into the shadows.

    His heart raced as he tried to hide from Eratz''s sight, if he was seen, he was dead.

    When Eratz finally reached Mercury, they exchanged a glance. Mercury broke the silence first. "You okay?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, considering the question. He tilted his head slightly, as if checking in with himself.

    "Surprisingly... yeah." His voice was calm, almost thoughtful.

    "Good for you," Mercury replied, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Now take the kids."

    Eratz blinked, surprised. He looked at her, confused.

    "What?"

    "Tag in," Mercury stood, cracking her knuckles, her gaze shifting to Melcin still lying on the ground. "What you did was for you. Now, it''s Colin''s turn."

    Eratz''s eyes widened in disbelief before a short laugh escaped him.

    "You''re serious?" he asked, amusement dancing in his voice. "You''ll kill him, you know."

    She smirked back at him.

    "Not if Colin gets to him in time."

    Their strange conversation hung in the air, the students watching in stunned silence. Some were confused, others horrified. The way they casually discussed Melcin''s life like it was nothing was terrifying and fascinating all at once.

    Kenny, his back still pressed against the cave wall, couldn''t tear his eyes away.

    Was this really the same Eratz they had known at Genova? And Mercury... she was even scarier than he had imagined, she was way, way too strong, and worse than all, she seemed to know Eratz.

    Julian, beside him, couldn''t move, his entire body frozen in shock.

    Clara watched, her hands shaking slightly. She wanted to help Lisa, but she couldn''t look away from the scene unfolding in front of them.

    Eratz finally sighed, placing a hand on Mercury''s shoulder.

    "Let''s not," he said gently. "Don''t get his vomits on your fists."

    Mercury hesitated, then let out a breath.

    "I could use my shoes but... Fine, but only for now," she said, though her eyes lingered on Melcin a moment longer.

    She leaned down to pick up Colin, gently guiding her back toward Eratz.

    As they all settled back near the kids, the tension in the cave seemed to shift.

    The immediate danger had passed, but outside, the thunderous cries of the birds could still be heard.

    The fight between the two massive monsters raged on, their power tearing through the sky. Eratz glanced toward the walls of the cave, the sound of the battle outside never reducing. "I think the cave was created by the Terrakrus," he mused.

    The air in the cave was thick with, but as Eratz and Mercury sat with Colin and Milo, the atmosphere slowly began to shift.

    The distant sounds of the two colossal birds fighting rang through the air, each screech and crackle making the cave tremble.

    Colin sat huddled close to Milo, her eyes wide with fear, while Milo held her hand tightly, glancing nervously between Eratz and Mercury.

    Eratz glanced over at Mercury, who had the same intense look on her face, eyes narrowed in thought.

    "They''re still going at it," Mercury said, breaking the silence. "It''s like... they don''t even notice we''re not out there anymore."

    "Yeah," Eratz muttered. "They''re more interested in tearing each other apart than anything else."

    Mercury frowned.

    "I''ve never seen anything like them. Not just the power they have but... the way they''re

    fighting."

    Eratz leaned back against the stone wall, sighing.

    "Yeah, they''re not just normal beasts. They''re something else entirely."

    Mercury turned her full attention to him.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Those two," Eratz said, gesturing toward the ceiling, "they have names."

    Mercury blinked in confusion.

    "What? Like every monster, right?"

    "No, real unique names," Eratz said, his voice low. "I saw it when we fought them. The lightning bird, it''s called Raijinara. And the other one, the rain and wind beast, is

    Zephyraquiel."

    Mercury''s eyes widened in surprise, the weight of what Eratz was saying starting to hit her.

    "They have names? Like... like real names?"

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yeah, like Tom and Philippe, and that''s not all. They''re not just powerful, these things are on another level entirely. They''re what''s called ''Calamities.""

    Mercury''s jaw dropped slightly.

    "Calamities? I''ve never heard of that rank. Are you telling me there are monsters even

    stronger than what we know?"

    "Apparently," Eratz said. "These two, they''re not normal, they are the elements themselves. Raijinara is basically made of lightning, and Zephyraquiel commands storms like it''s part of Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    the weather itself."

    Mercury leaned forward, her fingers curling into fists.

    "So... they''re legendary beasts? Like nothing we''ve ever faced before."

    "I''m sure that if the rare beasts appear with a rare tag, then a legendary beast would appear

    with a legendary tag," Eratz answered. "Well, I''d be disappointed if I could hurt a legendary beast with one punch. But these two... it''s like they''ve been locked in this battle forever, and

    we just got caught in the middle."

    Mercury let out a deep breath, processing this new information.

    "No wonder they were so overwhelming. It wasn''t just about us, they were tearing into each

    other, and we just got in the splash zone."

    Eratz nodded.

    "And every time we tried to focus on one, the other would come in and knock us back."

    Mercury''s eyes sharpened as she thought back to the battle.

    "It feel like every time I tried to get a good hit in on the water bird, the thunder one would

    spill his rage on me, and his lightning is making it impossible for me to maintain my field spell."

    "They complement each other," Eratz said. "That''s the problem. We couldn''t do anything because they were fighting as much against us as against each other. Whenever we made a

    move, we were facing two storms at once."

    Mercury''s frustration grew, her hands tightening into fists.

    "We can''t keep fighting them like that. If we do, we''ll just keep getting in the way of their own

    battle."

    Eratz leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees.

    "I''ve been thinking about that. They''re stronger together because they''re covering each

    other''s weaknesses."

    Mercury rubbed her chin, her eyes narrowing in thought.

    "So if we separate them..."

    Eratz stared at her for a long moment, his mind racing with the possibilities.

    "Separate them..."

    For a moment, both of them sat in silence, the idea hanging between them, growing more and

    more solid. Then, at the same time, their eyes widened, and they shot up from their seats.

    "That''s it!" they exclaimed in unison.

    The students'' gaze grew more troubled. Mercury let out a short laugh, shaking her head.

    "We need to split them up. If we fight them together, we''re done for. But if we can break them

    apart, make them fight on their own, we can take them down."

    Eratz grinned. "We need a plan to do that. Somehow, we have to make sure one of them is isolated and take

    them down on one on one."

    Mercury nodded, her eyes gleaming with the thrill of the challenge.

    "And once we separate them, they won''t be able to cover each other. the thunder bird''s

    lightning will be less effective against you, and the water one is my element."

    Eratz stood up, his mind working through the strategy.

    "But the question is, how do we pull it off? They would go full royal rumble on us if we get

    close."

    Mercury crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful.

    "We need to wait for the right moment. When they''re tired, when they''re already worn down

    from fighting each other, that''s when we should strike."

    Eratz nodded.

    "And we use the terrain. We can use your field spells to manipulate the environment, create

    barriers to keep them one trapped. Well, not the thunder one of course."

    Mercury''s smile grew. "Exactly. We can force them into separate areas, I trap the water one while you take on the

    other farther away."

    Eratz and Mercury looked at each other, their determination solidifying into a plan.

    "It''s risky," Mercury said, "but it''s our best shot."

    Eratz grinned. "Let''s do it."

 Chapter 75: The Distance Between Us

    Chapter 75: The Distance Between UsEratz leaned down as he spoke to the kids.

    "Look, I know you''re scared, but trust me, we can handle this. We''ve been through worse, and we''re not going in blind this time."

    Milo shook his head, his voice cracking as he spoke.

    "But those birds... they almost killed you. I don''t want to lose you again."

    Colin nodded, her red eyes wide with worry, her hands trembling in her lap.

    Mercury leaned forward, resting a hand gently on Colin''s shoulder.

    "Hey, it''s okay to be scared, but we''re tougher than that. They kicked our butts once, so now it''s personal."

    Colin hesitated, glancing at Eratz with uncertainty.

    "But what if something happens? What if you don''t come back?"

    Eratz smiled and reached out, ruffling her hair gently.

    "You''re both here, Colin. Did I ever lied to you? I know we will do it, like always, we always

    find a way. And you are here with your fire. We will be fine."

    Milo''s grip on Colin''s hand tightened as he spoke, his voice small.

    "But... how do you know? What if it''s worse than last time?"

    Eratz met Milo''s gaze, his tone calm but firm.

    "Because we''re never wrong, son. Remember that we have a whole season to catch on tomorrow? I''m not missing that."

    Before the conversation could go any further, the guide stepped forward, his face pale.

    "You''re not seriously thinking of going back out there, are you? It''s insane. Those birds are too strong... You barely survived."

    Eratz stood up, meeting the guide''s gaze.

    "Last time, we didn''t know what we were up against. Now, we do. That makes all the difference."

    The guide shook his head, clearly unconvinced.

    "Difference? I''ve never seen monsters like this! Do you really think having a plan changes that?"

    Mercury spoke up, her voice steady.

    "We''re not saying it''s without risk. But if we don''t stop them, those birds will continue destroying everything. It''s not just about us. It''s about protecting everyone else."

    Both of them exchanged an heroic glance, hiding the knowledge that a Calamity rank beast was the prize money.

    A few students whispered among themselves, some too afraid to speak up, while others looked more confused than ever.

    One student, gathering enough courage, hesitated before asking,

    "But... what if you fail again? What happens then?"

    Eratz turned toward the student, and for a brief moment, they seemed to shrink under his gaze. But when he spoke, it wasn''t with anger or frustration.

    "We have to do it, for everyone''s sake."

    His calm and measured response surprised them. More murmurs rose among the group, but the fear that had once dominated the cave began to lessen. Slowly, the students started to realize that Eratz wasn''t the cold, vengeful figure they had expected.

    Another student spoke up, this time with more confidence.

    "But why risk it at all? Why even go after those things? Can''t we just run from here."

    Mercury coughed.

    "Hem... It would be impossible, this dragon used all his power to create this cave and is now exhausted. If we tried to dig in, the walls would bury us."

    "It... It look pretty healthy to me..." A student murmured.

    Ignoring him, Mercury pursued.

    "BUT... if we tame those birds, we could stop them from causing any more damage. Who know? Maybe they will go on a rampage in town? We have to tame them for everyone sake... And, well, having creatures that powerful under control wouldn''t exactly hurt, would it?"

    The guide still looked skeptical, the students exchanged glances, still fearful but beginning to feel a spark of confidence. Melcin''s brutal beatdown seemed justified now, a punishment for his racism. Maybe Eratz wasn''t as cold as they thought, maybe he was just doing what had to be done, maybe it wasn''t even intentional? He was insulted, he was right to defend himself.

    And it was good to be on his good side.

    Another student stepped forward, looking uneasy.

    "So... what do we do?"

    Mercury smirked.

    "You stay out of the way. We''ll take care of the hard part."

    Nervous chuckles rippled through the group. Clara, however, wasn''t laughing. Her eyes were fixed on Lisa, who was still sitting off to the side, staring at the ground in silent despair.

    With a deep breath, she stepped forward and addressed Eratz directly.

    "Eratz..." she began, catching his attention.

    He turned toward her, raising an eyebrow.

    Clara swallowed, her voice hesitant but curious as she finally asked,

    "What''s your relationship with this girl? You two seem... really close."

    For a moment, the cave fell silent. Every eye turned to Eratz. He glanced at Mercury.

    Mercury caught his glance, and her eyebrow twitched, sensing the danger coming before it

    happened.

    "Should I tell them?" Eratz asked.

    Mercury''s face flushed slightly, she remembered what they were talking about before the birds appeared and she crossed her arms over her chest, glaring at him.

    "Don''t you dare," she muttered, but the smirk tugging at the corner of her lips betrayed her

    amusement.

    Everyone could sense the undertone, something deeper lying beneath their banter.

    Eratz smiled, he leaned back, his gaze returning to Clara, but this time it was warmer.

    "Let''s just say we''re close enough to share the same family, she''s the sister of my son, and I''m the brother of her sister."

    For a second, everyone just stared, dumbfounded by the answer.

    Mercury almost burst out laughing, shaking her head.

    "The hell is that supposed to mean?" she shot back, half-amused, half-annoyed. "You''re

    terrible at this, you know that?"

    Eratz grinned wider.

    "You would have prefered the other part?"

    Mercury rolled her eyes, but there was a flush of warmth in her cheeks that didn''t go

    unnoticed.

    The students exchanged glances, baffled by the easy intimacy between the two. This wasn''t just camaraderie, they were close in a way that most of them couldn''t grasp. Kenny felt a sharp, bitter pang deep in his gut. It was like a knife twisting inside him. For so long, he had lusted over Mercury, fantasized about her, the object of his desire.

    She had been unattainable, his current goal, someone that no man could even see smiling.

    But now, seeing her laugh, so natural, so comfortable with him, with Eratz, of all curses, it had to be Eratz.

    It sent a violent wave of anger and jealousy coursing through his veins. His fists clenched at his sides, trembling with barely controlled rage.

    How could Eratz, the one he despised more than anyone, have what he wanted most?

    The idea of Mercury, his Mercury, sharing that easy connection with Eratz made his skin

    crawl.

    In his mind, it felt like a betrayal, as though the universe had aligned against him to screw

    him forever.

    Julian, standing beside him, couldn''t tear his eyes away either. His mind raced, trying to make sense of what he was witnessing.

    The sight of Mercury, so at ease with Eratz, left him unsettled. He muttered under his breath,

    disbelief dripping from his voice.

    "They know each other..."

    It didn''t make sense. How could someone like Eratz have gotten so close to someone like her?

    What were the odds?

    Lisa, watching from her spot in the shadows, felt her heart sinking lower and lower with every word and every glance exchanged between Eratz and Mercury.

    It was as if every playful banter, every smile, drove a sharp blade deeper into her chest.

    She had imagined this moment for so long, fantasized about seeing Eratz again, and what she could say, how they could fix things.

    But now, watching him with Mercury, seeing the bond they shared, her chest burned with an intense, suffocating pain.

    Her throat tightened, and for a second, it felt like she couldn''t breathe. It wasn''t just jealousy; it was the crushing realization that Eratz had moved on without her. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She had spent so long hoping, and he had found someone else, someone who looked like she

    truly belonged by his side.

    The more she watched them, the more the fire in her heart burned, the flames of regret and sorrow licking at her insides until it became almost unbearable.

    Clara, sensing the silent anguish radiating from Lisa, clenched her fists. This was wrong. She

    had always rooted for Lisa, hoped that somehow things could work out between her and Eratz and he would save her from Kenny.

    But watching this... seeing how close Eratz and Mercury were, seeing the way they connected on a level she had never witnessed between Eratz and Lisa, it made her stomach churn. "How could he just... replace her like that?" Clara thought, her nails digging into her palms as

    she watched them.

    The unfairness of it all was suffocating.

    And then there was Crystal, who had been silent this whole time, watching from the back of the cave. Her expression was unreadable, but her eyes narrowed as she watched Mercury, again this Mercury, always her around the boys she was trying to get. Crystal''s mind raced, piecing things together, realizing just how much had changed since they had last seen Eratz. She felt a strange twinge of fear, mixed with confusion. This revision deepens the characters'' reactions, emphasizing the emotional complexity each one feels when confronted with Eratz and Mercury''s bond. Kenny''s lust and envy, Lisa''s heartbreak, Clara''s frustration, and Crystal''s unsettling realization all add to the tension and complexity of the moment.

    Eratz, meanwhile, was ignoring the mix of shock, envy, and confusion rippling through the

    students. "We''ll wait until nightfall," Eratz said, breaking the silence. "That''s when we''ll make our move."

    Mercury stretched her arms, the tension of battle still lingering in her muscles. "Get some rest if you can, once night falls, it''s going to be crazy."

    Farther than everyone else, Crystal''s gaze remained fixed on Eratz, her thoughts churning.

    There was something about him, something she had to figure out. The way he reacted with

    the other students, the violence he showed, the calm following, the warmth.

    She murmured, with a strange smile, so quietly that no one could hear.

    "I knew it..."

 Chapter 76: Ripples of Tension

    Chapter 76: Ripples of TensionThe cave was eerily quiet, the only sound the gentle drip of water echoing off the stone walls. Everyone settled in, their nerves frayed but subdued by the calm atmosphere. Mercury, as usual, took charge, her sharp eyes scanning the surroundings before she made her decision.

    "We''ll be here for hours, might as well make this place comfortable."

    She raised her hands, and with a flick of her wrist, she used her water control to create a small, shimmering lake in the center of the cave. The water was clear, rippling softly under the low light. It looked inviting.

    Milo, watching her with quiet admiration, suddenly felt a surge of inspiration. Without thinking it through, he stepped forward, his fairies fluttering around him. His hands lifted instinctively, and as he focused on the lake, a soft glow began to spread from his fairies'' wings, dancing over the water.

    He didn''t know exactly what he was doing, just that he wanted to add something-something to help.

    To his surprise, the water began to shimmer with a gentle, soothing energy, the surface now glowing faintly. It looked... different, more than just water now.

    "There," Milo said, almost shyly. "I just thought it might make it... better?"

    Mercury blinked, genuinely taken aback. She knelt by the lake, running her fingers through the water. The moment her hand touched it, she felt a wave of rejuvenation ripple through her.

    "You..." she paused, staring at him, astonished. "What did you do?"

    Milo blinked back at her, a bit sheepishly.

    "I... I didn''t mean to. I just thought it''d help."

    Mercury blinked several time.

    "Milo... this is... it feels really good. I feel healing in this, and... It''s pure. Seriously, where did you learn that?"

    She chuckled in surprise, her eyes shining with joy. The fact that he had done this, without even realizing it, impressed her more than she let on.

    As she gazed into the glowing lake, she was completely lost in thought, focused only on the water. Her fingers absently ran over her clothes, her mind entirely on the idea of slipping into the soothing lake.

    It wasn''t a matter of cleaning, this water had a fairy power, she wanted to dive into it at all cost!

    She didn''t even consider the others in the cave, too used to being carefree around Eratz to notice. The boys, however, stood silent, eyes wide as they realized what might happen next. No one dared to speak, barely even breathing, trying to blend into the shadows, hoping she wouldn''t notice them.

    They exchanged nervous glances, hearts pounding, smiles drawing, until Eratz, stepped forward, positioning himself behind Mercury. His stare sent a clear message: don''t even think about it.

    The boys'' eager glances quickly shifted away.

    Mercury, sensing the change in atmosphere, looked over her shoulder and raised her eyebrows.

    "Oh... Maybe we should take turns, girls first, then the boys."

    Eratz gave her a flat look.

    "That''s impossible unless I knock everyone out."

    She chuckled, her eyes drifting back to the lake.

    "I really want to take a bath though..."

    She though for a bit, and then, an idea formed in her mind. She turned to Eratz with a mischievous grin.

    "What if you use Terrakrus'' to separate the cave? Make it bigger, put a wall in the middle? Girls on one side, boys on the other."

    Eratz blinked, surprised.

    "You''re serious? Just for a dip?"

    She nodded.

    "Completely. Come on, Eratz, it''s not like we get a magic lake every day."

    "... We literally could."

    With a resigned sigh, Eratz called used the Terrakrus'' power. The cave rumbled slightly as the earth responded to his command, expanding and creating a solid wall down the middle, dividing the cave in two. It was spacious now, with a clear division between the two sides.

    Just as he finished, a student piped up nervously.

    "I thought you said using too much power would make the cave collapse."

    "The cave feels better," Eratz rolled his shoulders as he stepped back.

    The cave now had ample space for everyone to relax. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Well, that''s done," Eratz muttered, pulling off his tank top without much thought.

    The boys nearby stared at him, their mouths slightly open, while the girls were petrified. This was Eratz? Their Eratz?!

    It only took a moment before he disappeared on the boys'' side, but it was long enough to burn the image in everyone''s mind.

    Mercury, seeing how everyone was reacting, smirked.

    "Alright, everyone, time to split."

    Mercury headed to the girls'' side with Colin, while Milo joined Eratz on the boys'' side, the students watching in stunned silence.

    Julian groaned.

    "No wonder he knows Mercury so well..."

    On the girls'' side, Mercury and Colin had already slid into the lake. The water rippled gently as

    it moved over their skin, soothing their muscles, the soft glow adding an esthetic quality to

    the scene.

    The other girls hesitated by the edge, watching as Mercury leaned back, completely at ease. Her wet hair clung to her shoulders, and the water accentuated her toned muscles and large

    chest.

    It made the other girls feel smaller, almost childlike, as they slipped in after her.

    One of the girls, staring at Mercury''s imposing figure, muttered under her breath,

    "No wonder Eratz ditched Lisa..."

    Lisa, who had been trying to keep to herself, overheard the comment adding salt to her wounds. Her face fell, and she shrunk further into the water, her crushed dignity sinking along

    with her.

    Clara, seeing her friend in pain, frowned. Her protective instincts flared, and she decided to take the lead in confronting Mercury.

    "Mercury, what''s your relationship with Eratz? You two seem... really close, but how is it in

    reality?"

    Mercury, eyes closed, smiled lightly, her body relaxed in the water.

    "That''s the second time you''ve asked me that, are you interested in him or something?"

    Clara flinched, blushing immediately. She stammered, trying to cover her embarrassment.

    "N-no! I just... I''m just curious, that''s all. You didn''t give a proper answer earlier. I just want

    to know."

    Mercury''s smile widened, her eyes still closed.

    "You sure? And what will you do if we''re closer than you imagine? Or maybe you''re waiting for a specific answer?" She let her words hang in the air before continuing. "Why not be

    honest for a second, Crystal?"

    The tension in the air immediately shifted, the soft lapping of the water against their skin

    now the only sound. Clara blinked, stunned.

    "...Eh?" she stammered, unsure of how to respond.

    Before Clara could speak further, Crystal stepped confidently into the water, her every

    movement deliberate and graceful. The water shimmered around her as she joined the group,

    the glowing surface reflecting off her skin.

    "You''re very fast, aren''t you? Maybe too much," Crystal said, her smile sharp. "I''m Crystal, and it''s nice to know Eratz has mentioned me."

    Her entrance made waves, both literally and figuratively. The other girls watched, wide-eyed,

    as she faced Mercury. The soft glow of the water accentuated the tension between them, like

    two predators circling each other.

    Crystal leaned back, letting the water slide over her shoulders and long black hair.

    "It''s better this way, really," she continued, her voice smooth. "If Eratz ignores me now, it''s because he still feels something. Hatred and love, they''re just two sides of the same coin."

    Mercury opened her eyes fully, her gaze meeting Crystal''s.

    "You think ignoring you means he still thinks about you?"

    Crystal''s confident smile faltered slightly, but she quickly recovered. She wasn''t backing

    down.

    "I''ve known Eratz long before you did, You don''t understand him the way I do. If he talks about me, even to dismiss me, it means I still matter to him. You wouldn''t understand that,

    would you?"

    Mercury leaned back against the edge of the lake, water running down her arms as she tilted her head slightly, regarding Crystal with a disinterested look. The soft glow of the water clung to her skin, adding to her aura of calm, unshakable power.

    "No, I can''t understand, I''m not a delusional bitch living in the past." Mercury said, her voice low and uninterested. "Eratz mentioned you once, and never mentioned your existence after. I kept you in mind, because I need to recognize the poison lurking to him. I''m more impressed that you think about that after what you did."

    The tension rippled through the water, the girls caught in the silent battle between Mercury and Crystal. Crystal crossed her arms, eyes narrowing slightly as she pressed on.

    "If you understand that, then you shouldn''t underestimate me," she said quietly, her voice soft. "You think you''ve replaced something that deep? If he talks about me at all, even to insult me, it means I still have a place in his mind. And I saw something... Hm, might as well surprise you someday, right?"

    Mercury''s gaze didn''t waver, her expression remaining calm, almost bored.

    "Or maybe you''re just delusional, You want to think you matter, but to him, you''re just a

    closed chapter. Someone can change one day to another and what mattered yesterday won''t

    matter tomorrow. To me, you''re the one stuck in the past."

    The water shimmered between them, the passive aggression palpable, like a snake coiling to strike against a crocodile that simply doesn''t care.

    Crystal, sensing the shift, tried to regain her footing.

    "You don''t know him like I do, Mercury. You might have his attention now because you''re

    both beast masters, but are you sure you know him like I do?"

    Mercury sighed, her eyes glinting slightly.

    "Delusion and stupidity are also two sides of the same coin and they shine a lot in you."

    The exchange settled into silence, the other girls looking between Mercury and Crystal, unsure of who would strike next.

    But Mercury, as usual, barely reacted, her calm demeanor never faltering. She didn''t need to engage further, her confidence was enough, and this indifference somehow annoyed Crystal. Lisa, who had been sitting quietly in the background, suddenly spoke up, her voice trembling.

    "You don''t understand, Mercury. You can''t understand what happened between Eratz and us... I... it was all an accident."

    Mercury''s eyes narrowed, her expression darkening. Slowly, she rose from the water, her massive frame towering over Lisa, casting a long shadow that seemed to swallow her whole.

    The shimmering water rolled down her body, her shoulders and powerful arms glistening under the dim light. Her presence was overwhelming, almost suffocating.

    She was easily the tallest among them, with Lisa barely reaching her throat level, her small stature a stark contrast to Mercury''s intimidating form.

    Lisa''s breath hitched, her eyes widening as she craned her neck to look up. The size difference

    made her seem insignificant, her body shrinking under the weight of Mercury''s looming

    figure.

    Mercury''s voice was low, almost a growl, as she spoke.

    "You think I don''t understand? You think you can hide behind excuses?"

    Each word sent a shiver through the water, rippling out as if even the lake itself trembled

    beneath her power. The other girls froze, their eyes wide with fear as they watched the scene unfold, suddenly aware of just how easily Mercury could crush them if she wanted. Lisa''s hands trembled in the water, her mouth opening but no words coming out. She tried to defend herself, but the overwhelming pressure of Mercury''s presence silenced her. "You know what you did," Mercury continued, her eyes piercing through Lisa, "No one forced

    you, you chose to give yourself to someone who buried the one who fought for you. To me, the biggest sin is betrayal, so don''t try to justify what you did."

    Lisa''s heart pounded, her breath coming in shallow gasps. She barely managed a whisper, her

    voice shaking.

    "I... I didn''t mean for things to happen 1-like that. I... I was just... scared."

    Mercury leaned down slightly, her face inches from Lisa''s.

    "Scared? You don''t know what fear is, but if you play this game... you will find out why you''re

    right to be scared now."

    The other girls were silent, too terrified to move, their eyes darting between Mercury and

    Lisa, knowing that any wrong move could unleash Mercury''s fury like Eratz did with Melcin. On the boys'' side, Eratz sat quietly with Milo, the atmosphere much calmer. The boys, though

    still tense, were beginning to relax. The water, infused with Milo''s fairy magic, was warm and soothing. It was a strange contrast to the tension on the girls'' side.

    "You ever do this before?" Eratz asked Milo, noticing the effect the water was having.

    Milo, more at ease now, nodded.

    "Yeah, when you turn your back after giving me... when I sleep after dreaming I tricked your

    rul.... I mean, I''m a smart boy... Y''know."

    Eratz chuckled, thinking to himself.

    "You''re really smart, yeah. Maybe we''re ready now."

    Some of the boys, more relaxed now that the tension had eased, started talking quietly among

    themselves. Their voices were hushed, but the topic of their conversation was clear.

    "Do you think... we could sneak a peek at the girls'' side?" one of them whispered, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. Another boy nudged him, his voice low but eager.

    "You serious? If we could get a look at Mercury... man, she''s something else."

    The third boy, feeling bolder than the others, smirked.

    "We could do it, you know. I could blast a little hole through the wall. Just enough to see,

    nothing big." He began gathering fire energy in his hand, the faint glow of the flames illuminating his sly expression.

    They exchanged a look, their excitement growing as they concocted a plan. "Yeah, we''ll fake a fight," one of them suggested, trying to sound casual. "Get everyone''s

    attention, and then boom, a little hole in the wall."

    They chuckled quietly, confident in their little scheme. The boy with the fire energy started pretending to shove one of the others, setting the scene for their distraction.

    Before anything could happen, Eratz, eyes still closed, said calmly. "Quiet down."

    The boys froze, fear gripping them. The fireball hit flew to the wall, without doing any

    damage.

    The boys froze, their hearts pounding. The tension in Eratz''s voice was enough to drain the

    color from their faces.

    The boy who had let off the fireball stammered, his voice barely a whisper.

    "I... I didn''t mean to..."

    Eratz opened one eye.

    "You really think you could break through a wall I made?"

    The boys gulped, their confidence shattered. One of them tried to muster the courage to joke.

    "Come on, man, don''t you want to see too? You''re a boy like us."

    Eratz sighed

    "You can try again, and You''ll wake up with Melcin."

    That was enough. The boys quickly backed down, their earlier boldness replaced by a deep

    fear of the man sitting calmly before them.

    They slunk back to their spots, whispering apologies to each other, but no one dared look

    toward the wall again.

    Time passed, the cave falling into a strange calm.

    Outside, the roars of the colossal birds grew fainter, a sign that the battle was nearing its end.

    Eratz and Mercury, on opposite sides of the cave, rested quietly with Colin and Milo close by.

    As the evening settled in, Eratz and Mercury looked up toward the ceiling.

    It was almost time.

 Chapter 77: Clash of Titans

    Chapter 77: Clash of TitansThe storm raged above, and the atmosphere was torn apart by thunder and rain.

    Eratz and Mercury exchanged a glance, and nodded to each other.

    This was it, the final rush. Raijinara and Zephyraquiel were still in the air, locked in battle, but they needed to be separated for Eratz and Mercury to take them on individually.

    Eratz closed his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling the familiar stir of power within him.

    He summoned the strength of all his beasts at once, their energies merging inside him converging into an explosion.

    His aura ignited, swirling black and white, laced with crackling blue lightning.

    The air cracked with electricity, and the ground trembled beneath his feet.

    His hair floating as if underwater, and his eyes snapped open, glowing.

    He launched himself into the stormy sky, the wind rushing past him as he soared toward Zephyraquiel.

    Drawing back his fist, he channeled all his energy into the blow. He let out a roar as he slammed his fist into the bird''s head.

    The impact was explosive, a shockwave rippled outward, pushing back the clouds and parting the rain.

    Zephyraquiel screeched in pain, its massive body plummeting toward the ground.

    Seizing the moment, Mercury raised her hands, a vast sphere of glowing blue spread and swallowed the falling bird.

    The bird thrashed and flapped its wings, but the density of the water was different and restrained its movements.

    Suddenly, a deafening crack split the air, Raijinara noticed their attack on its rival.

    It shrieked with rage, bolts of lightning arcing off its body. In a flash, it hurtled toward Mercury, electricity surging around.

    Eratz saw the danger and reacted instantly. He intercepted Raijinara mid-air, delivering a powerful punch to the thunder bird''s beak, but Raijinara was relentless.

    It snapped at him with razor-sharp talons, but it was a chance that Eratz was waiting for, his heart racing as he grabbed Raijinara''s legs.

    The thunder bird screeched in fury.

    The moment he latched onto the bird''s talon, lightning surged through him, searing his muscles, but Eratz held on, gritting his teeth, refusing to let go.

    Raijinara screeched again, thrashing wildly in the sky as it tried to shake Eratz off.

    Its wings beat furiously, generating gusts of wind strong enough to uproot trees.

    The struggle was immense, the bird''s power overwhelming, but Eratz dug deep, summoning every ounce of his strength.

    His teeth clenched hard, his chest tightened, and his aura flared.

    With a roar that echoed through the sky, Eratz pulled with all his strength. His muscles bulged, veins popping under his skin as he yanked Raijinara''s massive body downward.

    The bird screeched in fury, its wings flapping wildly as it struggled to stay airborne, but Eratz didn''t relent.

    He let out a primal scream as he gave one final pull.

    CRASH!

    Raijinara crashed into the ground like a meteor with a force that shook the forest, sending shockwaves through the area.

    The students, still in the cave, gasped in awe and horror. Milo and Colin held hands, waiting with anxiety.

    Eratz, breathing heavily, stood tall, his chest heaving, but his eyes were locked on Raijinara, who struggled to rise.

    Meanwhile, Mercury faced Zephyraquiel in her field spell. The rain bird summoned streams of water, each one crashing down toward her.

    Mercury''s eyes glowed as she manipulated her field spell, directing the water to curve around her.

    The liquid obeyed her command, forming spiraling tendrils that she whipped toward Zephyraquiel.

    The bird responded by diving to the side, heading to an exit.

    Without hesitation, Mercury followed, extending her field spell and using the currents to follow the Monster.

    Her field spell became a swirling maelstrom. Zephyraquiel moved with fluid grace, its form merging with the environment. Mercury concentrated, feeling the water around her respond to her will. The field spell turned more and more like a true orb of water.

    Zephyraquiel shot forward, its beak and talons aiming for Mercury with lethal precision. She dodged narrowly, the water aiding her movements.

    Gathering her energy, she unleashed a powerful underwater shockwave, the force sending bubbles and currents rushing outward.

    The impact struck Zephyraquiel, pushing it back.

    The bird screeched silently, opening its beak to release a concentrated jet stream.

    Mercury countered by forming a dense shield of compressed water, the jet impacting it with tremendous force.

    With a swift motion, she transformed the shield into a shockwave, propelling it toward the bird, but Zephyraquiel flapped its wings again, summoning another wave of water to crash down on Mercury''s wave.

    The two forces collided, creating a massive explosion of water. The rainbird screeched again, furious, but Mercury didn''t let up.

    She swirled the water around her, creating a massive whirlpool.

    The vortex pulled Zephyraquiel into its center, the pressure threatening to crush it.

    The bird fought back, summoning all its strength to generate a powerful current that disrupted the whirlpool.

    Back on the other side, Raijinara had regained its footing, its body crackling with renewed electrical energy.

    It glared at Eratz, its eyes glowing with rage. With a screech, it unleashed a volley of lightning bolts, but Eratz was ready.

    He dodged the bolts with ease, his body moving at high speed. As he closed the distance between them, he could feel the raw power of the bird''s lightning coursing through the air, but he didn''t tremble.

    His aura flared again, and with a roar, he launched himself at the bird, his fists glowing with spiritual power.

    His fist connected with Raijinara''s head, sending another shockwave through the battlefield.

    The bird screeched in agony, its body shaking from the force of the blow. It propelled itself again in the air and retaliated with a lightning strike, the bolt hitting Eratz and destroying the

    ground.

    Pain seared through him, his muscles convulsing as the electricity tore through his body, but he grit his teeth and pushed through it.

    He roared and launched himself above again, unleashing a barrage of punches. Each strike hit with increasing force, and his range kept increasing, the bird''s body jerking with each impact, and with a final surge of power, he released a beam of light through one punch, narrowly

    dodged by the monster.

    Eratz''s energy had become something else, the spiritual power now fully covering him.

    The battle escalated to new heights.

    The thunder bird unleashed a massive electrical storm, bolts of lightning converging toward

    Eratz from all directions.

    He crossed his arms over his chest, his aura intensifying, expanding his bubble shield outward, the barrier absorbing the strikes, each impact rippling across its surface like stones

    dropped in water.

    Once the attack ceased, Eratz propelled himself directly at Raijinara.

    The thunder bird screeched, generating a massive electric charge. Eratz countered by channeling his energy into a concentrated beam of pure power, shooting it straight from his

    punch.

    The beam collided with Raijinara''s lightning, the two forces clashing in a dazzling explosion that lit up the sky.

    Meanwhile, Mercury had Zephyraquiel trapped in a vortex of water, but the bird wasn''t giving

    up.

    It screeched and thrashed, its wings creating powerful gusts of wind that tore through the

    battlefield.

    The wind howled, ripping through the air like a hurricane, but Mercury held firm.

    She raised her hand, and with a final surge of power, she tightened the vortex, pulling Zephyraquiel deeper into the water.

    The bird screeched, its body thrashing wildly, but Mercury didn''t let up. She poured every ounce of her power into the spell, determined to bring the creature down. Zephyraquiel screeched, the monster breakthrough in a burst and dived toward her, but Mercury moved fluidly, raising her hand as a massive column of water erupted from the

    ground, colliding with the bird.

    The impact sent shockwaves through the air, but she remained immobile, her gaze steady and

    unyielding.

    She was feeling good, very good, maybe too much.

    She closed her eyes, feeling each once of water as it touched her skin, merging with her

    essence.

    The water around her began to ripple, responding to her heartbeat. With a deep breath, she let

    go of conscious thought, allowing instinct to guide her.

    The battlefield transformed into a symphony of water and wind.

    Mercury danced in the water, each step creating ripples that turned into waves, surging

    toward her opponent.

    Zephyraquiel countered with gusts of wind, but she embraced them, using the currents to

    propel herself higher.

    In a powerful leap, she ascended above the bird.

    Extending her hands, she summoned a swirling vortex of water, and with a swift motion, she

    directed it downward.

    The vortex engulfed Zephyraquiel, trapping it within a spiraling prison of crushing force.

    Mercury could feel the essence of water bending to her will.

    She reached deeper into her power than ever before, instead of channeling a beast, she connected directly with the element of water within her itself.

    A cool, calming energy flowed through her, filling every fiber of her being. When she opened her eyes, they glowed a brilliant blue. Water swirled around her, not just in

    the air but emanating from within her body.

    She had entered a new form, a water beastification without a beast. She had become one with

    the water.

    High above, Eratz hovered in the air, his aura a swirling maelstrom of black and white energy,

    laced with blue lightning.

    His power kept increasing, but no matter how much far he pushed himself, he could always

    feel something deeper.

    Raijinara unleashed a volley of lightning bolts. Eratz weaved through them, the air buzzing

    around him.

    He closed his eyes briefly. He could feel everything, in himself and in his surroundings.

    He felt the collective spirits of his beasts, not as separate entities but as a unified force.

    He felt the possibility to channel his power inside to the exterior.

    He could determine the limits of his range.

    He could control what kind of power it would be.

    The result of this equation was...

    A Field Spell.

    The space around him shifted, a translucent dome of swirling energy expanded outward,

    encapsulating both him and Raijinara.

    Within this field, he felt every fluctuation of power, every single shift in the bird''s posture. Time seemed to slow as he heightened his awareness.

    Raijinara screeched, attempting to break free from the field spell''s influence.

    Eratz raised both hands, and streams of his aura spiraled around the bird, constricting its

    movements.

    With a subtle gesture, he manipulated the energy, causing it to pulse in sync with Raijinara''s own electrical surges, effectively neutralizing them. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He moved his fingers as if playing an invisible instrument, each motion directing a new wave

    of energy.

    Beams of light, arcs of electricity, and pulses of pure force converged upon the thunder bird in

    a meticulously orchestrated assault.

    Raijinara struggled, but Eratz anticipated every counter, adjusting his strategy with fluid

    adaptability.

    In the water field spell, Mercury''s eyes glowed with a fierce blue light as she initiated her final

    move.

    Taking a deep breath, she concentrated harder than ever before. The water around her began

    to vibrate, the molecules agitating at an increasing rate.

    She focused on her Field Spell, feeling every particle of water within its bounds, even in

    Zephyraquiel. Channeling her energy, she initiated a chain reaction, exciting the water molecules to the point of instability.

    In an instant, the water within her field spell detonated. A massive explosion of water erupted outward, a dome of force that expanded rapidly.

    The explosion consumed Zephyraquiel, the bird engulfed in the blast as its own body turned

    against it. As the mist settled, Mercury descended gently to the ground. The storm around her began to calm, the rain softening to a gentle drizzle

    In the meantime, Eratz drew upon the entirety of his field spell, he began to concentrate the swirling energies into a singular point above his palm.

    The sphere grew, its luminosity intensifying. The air vibrated with power.

    With a calm exhale, he released the energy. The sphere transformed into a massive surge that

    engulfed Raijinara and destroyed the ground.

    The bird was caught within the epicenter of the blast, its form silhouetted against the

    brilliant light.

    The storm clouds parted, revealing the first hints of a starry sky.

    Eratz lowered his hands, his aura gently receding, his gaze on his favorite totem, the stars in

    the celestial vault.

 Chapter 78: Between Two Storms

    Chapter 78: Between Two StormsThe world settled into an eerie calm as the last echoes of thunder faded into the distance.

    The sky began to clear, revealing streaks of a starry night.

    The air was thick with the scent of rain and scorched earth.

    Eratz knelt on one knee in the middle of the ravaged clearing, his body heaving with exhaustion.

    His field spell and beastification had dissipated, leaving only faint wisps that flickered around him like dying embers.

    He raised his hand toward Raijinara''s body.

    The bird began to dissolve into streams of light, golden bolts of electricity drawn toward Eratz.

    The energy surged toward him, enveloping his outstretched hand in crackling light.

    His eyes glowed faintly as the power flowed into him, Raijinara''s being absorbed successfully. Sweat and rain mingled on his skin, tracing paths down his face. His eyes trembled slightly, but a slow, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

    They had succeeded.

    Farther away, Mercury stood amidst a gentle swirl of shimmering particles, and face to her, Zephyraquiel, the colossal rain bird she had just defeated.

    The lights danced around her, drawn toward her outstretched hand like moths to a flame. As the last of the particles converged into her palm, a brilliant glow enveloped her, and the beast was absorbed in a dazzling display.

    The light faded, and Mercury let out a deep, contented sigh before her legs gave way.

    She fell backward onto the damp grass, arms sprawled, breathing heavily but smiling wide as she gazed up at the clearing sky.

    For a moment, neither of them moved. The silence after the storm was profound, broken only by the distant drip of water from leaves and the soft rustling of the wind.

    From the edge of the forest, two small figures emerged cautiously, Colin and Milo. Their eyes were wide with concern and awe as they took in the scene before them. Milo''s fairies fluttered nervously around him, their tiny lights flickering erratically. "Eratz! Mercury!" Colin called out, her voice thin against the vast silence.

    Eratz turned his head slowly to look at them, his gaze softening.

    "Hey, you two," he said, his voice rough but warm.

    Milo rushed over to Mercury, the fairies immediately beginning to circle around her.

    Their soft glow intensified as they channeled healing energies into her.

    "You did it," Milo whispered, his eyes shining. "You really did it."

    Mercury chuckled weakly.

    "Told you, Hehe..."

    Colin hurried to Eratz''s side, dropping to her knees beside him, washing him under her fire.

    "Are you okay?" she asked anxiously.

    Eratz turned his head to smile at the girl. "Better than ever," he replied.

    Colin sighed in relief.

    As Milo and Colin worked their healing magic, the rest of the students and the guide, supporting Melcin, slowly began to emerge from their hiding spots within the cave.

    Their movements were cautious, hesitant, and their faces were marked by a mix of shock, awe, and disbelief.

    The sudden end of the storm had left them bewildered, but the sight of Eratz and Mercury standing victorious after such a monumental battle was beyond their comprehension.

    The magnitude of what they had just witnessed seemed impossible to process.

    Julian, for once deprived of his confidence, took a tentative step forward, his eyes wide as he stared at the two figures who had just single-handedly taken down two monstrous beasts. His voice trembled with uncertainty.

    "Is... is it over?" he asked, barely managing to get the words out.

    Mercury, lying back on her elbows, looked at him with a nod.

    "Yes, it''s over."

    A murmur rippled through the group. Some students gasped audibly, while others exchanged stunned glances, trying to make sense of the scene before them.

    Relief filled them in waves, but it was accompanied by something much stronger, utter disbelief, and even admiration.

    They had known Eratz and Mercury were skilled beast masters, but this? What they had just witnessed transcended anything they had imagined.

    It wasn''t just power, it was dominance, mastery on a scale they had never seen.

    Many of them had see their abilities, but now, faced with the aftermath, it was far worse than what they imagined.

    Clara slowly approached Mercury and Eratz, her eyes flickering between the two.

    She was struck by the silent, almost effortless connection between them.

    They were close, ok. They were strong, ok. But they also shared the same feat?

    Clara swallowed hard, feeling bad for Lisa. How could they be this... in tune?

    Lisa trailed behind, her face pale, heart heavy. She had watched them too, seen the way they subtly exchanged gazes, the unspoken understanding that passed between them.

    A sharp pain twisted in her chest as she realized the depth of the bond they shared, a bond that left her feeling more distant from Eratz than ever.

    Her hands trembled slightly as she kept her distance, not wanting to face the reality of what she had seen.

    Behind them, Crystal lingered at the edge of the group, her face unreadable but her eyes narrowed.

    She watched Mercury intently, a wave of bitterness rising inside her. Mercury, always at the center of attention, always shining brighter than the her.

    Crystal''s lips curled in irritation as she crossed her arms, the resentment bubbling within her.

    Nothing was worse than seeing her rival in the light.

    Kenny, hidden in the shadows, remained frozen in place, his heart pounding painfully in his chest.

    He couldn''t move, couldn''t bring himself to step into the light. His mind reeled, replaying the horrible noises they heard, and now Eratz was there, victorious after going through that.

    It was unimaginable, the gap between them wasn''t just large, it was insurmountable.

    His fingers twitched as he clenched his fists, frustration and fear boiling inside him.

    ''How did he become this strong?''

    He felt like a child compared to them, and the realization made his stomach churn.

    More students began to gather around Eratz and Mercury, their expressions a mix of awe and

    regret.

    One of the braver students, a petite girl with short brown hair and glasses, hesitated before

    stepping forward.

    Her voice was shaky, her words barely above a whisper.

    "Thank you," she said. "You... saved us. We would''ve died without you."

    Another student, his face flushed with embarrassment, nodded in agreement.

    "We were wrong... about everything."

    A third voice chimed in, more confident but equally remorseful.

    "Yeah, we treated you like outsiders, but you''re not... You''re the only reason we''re still alive.

    Sorry about that."

    More voices followed, their tone filled with gratitude and a hint of shame.

    "We... misjudged you. We let rumors cloud our judgment. I''m so sorry."

    "Thank you, Eratz, and Mercury. We don''t deserve what you did for us." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The chorus of apologies and thanks grew louder, the students'' regret palpable as they

    gathered closer.

    The atmosphere was heavy with the weight of their changed perspective.

    Everything they thought they knew about Eratz had crumbled in the face of undeniable power.

    Eratz, still recovering from the battle, slowly rose to his feet.

    He looked over the group, his expression calm.

    "It''s alright, it''s convenient to be strong, right?" he said simply. "I''m not angry, I wouldn''t

    have met my family without it."

    A boy scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, his usual bravado absent. He looked

    sheepishly at Eratz.

    "Yeah... Maybe we should have considered that you weren''t a cheater... Sorry that it had to

    come to this. We shouldn''t have treated you like that. I guess we let those rumors get the best

    of us."

    Eratz offered him a small, smile.

    "Well, nothing has been denied today, maybe appearances still matter?"

    Mercury, now fully on her feet, stretched her arms and rolled her shoulders, the tension

    easing from her muscles.

    She glanced around at the group, a small smirk playing on her lips.

    "Well, now I think it''s time we keep moving. No telling what else might be out there waiting

    for us." The guide, who had remained silent during the exchange, finally stepped forward, still supporting a barely conscious Melcin.

    His face was pale, and he was visibly shaken by what had transpired. He glanced between

    Eratz and Mercury, his voice quiet and uncertain.

    "You''re... You''re something else. I''ve never seen anything like that in my life."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his voice neutral.

    "Aren''t you a pro beast master? Are you living in a cave?"

    The students, still in shock, began to gather their belongings. They headed back in the cave to

    recover what was left and soon, met again at he entrance.

    As they organized themselves, Lisa approached Eratz cautiously.

    "Eratz," she began, her voice barely above a whisper.

    He turned to look at her, his expression fading in a frown.

    "Hm?"

    She hesitated, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

    "I... I''m glad you''re okay."

    He regarded her for a moment before rising an eyebrow.

    An uncomfortable silence stretched between them. Lisa opened her mouth to say more, but

    the words wouldn''t come.

    Mercury observed from a short distance, her gaze unreadable.

    Clara touched Lisa''s arm gently.

    "Come on," she urged softly. "We should get going."

    Lisa cast one last glance at Eratz before allowing herself to be led away.

    As they set off toward the forest''s edge, the students fell into small groups, their conversations hushed.

    The atmosphere was a mix of residual fear and burgeoning respect for their unexpected

    saviors.

    When they reached the entrance of the forest, Eratz and Mercury halted.

    "We''ll part here, you should be fine on your own," Eratz announced.

    The students exchanged puzzled looks.

    "Why? You''re not coming?" Julian asked, voicing the group''s curiosity.

    Eratz glanced at Mercury before replying.

    "What''s happened in the forest stay in the forest. We have obligations to tend to."

    Mercury nodded in agreement.

    "You all should head back too. There''s no danger now."

    The girl with glasses stepped forward again.

    "Will you be okay on your own? Don''t you need to see a doctor?"

    Eratz smiled reassuringly.

    "We''ll be fine."

    There was a moment of hesitation before she spoke again.

    "Eratz, can I ask you something?"

    He met her gaze.

    "Go ahead."

    She took a deep breath.

    "At the academy, there were... rumors about you. That you did something terrible. That you

    cheated to be stronger and that you assaulted someone... Is it true?"

    The air grew thick with tension as everyone fell silent. All eyes turned to Eratz, waiting for his

    response.

    Even those who had been avoiding the subject now stood still, eager to hear his answer. Crystal, who had been keeping her distance, stiffened, her heart racing.

    At this moment, Eratz was invincible, whatever he would say would come Truth.

    She bit her lip nervously, her fingers trembling as she watched Eratz carefully.

    She had hoped to stay in the shadows, but now she feared she might be dragged into the light.

    Eratz''s eyes flickered briefly toward the back of the group, where Kenny and Crystal stood

    partially obscured.

    He shrugged lightly.

    "Perhaps you should ask those who spread the rumors."

    The students turned to look at each other, confusion evident.

    "Who started the rumors?" someone whispered.

    Eratz answered indifferently.

    "Those hiding behind you might have some answers."

    Kenny''s face drained of color. He took an involuntary step back. Crystal''s eyes widened, a

    flicker of panic crossing her features.

    Clara followed Eratz''s gaze.

    "Wait, Kenny? Crystal?"

 Chapter 79: Shattered Facade

    Chapter 79: Shattered FacadeThe group stood in a tense silence, the weight of years of betrayal and unresolved hatred hanging in the air.

    Eratz and Kenny finally faced each other, their history pressing in like a thick fog.

    But Kenny didn''t look remorseful or intimidated. In fact, a sly, confident grin curled on his lips as he stepped forward, daring to break the silence first.

    "Well, well, look at you now, Eratz. All this power and still carrying a grudge? You always did have a way of getting things handed to you, talent, opportunities... but we both know you''re just a fake. A cheater."

    Kenny''s voice dripped with venom, the accusation hanging in the air like a poisoned blade. Mercury''s eyes narrowed as she studied Kenny, recognizing him immediately.

    "Wait," she muttered, her voice icy. "This is the piece of shit that used to stalk me like a beaten dog."

    Kenny flinched at her words, but he quickly turned back to Eratz, trying to regain his composure.

    Mercury stepped up beside Eratz, her presence like a storm rolling in.

    "You''re the same creep who couldn''t take a hint, still talking big with nothing to back it up."

    Kenny shot her a sharp glance, his frustration bubbling over.

    "This is your fault, Eratz!" he snapped, pointing an accusing finger at him. "You think you''re so much better than me, but look at you now, you''re hiding behind her! Always needing someone stronger to shield you!"

    Eratz''s expression didn''t change. He stood perfectly still, his eyes cold, but otherwise, his demeanor was eerily calm.

    He didn''t immediately respond, letting the weight of Kenny''s words linger.

    Kenny, mistaking Eratz''s silence for hesitation, pressed on, his grin widening.

    "Don''t think for a second that all this new power of yours changes what happened. You cheated. You were nothing without those tricks, and you still are. The only difference is you''ve got a few new monsters to hide behind."

    He stepped closer, his tone growing more mocking.

    "Everyone knows what you are, Eratz. And no amount of punching monsters or playing hero is going to change that. You''re still the same coward who got kicked out for cheating."

    Eratz finally spoke, his voice quiet, almost conversational.

    "Cheating, huh? Is that still your story?"

    Kenny''s grin faltered slightly, but he forced himself to keep his confident facade.

    "That''s not just my story, it''s the truth. You know it. I know it. And everyone else knows it. You got what you deserved back then."

    The others around them shifted uneasily, sensing the tension growing thicker by the second.

    Eratz took a small step forward, his eyes never leaving Kenny''s, his voice calm but carrying an undeniable weight.

    "You think you can keep telling that same lie? After all this time?"

    Kenny scoffed.

    "Lie? You''re still pretending like you didn''t rig the system? Please. You were always good at playing the victim. Always hiding behind your... beast tricks." He spat the last words like a

    curse.

    Eratz''s gaze darkened, but his tone remained calm, too calm.

    "You''re still not owning up to it? Even now, after everything?"

    Kenny sneered, feeling emboldened.

    "Why should I? You were the one who got caught. You were the one who messed up. I just did what anyone would do. You''re lucky you didn''t get worse. All of this, it''s your fault! Mercury, she... You''ve ruined everything!"

    Mercury raised an eyebrow.

    "What''s with my name?"

    "Is that what this is about?" Eratz asked casually. "You''re even more pathetic than I thought."

    Kenny snarled, trying to maintain his tough facade, but there was a desperation in his eyes

    now.

    "Insult me if you want, I was never the problem, you were! You and your little tricks, cheating your way through everything!"

    Eratz fell silent for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. Then, with a quiet sigh, he said.

    "You should really think about finding a religion, Kenny."

    Kenny blinked, thrown off by the sudden change in tone.

    "What?"

    Eratz''s voice was still calm, but now there was something dark, something ominous lurking behind the words.

    "You''re going to need something to save you if you keep pushing this."

    Kenny''s bravado cracked even further, but he quickly masked it with anger.

    "I''m not scared of you! You''re just trying to play the victim, like always."

    Eratz shook his head, almost in disappointment.

    "I don''t need to scare you, for what I''m wanting to do."

    Kenny''s voice cracked as he tried to hold onto his anger.

    The tension around them grew unbearable. The students watching from a distance could feel

    the shift in the air.

    Even Crystal, who had remained silent, felt a shiver run down her spine.

    "You think you''re so much better than me? You think you can just walk away from everything you did?"

    Eratz''s calm expression didn''t change.

    "You sure you don''t want me to walk away? You''ve been running from the truth since that day, and you got away with the privilege of being ignored. Do you want to have something

    worse?"

    Kenny''s face twisted with guilt and rage. His fists clenched, and he took a step forward, but Eratz didn''t flinch.

    Mercury stepped between them, her eyes flashing with fury.

    "Back off, you idiot. You think you can do anything to him? Know your place."

    Kenny glared at Mercury, his frustration boiling over.

    "Why do you even care about him? He''s using you! You think he''s so great? He is a cheater who assaulted a girl!" Kenny shouted, his voice rising with false confidence.

    Mercury narrowed her eyes.

    "Now I really wonder how an idiot like you could manipulate so many people."

    "Mercury," Kenny said, his voice cracking slightly as he tried to sound confident. "Why are you sticking with him? He''s nothing compared to what I can offer. You and I... we''d make a perfect team. You don''t need him. You need someone who can actually help you, someone strong who is not a criminal."

    Mercury didn''t even turn to face him at first. She glanced at Milo, and her lips barely moved, but her eyes said everything.

    She was growing tired of Kenny''s rambling, the nonsense spewing from his mouth and something dangerous was birthing in her mind.

    "Mercury, come on! I was better than him, if you just gave me a chance, just a chance, it will be all the motivation I need," Kenny continued, growing more frantic.

    His voice wavered, but he tried to sound bold.

    "You know he''s not on your level, right? He''s been dragging you down all this time! You

    deserve someone who knows how to treat a lady."

    The students around him began exchanging disgusted looks. Julian rolled his eyes, muttering

    to the person next to him.

    "I don''t know this guy, but he just doesn''t know when to quit, does he?"

    Another student scoffed quietly, "Pathetic." Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury''s patience snapped. She turned toward Kenny, her face twisted with irritation. Her

    fists clenched, and her eyes started to shine.

    She took a step toward him, her presence alone sending a chill through the air.

    "Eratz," she said, her voice low and dangerous. "Cover Colin and Milo''s ears."

    Kenny flinched at the sharpness of her tone but, before he could finish, the air around them

    shifted.

    Eratz stepped forward, his eyes locked on Kenny. The atmosphere thickened, as if the world

    itself was holding its breath.

    Then, Eratz unleashed his aura.

    It was a dark, oppressive energy that seemed to suck the light out of the surrounding space. The temperature seemed to drop instantly, and an overwhelming fear filled the air.

    It wasn''t just power, it was the presence of something monstrous, like a demon hiding in the

    dark.

    The students felt it immediately. A few of them instinctively stepped back, their faces pale,

    eyes wide.

    The fear was palpable, as if every fiber of their beings screamed at them to

    to get as far

    away from Eratz as possible. Kenny, however, was frozen in place. His legs gave out beneath him, and he collapsed to his

    hands and knees, trembling uncontrollably.

    Sweat poured down his face, his heart racing so fast it felt like it might burst. His eyes were wide with terror, his mouth dry as he struggled to breathe.

    It was the same feeling he''d had back in Grushia, when he''d faced a girl controlling ice, and

    lost miserably.

    Only this time, it was worse, he lost before fighting.

    The weight of Eratz''s aura pinned him down, suffocating him with its sheer intensity.

    It felt like death had descended on him, its cold fingers wrapping around his throat, ready to squeeze the life out of him.

    Suddenly, he felt lighter, and warmer. The texture of his pant getting damp.

    Eratz took another step forward, his gaze cold and unfeeling as he looked down at Kenny.

    "All this talk and this is what it takes to crush you, are you even a beast master?" Kenny''s body convulsed, and he barely managed a whimper in response. He was utterly defeated by Eratz''s presence alone.

    Mercury, standing beside Eratz, didn''t even glance at Kenny as she crossed her arms.

    The sight of Kenny crumbling on the ground was enough for her to know that he had finally received an average punishment.

    As Eratz turned his back to Kenny, the oppressive aura slowly faded.

    The students were left in stunned silence, their eyes locked on Kenny, who was still on the

    ground, trembling and drenched in sweat.

    "Get a religion, Kenny, pray every day," Eratz said, his voice dropping to a near whisper.

    "You made it personal. Next time, I''ll use violence on you, and your correction would make what happened to Melcin look like a warm-up."

    The moment Eratz walked away, Milo and Colin moved to join him, their eyes wide. Mercury

    followed, not sparing Kenny another glance.

    The weight of what had just happened settled heavily in the minds of the students.

    A young man, who had watched the entire exchange, shook his head in disbelief.

    "Kenny''s always like this, isn''t he?" he muttered to the others.

    Another student, one who had been present during the Grushia tournament, nodded grimly.

    "Yeah... always tries to act tough, but when it comes down to it, he''s the first to fall."

    One of the girls, standing at the edge of the group, glanced back at Kenny with a frown.

    "Do you think... he really framed Eratz back then?... Ew, Kenny, what''s that on your pant?" The students gathered around him for a better view, but question hung in the air.

    In the distance, Crystal stood silently, her face unreadable, though her eyes were sharp, watching Eratz and Mercury walk away.

    The aura of suspicion lingered around her, too, as the students began to wonder if Kenny was

    really the only one responsible.

    Behind them, Crystal stood silently, watching. She knew she had to tread carefully now.

    A little later, Eratz, Mercury, Milo and Colin walked back toward Eratz''s apartment, the cool

    night air felt strangely refreshing after the tense confrontation.

    But as they approached the building, something felt off.

    The front door was slightly opened, swinging gently in the night breeze.

    Eratz''s face immediately darkened, his instincts flaring to life.

    "Stay behind me," he said, his voice low.

    They stepped inside cautiously. The apartment''s usual calm, was now cold, the atmosphere

    thick with something sinister.

    Voices echoed in the walls.

    Eratz opened the door left slightly opened, and his eyes fell on the last people he ever wanted

    to see again.

    Liora and Marcus, his parents.

    The moment he saw them, his expression shifted dramatically. The calm face he had

    maintained for so long cracked.

    His face twisted with a deep, seething anger, his eyes narrowing and his teeth clenching.

 Chapter 80: Tragedy

    Chapter 80: TragedyThe moment Eratz stepped into the living room, the air felt heavy, almost suffocating His parents and siblings, were there, face to him, for the first time in months.

    Cassie stood in front of them, trembling, her face wet with tears. Her arms shook as she hugged herself tightly, trying to hold herself together.

    Roger was beside her, his face filled with shock and concern. He stood like a wall between her and the confrontation, but even he couldn''t hide the fear in his eyes.

    They hadn''t expected Eratz to come home this early, he wasn''t supposed to be back until Sunday. They had hoped, prayed, that he wouldn''t see this.

    But now, their worst fear was unfolding right in front of them.

    "Eratz..." Cassie''s voice was barely a whisper.

    She didn''t want him to witness this, didn''t want him to be a part of this ugly scene. But it was too late, it wasn''t a nightmare anymore, it was a tragedy.

    On the other side of the room, Eratz''s parents turned their heads sharply when they saw him. Their eyes widened with surprise.

    This was what they had been waiting for, the moment they could finally confront him face- to-face.

    At long last, they had won, their efforts had been rewarded. Their sick, twisted wish had come true.

    Kian and Lila flinched when they first saw their older brother, but they quickly regained their composure, crossing their arms, their expressions hardening as they stared at him with cold eyes.

    Their expressions mirrored the anger and hatred that had built up over the year, known and always present.

    It was clear, this was not just a family matter; this was a battlefield.

    Eratz paused in the doorway, his body tense, fists clenched tightly at his sides.

    His red eyes darkened as they locked onto his parents, the anger inside him bubbling just beneath the surface, but he didn''t move, he didn''t speak.

    His words never found the correct intensity with which they wanted to come out, and before he could even begin, Liora''s voice sliced through the tension like a whip.

    "Finally!" she spat, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and satisfaction. "I knew it, I knew you''d show your face sooner or later. Those chronic liars kept saying you wouldn''t come."

    Her gaze snapped to Cassie and Roger, her expression one of disdain.

    "As if we wouldn''t eventually find him. You pathetic clowns."

    Cassie winced at the words, her face crumbling slightly, Roger''s hand rested on her arm, just barely holding back the urge to speak.

    "Eratz," Liora continued. "It''s time to stop this foolishness. Come home. You''ve disgraced this family enough. Living here with these people... it''s beneath you."

    From the corner of the room, Mercury''s eyes narrowed. She didn''t like the way Liora spoke about Cassie and Roger who had done nothing but care for Eratz, but also herself and Milo.

    Milo stood closer to Colin, his small hand gripping hers tightly. He was old enough to understand some of what was happening but too young to fully grasp the depth of it.

    He was too young to understand the truth that the troubling similitude between Liora and Eratz''s faces were saying.

    Colin''s eyes darted between Liora and Eratz, her hands trembling as she clutched Milo''s.

    The tension in the room was so thick, it was almost suffocating her. She, in opposite, knew the identity of the new people in their house, and It made her chest tighten with fear for everything.

    Marcus stepped forward, his face calm but his voice carrying a sickly sweet tone, like he was trying to play the part of the reasonable parent.

    "Now, son," Marcus said, his voice smooth, as though he was trying to soothe the situation, "let''s not make this worse than it already is. We understand that you''ve been... confused. That maybe you got caught up in the wrong crowd." He gestured vaguely toward Cassie and Roger, a sad smile tugging at his lips. "But we''re your real family. We''ve always wanted the best for you."

    He paused, taking a step closer, trying to reach out to Eratz.

    "You know that, right? You know we just want to help you get back on track. We made sacrifices for you, son, and we also made some mistakes, but we''re a family. Let''s go home together."

    There was a sweetness to Marcus''s words that made Eratz''s skin crawl. Marcus took another step forward, extending a hand, and Eratz, watching a hand who didn''t exist months ago, felt the slow boil of blood starting to reach the surface.

    "We sacrificed for you," Marcus added. "We did everything we could to give you a future, and I know we''ve made some mistakes along the way. But we''re family. Let''s put all this behind us and go home."

    Liora, who had been glaring at Eratz with thinly veiled contempt, softened at her husband''s words. She nodded in agreement.

    "You''ve been here long enough, Eratz," Liora said. "Living with these people, wasting your time. They''ve filled your head with lies, made you believe things that aren''t true. You need to come home, where you belong."

    Eratz''s breathing grew heavier, each word from his parents cutting into him like a knife.

    The months of isolation after his expulsion, the layers of insults they put on him, the abandonment, everything flooded back into his mind.

    They hadn''t even tried to believe him. They hadn''t fought for him. They had left him to rot, and now, they were standing here, pretending to care, after so long, after everything he went through, just when nothing seemed to be able to reach him.

    "Confused," Eratz said, finally speaking, his voice dangerously low. "You think I''m

    confused?"

    Marcus and Liora exchanged glances, clearly not expecting him to respond like this.

    Marcus nodded, taking another step closer, trying to maintain his role as the concerned father.

    "Yes, son," Marcus said softly, "you''ve been misguided. We understand that. But we''re here now, and we can..."

    "Misguided?" Eratz cut him off, his voice rising. He looked between his parents, his red eyes burning with a quiet fury. "You blamed me for something I didn''t do, you refused to listen to me, and you abandoned me, and I am the one who was misguided?"

    Liora''s face hardened, her lips pressed into a thin, angry line.

    "Eratz, we didn''t abandon you. We gave you time to figure things out. You were the one who distanced yourself. We tried to reach out, but that bitch refused to let us..."

    "You''re talking to ME!" Eratz''s voice exploded through the room, louder and more intense than anyone had expected.

    The force of it made the walls seem to close in, the air thick with a sudden, suffocating

    tension.

    It wasn''t just loud, it was filled with raw, barely contained fury, and everyone felt it.

    Cassie and Roger flinched, their bodies tensing as if the air had shifted, while Colin clutched Milo''s arm tighter, eyes wide and nervous, both trembling.

    Even Mercury instinctively stepped back.

    Eratz''s gaze burned into his mother, his chest rising and falling with each angry breath.

    "I''m the one you''re dealing with," he hissed. "I won''t allow you to insult them again."

    Liora''s attitude faltered, her mouth opening and closing as if words had failed her for the first

    time.

    Eratz let out a bitter laugh, the sound harsh and cold.

    "I distanced myself? How? I was in my own house, I was always there, all day long, since I

    wasn''t even allowed to go outside. When did I get distant? But you... You have a really bad

    memory, haven''t you?"

    Marcus flinched, but he quickly regained his composure.

    "We had to give you space. You were lost, making poor choices..."

    "Stop taking me for a damn kid!" Eratz snapped, stepping forward, his body tense with rage,

    forcing Marcus to step back.

    "I told you what happened at the academy, I told you for three damn hours what happened,

    but you were so busy screaming at my head that you never listened. I tried again, for six fucking days, but what happened? YOU shouted again, YOU refused to listen, You did a better job at burying me than the academy could ever do."

    The air in the room felt like it had been sucked out, the silence deafening. Kian and Lila, who

    had been standing smugly behind their parents, suddenly seemed unsure, their faces paling as Eratz''s anger filled the room.

    "Act like adults for once, You have kids, it''s the proof you have balls. Say the things, You

    threw me away. I didn''t get confused. I didn''t get lost. You just didn''t want to deal with the inconvenience of having a son who was accused of aggression. You didn''t even need any evidence, if it was a murder I would be dead now."

    Liora''s face twisted in anger, but she stayed silent, struggling to keep her composure. Marcus, however, stepped forward again, his hands out in a calming gesture.

    "Eratz," he said, trying to keep his tone even, "we''re not trying to hurt you. We just want you

    to come home. We want to fix this."

    Eratz''s eyes blazed with fury.

    "You want to fix this? You can''t fix this. You abandoned me. You gave up on me when things

    didn''t go the way you wanted. You never even gave me the chance to prove myself. You didn''t

    believe in me."

    The weight of his words hung in the air, and for the first time, there was no response from his parents. Marcus''s calm mask finally cracked, his face tightening with frustration. Liora''s eyes flashed with fury, but she remained silent, her fists clenched at her sides.

    Eratz took a deep breath, his anger still simmering just beneath the surface. His voice dropped lower, filled with an intensity that sent shivers through the room.

    "You''re not my family anymore," he said, his voice steady, controlled. "You made that choice

    a long time ago."

    Eratz''s words cut like a razor, the tension in the room snapping like a taut rope. His fists

    clenched, veins standing out on his arms, his eyes blazing with fury.

    Marcus''s calm mask shattered, his face twisted with rage.

    "You little piece of shit... You think you can talk to us like that? After everything we''ve done

    for you? The sacrifices we made??"

    "Sacrifices?" Eratz spat. "What fucking sacrifices? You threw me away the second things got tough! What kind of sacrifices have you made? Where were you to deserve any kind of reward???"

    "You were an embarrassment!" Liora snapped, her voice rising with fury. "A fucking disgrace to this family! What did you expect us to do? You had a future an you ruined everything!" "That''s your reason to ditching your own son?! You didn''t even listen!" Eratz shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "You didn''t ask a single goddamn question! The second they accused me, you both turned your backs. You didn''t need proof, you didn''t need the truth, you just

    wanted me gone!"

    Kian, who had been lingering behind Marcus, suddenly stepped forward, his face flushed with

    anger, eyes glaring.

    "Maybe if you hadn''t been such a disgrace, none of this would''ve happened! You''re the one who ruined everything for us!"

    Lila, fueled by her brother''s outburst, stepped up, her voice laced with venom. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "You''re the reason we lost everything! You ruined our lives, Eratz! You destroyed everything

    we built! We had to..."

    "Sit down and wait till I finish with them. Don''t make me come over there and show you what

    real parenting is." Eratz cut their rising.

    The weight of his words was enough to make Kian and Lila freeze. Without another word, they

    slunk back behind their parents.

    "Eratz..." Mercury''s voice was low, quivering, her hand trying to reach for him.

    Marcus stepped forward, his eyes narrowing with fury.

    "We gave you everything, you ungrateful little shit. We built you a future, and you''re the one

    who threw it all away..."

    "Threw it away? You think I wanted this? And how on earth does that give you any right? Why

    are you here now??? What the Hell are you expecting?!"

    The room was thick with tension, Roger, who had been silent this whole time, finally spoke,

    his voice firm.

    "That''s enough, all of you. This isn''t helping..."

    "No, this has to be said, and this has to be said now. You two, You don''t get it, do you?"

    Eratz''s voice lowered, filled with contempt. "I don''t need you. You''re not my family. You haven''t been for a long time now."

    Liora, her face contorted in rage, finally exploded.

    "You arrogant, ungrateful little bastard! You think you''re better than us now? You think you

    can keep playing house with these fools? We''re your real family, and you''ll never escape

    that!"

    "As if being better than you was a feat!" Eratz shouted, his voice raw.

    Cassie''s sob broke through the chaos, her body crumpling as she fell to her knees.

    "Stop it, please, stop!" she cried.

    Liora''s face contorted with rage, her eyes burning. She took a step forward, her hand rising

    before anyone could stop her.

    A sharp crack echoed through the room.

 Chapter 81: Ashes

    Chapter 81: AshesThe silence that followed was deafening. Cassie gasped, covering her mouth, while Roger stepped forward instinctively.

    Milo and Colin flinched in fear, gripping each other tightly. Mercury''s eyes widened.

    Eratz''s head snapped to the side from the force of the slap, but he didn''t move, not even flinch. Slowly, he turned his head back to face her, his red eyes cold, dead.

    Liora''s chest heaved, her hand still raised, trembling with the aftershock of the slap. Her face was twisted with fury, but there was a flicker of despair behind her eyes.

    Marcus stood frozen, his mouth open as if he was about to speak but didn''t dare utter a word.

    Eratz''s voice came out low, almost a murmur.

    "Now that''s more like you."

    The room was silent, filled with tension, the crackling energy of a storm waiting to explode.

    Suddenly, the sharp sound echoed in the room, and for a moment, everything seemed to stand still.

    Everyone froze, stunned by the sudden shift in the air.

    "Never... ever put your hands on him again," Cassie said, her voice breaking slightly as tears welled up in her eyes. "You don''t deserve to call yourself his mother."

    Liora''s hand went to her cheek, her eyes widening in disbelief, and for a second, the fury in her was replaced with shock, but quickly, she recovered from the shock.

    She straightened herself, her face contorting with rage as she patted her cheek where Cassie had slapped her. Her eyes turned deadly.

    "You..." she began, her voice low and dangerous. "How dare you? You filthy little..."

    She raised her hand again, but before she could attack, Eratz grabbed her wrist.

    "Enough, You''ve been clowns for too long now. It''s time to end this game... Liora."

    Liora''s eyes widened in shock as she looked at Eratz, her mouth opening and closing as if gasping for air. Marcus, standing behind her, suddenly stepped forward, his face twisted with anger.

    "Don''t you dare speak to your mother like that!" Marcus barked.

    His voice shook with rage, but Eratz remained calm, unbothered by the outburst.

    "I told you already, I don''t have a mother anymore, neither a father," Eratz said, his calmness returning. "This is pointless. I don''t want you in my life anymore. The past is the past. And you... you''re my past. In my new life, you don''t exist and you never will."

    He turned his gaze toward the door, making his stance clear.

    "I don''t know why you''re here now, but I have a guess. And whatever it is you came for, you''re not getting it. Leave."

    Liora''s eyes widened in disbelief, and her face flushed red with anger. She wrenched her hand free from Eratz''s grip and started talking.

    "I suffered for you!" she cried, her voice rising. "I carried you for nine months! I gave birth to you! Do you know what that was like? You owe me everything! I sacrificed everything for you, and this is how you repay me? By abandoning your family? By siding with these... people? You ungrateful little..."

    "Exactly," Cassie interrupted, stepping forward once more, her voice firm despite the tears in her eyes. "That''s exactly why you''re unforgivable."

    Liora''s eyes snapped to her, filled with rage. Cassie''s words were cutting deep.

    "A family is supposed to protect each other," Cassie continued, her voice gaining strength. "You don''t just throw someone away because they''re inconvenient. And what did you do? You turned your back on him. Your own son."

    Liora let out a harsh laugh, her voice dripping with disdain.

    "You''re not part of this family, Cassie. You never were."

    Cassie chuckled bitterly, tears rolling down her cheeks.

    "Of course, for someone who rejected her son, it''s only natural to reject her sister, too."

    Roger, who had been standing quietly beside Cassie, took a step forward, his voice soft but firm.

    "Please, stop this," he said, his voice heavy with emotion. "We''re a family. The children are watching. They don''t need to see this."

    Marcus turned to Roger, his face twisted in disgust.

    "Don''t act so righteous, Roger," he sneered. "You''re only happy because you''re benefiting from our son''s wealth. Look at this house!" He gestured around the room. "While we''re in debt because of you. We hired a detective to find him, spent everything we had on this journey!"

    Roger sighed deeply, shaking his head. "There it is. You can''t even hide your true intentions anymore." He looked at Marcus with a weary expression. "Eratz is your son. How do you even treat Kian and Lila? Do you..."

    Before he could finish, Cassie let out another bitter laugh, her tears flowing freely.

    "No," she said, her voice trembling. "She wouldn''t. It''s normal that she hates Eratz. He''s the only one who ever took her family''s side."

    A deep, stunned silence fell over the room. Everyone turned to look at Cassie, their faces frozen in shock.

    Roger whispered her name, but Cassie didn''t stop. She was glaring at Liora, both of them crying now.

    "You never changed," Cassie said, her voice shaking. "You always hated the blood running through your veins. You always hated being an Ishtarian."

    "Shut up! Just shut up!" Liora, her face contorted with rage, shouted suddenly, cutting her off.

    Her outburst echoed through the room, and for a moment, no one dared move.

    All eyes were on her, including Eratz, who looked at her with disbelief. Liora, feeling his gaze, quickly turned her face away, hiding behind her hands.

    Cassie, her voice still trembling, continued.

    "You hated Eratz because he didn''t take after his father''s side. That''s why, isn''t it?"

    "Shut up!" Liora screamed, her voice hoarse with anger. "You don''t know what you''re talking

    about!"

    She began pacing the room, her emotions spilling over uncontrollably.

    "I sacrificed everything! I did everything for him! And you... you always managed to get on everyone''s good side, didn''t you, Cassie? Just like with our mother. You always had the perfect little family, the perfect little life. And me? I was stuck with everything! All the expectations, all the responsibilities! And what did I get in return? This? A son who turned his back on me?"

    Cassie had several quick breathes, a sick smile showing her teeth.

    "Oh... Poor you, maybe it would have been easier for you... If you weren''t so disgusted by your own race!"

    "You always cling to that Ishtarian shit like it''s something special!" Liora''s voice cracked. "But do you know what it''s like? To walk through life with everyone looking at you like you''re some kind of... animal? Do you think I wanted this blood?! Do you know what it''s like to be

    seen as nothing but a beast?! A fucking animal?!"

    Her hands trembled as she spoke, her words growing more erratic.

    "That''s how they look at us. That''s all we are to them... dangerous... unpredictable... animals! This skin and hair... they''re only good when you''re in an arena like a zoo animal!" Everyone in the room froze, their faces filled with shock as the true depth of Liora''s hatred

    came spilling out.

    Mercury, who had been standing silently in the corner, suddenly stepped forward, her voice

    soft but filled with sadness.

    "Please," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "Stop now. It''s enough."

    Liora, tears streaming down her face, looked at Mercury with confusion and anger.

    "Who are you? Who are you to tell me anything? Stay out of my family''s business!"

    Cassie let out another bitter laugh, her tears falling freely as she looked at Liora.

    "Family? You dare use that word?"

    Mercury shook her head, her voice gentle but firm.

    "Both of you... stop. If you want to tear each other apart, do it far from the children."

    Everyone''s eyes turned to Milo and Colin, who were sobbing quietly in the corner. Kian and Lila, who had been standing in shock, looked at their mother with wide, frightened eyes. Liora''s breath hitched, her whole body trembling violently. She looked down at her hands as if

    they didn''t belong to her, her fingers shaking uncontrollably.

    Her face twisted in anguish, and a deep sob tore from her chest.

    "No...no..." she whispered, her voice broken and hoarse. "This... this isn''t how it was

    supposed to be... I suffered... I suffered for you, Eratz... You can''t do this to me... please..."

    But Eratz remained silent, his gaze fixed on her.

    After a moment, he let out a long sigh and turned to Marcus, his expression cold.

    "It''s time for you to leave."

    Marcus, his face pale with disbelief, shook his head slowly.

    "Eratz..." he murmured, as if searching for the right words.

    But Eratz didn''t wait for him to finish. He gave a small nod toward the door, his message

    clear.

    Marcus, realizing the futility of arguing, took Liora by the arm, supporting her as they made their way toward the door.

    Kian and Lila followed, but as they reached the door, both of them looked at Eratz with wide,

    pleading eyes.

    But now, in this moment, Eratz couldn''t move. His body felt heavy, rooted to the ground like

    a stone.

    His gaze remained empty, cold, dead. Kian''s eyes were glassy, while Lila''s lower lip trembled.

    As they finally looked away and followed their parents out of the room, the door closed softly

    behind them

    Cassie collapsed into Roger''s arms, her body shaking with sobs. Colin and Milo, still crying, clung to each other tightly.

    Eratz stood frozen, his face expressionless.

    Mercury, standing at the edge of the room, fought against the tears threatening to spill.

    Her face hardened, but her eyes betrayed her. A single tear slid down her cheek, followed by another, until she wiped her face in vain, her hands shaking as she did.

    Eratz stood still, as if he had turned to stone. His red eyes stayed locked on the door through which his parents had left, but his mind was far away. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    It felt like a void had opened inside him, an emptiness he hadn''t realized existed until now.

    Everything he had manifested, the anger, the hurt, the rejection, disappeared in the naught. But in that void, something tugged at him.

    He looked down and saw Colin''s small hand gripping his. The sight of her teary face, her wide

    red eyes filled with worry, brought him back from the dark place in his mind.

    He gave her a gentle smile, though it didn''t reach his eyes.

    "I showed you a really bad scene, huh? Guess I''m really a failure as a big brother," he said

    softly, patting her head.

    Colin sniffled, wiping her tears on her sleeve. Milo clinged to his other side, looking up with

    wide, sad eyes.

    Eratz glanced at him, then at Mercury.

    "I forgot to ask you to cover their ears... Sorry about that."

    Mercury didn''t say anything. Her lips trembled slightly, but she pressed them together.

    Roger, trying to ease the tension, spoke up softly.

    "Maybe we should go out for dinner, get our minds off this... You know, have a quiet night

    somewhere... just us." He glanced at Cassie, still sobbing, her body shaking in his arms. "It might help."

    Eratz looked at Roger and shook his head slowly.

    "No," he said quietly. "Not tonight. I need to sleep early." He managed a small smile.

    Everyone fell silent, their hearts breaking for him. They had never seen him like this, so closed

    off, so defeated.

    Even Milo and Colin, despite being young, could sense the depth of his exhaustion, both

    physical and emotional.

    "It''s really okay. I''m just tired... I''ve been fighting a calamity bird you know." He chuckled.

    Eratz began to walk toward his room, his steps paced. "Eratz..." Cassie''s voice, choked with tears, called after him.

    There was so much sadness, so much pain in the way she said his name. But he didn''t turn. He

    paused at the door to his room, his back still to them.

    "I''m thankful for everything," he said softly. "I got to be your family. That''s my biggest

    treasure." And with that, he entered his room, closing the door behind him.

    Cassie broke down completely, her sobs loud and muffled as she buried her face in Roger''s

    chest.

    Roger held her tightly, his own tears silently falling as he patted her back.

    Milo and Colin sat beside them, holding each other''s hands as they cried quietly, the scene too

    much for their small hearts to bear.

    Mercury stood there, staring at Eratz''s door. She had wiped her tears, but they kept coming, blurring her vision as she watched the door.

    Inside his room, Eratz stood near the window, staring out at the city lights.

    The dark room around him reflected the soft glow from the streetlights outside.

    The cool breeze drifted in from the open window, and suddenly, there was a soft noise on the

    window.

    Eratz blinked and turned, just in time to see Mercury climbing through, a small, determined grin on her face and two cans of beers in hands. "What are you doing here?" he asked, his voice filled with confusion. Mercury sat down beside him, looking out at the view beyond the window.

    "I wanted to surprise you," she said with a small smile. "We barely had time to celebrate our

    calamity birds, and I figured you could use some company."

    For a moment, they both looked out at the night. The city below was alive with lights, the

    streets bathed in a soft glow.

    The horizon stretched out, glittering and endless, mirroring the stars in the sky.

    "It''s a beautiful view," Mercury said quietly. "You chose a good place to stay. I didn''t think an

    apartment like this could feel so... peaceful."

    Eratz didn''t say anything, but a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

    The silence between them was comfortable.

    After a long pause, Mercury spoke again, her voice softer now.

    "You know... I''ve been thinking about what you said. To me, You, Cassie, Roger, Colin, Milo...

    You''re my treasure too. You''re my family."

    Eratz remained silent, his eyes still focused on the distant lights. As Mercury spoke, she

    shifted position slightly, as if trying to avoid something, too painful to confront directly. "It''s not about blood," she continued, her voice gentle but firm. "It''s about who''s there for you when you need them. The people who stay, even when things get tough. That''s your real family. And you''ve got that. You''ve got us. You have lost something, but you have won more.

    And there''s also a family in the agency, they''re everywhere. We''re not alone... You''re not

    alone." They sat in silence again, the night air cool and calming, the world outside their small window feeling both distant and comforting.

    Mercury leaned her head back slightly, her voice dropping even lower, almost a whisper.

    "Eratz... you''re really strong. Stronger than me, stronger than anyone. It''s so hard to keep

    smiling through everything, but you do it so well." Eratz shook his head.

    "I''m not that strong, Mercury."

    "Maybe not," she replied, leaning back against him, her body resting against his. "But they

    need you to stay strong. Cassie, Roger, Colin, Milo... me. We need you in our lives. We need to

    see your light. That''s what keeps everything moving."

    As she spoke, a glistening crystal fell from Eratz''s face and disappeared into the darkness.

    Mercury leaned her head against his, her own tears falling silently, but she didn''t turn around.

    They sat there, back to back, the night''s chill wrapping around them as the lights of the city flickered below.

 Chapter 82: Bonds Beyond Blood

    Chapter 82: Bonds Beyond BloodThe starry night filtered through the tall windows of the Crescent Moon Agency, casting a soft blue light across Victoria''s office.

    Zara sat at the desk, rifling through a stack of files, with glasses perched on the tip of her nose. She glanced over at Victoria, who sat behind the desk, sipping her tea.

    "I''ve gone through the new applications," Zara began, her voice a little uncertain. "There are some solid candidates here. Fresh talent, a little rough around the edges, but with potential. I think with time, we can make great warriors out of them."

    Victoria didn''t respond immediately. She placed her cup down gently and gazed out the

    window, her eyes narrowing slightly. After a moment, she spoke.

    "Zara, do you think we should raise the bar a little?"

    Zara blinked, caught off guard.

    "Raise the bar? I mean, these candidates are already strong, and we need fresh blood, don''t we?"

    Victoria turned to face her, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

    "We do. But we''re no longer just looking to fill the roster, Zara. We''re growing faster than ever. With the way everyone''s been working, the agency is reaching new heights. Our aces are pushing us forward, and I want to help them. If we play our cards right, we can make waves in team competitions. I want to give them access to every opportunity, but for that... we need more people on the same level as Mercury, Eratz, Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina."

    Zara let out a nervous laugh, adjusting her collar.

    "Our aces, huh? You do realize we practically got two of them illegally, right? Unless a miracle conveniently comes out of now..."

    Ring. Ring.

    The phone on Zara''s desk buzzed sharply, cutting her off. Zara looked down, surprised, as the sound echoed through the quiet office. She gave a puzzled look to Victoria who raised her eyebrows with a smug on the lips.

    "Ah... a miracle," Zara sighed.

    The following morning, at 5 AM in Eratz''s apartment, Cassie quietly emerged from her bedroom, wearing a simple, comfortable short and a loose t-shirt.

    She stopped near Eratz''s room, her eyes red from a night of crying. Listening closely, she could hear soft snoring from behind the door. She sighed deeply, grateful for at least the small comfort that Eratz was resting after the emotional storm that had passed.

    Her feet carried her to the kitchen, but as she entered, she was startled to see that someone was already there.

    "Eratz?" she whispered.

    Eratz stood at the stove, wearing a tank top and shorts, casually frying something in the pan. He turned to her with a soft smile. "Morning, Aunt Cassie. Come sit down. I''ll make breakfast."

    Cassie was stunned.

    "But... I thought you were sleeping. I heard..."

    "Oh no, that was Mercury," he interrupted, pulling a chair out for her. "I''ve been up for a while."

    Cassie hesitated but took the seat. The kitchen was small, modern, with a soft hum of early morning peace. They were alone in the stillness of dawn, and the only sound was the sizzle of eggs on the pan.

    Eratz led the conversation.

    "I''ve been thinking," he said while flipping the eggs. "I want to take the league seriously. Challenge it, really push myself. Now, my beasts are perfect, for this level at least, so I want to do like before, and with many wins, the money will start rolling in."

    Cassie nodded absentmindedly, though her heart was heavy, still thinking about last night. Her hands gripped her arms, trying to hold herself together as Eratz continued.

    "I want to get us a bigger place too," Eratz said, glancing over at her. "Not an apartment, something better. A house, maybe. Closer to Colin''s school."

    Cassie smiled faintly, but she couldn''t shake the sadness in her chest.

    Eratz placed a beautifully plated breakfast in front of her with a grin.

    "You know," he said, his voice playful, "I was planning to tell you and Uncle Roger something together. But if you keep making that face, I''ll spoil the surprise early."

    Cassie chuckled softly, rubbing her eyes.

    "You should stop teasing me, Eratz. I''m the adult here. It''s my job to be the tough one."

    He sat down across from her, his eyes softening.

    "I''m an adult too, Cassie. We''ve all been through a lot, but today, there''s something important I need to say."

    She looked at him, surprised by his tone.

    "I want you to stay home today. Don''t go to your maid job."

    Cassie frowned.

    "Eratz, I can''t just not show up. I''ll get fired."

    Eratz leaned forward, resting his chin on the back of his hands.

    "That''s fine. Actually, that''s exactly what I want. I want you and Uncle Roger to stop

    working... forever."

    Her eyes widened.

    "What?"

    He reached across the table, his hands warm on hers.

    "I''ll have enough now to support us all. More than before, so, I want you and Uncle Roger to

    enjoy life. You''ve done enough."

    Cassie sat frozen, her emotions a whirlwind. She shook her head.

    "... No... Eratz, you can''t... You shouldn''t. We''re okay. We don''t need..."

    But Eratz cut her off, his voice gentle yet firm.

    "This isn''t a debate, Aunt Cassie. I want you to rest now. You''ve taken care of me long enough, and it''s time I repay you. You have no opinion there. From now on, we''re getting rich. Vacations overboard, week-end in the beach, snowy shore in December... hey, I heard there''s a town where there are only 3 hours of day and the rest is night, so there''s always the neon lights. I want to see that."

    As Eratz spoke, Cassie''s eyes filled with tears, her hands trembling as she gripped the edge of the table, and suddenly, she stood up abruptly, knocking down the chair behind her.

    "Eratz, no... you don''t understand." Her voice cracked as she clutched her chest. "We''re supposed to take care of you. That''s what adults do. It''s our job to make sure you''re okay, to

    protect you."

    Her voice grew shaky, and the tears began to spill freely down her face.

    "Every day, I feel guilty... for what Liora did to you... for what she said. I feel like I should have stopped it, that I should have done more. She''s my sister, Eratz. My sister. And even after all the pain, after everything she''s done... I can''t help but feel... I can''t help but feel responsible

    for her." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Cassie''s voice broke as she pressed her hands to her face, sobbing into her palms.

    "Even after all of it... I can''t stop thinking... that she''s your mother. And no matter how much I hate her for hurting you, I still feel that guilt. I hate myself for not saving you from them, from her. She''s your mother, Eratz. I should hate her for what she put you through, but I can''t. She''s still my sister. And that... that makes me feel like I''ve failed you even more. How did we end up here? How did everything go so wrong?"

    Her voice quivered with guilt, with an overwhelming sense of failure.

    She collapsed to her knees, her sobs filling the room, as all the emotions she had kept hidden

    for so long spilled out at once.

    Eratz silently stood, he quickly moved to her, pulling her into a tight, protective hug. "You''ve done more than enough, Cassie," he whispered. "You''ve given me more love and care than I ever thought I deserved. Don''t blame yourself. None of this is anyone''s fault."

    He could feel her hands trembling as she clutched his shirt tightly, her sobs muffled against his chest. Eratz''s grip only tightened.

    "I love you, Cassie, you, Roger, Colin. More than you''ll ever know. You saved me, and that''s all that matters to me. If you feel bad for me, then remember that I''m always me. You can make me happy by letting me take care of you."

    Cassie wept harder, her fingers clinging desperately to him as if letting go would mean losing him all over again. Her words came out broken, between sobs.

    "I''m so sorry, Eratz. I''m so, so sorry for everything..."

    He pressed his chin gently against her head, his breath warm and comforting. "There, there, let it go. You can''t keep crying for someone who doesn''t even feel his pain."

    For a long while, they stayed there in the quiet embrace, Cassie finally allowing herself to cry out all her pain and Eratz holding her, not as a nephew, but as someone who had been saved by her love. A love he could never repay but cherished more than anything. Later in the Crescent Moon Agency Gym, the usual rhythm of clinking weights and the soft hum of machines fell off.

    There was an electric charge in the air, the training had increased in intensity through the past weeks and there was a kind of restless tension that clung to the gym-goers as many glanced nervously toward the private training room with a note ''No one comes in here without being

    brutalized''.

    "Can''t they just give us a peek?" someone muttered.

    Adrian wiped the sweat off his brow as he jogged on the treadmill, side-eyeing the door.

    Everyone wanted to know what was going on behind those doors, where the agency''s best

    were training. "They''re probably just messing around in there." he groaned.

    A heavy pulse of energy surged through the gym, shaking the equipment and sending everyone stumbling. Adrian barely caught himself, grabbing the treadmill''s handles, his heart racing.

    Around him, gasps and confused shouts filled the air as people scrambled to their feet. The sheer force felt like it had come from the depths of a storm.

    "What the hell was that?" someone shouted as the crowd rushed toward the door of the aces''

    training room.

    Inside, Eratz stood at the center of the training room, his electric aura faintly crackling around him, casting an eerie glow. His eyes were wide with surprise, his body completely still as the ground beneath his feet began to crack under the pressure of his power. Kaida and Mercury had regained their balance, both grimacing as they wiped the dust off their clothes. Ryder, still down on one knee, rubbed his forehead, groaning.

    "Nyaa! Boss, please stop!" Catarina bounced nervously around him, her cat ears twitching in sheer panic. "You''ve already mastered advanced beastification, you don''t need to go harder! You''re gonna destroy the whole gym!"

    Eratz blinked, his face showing mild confusion, and then frowned slightly.

    "You''re exaggerating, I barely used any of my power. Once I open this door, it''ll get

    smoother."

    Catarina practically shrieked, her tail puffing up in panic as she waved her arms frantically.

    "No! You''re gonna destroy the whole gym, I''m sure of it! You''re monstrous enough already,

    just stop!"

    Eratz looked down at her, his eyes narrowing, unimpressed with her dramatics.

    "Where''s the ''nya''?"

    Catarina froze mid-bounce, her eyes wide in realization. She straightened up immediately,

    her face flushed with embarrassment.

    "Nyaa! Sorry, Boss! But seriously, your presence is everywhere, can''t even eat in peace in the

    toilet anymore! You''re scaring me!"

    Eratz tilted his head slightly.

    "That was you?"

    Catarina gulped.

    "... M-Mew?"

    Kaida, still recovering from the initial shockwave, couldn''t help but laugh.

    "Man, You really are something, but she''s not wrong. We''re working to improve the building

    too, right? Maybe let''s refrain from the physical training here."

    Eratz simply shrugged, nonchalant.

    "What''s the point of training here then? We need to be strong enough to fight in the regional

    league several times a week. The whole purpose of separating the talents was that we could

    go all out on each other."

    Kaida''s eyes lit up, her competitive spirit flaring.

    "I get you, relax. I also want to see this thunderbird, but not here. We should be able to do it in

    a local arena."

    Mercury nodded, crossing her arms.

    "If we work hard enough, the agency would be able to build our own training arena, but that''s

    not tomorrow."

    Kaida shook her head, smirking.

    "I really envy you guys. By the way, you sure there wasn''t also a firebird? Asking for a friend."

    Mercury scoffed, crossing her arms.

    "A firebird? If there was something like that it would have been the first to go down." She

    said, pointing to herself.

    "Oh? Wanna test that theory, sis? You''ve forgotten your last heatstroke?"

    Kaida challenged a mischievous glint in her eye.

    Ryder, sensing where this was heading, raised his hand in a mock surrender.

    "Now, now, ladies... let''s not turn this gym into a war zone. Again."

    "Ryder," Catarina whined, her voice pleading. "Boss is bullying me!" Eratz rolled his eyes.

    "I only supposed that since you''re constantly in a beast form, maybe I could tame you if I

    tried... ''Supposed''."

    Catarina mewed in frustration, but suddenly, the door swung open, and Zara appeared,

    breathless and grinning.

    "Guys, I''ve got incredible news!"

 Chapter 83: Rising Stars

    Chapter 83: Rising StarsThe five aces gathered in the Agency''s meeting room.

    Zara stood at the head of the table, shuffling through a stack of documents with a mysterious smile on her face. She glanced up, watching as Mercury, Eratz, Kaida, Ryder, and Catarina settled in their seats.

    "Alright, everyone," Zara began, her voice calm but with a hint of excitement.

    "I''ve got two big announcements for you today. First, the good news."

    She paused, watching their curious faces.

    "We''ve received several requests from companies who want to sponsor you, and have you as their ambassadors."

    A stunned silence fell over the room.

    Mercury''s eyes widened, while Eratz raised an eyebrow. Kaida leaned forward in her chair, intrigued. Ryder''s grin was growing by the second, and Catarina, already twitching with excitement, could barely stay still.

    Zara continued, flipping through the pages.

    "These are no small deals. You''ll be receiving a lot of money just for promoting these brands." She slid some documents across the table. "Mercury, for example... You''re the lotto winner. The Grand Aquarium of Celluva wants you as their spokesperson. They''re offering you 800 dyns weekly, just for appearing in a few ads and making a visit to their facility."

    Mercury''s hands shook as she stared at the document, her eyes wide with disbelief.

    "800 dyns... weekly?" she whispered, her voice trembling with joy.

    "And that''s just one deal," Zara added, pushing another paper toward her.

    "There''s also a beverage company offering you 300 dyns weekly for a promotional campaign. And this one... well, let''s just say, there''s more to come."

    Mercury was speechless, her eyes shimmering with happiness. All their hard work, their efforts, it was paying off.

    Eratz leaned back in his chair, cautiously looking over his own offers.

    "I''ve got three companies, a sports brand, a new line of energy drinks, and a tech company that wants me to promote their gaming gear."

    Ryder froze, flipping through his own papers.

    "What the... A famous plushie brand wants to make a limited edition The Furry Gentleman plushie. I don''t understand, when did I become the furry of the team? Everyone is using beastification, there''s an actual furry in our team..."

    Catarina purred.

    "Welcome to my world... Mew? M-MEW?! This... this is unreal! Look at this! A cat-themed laboratory wants me to be their ambassador for their research on feline instincts! And... and I''m gonna be on magazine covers, too! Boss, this is it! We''re becoming celebrities!" Eratz nodded at her.

    "Ask them who are the test subject though."

    Kaida, though less outwardly ecstatic, was still grinning as she looked over her documents.

    "A sport gear company wants to make a ''Blazing Tempest'' line... and a fitness brand too." She glanced at the others with a playful smirk. "I guess we''re moving up in the world."

    Mercury nodded, her eyes still filled with joy.

    "All our efforts are finally paying off."

    Zara smiled warmly, watching the group.

    "The agency will receive a fee from each deal, of course... Except for... ehem... But it''s safe to say, this is just the beginning. You''re all about to make more money in a few weeks than some people make in a year."

    The room buzzed with excitement, each of them imagining the possibilities ahead. Mercury, Eratz, Kaida, Ryder, and Catarina all accepted their new roles as ambassadors eagerly. They were ready to dive into this new chapter of their careers.

    "And now," Zara continued, her voice rising, "for the very good news."

    She paused, savoring the moment. "You''ve all been recommended for the next finals of the Regional League."

    A collective gasp filled the room.

    The finals were the pinnacle for beast masters in each division. Only the best 32 fighters made it through. It was a dream come true.

    "Based on your performances, ratings, and popularity, you''ve all been placed on the list. This means you''re in the running to be selected for the finals, it doesn''t mean that you''re already qualified, just that you just need to push a little more."

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed, a wide smile playing on his lips.

    "Now we''re talking."

    Kaida''s fists clenched in excitement.

    "Finally, we get to prove ourselves. We''re going all out."

    Ryder nodded.

    "This is it. No more excuses. Time to show them what we''re made of."

    Mercury, still overwhelmed by the sponsorships, now had tears in her eyes.

    "We did it... we''re really doing it. I can''t believe how much everything changed."

    Eratz stood, turning to face the others.

    "We''ve got no choice now. We have to go all out, no holding back. We fight like our lives depend on it."

    Everyone nodded in agreement, their hearts pounding with the thrill of what lay ahead.

    The rest of the day was a whirlwind of activity.

    Zara was submerged in paperwork and phone calls, her desk covered in contracts and agreements as she arranged the sponsorships and partnerships for the aces.

    The phone barely stopped ringing as she coordinated with various companies, the agency

    buzzing with energy.

    Victoria, meanwhile, was in a meeting with a young chairman of one of the companies interested in sponsoring Kaida.

    Kaida sat beside her, signing a partnership deal.

    Across the agency, Ryder was chatting on the phone with a marketing team about his

    upcoming plushie line, excitedly brainstorming designs.

    Mercury was busy reviewing her offers with a gleam of excitement in her eyes, already thinking of the possibilities for her sponsorship deals.

    The day flashed, and soon night fall.

    In their apartment, Eratz packed his things, preparing for his upcoming trip.

    He would be traveling to another town for three days for his next match and a photoshoot

    with one of his sponsors.

    His suitcase clicked shut, and for a moment, he paused, clenching his fist over his chest with a

    small, satisfied smile.

    This was it, the start of something huge.

    He stepped out into the living room, only to find everyone fast asleep, their positions

    scattered across the furniture.

    Cassie was curled up on the couch, Roger sprawled out beside her. Milo and Colin were

    huddled together on the floor, their arms wrapped around pillows.

    He looked around, searching for Mercury, but before he could react, he felt a soft breath on

    his ear.

    "Boo!" Mercury whispered, blowing into his ear playfully.

    Eratz flinched slightly but quickly relaxed, smirking.

    "You''re in a frenzy aren''t you, huh?"

    Mercury grinned, stepping closer.

    "Maybe. It''s fun." She held up a small bottle of wine. "I saved this... thought we could

    celebrate a bit more. You know, in private."

    Eratz chuckled softly, shaking his head.

    "You''ve been giving me alcohol all night. You''re not trying to get me drunk, are you?"

    Mercury growled playfully.

    "Don''t flatter yourself."

    He raised an eyebrow.

    "Right."

    Mercury leaned on his back, her voice low and teasing.

    "You know... until now, there was always something holding us back. But now... we''re far

    from home, far from the eye." She massaged his shoulders, her breath hot against his skin.

    "Aren''t you afraid of being eaten by a predator?"

    Eratz smirked, his eyes flashing with amusement.

    "I''m going north. That predator''s going south."

    Mercury''s eyes glinted mischievously. She leaned closer, her lips brushing against his ear.

    "Like that would stop me."

    She tugged on his arm playfully. "Come on, let''s drink in your room."

    Behind them, on the couch, Roger stirred, a proud smile forming on his face, his eyes still

    closed.

    Beside him, Cassie raised her fist in a slow, upward, gesture. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The following morning, Eratz stood at the bustling train station, his bags packed and slung

    over his shoulder.

    His family gathered around him, doing their goodbyes in warmth and comfort.

    Milo, however, was making a scene, sobbing dramatically with tears streaming down his face

    as he clung tightly to Eratz''s leg.

    "I don''t want you to go! It''s going to be forever!"

    Eratz rolled his eyes, sighing in mild exasperation.

    "Milo, it''s only three days."

    Cassie chuckled softly, gently patting Milo''s head.

    "Come on, sweetheart, he''ll be back before you even notice."

    Roger, standing beside her, gave Eratz a firm nod.

    "Safe travels, son." Eratz offered a small smile, ruffling Colin''s and Milo''s hair before gently peeling him off his

    leg.

    "Take care of everyone while I''m gone, alright?"

    As Eratz began walking toward the platform, the sounds of the station bustling with life

    around him, he heard a familiar blow on his ear.

    "Boo!"

    He couldn''t help but laugh quietly, already knowing who it was. Glancing over his shoulder,

    he spotted Mercury standing there with her usual playful grin.

    "You again?" Eratz smirked, shaking his head in amusement. "What are you doing here? Your

    train doesn''t leave for a while."

    Mercury shrugged casually, stepping up beside him.

    "Just wanted to see you off. Plus, I had something in mind."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

    "Oh?"

    She leaned in slightly.

    "I was thinking... maybe during these next three days, we take some time to meet up and test

    out our beasts together. It will be the best time to really go all out."

    Eratz laughed softly, his eyes glinting as he glanced down at her.

    "We''ll be in different areas, Mercury. Not as simple as you think."

    Mercury rolled her eyes at his practical response.

    "It''s only three days. We can make it work."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "For training? You''re sure that''s the only reason?"

    A playful smile tugged at her lips.

    "So what? You''re making excuses already?"

    Eratz''s gaze softened as he reached out, his finger grazing her cheek, sending a gentle,

    tickling electric sensation through her skin.

    The touch made Mercury shiver slightly, but she didn''t pull away. He kept his hand there for a

    moment longer than necessary.

    "If you keep this up," he murmured. "you might find out that I''m not as patient as I look. I

    don''t know exactly what game you''re playing, but if you keep pushing, you might learn the hard way to not dive in dark water."

    The tickling current danced along her cheek, making her breath hitch for a split second.

    It was playful, but his words carried weight, and she knew it. She wasn''t just testing him, she

    was tempting him, as always.

    Mercury''s grin faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, meeting his eyes with the same confident glint.

    "And what if I want to dive in this black water?"

    Eratz chuckled lowly, stepping back as the train began to board.

    "Be careful what you wish for, Mercury, You might just end up being the one eaten."

    With that, Eratz turned and stepped into the waiting train. The door slid shut behind him, and

    as the train''s engine roared to life, he glanced out the window, catching one last look at

    Mercury.

    Mercury stood there, watching the train pull away, her hand slowly rising to touch the spot on

    her cheek where his electric touch had lingered.

    A flood of memories surfaced, every moment they had spent teasing each other, pushing

    boundaries, testing the limits of their relationship.

    She smiled to herself, murmuring softly

    "I''m not done with you."

 Chapter 84: The Predator Unleashed

    Chapter 84: The Predator UnleashedEratz settled into his seat on the modern train. The soft hum of the engines provided a steady background sound as the train glided smoothly along the tracks. The train was sleek and comfortable, with cushioned seats covered in soft blue and gray fabric.

    Overhead, bright lights cast a gentle glow, making the cabin feel warm and inviting. Built-in screens on the backs of the seats displayed maps of the journey and offered entertainment options for the passengers.

    Around him, people were busy with their own activities.

    Some were reading books, their eyes moving slowly over the pages. Others scrolled through their phones or watched movies on their screens. A few passengers leaned against the

    windows, their heads resting on the glass as they dozed off.

    Eratz glanced outside the window. The world outside was like a moving painting, a vast countryside that seemed to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.

    Fields of wildflowers in shades of yellow, pink, and purple swayed in the breeze, creating waves of color that danced under the bright sunlight.

    Beyond the fields, the land gently rolled into low hills covered in green grass, dotted with occasional trees. The blue sky was clear, with only a few fluffy clouds drifting lazily across it.

    He took a deep breath, enjoying the peace of the moment. There was something about the open countryside that always calmed his mind.

    Eratz shifted in his seat, his fingers scrolling through the websites of his sponsors on his phone. He scanned through the forums, but his attention soon drifted back to the view outside.

    He leaned closer to the window, watching as the train passed through fields of golden wheat. The sun cast a warm glow over the land, making everything look golden and alive.

    With this heaven in view, an idea formed in his mind.

    After a few hours of travel, the train began to slow as it approached a city for a brief stopover. The station came into view, a busy place filled with people coming and going.

    The platform was alive with movement as passengers stepped off the train to stretch their legs, while others hurried to board.

    There were families traveling together, their children excitedly pointing at the train, and business people checking their phones while carrying briefcases.

    The station itself was a modern structure made of glass and steel, with a high ceiling that let in plenty of natural light. Loudspeakers announced the next departures, and the constant buzz of voices and footsteps filled the air.

    As the train prepared to depart, passengers hurried to find their seats, but Eratz''s seat remained empty.

    Outside, not far from the station, Eratz was already running. He sprinted with incredible speed, his body glowing faintly as he built up energy. His feet barely touched the ground, moving faster with every step. The landscape rushed by him, fields, trees, and cliffs, all blurring into a mix of green and brown. His aura began to grow, the crackling hum of power following him as he moved.

    Ahead of him was a cliff that overlooked a wide body of water. Eratz crouched low as he neared the edge, then launched himself into the air with an explosive leap. As he soared through the sky, his aura exploded in a flash of lightning.

    In the train, a little girl sitting by the window gasped. She tugged at her mother''s sleeve, pointing excitedly out the window.

    "Mama! Look!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder.

    Far above, Eratz had summoned Raijinara. The majestic Thunder Bird spread its wings, which crackled with electric energy. Each flap shimmered with raw power, and the sky buzzed around it with electric tension.

    Eratz now stood on Raijinara''s back, the wind rushing past him as they flew at incredible speed.

    The world below became a blur of color and light. Forests stretched out for miles, rivers sparkled in the sunlight, and animals in the distance scattered at the sight of Raijinara soaring overhead.

    Birds took flight, their wings flapping frantically as they tried to escape the electric storm that followed Eratz and his majestic beast.

    As they flew, Eratz struggled to keep his balance on Raijinara''s back. The force of the wind was intense, but he spread his arms wide, embracing the feeling of freedom.

    Then, with a smile tugged at his lips as he marveled at the view below, he gripped Raijinara''s feathers tightly and leaned forward.

    The mighty bird let out a piercing screech, then dove toward the ground at unbelievable speed. Lightning flashed around them, wrapping them both in a cocoon of energy.

    Eratz felt the familiar tingle of power as yellow marks appeared on his skin, signaling that he had fully merged with Raijinara through beastification.

    They flew over a dense forest, and with a burst of energy, they unleashed a wave of lightning that struck the trees below. Hidden beasts in the shadows fell instantly, their energy absorbed by Eratz as his pressure grew wider.

    Eratz leaped from Raijinara''s back and landed on the ground like a bolt of lightning, the earth shaking beneath him. His shadow stretched out, and from it emerged his other beasts: the Thunder Lycaon, Aetheri, and Terrakrus. Behind them, thousands of other monsters followed, all covered in the same burning energy.

    His aura surged again, filling the air with electricity as he absorbed the power of every beast around him. The ground trembled beneath the weight of his strength.

    "We''ve got one free day before my meeting with the sponsors, The match is after tomorrow. So let''s make the most of today."

    Above, Raijinara screeched again, circling in the sky as the wind whipped through the trees. Eratz spread his arms wide, feeling the power coursing through him.

    "Begin the hunt!" he commanded.

    With that, his beasts scattered, diving into the forest in every direction. Raijinara unleashed more bolts of lightning from above, lighting up the sky with every strike. Eratz listened to the sounds around him, the rustling leaves, the distant roars, the crackling energy. It was like a symphony, and he was the conductor.

    He began to guide his monsters like a maestro leading an orchestra. Each movement of his hands directed a different group of beasts.

    A swift gesture sent the Thunder Lycaon racing through the trees, its paws leaving sparks on the ground.

    A gentle wave sent Aetheri swirling through the air, creating mindwaves that confused their

    prey.

    A strong stomp commanded Terrakrus to shake the earth, causing hidden creatures to reveal themselves.

    The sounds of the hunt filled the forest. The growls and howls of his beasts were like deep notes from cellos and basses. The crackling of electricity and the snapping of branches were the sharp notes of violins and flutes. The thunderous stomps and crashes were the booming beats of drums and timpani.

    Eratz moved his hands gracefully, orchestrating the chaos. Raijinara above acted as the soaring melody, its lightning strikes accentuating the harmony below. Each bolt of lightning was a bright crescendo, illuminating the forest like spotlights on a grand stage.

    As the tempo increased, so did the intensity of the hunt. His beasts moved in perfect harmony, each attack timed precisely. They hunted and defeated all kinds of beasts in their path, with Raijinara launching lightning from above.

    Eratz felt himself becoming one with the music of the forest. His aura burst through his beasts, connecting them all in this grand performance, and thus, he reached the peak of his advanced beastification again, his power running in every single one of his beasts.

    At the climax of this wild symphony, many of his monsters began to evolve, among them, the Thunder Lycaon, its fur darkening as electric blue veins pulsed through its body. Its muscles grew larger, and its eyes glowed with an intense, stormy light. It let out a powerful roar, its voice echoing like a triumphant trumpet.

    From afar, a group of travelers stared at the sky, confused by the flashes of lightning and the distant sounds of thunder. They exchanged glances, wondering what kind of storm was

    brewing when the sky was so clear.

    "What is happening?" one of them asked.

    "I don''t know," another replied.

    Back at the train station, night had fallen. A group of staff members from the sponsor and the

    station gathered, looking concerned.

    "How did he disappear?" one of them asked, checking his clipboard.

    "He was supposed to be on the train," another replied. "But his seat''s been empty since the

    last station."

    They exchanged worried looks.

    "We need to find him. The director is expecting to meet him tomorrow." sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Just then, one of the staff members came running.

    "We got something! He messaged us!"

    They looked around in confusion. "Where is he?" someone asked.

    High above the city, Eratz sat perched at the top of a towering bridge, phone in hand. The

    view was breathtaking. The city lights below sparkled like stars. Cars moved like tiny toys along the roads, and the buildings stretched up toward him like giants.

    He felt fresh and free, the cool night air brushing against his face. The height didn''t scare him, it made him feel alive.

    He took his suitcase and held it over the edge. Without hesitation, he let it drop into the void

    below.

    He leaned back, letting himself fall in reverse. The moment his feet left the edge of the bridge, a rush of air, cold and sharp, whipping against his skin as gravity pulled him down.

    The bridge lights stretched far around him, blurring into streaks of glowing color as he plunged through the air. The wind roared in his ears, drowning out every other sound as he plummeted faster and faster, the vertigo overwhelming.

    Suddenly, a dark beast surged from the shadows, moving with incredible speed. It caught the suitcase before it hit the ground, disappearing into the night.

    At the same moment, lightning struck from the sky, wrapping around Eratz. Raijinara appeared, its wings outstretched. It caught Eratz, and together they soared above the bay.

 Chapter 85: Fame

    Chapter 85: FameThe sun peeked through the heavy curtains of the hotel room, casting long shadows across the floor.

    The soft murmur of the city outside barely penetrated Eratz''s ears as his eyes fluttered open.

    His body, already in motion, sprang up, no time to waste.

    He moved to the simple treadmill tucked into the corner of his temporary space. His breaths were controlled, matching the steady speed of the treadmill.

    After his run, he dropped to the floor, moving fluidly into a series of pushups. His muscles tensed and relaxed with each motion.

    And after pushups came a series of sit-ups.

    A quick bath followed, the steam filling the room, clearing his mind. The water rushed over This skin, washing away the tension of his mind.

    He felt light, very light.

    In the next moment, he was at the breakfast table, devouring a rich meal with a lot of milk, bread, eggs, bacon, fruits, and cereal while his phone buzzed with notifications about his upcoming events.

    Fans comments, sponsors announcement, bets. His name was everywhere in these forums.

    The moment he stepped outside, the sun high and bright, his day truly began.

    The sponsor event was next, an energy drink brand, not a major brand but respectable enough. Inside the modest office building, the director was all smiles. Papers were quickly signed, a few photos snapped with the team, and Eratz posed in front of their new product, his face, his presence, now part of their campaign.

    The staff buzzed around him, thanking him, and he made sure to give each one a nod or a handshake, trying his best to not forget everything they told him about the story of their business.

    The day moved quickly, pictures, autographs, handshakes, more photos, a brief tour of the facility.

    Eratz went through the motions smoothly, but as the hours ticked by, the constant demand on his attention began to wear him down.

    More exhausting than any match he had fought, the endless engagement with people sapped his energy.

    By the time the evening rolled around, his body felt heavy.

    Back in his hotel room, he sighed deeply, collapsing onto the bed. His mind spun with all the events of the day.

    Training felt easy compared to this kind of work. Eratz shook his head, letting out a soft chuckle.

    "I did nothing today, damn..." he groaned.

    He leaned back, scrolling through the forums again, maintaining the constant state of beastification.

    He had become more accustomed to this state and could now maintain it even as he slept. The next day passed faster than the previous day. It was the afternoon, and the new arena, Vastcliff Arena, was buzzing with excitement.

    Crowds filled the stands, their cheers loud, the energy electric. It was a grand arena, with towering walls of steel and glass, overlooking a sprawling battlefield that looked almost too serene for the destruction that was about to unfold.

    Eratz calmly stood in his half, watching his opponent with an impassive gaze.

    His opponent, a young woman in her twenties with a determined fire in her eyes, already had her three monsters out on the field.

    A Molgrax, a massive creature made of molten rock, lumbered forward with every step shaking the ground.

    Beside it slithered a Silvithor, a gleaming serpent made of metal, its body coiling and uncoiling with deadly precision.

    Floating above them was a Veldra, a wraith-like spirit, its dark winds swirling menacingly around its ethereal form.

    Eratz just smiled. With a calm motion, he summoned his Thunder Lycaon and Aetheri, the air crackling with power as his beasts materialized on the battlefield.

    The crowd gasped as the Thunder Lycaon appeared, its dark fur rippling with electric energy,

    blue veins pulsing under its skin like streams of lightning.

    The Lycaon snarled, the sound echoing through the arena.

    Beside it, the Aetheri hovered, its ethereal form shimmering with otherworldly light, its glowing eyes scanning the battlefield.

    "Go," Eratz commanded, his voice quiet yet absolute.

    The Thunder Lycaon moved first, a blur of lightning and shadow as it charged toward Molgrax. The molten beast roared, raising its rocky fists to strike, but the Lycaon was too fast.

    It vanished in a flash of lightning, reappearing behind the Molgrax before delivering a devastating strike to its back. Lightning exploded from the impact, sending shockwaves through the arena.

    The Molgrax''s molten body shattered under the assault, collapsing in a heap of smoking rubble.

    The Silvithor hissed, its metallic body twisting and coiling as it shot toward the Thunder Lycaon, but the Aetheri intercepted.

    With a wave of its glowing hand, it projected a spiritual shield, deflecting the Silvithor''s attack with ease. The shield pulsed, sending out a shockwave that momentarily stunned the

    serpent.

    The Aetheri''s eyes gleamed, and with a subtle motion, it lifted Silvithor into the air through telekinesis.

    The metallic serpent twisted and struggled, but it was no match for the Aetheri''s mental grip. The spirit beast unleashed a spiritual beam, striking the Silvithor mid-air.

    The blast of energy coursed through its body, leaving it limp as it was dropped to the ground,

    defeated.

    Above, the Veldra watched, its dark winds swirling faster as it tried to stay out of reach.

    The woman, seeing her monsters fall so quickly, growled in frustration, but she had another trick under her sleeves: beastification.

    Her body shifted, molten skin and metallic scales blending as she merged with the powers of her fallen beasts.

    With a burst of energy, she charged directly at Eratz, her hands forming into molten claws as she aimed to take him down herself.

    The Aetheri moved instantly. Its eyes glowed as it teleported the woman high above the arena, disorienting her in mid-air.

    With no time to recover, the Aetheri unleashed another spiritual beam, this one more powerful than before. It struck her directly, sending her plummeting toward the ground. Before she could crash, the Thunder Lycaon was already there, its body crackling with energy as it prepared for the final blow.

    With a snarl, the Lycaon struck her with lightning claws, sending a shockwave through the arena as she crashed to the ground, unconscious and defeated. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The battle was over.

    Eratz hadn''t lifted a finger to fight directly, he had accomplished his dream.

    The arena shook with the power of his beasts. He smiled, raising his fist in victory as the

    crowd erupted into cheers.

    The Thunder Lycaon and Aetheri stood at his side, the first roaring and the second glowing.

    The battle had been a massacre. The woman had never stood a chance.

    Over the next few days, Eratz''s fame grew.

    In another town, another arena, he stood undefeated, his Thunder Lycaon leading an army of

    40 evolved beasts.

    Each battle was more impressive than the last, but the outcome was always the same,

    absolute dominance, without ever fighting by himself.

    The forums buzzed with excitement. Eratz was trending as the one-man-army who never

    needed to lift a hand.

    [he''s stronger in direct combat.]

    Fans speculated about who could possibly force him to fight by himself, knowing that his true strength was superior to what they used to see at this level.

    His reputation soared, sponsors lined up, and the money flowing into Crescent Moon Agency

    skyrocketed.

    At Genova Academy, the usual hum of student chatter felt different, a tension filled the air as Eratz''s name continued to ripple through the hallways.

    It was everywhere, on the screens, on the forums, in the whispers exchanged between

    students who marveled at the latest arena victories of the Apex Predator.

    "Ah... Too bad, he hasn''t fought himself in the last match again," one student said as he

    scrolled through the video of Eratz''s latest battle.

    "Again this Thunder Lycaon? Even the red light couldn''t force him to fight... " another chimed

    in.

    "I can''t believe we had someone like that around," someone else added. "The director really screwed up by letting him go."

    In one of the quieter corridors, Rowan stood near a window, staring out at the hotel''s garden, the weight of his past decisions pressing on his chest.

    "Was I wrong?" Rowan murmured to himself, his voice low, almost inaudible. "Was Eratz... innocent this whole time? Did I abandon him without even giving him a chance?" Meanwhile, in her dorm room, Lisa sat across from Clara, biting her lip, her mind racing. She fidgeted with her hands, unsure of how to voice her feelings.

    "Clara..." Lisa started hesitantly, her gaze flickering between the floor and Clara''s curious

    eyes. "What would you do... if you found out someone you knew might have been innocent? Someone who... didn''t deserve what happened to them... But even though you knew, you

    didn''t say anything?"

    Clara blinked, caught off guard by the question.

    "What do you mean, Lisa? Who are you talking about?"

    Rowan exhaled deeply, leaning back in his chair.

    "Eratz... He was the best student I ever had, the only one with this kind of passion. If he was

    around, everything would have been so different... and I just let him fall. I didn''t fight for him, didn''t stand by him. And now... I wonder, if I went to him, would he even hear me out? Or

    would he just... ignore me?"

    Lisa''s hands trembled slightly as she spoke.

    "I mean, if it turns out he was framed... and you didn''t stand up for them... could you ever... fix

    that?" She paused, her voice barely above a whisper. "Is there no other option than being

    ignored?"

    Clara''s brow furrowed, her confusion growing.

    "I''m not sure to understand... Do you believe in this rumor, that Kenny framed him?"

    Lisa glanced away, her heart pounding in her chest.

    "I don''t know, maybe. What if... everything was a lie? What if he wasn''t guilty? What would

    you do if you were in my shoes?"

    Rowan rubbed his temples, frustration building inside him.

    "I could apologize, but would it even matter at this point? He''s moved on, become something

    far bigger than anything at Genova, he has new connections. And I just... let him down when

    he needed someone to believe in him. If I were him I would just erase me from his life."

    Clara leaned forward, her voice cautious.

    "Lisa... if Eratz really was innocent, then that changes everything. But why didn''t you say anything before? If you had doubts, why siding with Kenny?"

    Lisa bit her lip, her voice trembling as she avoided Clara''s gaze.

    "I didn''t know for sure, Clara. I didn''t want to make things worse. Or maybe I was just a

    coward? What if speaking up made it all more complicated?"

    Rowan''s thoughts grew heavier.

    "But in the end, being silent only made it worse... and now it''s too late. If I go to him now,

    after all this time... what would I even say? ''I''m sorry''? Would that even mean anything to

    him? He probably doesn''t care anymore... he might just hate me."

    Clara watched Lisa closely, her eyes wide with realization.

    "Do you think he''s innocent, Lisa? Do you really think everything was a lie?"

    Lisa hesitated, her voice barely a whisper.

    "I don''t know. But... what if it was? At this point, I don''t want to be forgiven, I would rather

    seeing him hating me."

    Rowan sighed deeply, his heart heavy with regret.

    "Somehow it would feel better than being completely ghosted."

    In their separate spaces, both Lisa and Rowan sighed heavily.

 Chapter 86: When You Come at the King

    Chapter 86: When You Come at the KingMelcin knocked on the door of the director''s hotel room, the tension building in his chest.

    He had been rehearsing his argument for days, preparing to defend himself and file his complaint against Eratz. His heart pounded as the door slowly creaked open.

    Inside, the elder woman sat comfortably in a plush armchair by the window. The dim light of the evening filtered through the curtains, casting long shadows across the room.

    She looked at him with a calm but stern expression, her wrinkled hands resting on her lap.

    "Come in, Melcin," her voice was steady, but somehow it carried a weight that made him

    nervous.

    Melcin stepped into the room, trying to control his breathing. He swallowed hard, mentally preparing for what was about to unfold.

    "Director," he began. "I''m here to formally request that action be taken against Eratz. He assaulted me in front of multiple students. They can all testify. This can''t go unpunished." The old woman watched him with narrowed eyes, her face unreadable. She let the silence hang in the air, long enough for Melcin to shift uncomfortably.

    "I see," she finally said, her voice low. "And you believe this is what you deserve, after everything?"

    Melcin blinked, caught off guard.

    "I''m not sure what you mean, Director. Eratz hit me unprovoked, in front of witnesses. I never touched him, even in retaliation. This academy should stand by its staff, and I expect you to take appropriate measures."

    The director exhaled, leaning back in her chair, massaging her sinuses.

    "You truly believe that, don''t you? You think you''ve been wronged here?"

    Melcin''s confidence began to falter, a sliver of doubt creeping in.

    "The students saw it," he repeated, his voice rising slightly. "They know what happened. They''ll back me up."

    The director''s expression hardened, and the air in the room seemed to grow heavier.

    "Melcin, the students will back him up, not you. They''ve seen how you treat people. They''ve seen how you''ve treated Eratz, your comments about people like him. Melcin, how could you proofer racial insults toward a child?"

    Her words hit him like a cold gust of wind, but he tried to brush them off.

    "That''s not..."

    "Your behavior has been nothing but a disgrace to this academy," she cut him off, her voice now laced with steel. "Your arrogance, your blatant racism, your inability to control yourself. And now, you stand here, demanding that we take action against someone who could have been our most talented students, while you''ve been the one driving this toxic environment. It''s because of people like you that the academy has lost it''s fame. We couldn''t even form a talent for the regional league and we''re trying desperately to bring back the only one person who worn our uniform and manage to perform at this level, but you want to make him antagonize us more?"

    Melcin felt his heart sink, his hands shaking slightly. He hadn''t expected this.

    "Director, that''s not..."

    "You have brought nothing but problems," the director''s voice rose, the calm exterior cracking to reveal frustration. "I''ve received complaint after complaint about your behavior, not just from students but from other staff. Do you think I haven''t been paying attention?"

    Melcin''s face flushed with panic. His thoughts raced as he realized the conversation wasn''t going in the direction he had planned.

    He had thought he could defend himself, play the victim, but it was slipping through his fingers.

    The director stood up slowly, her old body moving as she stepped closer to him. Her eyes were cold, unforgiving.

    "You want to sue Eratz? Fine. But you''ll lose. Because we''re going to testimony against you. We''ll bring your racial problem to the light and when you lose, you''ll lost whatever is left of your career. You won''t have a leg to stand on, you won''t ever exist in this path."

    Melcin''s mouth opened, but no words came out. His chest tightened as the gravity of the situation crashed over him. This wasn''t just about Eratz anymore. It was about him. His reputation, his future, everything was crumbling right in front of him.

    "You''ve antagonized the best student we ever had, the staff, and now you want to bring this to the court? Even after knowing the purpose of our presence here?" The director''s voice was now cold as ice. "You''ve pushed too far, Melcin. If cutting the weed could improve our chances of getting him back, then I''ll gladly cut this weed now. You''ve lost any chance of redemption. This is where it ends for you."

    The room felt like it was closing in around him. His vision blurred as the realization hit him, he was going to lose everything.

    "Director, please," he stammered, his voice barely a whisper now. "I... I didn''t mean for it to go this far. I was just... I was only trying to..."

    The director shook her head, her expression unchanging.

    "You were trying to satisfy your own ego, and now it''s over. You''re fired, Melcin. Pack your things and leave. I don''t want to see you in this academy ever again."

    Melcin''s heart dropped, his face pale. Fired. The word echoed in his head, drowning out every other thought. He stumbled backward, his breath coming in shallow gasps. How had it come to this?

    The director turned her back to him, walking slowly toward the window.

    "You''ve done enough damage. Now it''s time to go."

    Melcin stood frozen in place, his mind spinning in disbelief. This wasn''t how it was supposed to happen. He had been so sure, so confident. But now, in this small, dimly lit hotel room, he had lost absolutely everything, for a student who he had already gotten rid of.

    With trembling hands, he turned and staggered out of the room, the door clicking shut behind him.

    Deep within the dark shadows of Lugina Forest, Kenny wiped the sweat from his brow, his chest heaving from exhaustion.

    He stood alone amidst the towering trees, his elemental spirits floating around him.

    His hands clenched into fists as he stared the beasts ahead, their glowing eyes peering at him through the underbrush.

    These creatures were stronger than he had anticipated. He had been trying to tame one for hours, but they were far too powerful for his current level.

    He gritted his teeth, his frustration growing, a low growl escaping from his throat.

    "This should be easy, I''m better than this."

    He tried to focus on the hunt, but his mind was a battlefield.

    He tried to focus on anything, but Mercury''s image always seemed to seep into his S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    consciousness.

    The more he thought about her, the more Crystal and Lisa''s memories crumbled beneath his gaze, replaced by Mercury.

    His body trembled with desire as he fantasized about seeing her on her knees, servicing him

    with her mouth.

    The image burned bright in his mind, leaving him weak-kneed and desperate for release.

    The beast in front of him jumped forward, Kenny summoned his fire and water spirits again, directing them toward the creature with all the focus he could muster.

    But the beast dodged the attack effortlessly, knocking him off with deadly precision. His elemental powers faltered, unable to keep up with the creature''s agility and strength.

    On his back, staring up at the towering trees above him. His chest rose and fell with heavy breaths, his mind spiraling into frustration and self-doubt, converging again into Mercury. The thought of touching her voluptuous breasts sent shivers down his spine, igniting a fire within him that he couldn''t extinguish.

    He let out a deep breath, his mind whispered in his ear the last conversation he had with Crystal after his humiliation.

    "You''re pathetic, why can''t you be more like Eratz? Why can''t you just train seriously?"

    He groaned in frustration, squeezing his eyes shut as the doubt consumed him.

    "I just want to see her again..." He sighed.

    Far from Lugina Forest, in a remote canyon, Eratz stood at the edge of a cliff, facing his aces. Raijinara hovered above, its wings sending sparks of electricity through the air.

    The Terrakrus, massive and imposing, stood steady, the Aetheri floated near the ground, and the Thunder Lycaon, with its dark fur and crackling blue veins, watched silently.

    The wind howled through the canyon, kicking up dust and debris, but Eratz barely noticed. He was lost in thought, his eyes scanning the beasts before him.

    "We''ve come far, but we''re not done yet. Most of you have evolved, and become stronger...

    but I feel like we can do better."

    He looked at the Terrakrus.

    "We''ve seen how the Aetheri and the Thunder Lycaon evolved. You''re special, I can see it, so

    now, we''re focusing on you."

    The Terrakrus growled lowly, Eratz continued.

    "Next, each of you has your own elemental mastery, but we need to counter our weaknesses. Offensively, the Thunder Lycaon, you and Raijinara both lightning users, the aetheri is a spirit user and you, a soil. Our next goal will be to diversify our powers. But first, we''re going to unlock your next form by pushing it to its limits."

    The Terrakrus rumbled in response, its body already brimming with energy. Eratz stood before it, his body glowing with his own spiritual pressure.

    He shared his power with the beast, the connection between them growing stronger as the Terrakrus absorbed his aura.

    "I want you to give everything you''ve got, I won''t retaliate, so your limit will be your exhaustion. Go crazy, and the rest, you''re going to train differently, lycaon, physical, aetheri, spiritual. Channel the energy I''ll send you as if it was your blood."

    The earthen dragon roared, its powerful voice shaking the canyon walls. The ground cracked

    beneath its feet, and it lunged at Eratz like a comet.

    The clash began.

    The Terrakrus swung its claws at Eratz, who deftly dodged, his body moving like lightning.

    The earth trembled with each strike, debris flying everywhere. The beast''s tail crashed into the canyon walls, sending chunks of rock tumbling down.

    Above, Raijinara circled the skies, watching the battle unfold. Aetheri hovered in the distance, its eyes glowing as it absorbed the power of nature around it.

    The Thunder Lycaon prowled along the cliffs, striking the walls with its claws, generating

    sparks of electricity with each impact.

    As the battle continued, Eratz felt the Aetheri''s spiritual power flow into Terrakrus,

    enhancing its strength.

    The beast''s aura surged, glowing brighter as it tapped into the energy shared by Eratz. The

    Terrakrus'' attacks became more precise, more powerful, the earth around them rumbling with each strike, and the intensity and the flow birthed an idea in Eratz''s mind. "Focus on long-range attacks!" he shouted.

    The challenge was pushing Terrakrus beyond its limits, and he could feel the beast growing

    stronger with every passing second.

    Suddenly, a brilliant light covered the canyon, followed by an explosion. The Terrakrus let out a deafening roar, its body glowing with a new power.

    In the distance, the other beasts stopped to watch, their eyes fixed on Eratz and the beast.

    When the light finally faded, Eratz stood in a massive crater, his clothes torn, but there was a wild grin on his face.

    He let out a childish chuckle and moved forward to get a better view of his masterpiece. Before him stood the Terrakrus with it''s new color.

    Its form now larger, towering over the battlefield at 3 meters tall and 8 meters long, with its body now taking on a more draconic and fearsome appearance.

    Its broad chest and muscular frame showed the weight of a moving mountain, yet its new

    draconic limbs were more agile, with sharp claws. Its massive tail has a hardened club-like tip, which drags behind it.

    Spikes of earth protrude from its back and shoulders, giving it a jagged, powerful silhouette.

    Its broad, wing-like extensions seemed not for flight but to help stabilizing its massive form.

    He took a deep breath, stepping forward to inspect the mighty creature.

    [Name: Terrakrus,

    Affinity: Dragon/Soil

    Rank: Rare

    Abilities:

    Earthen Armor: channels the earth''s energy to cover self in a layer of hardened rock,

    increasing its defensive capabilities

    Seismic Roar: Unleashes shockwaves that can create located earthquakes/ Rockbound Fury: Increase the attack with every physical attack received, cap at a certain

    amount depending on the user]

    A smile drawing on his lips, he chuckled again.

    "Now we''re talking."

 Chapter 87: A Battle

    Chapter 87: A BattleMercury stepped through the door of Eratz''s apartment, feeling the warm air wash over her like a soft embrace.

    The scent of herbs lingered in the air, mingling with something faintly sweet, cinnamon, maybe.

    It was familiar, home sweet home, but today she couldn''t enjoy it like usually.

    Cassie appeared almost immediately, emerging from the kitchen with her usual playful smile.

    "Well, look who finally decided to stop by. I was beginning to think you''d forgotten about us entirely." Cassie teased, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel.

    Mercury managed a smirk as she lazily kicked off her shoes, already making a beeline for the couch.

    "Impossible, aunt Cass, I''ve just been busy, like very busy."

    "Hm, busy," Cassie echoed, her tone playful as she turned back into the kitchen. "Sounds like you''ve been running all over the place. I''m surprised you''re still standing."

    "I''m not," Mercury muttered, flopping onto the couch with a heavy sigh.

    "Four matches in a row, sponsor visits, autographs, pictures... I''m not even a world star, what the hell?"

    She draped her arm over her eyes, letting the cushions swallow her as she tried to shake off the exhaustion that clung to her.

    Cassie didn''t miss a beat.

    "Juice? Or do you need something stronger after all that running around?"

    Mercury peeked out from beneath her arm, shooting Cassie a grateful smile.

    "Juice is fine."

    Cassie''s voice drifted out from the kitchen as she grabbed a glass.

    "I''ve got some fresh squeezed in the fridge. Thought you might appreciate something to cool down with. You look like you''ve been through a lot."

    Mercury''s head sank back into the cushions, her thoughts already wandering.

    She was mentally exhausted, but it wasn''t the matches, but the sponsors and the travel that had her feeling so worn down.

    "Here you go, lazy bones," Cassie said as she reappeared and handed her a glass of juice. Mercury sat up just enough to take a sip, feeling the cool liquid soothe her dry throat.

    "Thanks," Mercury mumbled.

    Cassie leaned against the armrest, eyes fixed on her with that particular glint.

    "So," she started casually, "when are you going to see him?"

    Mercury almost choked on her juice.

    "W-What?" she sputtered, setting the glass down on the coffee table a little too quickly. "Who?"

    Cassie''s eyebrow arched, a slow grin spreading across her face.

    "Oh, come on, Mercury. You think I don''t know? You haven''t seen Eratz in, what, weeks? I know everything about your schedule, more than I should."

    Mercury gulped, and she fumbled for a response, trying to play it off.

    "I mean, yeah, it''s been a while. But we''re both busy with finals coming up and..."

    "And you miss him, poor little souls lost in the whirlwind of fame," Cassie finished, her tone teasing but gentle.

    Mercury groaned, slumping back into the couch, embarrassed.

    "It''s not like that..."

    Cassie laughed softly, shaking her head.

    "Of course it is. Don''t even try to deny it. You''ve been coming home all worn out, but not just from the fighting. You''ve got something else weighing on you, and it''s not hard to figure out what, or should I say who?"

    Mercury crossed her arms, glaring half-heartedly at Cassie.

    "You''re enjoying this way too much."

    "Maybe," Cassie said with a sly smile. "But I''m just saying, you''re going to drive yourself crazy if you keep holding back. When was the last time you two had a real conversation, anyway? Or, I don''t know... spent some actual time together? Have you even crossed THAT kind of talk?"

    Mercury''s gaze drifted to the floor, and she took a nervous sip of juice in silent confession.

    Cassie''s eyes widened and she chuckled before leaned closer, her voice dropping into something more conspiratorial.

    "Holy cow, really? When? What was that about???"

    Mercury shifted uncomfortably, trying to brush off the conversation.

    "Nope, not telling. And it''s not that simple. We''ve both got a lot going on until the finals."

    Cassie''s grin widened, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

    "It''s only as complicated as you make it, darling. If you''re serious about him, go find him, don''t just wait around until the finals are over. Life doesn''t stop just because you''re busy, and besides, if you''re planning on making a move, might I suggest finding a nice spot outside for... privacy? You know, just in case things get a little more... juicy."

    Mercury''s eyes widened, and she shot Cassie an incredulous look.

    "What?!"

    Cassie shrugged, utterly unbothered.

    "I''m just saying, everyone has the keys to the door, and we never know when someone has a new planning, so... hypothetically speaking... I''d rather not walk in on anything too... personal. If you''re going to violently bake the potato, at least send a message so we can watch a very long movie somewhere else."

    Mercury spilled her juice.

    "Cassie?! W-What the..." She stammered, completely flustered. "W-We''re not... I mean, that''s not!"

    Cassie laughed, her eyes sparkling with delight at Mercury''s reaction.

    "Oh, honey, don''t be so shy. It''s nothing to be embarrassed about. Trust me, when Roger and I were your age, we had to get a little creative with our, ah, arrangements. Wild times, those were... And good thing our gender aren''t reversed or there would be ten Colin around, Ha! Did you know that Ishtarians had infinite stamina and quick recovery?"

    Mercury buried her face in her hands.

    "No! No! NO! I didn''t need to hear that!"

    Cassie grinned, patting Mercury''s leg. "Just taking care of my sweetheart, wouldn''t want you to go to the hospital as much as Roger, they even offered us a fidelity card... But joke aside, take it as an advice from someone who''s been there. Sometimes, you''ve got to take the reins if you want to tame the beast."

    Mercury peeked through her fingers, her voice muffled. "You''re not talking about Eratz

    anymore, are you?"

    Cassie winked.

    "Maybe. Maybe not. Let''s just say, Roger fought hard to tame me back in the day. But it was

    worth it. On your side I see the same open road. You got it, girl."

    Mercury groaned again, though this time there was a hint of laughter behind it.

    "You''re unbelievable."

    "And you love me for it," Cassie teased, standing up and heading back toward the kitchen. "Now, go on. Don''t wait too long, or you might miss your chance. You''ve got the green light from me, just... maybe give us a heads-up before you pounce."

    Mercury shook her head, though she couldn''t help the small smile tugging at her lips.

    Cassie always had a way of cutting through the nonsense, even when Mercury wasn''t ready to

    face the truth herself.

    As Cassie disappeared into the kitchen, Mercury sat back, her mind drifting once again to Eratz. Maybe Cassie was right. Maybe it was time to stop holding back.

    She wasn''t sure what would happen next, but one thing was certain: she couldn''t keep pretending she didn''t miss him. And now, after Cassie''s playful but pointed words, she knew

    she had to do something about it.

    Even if it meant sending that one bold message.

    Meanwhile far away, Kaida stood at the entrance of a cave near a volcano, the sharp scent of

    sulfur and heated rock filling her nostrils.

    Her heart raced, but not from fear, but the thrill of facing an opponent worthy of her strength. She could feel its presence.

    The cave itself was dark and vast, its jagged walls marked by centuries of molten rock flow, hardened now but still pulsing with a latent heat.

    Stalactites hung from the ceiling, dripping slowly into the pools below, and the occasional

    spark of glowing embers from deep within reminded her of the kind of beast that called this place home, the type to always be on her menu. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She walked deeper into the cave, the air was thick, heavy with heat and the scent of sulfur, and every step seemed to pull her deeper into the belly of the earth.

    Darkness wrapped around her, but she moved with confidence, her senses alert, attuned to the faint vibrations in the rock and the distant rumble of something powerful.

    She brushed her hand along the cave wall as she walked, feeling the pulse of something ancient and fiery deep within.

    The light behind her began to fade as she ventured further, swallowed by the shadows of the

    cave, but she didn''t need light to guide her.

    She could feel the energy, the heat, pulling her forward. Kaida''s smile widened. She was

    nearing the source.

    She stopped in front of an open chamber, a vast, cathedral-like space carved by centuries of

    volcanic activity.

    The air grew hotter, nearly stifling, but it only fueled her excitement. She could sense it now, waiting for her, its presence overwhelming.

    With a deep breath, she stepped into the chamber, the heat wrapping around her like a cloak.

    The ground beneath her feet was cracked, and small bursts of steam escaped from the fissures in the rock. She took a few more steps, her eyes scanning the vast darkness. Then, without warning, she heard the low rumble, a sound that sent a thrill down her spine.

    There it was, curled up in a bed of glowing embers, its crimson scales shimmering in the dim light: a wyvern.

    Its wings were folded tightly against its body, but even now, she could see the sheer size of them, massive and strong enough to engulf her entirely.

    The wyvern''s eyes snapped open, glowing like molten lava as they locked onto Kaida.

    For a moment, they stared at each other, predator meeting predator. The air between them buzzed with tension, the kind of stillness that only comes before a violent storm.

    The wyvern unfurled its wings, stretching them wide, and let out a deafening roar. The sound vibrated through the cave walls, shaking loose bits of rock and sending a gust of

    hot wind through the chamber.

    Its tail lashed out behind it, striking the ground, creating sparks of fire in its wake. Kaida''s smile widened. This was exactly what she had been waiting for.

    She took a step forward, her boots crunching against the heated rock beneath her.

    "Come on baby, show me what you''ve got."

    The wyvern''s chest rumbled as it took a deep breath, the fire building inside it, visible

    through the gaps in its scales like veins of magma.

    It''s neck rose to its full height, towering over Kaida, its massive claws gouging deep into the

    stone floor.

    And then, with a roar, the wyvern unleashed its full power.

    Flames erupted from its jaws, a torrent of fire hot and intense. The firestorm swept through

    the cave, filling every corner, consuming everything in its path.

    The walls glowed red-hot, the ground sizzled, and the entire cave was engulfed by the

    ferocity of the wyvern''s attack.

    But Kaida didn''t move. Instead, she welcomed the heat around her like a warm embrace, her

    smile widening.

    "You passed."

 Chapter 88: Notification

    Chapter 88: NotificationZara paced back and forth, her boots clicking against the polished floor of Crescent Moon Agency''s office.

    Her brow furrowed in deep concern, she kept glancing at the calendar on the wall. Time was ticking, and every day that passed felt like a weight on her shoulders.

    "We''ve barely got a month left before the finals, Victoria! We''re running out of time to get Crescent Moon''s name out there. We need more exposure! More fans!"

    Zara''s voice was a mix of frustration and worry as she stopped mid-stride, crossing her arms and glaring at Victoria, who sat calmly at her desk.

    Victoria, as always, was unbothered by Zara''s anxiety. She leaned back in her chair, swirling her cup of tea, her eyes half-closed as if Zara''s concerns were nothing more than passing clouds.

    "Zara, relax," she said in her usual calm tone. "We''ve got everything under control."

    Zara''s left eye twitched.

    "Under control? We''re barely making waves, Victoria! You can''t just sit there drinking tea when the finals are around the corner and we haven''t caught enough attention. We need to be everywhere! The fans, the media, the sponsors, they all need to know who our aces are! Do you expect another miracle to just fall into our lap like last time?"

    Victoria raised an eyebrow, clearly unfazed. She placed her tea down and offered Zara a serene smile.

    "Zara, you''re overthinking this. Our fighters are doing what they do best. They''re winning. The result will come."

    Zara threw her hands up in exasperation.

    "A month, Victoria! A month is all we had! It''s not enough! We can''t expect another miracle to just come out of nowhere like..."

    Just then, Victoria''s phone buzzed on the desk.

    Victoria glanced at her phone then back at Zara, twitching her eyebrows, the corners of her mouth still curved in that infuriating mocking smug.

    "Oh my, a miracle."

    Zara''s left eye twinkled slightly. She grabbed her head and let out a long, exasperated sigh.

    Somewhere in the wild, Mercury was sitting in the middle of a vast lake, her legs crossed as if she were sitting on solid ground.

    The air around her shimmered with energy. Soft ripples in the water emanated from her, though she hadn''t moved a muscle.

    Below the surface, shadows twisted and turned, the outlines of creatures swimming in a silent dance just beneath her feet. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Above her head, aquatic creatures floated as if the air had become water, their bodies gliding effortlessly, leaving trails of shimmering water droplets in their path.

    Fish with scales of silver and blue swam lazily overhead, their movements slow and graceful.

    Jellyfish monsters pulsed with light, their tendrils drifting behind them like glowing strands of silk.

    Mercury''s eyes were closed, her breathing calm. She was in tune with the lake, with everything around her.

    She could feel the life below and above, the gentle currents of water and air brushing against her skin like a familiar whisper.

    The world was quiet, a melody that kept her mind at peace.

    But then, a ripple in the air broke the stillness. Beneath her, a dark shadow stirred, growing larger and larger.

    A big water snake, began to rise from the depths, its massive form cutting through the water. Its scales shimmered, reflecting the light in brilliant flashes of blue and green as it coiled its body, preparing to strike.

    It surged forward, its jaws wide, ready to swallow her whole. But as it neared Mercury, just inches away from her, the snake''s body began to dissolve into mist, its body breaking apart like smoke caught in the wind.

    The water around her didn''t even ripple. She didn''t flinch, didn''t even open her eyes.

    The snake reformed a moment later, its massive body winding through the air now, moving above the lake in defiance of gravity, now part of the strange environment among the other

    monsters.

    It was as though she had become one with the water itself, her very presence commanding the creatures around her to bend to her will.

    Her phone vibrated in her pocket, breaking the spell of serenity. Mercury''s eyes fluttered open, and in that instant, the mystical shimmer of the lake seemed to fade slightly.

    She reached into her pocket, pulling out her phone. A soft smile drew on her lips as she read the message.

    Meanwhile, in the heart of a bustling arena, Ryder stood victorious, his opponent lying unconscious on the ground.

    The roar of the crowd was deafening, and Ryder grinned as the chants grew louder.

    "Furry! Furry! Furry!"

    Ryder puffed up his chest with pride.

    "They''re saying ''fury''! Finally, they recognize my savagery!"

    He raised his hands high, basking in the glory of his misunderstood victory, an act that many saw as the hero wearing his title with pride.

    He exited the arena to the locker room, feeling on top of the world. His phone buzzed. Ryder checked it, but before he could notice his nickame trending, he saw new notification.

    Elsewhere, sitting among the smoldering ruins of a mountain she had just conquered, Kaida leaned back against a charred rock, catching her breath.

    The ground still emanated heat from her intense battle with the wyvern. As she checked her phone, a smile crept across her lips.

    "Oh? Guess who''s going to rock the world earlier than expected?"

    In a gym from a nearby town, Catarina was busy lifting weights with her tail, the metal clanging as she pushed herself harder. The moment her phone buzzed, she swiped it up with her free hand.

    "Nyaaa.... NYA?! I MADE IT!" she shouted in delight, jumping everywhere, then, at the peak of her joy, she glanced over her shoulder, lowering her voice as a mischievous grin spread across

    her face.

    "Wait... Boss isn''t around... I can finally swear normally."

    She inhaled deeply, unaware of the children behind her that she was about to introduce to a

    new world.

    Standing at the edge of a vast ocean, Eratz took in the sight of the crashing waves.

    The wind swept through his hair as he checked his phone. His eyes flicked across the screen as The read the message.

    "Only one week? Hm... I wanted to hunt a rare water monster first," he muttered, staring out at the horizon. "But now that changes everything. That''ll have to wait, we need to get the maximum of our abilities."

    Just as he turned to leave, a bolt of lightning crashed down from the sky, striking him with a flash of brilliant light.

    In the next instant, Eratz was no longer standing on the shore. He was high above the ocean, flying through the air on the back of Raijinara.

    Across the region, the Crescent Moon aces were receiving the same notification on their

    phones:

    Finals Qualification Notification

    "Congratulations! You''ve qualified for the elimination phase of the Greenridge League Finals."

    In the Crescent Moon Agency, the atmosphere was fitting for celebrations. Trainees and staff members were gathered in the common room, many glued to their phones

    as the notifications began rolling in.

    There was joy, admiration. They celebrated the news as a team victory. Finally their name was breaking the roof and for the first time in their history they had reached the finals.

    But amidst all the jubilation, Adrian stood frozen, staring at the same notification. His face was pale, his hands trembling slightly as the realization dawned on him.

    He had been one of Crescent Moon''s star fighters, one of the faces of the agency, but now... now he was being overshadowed.

    The newer fighters Eratz, Kaida, Catarina, even Ryder, were rising fast. Too fast.

    Adrian''s mind raced, replaying the moments where he had once been the center of attention,

    the one everyone looked to.

    He was the Cool King, the fitting partner for the ice Queen, Mercury, but now, with the finals approaching, he could feel his relevance slipping away.

    It wasn''t just that he couldn''t qualify for the finals, he didn''t even see his tank increase, he

    remained in the category D. He was being... erased.

    Adrian clenched his fists, staring hard at the notification.

    "I won''t let this happen," he whispered fiercely to himself. "Not without a fight." Back at the hotel in Lugina City, the director of Genova Academy gathered her staff. The mood

    was somber, the weight of their fading reputation heavy on their shoulders. "The academy still has enough fame to see our students recommended for the finals," the director said. "But do we have students with enough potential to make it? Or are we just going

    to be ridiculed like the two past time?"

    One of the teachers sighed deeply, leaning back in his chair.

    "Eliza was right. We should''ve trained personally more students than just Kenny."

    An older teacher nodded.

    "It would have been difficult, most of the talented third years have already left the academy

    to join an agency. Our academy is a gate for big success, I don''t even know why we participate

    in these competitions." Another teacher, who had remained mostly silent during the meeting, finally spoke up.

    "Have we tried reaching out to Eratz again? Even if he''s successful, maybe he would consider helping us. Professor Rowan did mention that he wasn''t the materialistic type."

    Rowan, who had been unusually quiet, let out a long, weary sigh. The mere mention of Eratz brought back waves of guilt and regret.

    Eratz was their best hope to rebound, and now, with his name placarded everywhere, he was

    out of their reach.

    Later that evening, as Rowan walked through the quiet hotel hallways, the conversation

    echoed in his mind.

    He thought about Eratz, how focused he had been, how relentless his pursuit of beast mastery

    had been.

    But somehow, Genova had let him slip through the cracks.

    "Are you still the same? Or are you blinded by fame?" Rowan muttered under his breath, a

    touch of sadness in his voice.

    A voice from the shadows responded. "Don''t worry, he never changed."

    Startled, Rowan spun around. Out of the darkness stepped Crystal, her eyes glinting

    mischievously.

    "Good evening, professor. You look like you could use some help," she said, her lips curling

    into a sly smile.

 Chapter 89: Between a Rock and an Hard Place

    Chapter 89: Between a Rock and an Hard PlaceThe news of the upcoming finals spread like wildfire.

    The finals were set to be the biggest event of the year at this level, and tension was high as beast masters from all over the region prepared for the elimination rounds.

    The structure was brutal: 64 fighters, each facing two randomly chosen opponents.

    The top 32 would advance to the finals based on their results, but the randomness added a layer of anxiety for everyone.

    Some might be paired against two of the toughest fighters and be knocked out, while others could have an easier path. It was anyone''s game.

    At Crescent Moon Agency, the buzz was palpable. Fighters and trainees gathered around, watching the screens as the final spots were announced.

    Only a few slots remained, and the pressure to make an impact was overwhelming.

    The agency''s stars had been performing well, but everyone was anxious to see who would make the cut.

    Meanwhile, back at Genova Academy, the director stared at the screen displaying the list of fighters. With a deep sigh, she turned the device off.

    The weight of the academy''s reputation hung heavy on her shoulders.

    She gathered them in the main hall for a public announcement. Her voice was calm, but the power of her words cut through the room like a knife.

    "No student from Genova Academy will be participating in the elimination rounds for the finals."

    A wave of disappointment rippled through the crowd. Students exchanged frustrated glances, some shaking their heads in disbelief.

    They had known their chances were slim, but being outright excluded felt like a punch to the gut.

    Slowly, the crowd began to turn, and all eyes landed on one person, Kenny.

    The whispers grew louder. He could feel their stares burning into him, accusatory and disappointed.

    Kenny had once been the academy''s star, but now his name had become synonymous with the academy''s failure.

    They put everything on him, and ultimately, he couldn''t succeed, and he made enemies on the way.

    Kenny kept his head lowered, doing his best to ignore the looks of disdain from his fellow students.

    The isolation was suffocating. He was alone, completely and utterly alone.

    Even Julian, his closest friend, had begun to distance himself.

    Kenny was now facing the same social exile that Eratz had suffered before his expulsion.

    As he stood there, lost in the sea of murmurs, Kenny clenched his fists.

    ''I don''t care about them. I don''t need them,'' he thought, grinding his teeth.

    He had a goal, a purpose: Mercury. She was still his target, the light at the end of his tunnel. But lately, no matter how much he fantasized about her, it felt like she was drifting further away. He was powerless to make a move, stuck in his mediocrity.

    ''I need more power'', he thought, ''but how?''

    Absentmindedly, Kenny pulled out his phone and started scrolling through news feeds. His heart suddenly skipped a beat as he came across something that made his breath hitch.

    Mercury''s qualification matches will be held at Lugina Garden.

    Kenny''s face brightened. Finally, a chance to see her again.

    Elsewhere in the winding streets of Lugina City, Rowan and Crystal walked side by side. Rowan seemed uneasy.

    "You know," Rowan started, his voice careful, "maybe you should speak to Eliza instead. She''s always had a way of handling these things."

    Crystal glanced at him, a smile playing on her lips.

    "Madam Eliza is preoccupied right now. She''s dealing with someone important. Besides," Crystal added, her tone soft but deliberate, "I think you''re underestimating your importance in all of this."

    Rowan frowned, his brow furrowing.

    "What do you mean?"

    Crystal''s eyes sparkled.

    "You remember how close Eratz and I were, don''t you? We had a good relationship... I took care of him at the academy. His expulsion was unfortunate, but I think fate had a hand in that."

    Rowan''s stomach churned.

    "But Eratz got expelled because of you, Crystal. You said he attacked you. That''s why..."

    Crystal''s face softened, and she placed a gentle hand on Rowan''s arm.

    "It wasn''t entirely his fault, Rowan. Sometimes, people lash out because they''re hurt. Think about it. His best friend, Kenny, took his childhood friend, Lisa, away from him. Eratz was angry, heartbroken... It was a tragic misunderstanding."

    Rowan sighed, his gaze dropping to the cobblestone street.

    "So you still keep your position."

    Crystal leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper but soothing.

    "I don''t blame him. I never did. And when you see him again, you shouldn''t either. Just be honest with him, Professor. That''s all I''m asking. He''ll be back soon, you know. His

    qualification matches are in Lugina Garde... too."

    Rowan nodded absentmindedly, feeling a mix of guilt and uncertainty.

    "You''re right... I need to talk to him."

    Crystal smiled warmly.

    "Of course you do. You were his mentor. You know him better than anyone."

    She turned to leave but couldn''t resist one final glance back, her smile turning sly.

    "And when he comes back, you''ll have your chance to make things right."

    Rowan sighed deeply and walked away, unaware that Crystal''s eyes followed him with a

    calculating gleam.

    As she watched him go, Crystal muttered under her breath.

    "You''re too eager, Professor. You missed the easiest way to find Eratz."

    Crystal''s gaze shifted toward Crescent Moon Agency headquarters, the tall building gleaming

    in the noon''s sun.

    She pulled out her phone, scrolling through the list of Crescent Moon members, eyes

    narrowing as she examined the roster.

    "Which one of them can I use?" she wondered.

    But her thoughts were interrupted as she spotted a familiar figure walking out of the agency

    building.

    Her eyes widened, and she quickly ducked behind a nearby pillar.

    Mercury had just exited the building, wearing sunglasses and with a large hat in hands.

    Crystal bit her lip, unsure of her next move.

    ''Eratz must be nearby,'' she whispered to herself. ''He has to be.''

    Without thinking, she decided to follow Mercury, slipping into the crowd and keeping her

    distance. She had to see where this would lead.

    At a caf¨¦, Eratz sat alone, sipping his strawberry milkshake as the noise of the city buzzed around him. His eyes were distant, his thoughts elsewhere.

    A man approached the table, looking nervous as he introduced himself.

    "Hm, hello. I''m here for... for your request," the man said, his voice shaky.

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to the man, cold and unreadable.

    "Good, punctual, plus 10 points. Sit down, I need you for something."

    The man sat down, clearly uncomfortable as Eratz reached into his bag and pulled out a small

    sack. He placed it on the table with a soft thud.

    "Inside, there are 4999 dyns."

    The man blinked, confused.

    "My parents owe you 700 dyns," Eratz continued. "Take that, and give them the rest. Tell

    them you were moved by their story and wanted to help them with Kian and Lila''s school

    fees."

    The detective''s confusion turned to panic as Eratz''s cold stare bore into him.

    "I''ve put another detective on you, so I know where to find you. If you disappear with the

    money... I''ll make sure you disappear for real, ok?" He smiled.

    The detective nodded quickly, his forehead glistening with sweat.

    "I understand. I won''t... I won''t do anything stupid."

    Eratz leaned back, satisfied.

    "Good. Make sure they use it for their education. Nothing else, if you can do this you get a

    bonus. Now get lost."

    The detective grabbed the sack and practically bolted out of the caf¨¦. Eratz stayed alone,

    staring out the window, he sighed.

    Meanwhile, inside one of Lugina''s largest malls, Kenny wandered through the aisles, his hands full of supplies for another night spent training in the forest.

    He moved quickly, his thoughts focused on his need for strength, for power.

    He was determined to get stronger, to finally catch a monster. He was on a thread, he needed

    to do it before the Academy''s departure.

    But as he approached the checkout, something caught his eye. Out of the corner of his vision, he noticed a figure moving stealthily through the women''s clothing section.

    It was Crystal, her posture rigid and her eyes focused intently on someone ahead of her.

    She was hiding behind a row of clothes, moving cautiously, her gaze following someone who

    was further ahead.

    Kenny frowned, curious. He ducked behind a pillar, squinting as he tried to make out who

    Crystal was tailing.

    At first, he didn''t recognize the person she was following, Mercury was wearing a large hat

    and sunglasses, blending in with the crowd.

    Her casual outfit made her nearly unrecognizable, and Kenny felt a flicker of confusion. Who was she? He leaned forward slightly, trying to get a better look. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    But then, realization dawned. His eyes widened as he finally recognized her, Mercury.

    His heart began to race. It was really her. What was she doing here? And why was Crystal

    following her?

    Kenny''s curiosity burned, but he quickly realized he couldn''t follow them. The two women had entered the women''s clothing section, a space clearly off-limits to him.

    He watched as they disappeared into the depths of the store, his mind swirling with

    questions.

    Frustration gnawed at him, knowing he couldn''t pursue them any further without drawing

    attention.

    Meanwhile, inside the boutique, Mercury was browsing through racks of clothing, her fingers trailing along the delicate fabric.

    The store was bright, its walls lined with mirrors and soft lighting that gave the space an airy,

    luxurious feel.

    Mannequins dressed in various styles stood on display, showcasing everything from elegant

    dresses to casual wear.

    But Mercury wasn''t here for clothes. She had come to buy something far more personal. She stood in front of a row of lingerie, her eyes scanning the various sets on display. "Bold... or cute?" she muttered to herself, biting her lip as she examined two different sets.

    One was a daring black lace set, the other a softer, pastel pink.

    A store assistant appeared beside her, smiling politely.

    "Having a hard time deciding?"

    Mercury gave a small, embarrassed laugh.

    "You could say that."

    The assistant glanced down at the items Mercury was holding, then looked back up with a

    smile.

    "I get it all the time. But don''t worry, I can help you with the sizes if you need."

    Mercury sighed and scratched her head, feeling a little flustered.

    "Yeah, that might help... I''ve been struggling with the size. Nothing seems to fit right."

    The assistant gave her a once-over, nodding.

    "You''ve got quite the catch of measurements," she said, her tone friendly. "It''s not unusual

    for someone with your frame to have a little difficulty finding the right size. But don''t worry,

    we''ve got plenty of options that will fit you perfectly."

    Mercury rackled her throat slightly and nodded, feeling a bit self-conscious. She looked back at the two sets of lingerie in her hands, still unsure which one to go with. "Which do you think?" she asked the assistant, holding up the black and the pink.

    The assistant tilted her head thoughtfully. "Well, it depends on what you''re going for. The

    black is bold, very light, definitely makes a statement. The pink... a bit more on the cute and playful side. What''s the occasion?"

    Mercury hesitated, she remembered Cassie''s last advice: Ride that horse, girl!

    She coughed at the memory, and quickly shook her head, trying to push the thought aside.

    "... A rodeo?" she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

    The assistant chuckled softly, her eyes narrowing.

    "It''s up to you. Do you want to feel confident and fierce? Or playful and sweet? I''m sure that

    whatever you''ll make, someone will always appreciate." Mercury glanced at her with big eyes, had she seen through?

    Her mind raced, her heart pounding slightly, and with a defeated breath, she made her

    decision.

    "I''ll take both," Mercury said, lowering her head and handing the items to the assistant. The assistant nodded approvingly.

    "Good choice. Follow me, and I''ll get you set up with the right sizes."

    As Mercury followed the assistant to the fitting room, Crystal was still lurking nearby, her

    eyes narrowing as she watched closely from behind a rack of clothes, and then, widened as she guessed the purpose of this buying.

 Chapter 90: Unveiled Desires

    Chapter 90: Unveiled DesiresAs they exited the mall, Crystal moved swiftly through the crowds, her gaze locked on Mercury, who was walking a few paces ahead.

    Mercury blended into the crowd, but Crystal''s eyes never left her. She had been tailing her for quite some time, determined to figure out if her fear was justified.

    Crystal''s mind raced with thoughts, a mix of frustration and anger building inside her.

    If Mercury was going to meet Eratz now, everything she had worked for would fall apart. She couldn''t let that happen.

    Mercury was becoming a threat to her carefully laid plans, and she had to act before it was too late.

    Just as Crystal turned a corner, she bumped into someone, hard. She stumbled back slightly, irritation flashing across her face.

    "What the..." she muttered, looking up only to see Kenny standing there, his face twisted in confusion.

    "Kenny?" Crystal spat his name with disdain. "What are you doing here?"

    Kenny, still catching his breath from his frantic searching, looked at her with a mix of anger and desperation.

    "I could ask you the same thing! Why are you following Mercury?" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Crystal rolled her eyes, her patience already wearing thin.

    "Shouldn''t I be asking you the same thing? Instead of training, you''re wasting time following me. That''s exactly why you''re a failure."

    Her words hit Kenny like a slap to the face, and his fists clenched at his sides.

    "Watch your mouth, you idiot!" he snapped, though the words felt hollow even to him. Crystal laughed coldly.

    "You are an idiot. Look at you. wasting time, chasing fantasies while your life falls apart. You''re so obsessed with Mercury that you''re blind to everything else, and in the meantime Eratz is about to have what you want... Pathetic."

    Kenny''s face reddened, and he ground his teeth in frustration.

    "I told you to watch your mouth. What I''m doing is none of your business."

    "Your business?" Crystal interrupted, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You mean catching her before she meets Eratz? You think she''s not already planning to see him? They''re going to meet right now, Kenny. And guess what? It''s not for a friendly chat."

    Kenny''s heart skipped a beat.

    "What?... You''re lying," he whispered, but there was a tremor of doubt in his voice.

    Crystal leaned in closer, her eyes gleaming with malice.

    "Am I? Think about it. Why else would she be sneaking off like this? She was so eager buying underwears, doesn''t that look suspicious? She''s going to meet Eratz to lay down with him. And you''re here, chasing after shadows."

    Kenny felt the ground drop from beneath him. The idea of Mercury and Eratz together, it was too much to bear.

    "No," he mumbled, his voice barely audible, "that can''t be true..."

    Crystal smirked.

    "Ah... Imagine, the girl you want, the object of your desire, drifting in the hand of your rival who beat you. What a tragedy."

    The weight of her words crushed Kenny, and before he could respond, Crystal brushed past him, muttering,

    "You will never have her."

    Kenny stood there, frozen, his mind a chaotic whirl of emotions. Desperation gnawed at him, and before he knew it, he was following Crystal through the crowded streets.

    Later, they both arrived at the edge of the city, watching Mercury as she stood at the entrance of the forest. Crystal and Kenny remained hidden behind a large tree, peeking out cautiously. "She''s really going to meet him," Kenny whispered, his voice shaky. "We need to stop her." Crystal shot him a sharp look, annoyed by his naivety.

    "Stop her? That won''t work. She''s determined to see him. Nothing you do will change that." Kenny''s anxiety surged.

    "But they might be alone... what if they..."

    Crystal cut him off with a wave of her hand.

    "They will. I know what I''ve seen. The more important thing is what happens after."

    Kenny''s chest tightened, his heart pounding painfully.

    "You... you don''t understand. She''s everything to me!"

    Crystal''s eyes narrowed.

    "Who cares? You''re lucky she''s poison for me," she muttered under her breath. "This is ruining everything. If this is getting dangerous I''ll interrupt them,"

    Suddenly, a bright flash lit up the sky, followed by a deafening crack of thunder. Both Crystal and Kenny shielded their eyes, startled by the sudden burst of lightning. When the light faded, they saw Eratz, standing at the forest entrance.

    Mercury''s face lit up as she walked toward Eratz.

    She stepped up onto his back without hesitation, her weight barely registering as she gave

    him a playful shove, grinning down at him.

    "Well, look who finally decided to show up, it''s been a while, hasn''t it?"

    Eratz let out a low chuckle. His eyes sparkled with amusement as he tilted his head slightly to

    -catch her gaze.

    "A while? It''s only been a week. Or did you miss me that much?" he shot back.

    Mercury leaned forward, her hands finding his shoulders as she began to massage them

    gently.

    She smirked as she felt the muscles beneath her fingers tense slightly.

    "Mm, I''m just worried for you," she said, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. "You know, the forest is dangerous today. There aren''t any kids around to save you this time."

    Eratz chuckled, his deep voice vibrating under her hands.

    "You''ll regret saying that, you know," he warned, his voice carrying a playful edge. "Don''t say I didn''t warn you."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow and slid off his back, landing smoothly on the ground beside him. She stepped in front of him, meeting his gaze, their eyes locked in that familiar competitive

    spark.

    "Oh really? Prove it," she taunted, stepping closer until their faces were only inches apart. "Let''s see if your acts match your words."

    Eratz smirked, leaning in just enough to bridge the small gap between them without touching, the playful tension crackling in the air.

    They moved together with an effortless synchronicity, each one knowing the other''s next

    move without needing to speak.

    Together, they turned toward the entrance of the forest, the dense canopy ahead casting

    shadows.

    Their banter continued as they moved deeper into the forest, their steps in perfect harmony, each one pushing the other just a little more with every word.

    From their hidden spot, Crystal clenched her teeth, her jaw tight with frustration.

    "Damn it," she muttered. "This is worse than I thought. She''s really going to do it, she will ruin everything."

    Beside her, Kenny stood in stunned silence, his chest tightening painfully. They''re really together, alone.

    His mind raced, filling with images he couldn''t shake. They were going to be alone in the forest, who knew what could happen between them? Was Crystal''s suppositions accurate?

    His heart pounded, and the realization hit him like a sledgehammer: they might actually do it. They might actually cross the forbidden line.

    Despair bite him hard, his breaths coming in short, ragged gasps.

    Inside the forest, Mercury and Eratz walked side by side, the thick canopy above them casting

    cool shadows over the path.

    The atmosphere was calm, serene, but beneath the surface, there was an unmistakable

    tension between them.

    "So," Eratz began, his tone casual, "I''ve been looking at new houses lately. Got a few spots in

    mind, but it''s going to take at least a month to save up for one."

    Mercury glanced at him, a little smile tugging at her lips.

    "Maybe it''s time for us to buy a separate house..." she murmured, her voice low enough that

    Eratz didn''t quite catch it.

    "Hm?" Eratz asked, tilting his head toward her.

    Mercury smiled but didn''t repeat herself. Instead, she took a step back and stretched.

    "Enough talking. We''ve got one last training session before the qualifications."

    "Alright, enough talk. Time to see if you can keep up."

    Without another word, she leaped into the air with an effortless grace, her body moving in the

    air like a dancer in motion.

    The mist swirling below her thickened for a brief moment, before parting as Zephyraquiel,

    her massive rainbird, emerging with a majestic roar.

    The bird''s vast wings stretched out, catching the wind with ease, each feather glistening with droplets of water that reflected the sunlight in dazzling hues.

    Mercury landed gracefully on her beast''s back, her posture confident and poised as she looked

    down at Eratz with a teasing grin.

    "Come on, catch me if you can!"

    With a sudden surge, the beast took to the skies, soaring higher and faster.

    Mercury laughed, her voice filled with pure exhilaration as she looked down at the world

    below, her eyes wide with awe.

    She felt weightless, the thrill of flight coursing through her as she twisted to glance back at Eratz, her smile playful, almost daring.

    Up above, she was like a mouse taunting the cat, darting just out of reach, her laughter ringing out as her beast danced through the clouds.

    The so called cat watched her with a grin, his heart burning with happiness as he saw her so

    free, so alive.

    But with that happiness came a sudden spark of determination, a fierce desire to catch her.

    It was only them, no one to stop them, no one to force them to stay focused.

    He shook his head, chuckling to himself, then stepped forward, his eyes locked on her, filled

    with the thrill of the chase.

    "You don''t even realize who you''re dealing with," he muttered under his breath.

    He walked casually, and without warning, lightning struck him again, and before Kenny and

    Crystal''s wide-eyed gaze, Eratz disappeared, already in the sky on Raijinara''s back.

    Kenny stood frozen in place, staring up at them as they disappeared into the sky.

    "They''re... they''re gone," he whispered, his voice hollow.

    Crystal clicked her tongue in frustration, her nails digging into her palm.

    "Of course they''re gone. They''ve both got these damn monsters. There''s no way we can

    follow them now!"

    Kenny''s panic spiked, his desperation reaching a fever pitch.

    "We have to do something! We can''t just leave them alone!"

    Crystal shot him a cold glare.

    "There''s nothing we can do! You think you can follow them into the sky? You''re useless here

    like always! All we''d do is get lost!"

    Kenny''s voice cracked as he pleaded.

    "But what if they... what if they...?"

    Crystal''s eyes darkened, her patience wearing thin.

    "I don''t care anymore. Everything is ruined. Everything! And it''s your fault." She stepped

    closer, her voice dripping with venom.

    "No, in fact, I can still play something out, but you, you''re really finished! If you don''t figure out how to get her off him, I''ll leave you behind too. And believe me, I won''t hesitate." With that, she turned on her heel and stormed off, leaving Kenny standing alone in the

    clearing, his heart heavy with despair.

    As he stood there, staring in the direction they had disappeared, memories of the past came flooding back. Eratz. The name echoed in his mind, haunting him.

    He remembered the academy, always being second to Eratz, always living in his shadow.

    No matter how hard Kenny had tried, no matter how much he had pushed himself, Eratz was

    always one step ahead. Everyone talked about him. Everyone admired him. It was infuriating. Then came the moment when Kenny had seen his chance. Lisa had stolen the Karinite 4, and Eratz had confided in Kenny, asking him to distract Rowan so he could put it back. Kenny had seen the perfect opportunity to get rid of him, to rise above him at last. He had thought he had won. He had believed that he had finally bested Eratz. But now, as he

    stood there, the truth was painfully clear: he hadn''t won anything. He had lost everything, but how? How??

    And now, Mercury, the one person he desired more than anything, was slipping through his fingers too, and it was Eratz who would have her.

    Kenny''s knees buckled, and tears streamed down his face as the full weight of his failure

    crashed down on him. Eratz had taken everything, his success, his fame, and now, his fantasis.

    Deeper in the forest, Mercury and Eratz finally stopped at a secluded clearing. The air was thick with tension, the anticipation between them almost tangible Mercury''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she stretched her limbs.

    "You know, it''s nice to be alone for once," she teased, her voice carrying a playful edge.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, catching the mischievous glint in her eye.

    "What are you up to now? That thing we talked about?" he asked, already guessing where this

    was headed.

    Mercury grinned and stepped closer to him.

    "No, that would be too easy. Let''s make this training a bit more interesting. Every time one of

    us loses a challenge, they lose a piece of clothing."

    Eratz''s eyes widened slightly, caught off guard.

    "You''re really on something."

    They launched into their training, each taking turns in different challenges, from feats of

    strength to agility tests.

    The intensity between them grew with each round, their movements becoming faster, more

    deliberate.

    Each time one of them lost, they would shed a layer, the tension between them building with each discarded piece of clothing.

    Soon, the training had turned into something else entirely. Mercury, now in sport bra and

    shirt, smirked as she let herself lose on purpose, eagerly discarding another piece of clothing.

    Her movements were slower now, more calculated, as if she was savoring each moment, each

    glance.

    Eratz, catching on to the game, narrowed his eyes.

    The game was over, now there was no more hesitation.

    He proposed another trial, only to lose intentionally. He shrugged off another layer, his gaze

    never leaving hers.

    Their challenge became more physical, every touch lingering longer, each brush of their skin sending sparks through their bodies.

    The tension was palpable, an undercurrent of something deeper, something more primal,

    that neither of them could ignore.

    They circled each other during their final sparring session, their eyes locked, every movement

    charged with an intensity that had long since gone beyond training.

    Every step, every glance, every breath felt heavier. When their bodies collided, it was no

    longer just a spar.

    Their breaths mingled as they pressed closer, their skin igniting with every graze, every accidental touch that now seemed all too intentional.

    Mercury moved with purpose, her body instinctively leaning into Eratz''s strength, each touch

    fanning the flame that had been smoldering between them for weeks.

    At last, after a flurry of movements, Mercury straddled Eratz, her hands pinning his on the

    green grass.

    Her short, stylish blue hair framing her face and catching the sunlight, beads of sweat glistened on her tanned skin, highlighting the beauty marks under her right eye, beneath her lips, and just above her chest and dropping on Eratz.

    Her gaze was soft yet intense, her full lips parted as she breathed heavily.

    With only her underwear on, everything was visible.

    Her alluring body pressing against him, her curves captivating. The delicate sheen of sweat

    accentuated the shape of her breasts as they rose and fell with each breath.

    Her thin torso emphasized her sensual form, every movement drawing them closer.

    Eratz felt the softness of her thighs against his sides, her legs strong yet elegant. Mercury kept her hands on him, as if to keep him from moving.

    The warmth of their bodies and the sun made the heat between them almost overwhelming.

    For a long moment, the world around them faded away.

    There was only them, their heavy breathing, and the electric energy pulsing between them.

    Mercury''s chest heaved as she fought to contain herself. A soft, breathless word escaped her

    lips.

    "... Ah... Damn."

    It was barely more than a whisper, filled with a mix of longing and surrender, she couldn''t

    hold back any longer.

    She leaned down, her lips hovering just above his. He could feel her warm breath on his skin,

    her proximity making his heart race.

    There was a pause, a heartbeat where time seemed to stop. Their faces were inches apart, the

    air thick with anticipation.

    Then, with a gentle exhale, Mercury closed the distance. She pressed her lips to his in a kiss that released everything they had been holding back.

 Chapter 91: [R18] Burning Desires

    Chapter 91: [R18] Burning DesiresThe kiss began as a tentative brush of lips, a whisper of warmth that ignited the air between them.

    Mercury''s eyes fluttered closed, her breath hitching in her throat. They paused, foreheads touching, panting softly like hounds after a long chase.

    The world around them faded; all that remained was the steady rhythm of their hearts and the intoxicating scent of sweat and wild grass.

    With a low chuckle breaking the tension, Mercury leaned closer, her lips finding him once more, this time with urgency.

    Their mouths danced together, exploring uncharted territories with growing fervor.

    Eratz could feel her heart racing beneath the softness of her skin as he pressed deeper into the kiss.

    It was a kiss filled with longing and desire, an explosion of the attraction that had been building between them for weeks.

    Mercury''s hands tangled in Eratz''s hair, pulling him closer as their bodies molded together.

    She could feel the hard muscles of his chest pressing against her breasts, her nipples growing hard under his touch.

    Eratz couldn''t help but let out a low growl of pleasure against her mouth before slipping his tongue inside to coax hers into a wilder game.

    Mercury gasped at the sudden intimacy but responded eagerly, pulling him closer until she found herself straddling him fully.

    Eratz''s hands roamed down to grasp her waist while Mercury arched back slightly a shiver running through them both at this newfound closeness.

    The heat between them intensified with every kiss, their bodies moving against each other in a rhythm that was both urgent and sensual.

    Pausing for breaths that were barely there, they locked eyes with an intensity that spoke volumes. There was a raw hunger in their gaze, an undeniable need for more.

    Mercury''s heart raced as Eratz''s hands roamed her body, discovering every curve and crevice.

    She tried to be offensive, to take the lead, but her inexperience made her hesitate.

    "Hmm," she muttered under her breath, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension.

    Eratz smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief.

    "Hm? Oh, I know that, that''s the sound of ''I told you''."

    She smiled and leaned forward, their nose rubbing against each other.

    "You also said that you would eat me and I''m still in one piece, so get back to work."

    He smiled and gently pulled Mercury down onto his lap, straddling his legs in black lace underwear that hugged her curves perfectly. Mercury moaned softly as he leaned in to kiss her neck.

    Lips and tongue worshipped Mercury''s slender neck, tracing the line of her jugular.

    She tasted sweet and salty, igniting hunger that asked for satisfaction.

    Eratz''s free hand wandered to her breast, palming the heavy globe through thin fabric. Her breast couldn''t even fit in his palm, but responded eagerly to his touch.

    Mercury hastily ripped off her bra, tossing it aside. Her bare flesh emerged into cool air, two ripe orbs bouncing freed from their constraints, their proud nipples already stiffening.

    Eratz paused for a moment, despite having them in hand for a moment, and the numerous times he almost saw them, it was the first time that he took the time to contemplate them.

    He abandoned her neck to claim the straining nipple, suckling deeply as his fingers worked to on the other.

    "Oh God..." Mercury suppressed a scream.

    Breath coming in sharp gasps now, the trembling young woman couldn''t hold back her moans.

    Each swipe of Eratz'' tongue sent tremors rippling through her core, leaving her dizzy and gasping for air.

    Continuing his exploration, Eratz traced a blazing trail downward across the expanse of Mercury''s midsection, fingers dancing along the ridges of her soft abs.

    Nipples throbbed in tandem with pounding heartbeat as electrifying friction sparked from his mouth. She bucked instinctively, craving deeper penetration.

    The warmth emanating from her core beckoned, urging him onward.

    Lost in a whirlwind of lust, Mercury barely noticed the change in texture as Eratz''s wandering hands skimmed over her stomach, circling her navel with feather-light touches before

    trailing lower.

    Carefully guiding his thumbs under the delicate lace edging, Eratz peeled Mercury''s black pant, revealing her hidden paradise to greedy gazes.

    Glints of glistening liquid pearled from her virgin petals, catching the flickering sunlight like diamonds, delicate yet bold.

    His fingertips gently brushed her mound of rose petals, eliciting a shudder and mapping velvety contours before deliberately dipping to probe deeper, a silent declaration that

    thunderstruck Mercury.

    "Eratz..." Her whisper came low, as fingers finally made the first decisive thrust past welcoming tissues.

    Gasping, Mercury''s glazed eyes flew open as warm breath wafted over her secret area.

    Smooth fingers ghosted along silken folds, sending ripples of delight through her quivering

    core.

    "Wait... Eraaaa-Z..."

    Her plea dissolved into mindless whimpering as those digits began to explore more intimately, delving between plush petals to find secret places hidden from prying eyes.

    She bucked her hips, desperately seeking firmer pressure, the need building to near-painful levels.

    Tingling pleasure built at the base of her spine, spiraling outward until every fiber of her being hummed in expectant bliss.

    "Wait, Eratz... I HMMM-"

    She didn''t get to finish, her world dissolving into starry lights and ecstatic cries as Eratz finally gave in to her silent pleading, slowly plunging a thick finger deep into her grasping

    heat.

    Eratz''s heart beat in sync with Mercury''s increasing moans as his fingers worked into the smooth, sticky sheath of her young flower.

    The feeling of soft walls clenching and releasing around his probing finger filled him with a primal feeling of desire.

    Emboldened, Eratz increased the pace of his movements, scissoring his fingers to open her wider and allowing his thumb to add maddening circles against her heating clit.

    The sensory overload threatened to short-circuit Mercury''s thoughts completely, pushing her closer to that precipice.

    "Oh My God! Oh God!", Mercury gasped, amazed by the responsiveness of her own body.

    Unable to resist any longer, Eratz added a second finger alongside the first, gradually increasing the depth and speed to bring her ever closer to that climactic edge.

    An explosive surge surged through Mercury''s veins, culminating in euphoria as Eratz''s penetrating finger stirred the molten center of her pleasure.

    Guttural moans vibrated against her lover''s chest, panting gasps mingling with the staccato beats of her racing heart.

    Each calculated thrust of his finger brought her higher, until her very existence was centered solely around the incredible sensation unfolding between her thighs.

    Mercury teetered precariously on the edge, fighting the urge to completely surrender to the maelstrom that was consuming her.

    And then it happened.

    The dam broke, unleashing a torrential wave of rapture that swept Mercury away entirely.

    Her back arched sharply, her toes curling as the orgasm tore through her like wildfire. Eyes rolling back, covering her wide open mouth, she screamed with pleasure.

    After the shocks of pleasure radiated through her hypersensitive nerves, Mercury lay limply on the damp grass, her blue locks tangling haphazardly around her face buried deep in the

    cushioned palms.

    Slow, shuddering breaths fought against the urgent demands of her racing pulse, trying in vain to soothe the tremors that ravaged her body.

    Invisible sparks crackled through eroded inhibitions as dazed, near-white eyes drifted

    upward.

    His chest heaving with the effort, Eratz froze momentarily, stunned by the intensity of Mercury''s orgasm.

    The sound of her uninhibited screams echoing through the air resonated deeply, a primal thrill coursing through her veins from having unleashed such raw emotion. Slowly, reality returned as the fog of passion cleared, forcing him to acknowledge what

    happened.

    Eratz found himself staring at the mess of trembling limbs, the wet grass, and the telltale evidence of their shared intimacy covering his fingers.

    A nervous laugh erupted, half amused, half terrified by the implications of what had

    happened.

    "Um... I-I told you, things would get crazy," he whispered, trying to reassure Mercury and himself. "That was... Unexpected... Holy shit... I think I went too far..."

    Before he could continue his thought, a strong grip closed around his wrist, halting his

    withdrawal.

    Invisible sparks crackled through eroded inhibitions as dazed blue eyes devoured Eratz''s.

    A rustling signaled movement, hinting at the intention to close the remaining distance.

    Mercury gradually stood up, drawing strength from irregular breaths now mingling deliciously with the burning scent of her partner.

    Eratz though at first that she might get angry, but her gaze was different, piercing, burning,

    but with desire. She showed no anger, just a deep and perpetual desire.

    The beast was released and she was locked in.

    "Your turn." She murmured. Slender fingers deftly released the elastic waistband, pulling Eratz''s boxers down to his

    knees.

    As the cool breeze whispered across the newly exposed flesh, Mercury''s gaze drifted hungrily

    over the taut expanse of toned abs, following the trail of fine hair leading south to the source

    of his obvious arousal.

    She couldn''t help but laugh softly at the impressive bulge tempting the front of his briefs, her

    amusement tinged with anticipation.

    Reaching out, she grasped the heavy weight, gently caressing the ridge of the pulsing veins before leaning down to brush her warm breath across the taut fabric.

    "My, how scary. Is it because you went all out on me?" Mercury purred, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief as she playfully nibbled on the taut cotton. "You''re going to pay for what you did to me, I''m going to give you something to remember."

    Eratz stood perfectly still, transfixed by Mercury''s mesmerizing display of sensual mastery.

    His gaze remained glued to the seductive array of her lips, slightly parted as she blew a cool burst onto the sensitive head of his throbbing member.

    Tremors spread through his tense body at the electrifying contact, her breathing becoming shallow and rapid.

    Every nerve ending cried out for more of her naughty attentions.

    As Mercury wrapped her slender fingers around his body, stroking him with deliberate

    slowness, Eratz suppressed a muffled moan.

    The velvety softness of her palm contrasted sharply with the rigid, throbbing steel beneath, a paradoxical combination that drove him mad with desire.

    Her grip tightened, pumping continually as she continued her oral seduction.

    Hot, wet suction enveloped the broad crown, drawing out beads of salty pre-cum that mixed

    with her saliva.

    A guttural hiss escaped Eratz''s throat, trying hard not to moan, when Mercury finally released

    his throbbing erection from her hands.

    The visual feast presented to him stole his ability to think coherently, Mercury was there, at

    his knees, the tip of her nose so close to his cock.

    Mercury''s skilled hands released their grip, and the thick column of flesh jerked reflexively, leaving sticky trails of pre-cum smeared across her supple palms.

    She gave him a smug, he was almost defeated before the fight even begun. Eratz''s heart beat frantically in his chest as his gaze focused on her sensual lips, full and

    inviting, parted just enough to reveal the glistening silk of her tongue.

    A drop of perspiration ran down his temple, mixing with the salty residue that accumulated at

    the tip of his glans.

    As Mercury leaned forward, the hot breath sweeping over her sensitive flesh, Eratz''s knees nearly buckled.

    Leaning forward, Mercury claimed Eratz''s stiffening length with her mouth, engulfing the thick girth in wet heat.

    Her tongue danced across the ridges and swirls, exploring every inch with a hungry reverence

    that bordered on adoration.

    The strong muscular column flexed and shook against his palate, reacting intensely to the

    sensations it provoked.

    Eratz''s cock felt sof on the surface and right when she pressed harder, it tasted earthy and masculine, with hints of wine, a powerful aphrodisiac that left Mercury desperate for more. Her fingers gripping Eratz''s hips tightly, she tilted her head back and forth, working him with

    skillful abandon.

    Mercilessly, she sucked harder, pushing him deeper into the confines of her throat, savoring the way his hips instinctively rose to meet her descent.

    Mercury hollowed her cheeks, creating an irresistible void that tore gasps and grunts from

    Eratz''s slack lips.

    Burning pleasure licked Eratz''s cock as Mercury''s adept ministrations mercilessly pushed him

    to the brink of orgasm.

    She was on a mission: to make him moan as much as her.

    Each powerful suck and stroke of her curved tongue resulted in volleys of thick pre-cum

    flooding her mouth, bathing her talented lips in warmth.

    Her mind clouded with unbridled lust, all coherent thought evaporated under hee relentless

    assault. Pulling back slightly, Mercury kept her eyes on him and swirled the slippery fluids gathered

    around the head of his penis with a teasing rhythm, from the tip of her tongue to the pink

    tongue.

    It was as if she had transformed, after her climax, she was liberated and her creativity became

    wild.

    Just as Eratz thought he was going to recover a little from pure agonizing bliss, Mercury decided to play with fire one last time, returning with reckless abandon to engorge him completely down her lush, velvety throat.

    Mercury was in complete control, orchestrating every move with a ruthless precision

    designed to drive Eratz crazy.

    With some ease, she swallowed around the rigid intrusion, applying a maddening mix of pressure and friction.

    Every movement of her lips seemed to pull him closer to the abyss, her responses becoming more and more frantic and unpredictable.

    Yet Mercury insisted, wanting nothing less than absolute domination over her lover''s desires.

    The moment her hands circled the thick base of his shaft, Eratz knew he was doomed.

    A frenzied desperation clawed at his conscience, begging for release even as he fought valiantly to prolong this exquisite torment.

    Mercury''s incessant sucking proved too much to bear. As if sensing his impending demise, she

    intensified her efforts, hollowing her cheeks and applying a maddening pressure that forced Eratz''s vision to widen.

    Pleasure exploded behind his eyelids, reaching a crescendo that completely broke his control.

    With a throaty growl ripped from his very soul, Eratz erupted, spilling his seed in a thick, copious explosion that swelled into Mercury''s eager mouth and flowed from her lips and down her throat.

    Wave after wave crashed over her, each jet seemingly endless as it filled the inside of her mouth and coated her tongue with the essence of his desire.

    It was only when Eratz began to convulse violently, jet after jet of steaming cum shooting in great ropes across the landscape of her eager face, that she let her own momentum slow. With her mouth full to overflowing, Mercury stopped briefly to observe the carnage she had

    caused.

    Blue

    eyes ide, lips glossy with

    they were doing

    evidence of her cli , she marveled at the madness

    The sheer volume of his release surprised even her.

    Filled with it, Mercury savored the lingering aftershocks of her climax, savoring the subtle

    tremors that still rippled through her exhausted body.

    Her own orgasm was again approaching, reaching the breaking point. She resisted the urge to

    explode again.

    A low, high-pitched moan escaped her lips as the first tendrils of rapture snaked through her core, tightening with each passing second until she teetered precariously on the edge. She loved him, adored the way he submitted to her every whim, filled Mercury with an

    immense feeling of possession, from him, and to him.

    At the height of her pleasure, she wanted to feel him in her body, she wanted to mark her body

    with his existence.

    She tried to swallow the torrent of cum still lodged in her stuffed throat, but the amount

    quickly surprised her and a choking cough devastated Mercury''s body.

    Her eyes were watering profusely, the stinging sensation only increasing her discomfort as

    she struggled to expel the oppressive foreign substance that was obstructing her airway.

    Eratz jumped and leaned on her, patting her back to help her.

    "Stupid... what''s gotten into you?!"

    As Mercury''s breathing steadied and his vibrant eyes glinted with mischief once again, Eratz

    froze at the sight of his cum still glistening on her lips from the girl.

    This image awakened new waves of desire in his veins. The insistent rigidity between his

    thighs was rekindle.

    Stunned by the speed of Eratz''s remarkable recovery, Mercury wondered if Aunt Cassie''s claims of Ishtarian endurance were true.

    The evidence that stood proudly before her left little room for doubt, as if Eratz''s malevolence was simply absorbing the excess heat rather than being sapped by the effort. Slender fingers followed Eratz''s renewed excitement, exploring the warm, silky texture with experimental curiosity. Mercury leaned down, whispering close to his ear. "Looks like we''re not quite done yet, I''m still in one piece." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 92: [R18] Burning Desires(2)

    Chapter 92: [R18] Burning Desires(2)Mercury lay in front of Eratz, her posture offering a better view of her privacy. The pink, sparkling petals of her private part beckoned to him, and the young man found himself staring at it for a while.

    Blushing furiously, Mercury felt mortified as Eratz stared at her exposed femininity with disconcerting intensity.

    This blatant scrutiny, coupled with her body''s natural preparation, made Mercury aware of exactly how vulnerable she was in front of him at that moment.

    Eratz discovered a part of herself that even her had never observed. The cool air against her pink flesh only amplified the sensitivity, causing her internal muscles to contract involuntarily.

    Mercury covered her face under Eratz''s piercing gaze.

    "Enough with the staring, Eratz! Do it!"

    She protested weakly, a clumsy attempt to suppress her embarrassment.

    His pulse racing, Eratz froze, hovering over Mercury with the tip of his engorged length pressed teasingly against her virginal flower.

    "Mercury..."

    "Hmm?"

    "Once we...do that, there''s no going back, I''m not one to play with that sort of thing," he admitted softly, searching her eyes with a a mixture of raw urgency and apprehension.

    "You said I was your family before, so...I would also like to say that you are my family... For real."

    Mercury blinked slowly, absorbing the depth of his words echoing in her mind.

    At first the idea seemed absurd, it was the culmination of the game they had been playing for so long, but as she thought, she realized why she was so calm with the idea.

    "Hey, wait just a minute...what are you doing? Is this a confession? here? now?"

    She sat up slightly, meeting his gaze, both nose against nose.

    "You really have bad timing, you know that? But seriously, do you think I''ll do it with anyone? Eratz, I was dreaming of this, of this moment, and now I might cry if you continue."

    Mercury whispered on his lips.

    "It''s you, and only you...and it will only be you. If you are ready to invite me to this

    magnificent house, then I gladly accept. But next time, choose better timing, the Roses are roses and spices are spices."

    Surprised by her reaction, Eratz laughed softly, running a hand through her blue hair.

    "Okay, fine. No turning back then. We''re in this for good."

    Mercury''s eyes widened, her initial apprehension giving way to a flutter.

    "Nope, you''re still outside, and I''m tired of waiting. The romantic part is over so it''s time for war." she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Eratz aimed his member towards the entrance to Heaven and dove forward, completely enveloping himself in Mercury''s searing heat.

    The instant envelopment was simply miraculous, as if every fiber of his being had been specially designed to inhabit this precise space.

    Each delicate fold of passing Mercury embraced him, creating a cozy, welcoming haven that lured him deeper with an almost hypnotic allure.

    The sensation was overwhelming, almost transcendent, a divine alignment of their physiology that resonated with a primal harmony unlike anything they had experienced before.

    "Ere-ahhh!" Mercury gasped, her vocal cords straining as Eratz''s girth pushed against seemingly impenetrable barriers before inexorably breaking through them.

    Her eyes snapped open as reality hit her with blinding intensity, Eratz''s rigid heat invading the last intact sanctuary of her womanhood.

    Mercury gasped sharply, her back arching in reaction to the initial stretch and the burning pressure that followed.

    Waves of discomfort mixed with electrifying ecstasy, her body protesting while craving more of this exquisite torture.

    Lost in the haze of overwhelming fullness, Eratz stood still, giving Mercury time to adjust to the sudden invasion.

    Time seemed to slow, each fractional advance marking a milestone in the loss of her virginity, the delicate membranes yielding with agonizing slowness to the merciless assault of his girth.

    Tears pricked at the corners of Mercury''s eyes as pain fought against the budding ecstasy, the opposing sensations fighting for dominance within her trembling form.

    "Ahh...! Fuck, that hurts..." she moaned, torn between the desperate attempts to squirm and the inexorable attraction that brought her body inexorably closer to her new half. Even through the haze of discomfort, Mercury felt Eratz''s throbbing length extending inside her, reshaping and claiming the most intimate recesses of her inner self.

    A soft rasp escaped Eratz''s parted lips as he gazed at Mercury, her tanned skin glistening with sweat, her beauty marks moving with the movements of her breathing and her eyes wide with stunned vulnerability.

    Softening his grip on her hips, he traced tender patterns along her sides with thumbs and palms, trying to reassure her fragile nerves.

    "You''re okay? Try to relax a little, I''m sure You''ve been through worse during your fights, you can get over this," he whispered in a soft voice, punctuating his wish with a soothing drag of his thick member deep into Mercury''s smooth depths.

    His movements were deliberately slow, determined to coax release from the coiled tension gripping his lover.

    Slowly, ever so gently, the torment transformed from a brutal intrusion to a breathtaking

    rapture.

    Each stroke was deliberate, carefully controlled to avoid exacerbating the residual sting while intensifying the indescribable euphoria that blossomed in its wake.

    Panting softly, Mercury felt her walls begin to soften, gradually relaxing around the thick presence inside.

    It was as if her ravaged flesh had begun to heal itself, adapting perfectly to the stranger claiming dominion over her heart.

    "Oh, fuck, yes...that''s it..." she whispered, giving in to the onslaught of emotion.

    Every cell alive and listening to the beat of her heart which resonated in her depths.

    As if magnetically attracted, her hips began to roll, mirroring the sensual rhythm dictating Eratz''s deep, slow penetrations.

    Driven by the captivating symphony of sounds coming from Mercury''s luscious mouth, the throaty moans, whispered encouragements, and soft mewls of pleasure, it took considerable effort for Eratz to maintain his restraint.

    Yet he persevered, focusing solely on delivering wave after wave of ecstatic release to his beloved mistress. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Tilting her hips at just the right angle allowed him to rediscover those secret places of her feminine fortress, triggering powerful shivers every time his velvety tip danced over those

    bliss spots.

    Each reverberation echoed outwards, amplifying the sensual vibrations that reverberated throughout his body as he succumbed to the rhythmic cadence taking control of their

    intertwined figures.

    Eratz realized that he alone held the power to reduce Mercury to such debauched pleasure, rendering her completely helpless under the force of his passionate ministrations.

    Lost in the swirls of pleasure that now coursed through her veins, Mercury''s inhibitions evaporated under the burning sun.

    A low, high-pitched scream escaped her lips as Eratz''s rhythmic thrusts hit a particularly sensitive sweet spot, the intense focus of stimulation triggering a precipice of release.

    Trembling violently, Mercury reached for Eratz, fingers digging into the tense musculature of his back, pressing her voluptuous breasts desperately against his chest, rubbing their mixture of sweat against each other as her climax was heading quickly towards detonation.

    A swirl of color danced behind her eyelids, the result of a powerful stimulant hitting her system hard, and just when she thought she was going to break, Eratz brought one of her tits back to his mouth, sucking it in with force.

    This was the decisive push, tipping Mercury dangerously close to the edge. Sensing Mercury teetering precariously on the brink of yet another explosive release, Eratz increased the tempo of his features, driven by a primal urge to witness the sublime beauty of

    his climax.

    Their twin forms moved in perfect synchronization, a fluid, erotic ballet orchestrated by the beating of their hearts and the smooth slide of skin against skin.

    He poured all his passion into the dance, his hips thrusting with increasing force as Mercury''s

    internal muscles began to convulse around him.

    Eratz felt his body reaching the breaking point in the intoxicating oppression.

    "Mercury..." he moaned, his voice words punctuated by sharp clicks of his pelvic bone against

    hers. "I''m coming!"

    Panting uncontrollably, her vision tunneled, Mercury''s orgasm tore through her with

    shattering ferocity, each pulse and ripple of contractions clenching tightly around Eratz''s

    unrelenting hardness.

    Deliriously aware of his every movement within her spasming depths, thrashing wildly, they seeked satisfaction in the other''s ardent embrace.

    "G-Go... oh fuck, do it!..." Mercury screamed brokenly.

    Eratz released a new blast deep within Mercury''s walls. The sheer sensory overload amidst the

    whirlwind of pleasure that engulfed them both, Mercury screamed from deep in her throat. The two maintained the same position, as if waiting for Eratz to fill the tank with his essence to the last drop, and finally, they collapsed against each other, their breathing ragged, Eratz slowly regained his consciousness.

    As his orgasm subsided, leaving him limp and quivering with the aftershocks, he marveled at the wet heat still clinging to his sensitive member, proof of Mercury''s unfettered abandon to

    carnal pleasure.

    "Wow..."

    Spread beneath Eratz, Mercury panted irregularly, her sweat-soaked limbs spread limply in a

    sated sprawl.

    Each harsh exhale hissed through her clenched teeth, the exertion of her recent release

    leaving her dizzy and weak-kneed.

    Little by little, as the remaining tremors dissipated, a new sensation brought her back to the harsh reality: the continued solidity of Eratz within her.

    Even after their mutual satisfaction, he was ready to go again.

    A small, hesitant noise escaped Mercury''s throat as she tentatively probed with her internal

    sensors, confirming the substantial mass buried deep within her.

    An involuntary spasm greeted the rediscovery of his girth, causing Eratz''s length to contract pleasantly against her hypersensitive tissues.

    With a splash of color creeping up her chest, Mercury peered at Eratz, searching his features for clues as to what was coming next.

    A knowing glint shone in Eratz''s ruby eyes as he sensed Mercury''s growing unease. His cock continually throbbed inside her, savoring the lingering warmth and silkiness that coated his shaft. While admiring her resilience in the face of this new daunting challenge, he couldn''t help but claim his victory with a smirk.

    "Ah? That''s the sound of someone who bit off more than she could chew," he purred, his fingers brushing feather-light trails down her damp thigh. "I warned you."

    Looking at Eratz''s teasing smile, Mercury felt a wave of determination course through her

    veins. She wouldn''t go down so easily like a prey.

    Aunt Cassie''s infamous words echoed in her mind: "Ride that horse, girl!"

    Refusing to give up her most important fight, Mercury tensed her muscles with difficulty and

    gathered all her strength to valiantly attempt to regain control.

    Slowly, deliberately, she slipped her arms around Eratz''s waist, using the leverage to rock her hips upward, breaking their intimate bond with a soft pop. Straightening up, she let out a shaky breath and faced Eratz directly, trying to project confidence despite the lingering dizziness and aching sensitivity between her thighs from which the mixture of their fluids leaked. "You''re in for a ride, my horse." She said with determination.

    Watching Mercury take command, Eratz felt a thrill of admiration mixed with anticipation.

    Her sudden change in behavior spoke volumes about his character: a fiery refusal to be easily influenced or dominated.

    He lay back, letting her settle on top of him, his heavy eyelids half-closed as he prepared to

    indulge in the delicious ride that awaited him.

    Feeling Mercury''s slick folds envelop his length again, Eratz bit back a moan, savoring the

    renewed friction.

    The first few thrusts were attempted, as she grew accustomed to the changed dynamics, but

    she soon gained momentum, rocking her hips with increasing vigor. Sweat began to drip down Eratz''s forehead, mixing with the copious fluids sliding down their

    mating as Mercury rode him with wild abandon.

    Her breasts bounced seductively with each downward plunge, mesmerizing Eratz as much as the feverish rhythm of her movements.

    Taking control of the situation, Mercury slung a leg over Eratz''s hip, planting her foot firmly

    beside him.

    One quick movement had her rising to straddle his chest, hands pressing against his chest as she lined herself over his impressive erection.

    Pinned under Mercury''s ferocious assault, Eratz surrendered to the tumultuous tide that

    swept them both away.

    Every fiber of his being was in harmony with the incessant rhythms that dictated their adherence, his mind consumed by the overwhelming sensations coursing through his body. The sight of Mercury''s breasts heaving with each thunderous impact like a living organism, her blue hair dancing in the air, only fueled Eratz''s descent into madness.

    He gripped her hip with one hand and squeezed one breast hard with the other, his fingers

    digging into the supple flesh as he met her punishing rhythm, pushing upward to sink deeper into her.

    Their fluids mingled in a chaotic ballet, audibly splattering Eratz''s thighs and abdomen with each wild collision of flesh.

    The air thickened with the acrid scent of sex, heavy and intoxicating, pushing Eratz closer to

    the abyss beckoning him below.

    In a haze of lust fury, Mercury''s body began to shake, tension coiling tighter and tighter in her

    core.

    Each powerful thrust of Eratz''s hips threatened to push her over the edge, but she resisted, determined to bring them both to the peak simultaneously.

    Suddenly the pressure became unbearable and Mercury threw her head back with a loud cry as her orgasm erupted like a volcanic eruption.

    Waves of ecstasy crashed over her, the force of her climax threatening to tear her apart as her

    internal muscles contracted wildly around Eratz''s pistoning length. Simultaneously, Eratz roared his own completion, the dam finally bursting as hot jets of liquid exploded from its tip, painting Mercury''s contracting walls with his essence.

    His hands gripped her hips, holding her tightly as he emptied himself deep inside her,

    prolonging the intensity of their shared rapture.

    As the final shock waves of their cataclysmic release faded, Mercury''s exhausted body succumbed to gravity, her consciousness drifting away in a tide of euphoria.

    She would have collapsed onto the grass if not for the quick reflexes of Eratz, who picked her up and cradled her against his warm, heaving chest.

    His body was a tapestry of tension and relief, soft sighs floating past trembling lips.

    Gasping for air, she struggled to refocus her foggy thoughts as she snuggled into the solid

    curve of Eratz''s torso.

    Her rapid heartbeat gradually slowed and she absorbed its soothing cadence, finding comfort

    in the constant rise and fall of Eratz''s chest.

    For a moment, they simply breathed each other, their chests heaving against each other in

    synchrony as their bodies subsequently cooled.

    Gathering her waning energy, Mercury turned her head, her hazy gaze locking with Eratz''s as they stared into each other''s eyes.

    Despite the persistent daze, a bright and disarming smile blossomed on her lips, radiant and

    untamed.

    They didn''t exchange any words, just staring at each other for seconds, until Mercury placed her hands on his cheeks to bring his face closer, delivering another passionate kiss. Their kiss deepened, passion igniting again as their mouths moved in tandem, their tongues

    communicating in sign language.

    But just as Mercury relaxed into the embrace, the electricity of their touch coursed through

    Eratz and the insistent pain came alive again, responding voraciously to her proximity and

    tastes.

    Mercury felt a flash of surprise as Eratz''s hardness attacked her stomach.

    She pulled back, a delighted laugh escaping her parted lips as she dabbed at the moisture plastering her hair to her face.

    "What were you given to eat as a child?" she teased, giggling deep in her throat. Emboldened by their earlier success, she attempted to guide Eratz''s renewed arousal toward

    her entrance, eager to continue their sensual exploration.

    However, before she could put it in place, Eratz gently stopped her efforts with a firm hand on

    her hip.

    "Wait, wait, you look too much like someone who''s going to pass out," he whispered, his voice hoarse with need.

    Even though he understood Mercury''s weariness, though tempered by his own voracious desire, Eratz was reluctant to risk pushing his greedy partner too far, too fast "You did wonderfully well." Eratz''s soothing baritone vibrated reassuringly near her ear.

    He gently lifted her chin, placing a tender kiss on her flushed cheeks before stealing another quick kiss.

    "As much as I would love nothing more than to destroy this forest like that, I think you need a little more recovery time..."

    "N-no, Eratz! Don''t talk nonsense! We''re just warming up here!" Mercury protested weakly

    even as her strength waned.

    Her objection punctuated with a dramatic pout. Pride would not allow her to admit defeat

    without a fight, even if her body cried out for a reprieve.

    She wrapped her arms around Eratz''s muscular form, pulling him impossibly closer, as if

    proximity alone could breathe new life into her flagging energies.

    Her fingers played with the intricate features on his shoulders, tracing familiar paths along

    the veins and muscle fibers. She needed his touch, wanting to feel the warmth of his pores

    fearing it would be the last time.

    Seeing the heavy weight of Mercury pressing against him, signaling her intention to resist his

    call, Eratz adjusted his approach. Instead of trying to physically dissuade her, he used a

    completely different tactic: his lips and his gentle surrender.

    He gently grabbed her chin and sealed her objection with a languorous, thorough kiss. He

    poured all his pent-up affection into the slow, sensual dance of tongues and teeth, deliberately evoking the intoxicating chemistry that had brought them to this point. Against her willing mouth, he confessed.

    "Calm down, I''m not going anywhere, we''re together now." Eratz pulled back slightly, his thumbs stroking her cheekbones as he looked into her eyes.

    "I guess I underestimated your strength and endurance. Your spirit is truly astonishing. But,

    if you don''t give up, then I must admit defeat. We can''t go on a rampage today, we''re

    supposed to be home at 6. Next time, we''ll take the whole day off." Mercury''s spark of defiance dimmed slightly as she studied Eratz''s calm expression, realizing

    that he was truly seeking a balance between pleasure and preservation.

    His genuine concern for her well-being cut through her stubbornness, replacing rebellion

    with an equally fierce outpouring of affection.

    Reluctant, she accepted, calming the stormy sea of her passions. A small, seductive smile

    appeared on her lips as she agreed to his terms, sealing the pact with a decisive nod. "It''s a promise, then," Mercury said, her voice barely above a whisper. Hugging Eratz with a firm, enveloping embrace, Mercury let herself melt into his strong,

    protective grip. She buried her face in the crook of his neck, deeply inhaling the musky scent of his skin, the

    subtle flavor of effort and the underlying aroma of raw masculine power.

    In turn, Eratz enveloped Mercury in a strong, possessive pressure, her scent registered forever

    in his brain.

 Chapter 93: Post Dream Clarity

    Chapter 93: Post Dream ClarityThe afternoon was falling, and the light took a golden hue in the clearing, the warm light now cooling as it filtered through the dense canopy overhead.

    Eratz and Mercury stood in the silence that had followed their frenzied noon, but the quiet now felt different. It wasn''t peaceful; it was heavy, almost oppressive.

    The usual easy camaraderie between them had been replaced by something else, a weight that neither seemed ready to address.

    Eratz pulled his shirt over his head, his fingers fumbling with the fabric. The sound of the wind rustling through the trees seemed louder, almost intrusive.

    Every movement felt amplified, and he could feel his heartbeat thudding loudly in his chest.

    He shot a glance at Mercury, who had her back to him, pulling her sport pants up, her movements stiff and silent. She hadn''t spoken a word since they''d started dressing, and it was unnerving.

    He started wondering if he had done something wrong, if he did something wrong. The way Mercury avoided looking at him, the stiffness in her posture, it all made him question if they''d gone too far, too fast.

    His mind raced, replaying every moment, every touch, every breath they had shared.

    He had never seen her like this before, so quiet, so... distant. It gnawed at him.

    What if he had made a mistake? What if she regretted it? Maybe they shouldn''t have crossed that line?

    The silence stretched on, suffocating in its weight, as if the whole forest was holding its breath along with them.

    Every second felt like an eternity, and the pit in his stomach only grew heavier.

    He could feel the tension between them like a tangible force, thick and immobile.

    He wanted to say something, anything, to break the quiet, but the words felt lodged in his throat.

    And then, out of nowhere, Mercury''s voice broke through the silence.

    "Hey... if you had to fight one horse-sized duck or a hundred duck-sized horses, which would you pick?"

    Eratz blinked, utterly thrown by the ridiculousness of her question. For a second, he wasn''t sure if he had heard her correctly.

    He stared at her back, dumbfounded, his mind scrambling to process the absurdity of what she''d just asked. Of all the things she could have said, she chose that?

    "Wait... what?" he finally managed, his voice thick with disbelief.

    Mercury still didn''t turn around, but he could see the slight tremble in her shoulders as if she were trying to hold in a laugh.

    "Um... yeah... like..." she muttered. "Horses and ducks... you know, they''re cute, right?"

    Eratz couldn''t help the small chuckle that escaped him, the sound breaking through the thick tension between them.

    "You can''t run away from our sin."

    Mercury groaned, finally turning around to face him. Her face was flushed, her cheeks tinged with embarrassment, and she couldn''t meet his gaze for more than a second before she glanced away again.

    "I don''t know! I just... it was too quiet, okay?"

    Eratz let out a deep breath, the tension easing slightly, though not entirely gone.

    "Well, it worked. Sort of." He smiled. "But you know, we can''t just ignore what we did." Mercury''s face flushed deeper, and she covered her face with her hands.

    "I know, I know. I''m just... I don''t know what to say now. Everything feels so... weird."

    Eratz nodded, rubbing the back of his neck.

    "Yeah... I get that." He let the silence settle again, but this time it didn''t feel as unbearable. "It was... incredible."

    Mercury lowered her hands, looking at him with wide eyes.

    "Incredible? That''s one way to put it," she said, letting out a soft, nervous laugh. She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt.

    "I just... I''ve never done that before. With anyone. And now I''m standing here like an idiot, not knowing what to say or do. I mean, it''s not like you can just go back to normal after something like that, right?"

    Eratz''s gaze softened, and he stepped closer, his voice gentler now.

    "No... you can''t. But that''s not a bad thing." He hesitated for a moment, then added, "It was your first time... and mine too. We should even celebrate it instead."

    Mercury''s eyes widened in surprise, her posture relaxing slightly.

    "Really?" She bit her lip, looking at him closely, searching his face for any sign that he might be lying. "You were pretty skilled, like you knew exactly what you were doing, Mister Magic

    Fingers."

    Eratz smiled, shrugging.

    "Same way you learned all your interesting moves, humanity''s infinite potential for malice."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms over her chest.

    "Let me guess, you''ve been watching things on the internet."

    Eratz chuckled, the tension between them finally starting to lift.

    "Please. The only fucking I''ve watched on the internet is a beast master fucking up his opponent... in a fight between."

    Mercury snorted, finally laughing again.

    "Well, that was also a fight, kind of," she chuckled, shaking her head as the awkwardness began to dissolve into something more comfortable. "But seriously... I guess we really did

    that, huh?"

    Eratz nodded slowly, his gaze softening as he looked at her.

    "Yeah. We really did."

    They stood in silence for a moment, the weight of what they had shared lingering between them, but now it felt different. It wasn''t as heavy, not as suffocating.

    They weren''t just Eratz and Mercury anymore, they were something more, something they acknowledged.

    And while it was new and strange, it didn''t feel wrong. If anything, it felt like a natural step

    forward.

    "I don''t regret it, I''m glad it happened with you," Mercury said softly, almost as if she were speaking more to herself than to him. "Do you?"

    Eratz shook his head, his voice steady.

    "No. I don''t regret it either. Honestly, I never knew I would have loved it so much."

    They stood there for a while longer, both coming to terms with the change in their

    relationship.

    It wasn''t just about what they had done physically, it was about the connection they had deepened, the trust they had built between them. It felt real; it felt like them.

    Mercury sighed, glancing up at the sky. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the forest floor.

    "It''s getting late," she murmured. "We should probably head back before it gets too dark."

    Eratz nodded in agreement, but as they started to walk, Mercury''s legs wobbled beneath her, and she stumbled.

    Before she could fall, Eratz''s arm shot out, catching her by the waist and pulling her back

    upright.

    "Careful there," Eratz said as he held her steady.

    Mercury blinked up at him, her face flushing with a mix of embarrassment and exhaustion. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Yeah... just tired, I guess."

    They stood there for a moment, eyes locked, the awkwardness returning but in a different

    way.

    This time, it wasn''t from discomfort, it was from something else, something they both understood but didn''t need to say out loud.

    They had crossed a line together, and there was no going back. But that was okay. They were

    ready for whatever came next, together.

    Eratz smiled softly, his hand lingering at her waist for a moment longer before he let go.

    "Let''s go home."

    Mercury nodded, her lips curving into a small smile.

    "Yeah... let''s go."

    As they walked side by side through the forest, the cool evening breeze brushing against their

    skin, the tension between them finally faded into something more manageable. They didn''t speak much on the way back, but they didn''t need to.

    What they had shared spoke volumes, and as they made their way out of the forest, they both knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.

    A little while after, the forest felt like a suffocating maze for Kenny who wandered aimlessly, each step heavier than the last.

    His breaths came in ragged gasps as he combed through the trees, desperate to find Mercury and Eratz, but the more he searched, the more hopeless it became.

    Every second that ticked by filled him with a suffocating fear. They were out there, somewhere in the woods, alone. And Kenny couldn''t shake the terrifying thought.

    "What if they''re doing it? Right now?"

    His heart pounded louder in his chest as he approached the forest entrance.

    He was exhausted, both physically and emotionally, but he couldn''t bring himself to leave. Instead, he collapsed onto a nearby log, staring blankly at the dense foliage.

    His thoughts spiraled downward, anxiety gnawing at him as he resigned himself to waiting.

    "They''re in there... together," he whispered to himself, his wide eyes filled with a growing despair. Every minute felt like an eternity.

    Every second they were alone together, they could be crossing that line; Eratz could do the only thing keeping him alive till now.

    Suddenly, a rustling sound snapped him out of his thoughts.

    His body tensed, and he immediately ducked behind a nearby bush, his heart racing as he

    peered through the branches.

    From the shadows, he saw them, Eratz and Mercury, emerging from the forest side by side.

    At first glance, it looked like nothing more than a casual stroll, but then Kenny noticed the small details, the tiny movements that shattered his hopes. Mercury''s hand brushed against her hair as she tugged it back into place, the little embarrassment on her face giving away more than she probably realized.

    Then, she adjusted her shirt, pulling it down a little too deliberately over her hips, her

    movements careful, almost hesitant.

    Kenny''s breath hitched, his stomach sinking as if the ground had been ripped from under him.

    "I suggest we do a quick stop by your house. I do appreciate this scent right now, but Aunt

    Cassie''s nickname was ''The Nose,'' so..."

    Mercury flushed, looking mortified.

    "Shut up!" she muttered, giving him a few sharp elbows to the ribs, though there was a smile

    tugging at the corner of her lips.

    Kenny''s world crumbled in slow motion as he watched them. There were too few noises for

    him to miss this quick exchange.

    Added to that, the dynamic between them was undeniable, natural, and it stung more than

    anything he could have prepared for.

    He had feared this moment for so long, but seeing it unfold before his eyes felt like a gut

    punch he wasn''t ready to take.

    His breath hitched as the realization hit him hard and fast. His heart pounded in his ears, his hands shaking as he gripped the bark of the tree beside him.

    There was no mistaking it, they had been together, they had done it.

    His hands clenched into fists as he crouched behind the bush, staring after them with wide,

    devastated eyes. His mind spun out of control.

    She chose him. The realization sank in, bitter and cold, leaving a hollow pit in his chest.

    Mercury chose him over everyone.

    The object of his desire, all the horrible scenarios he imagined, had become Eratz''s reality.

    As the two of them disappeared down the path, heading back toward the town, Kenny remained frozen, his heart pounding in his ears.

    The world around him seemed to collapse, shrinking into a tight, suffocating knot. The vibrant colors of the forest dulled, the sounds of life fading into a distant hum.

    All that was left was the image of Mercury walking away with Eratz, the one person he couldn''t bear to lose her to, the one who buried him without ever touching him.

    Later, at Eratz''s apartment, just as Eratz reached for the door, it suddenly swung open, and a

    projectile barreled into them. Mercury yelped, instinctively stepping back as a small body crashed into Eratz''s legs.

    "Son?" Eratz blinked in surprise, steadying himself as the young boy clung to him

    desperately.

    Milo looked up, wide-eyed, his breath coming in frantic gasps.

    "Father!" he exclaimed, a mix of panic and desperation in his voice.

    "Save me! Colin''s torturing me! I can''t take it anymore!"

    From down the living room, Colin appeared, arms crossed and looking exasperated.

    "It''s basic multiplication, Milo. There are pictures of bananas and apples. What''s so difficult

    about it?!"

    "First, I hate long fruits like bananas," Milo muttered, eyeing Colin suspiciously. Mercury swallowed a laugh. She couldn''t help but give a teasing smile to Eratz, who widened

    his eyes.

    "Sounds like you survived, though. Good job." She chuckled, ruffling Milo''s hair as she stepped inside.

    "Barely," Milo muttered, eyeing Colin suspiciously. "She threatened to make me do push- ups on a grill if I failed again."

    Eratz grinned, patting Milo on the back.

    "Well, consider it training. A different kind, but still training... That sounds nice, though."

    Colin rolled her eyes but couldn''t help smiling as she followed them inside. "Come on, stop congratulating him. He knows if he whines enough, one of you will swoop in

    and give him a break. He''s not fooling anyone, especially with the kind of ''mistakes'' he''s

    making."

    Eratz chuckled, he ruffled Colin''s hair, giving her a warm, appreciative look.

    "Still, you''re doing great, Colin. He''s lucky to have someone as dedicated as you to help him

    out. I''m proud of you "

    Colin flinched and she ducked her head slightly.

    "... It''s nothing... I mean... thanks," she murmured shyly, her voice softer than usual.

    Milo, catching the shift in her demeanor, raised an eyebrow.

    "Hm? You act all tough, but when Eratz says something nice, you go soft! Unforgivable."

    Colin shot him a look, clearly embarrassed, and batted Eratz''s hand away.

    "E-enough now, I''m not a kid anymore!" she huffed.

    Eratz chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    Mercury watched the exchange with amusement, catching Eratz''s eye.

    They shared a glance, a moment of silent complicity passing between them.

    There was a warmth between them now, a deep understanding that was getting hard to hide.

    Colin, first, noticed the quiet exchange, furrowed her brow in curiosity. "What''s with you two?" she asked, glancing between them. "You''re acting weird."

    Milo looked up at them with suspicion.

    "Yeah... And I thought you were coming home for lunch, where were you?... Oh, I know! I bet

    You''re worried about the finals. You''ve been training, right?"

    Eratz coughed, with the most innocent face possible.

    "Oh, I worked out, alright. Different muscle, though." Mercury''s eyes widened in shock, her jaw dropping as she elbowed him sharply in the ribs.

    "Eratz!"

    Milo and Colin exchanged confused glances, clearly not understanding the joke.

    As they made their way into the living room, they were greeted by the sight of Cassie sitting at

    the dining table, casually plucking grapes from a bowl, while Roger lounged on the couch with a book.

    Cassie glanced up, a sly smile spreading across her lips as she saw Mercury and Eratz enter

    together.

    "Well, well," she said, biting into a grape. "Look at you two, finding time to be together in your busy schedules. It''s nice to see."

    Mercury shifted uncomfortably, exchanging an awkward glance with Eratz before mumbling

    a quick answer.

    "Yeah... we, uh... figured it out."

    Eratz scratched the back of his neck, clearly feeling the tension in the room.

    "You know... busy lives, training and all. It just came together."

    As they passed by, Cassie''s gaze darkened, her eyes subtly following Mercury''s every

    movement.

    She watched intently, a glint of malevolence flashing behind her smile.

    Her gaze trailed from Mercury''s hips down to her inner thighs, inspecting every step she took

    with sinister focus, as if looking for something hidden, something only she could see.

    A slow, sinister grin curled across Cassie''s lips as her eyes gleamed with an unsettling

    satisfaction.

    Mercury froze mid-step, feeling a shiver crawl down her spine. "Uh... Cassie???"

    Cassie''s tongue flicked out as she leaned back in her chair.

    "Oh, don''t worry, dear. I''m just admiring you. There''s something different about you today, a

    little... itch in your steps, maybe? You must''ve had a good workout."

    Mercury looked intensely at Cassie, Cassie repeatedly raising and lowering her eyebrows with

    a wide, mischievous smile.

    Mercury looked away, but something in the air made her pause, and she glanced back at

    Cassie, only to see her narrow her eyes with that same grin, bigger now, more certain. Mercury''s body froze, the realization hitting her like a bolt of lightning.

    She knows.

    For a split second, Mercury was petrified, trapped between the urge to run away or simply

    collapse right on the ground.

    Cassie, still smiling, patted the seat beside her, offering Mercury a choice without words.

    Defeated, and with no other option that didn''t feel even more embarrassing, Mercury sighed softly and dragged herself to sit down next to her.

    Eratz, oblivious to the tense exchange, sat down on the couch beside Roger and pulled out his

    phone.

    After a moment, he felt Roger glancing at him with a smile of his own, and his brows

    furrowed.

    "What?" Eratz asked.

    Roger didn''t respond, his grin widening as he looked back at his book.

    "What?" Eratz asked again, more troubled. Roger finally chuckled softly, shaking his head.

    "Nothing, Eratz. I just like your new shampoo scent, that''s all."

    Eratz blinked.

    "My... shampoo?"

    Roger gave a lazy nod, flipping a page.

    "Yeah. You''re the boss, that''s all."

    Without another word, he returned to reading, leaving Eratz looking even more bewildered.

    In front of the door, Colin and Milo were watching the scene unfold with mixed expressions of

    curiosity and confusion.

    Milo crossed his arms with a dramatic huff.

    "I wanted to train too," he grumbled.

    Colin gave him a sidelong glance, her tone dry but affectionate.

    "You can train... when you graduate from grade school."

 Chapter 94: Behind the Mask and Into the Arena

    Chapter 94: Behind the Mask and Into the ArenaA few days later, the lights of the little mall flickered softly, casting a warm glow across the aisles.

    The soft hum of background music blended with the sounds of distant chatter and the faint clinking of shopping carts.

    The mall wasn''t crowded, people moved lazily through the aisles, the occasional shopper wandering in and out of the stores lining the central walkway.

    At one end of the mall, a television mounted high on the wall broadcasted the latest news. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    It flashed images of a bold, dramatic promotional poster for the first round of the qualifications:

    "Tomorrow: The Apex Predator, Eratz, vs. The Bone Crusher, Titus ''Iron Fist'' Kalderon!"

    The names and titles were striking, drawing the attention of passersby.

    Mercury stood nearby, barely noticing the buzz around the screen.

    She wore a simple black face mask, dark sunglasses, and a hoodie that did little to hide her from prying eyes.

    Her hair was tucked under a baseball cap, but anyone who knew her well might still recognize her.

    She had been standing still for a while, her attention fixed on a particular section of the store. In front of her, a variety of brightly colored boxes lined the shelves, condoms, all in different sizes, brands, and packaging styles. They seemed to mock her as she stared at them.

    Her mind wandered back to Cassie''s calm but pointed lecture from a few days ago, warning her about the importance of protection.

    "You can''t rely on luck, Mercury. Take care of yourself."

    Mercury sighed, her breath muffled under her mask. She tapped her fingers on the side of her leg, unsure of what to do.

    She could just grab a box and buy it, easy, right?

    But the thought of facing the shopkeeper, handing over a box of condoms with a straight face... it was more than she could handle at the moment.

    Her eyes darted to the cashier, a young woman who looked half-bored, scrolling through her phone.

    Mercury bit her lip under her mask, her heart racing at the idea of walking up and dropping the box on the counter.

    ''No way,'' she thought. She couldn''t do it.

    Her mind drifted, and for a moment, she remembered the warmth of Eratz''s touch, the way his hands felt on her skin, the delicious heat melted inside her.

    Her face burned, even under the mask, and she quickly looked away from the shelf.

    She turned on her heel, deciding to leave the aisle altogether.

    ''Maybe I''ll just get some morning-after pills,'' she murmured under her breath. ''Besides, with his stamina, one box wouldn''t be enough anyway.''

    She adjusted her mask and walked swiftly toward the next pharmacy down the street, hoping to get the sacred pill and be done with it.

    As she turned the corner, a familiar voice broke through the quiet night.

    "Hello."

    Her feet stopped mid-stride. She recognized that voice instantly, and it sent wave of irritation through her.

    Slowly, she turned around.

    Crystal stood a few feet away, the faint light from the streetlamp catching the glint of her glasses.

    She wore a long black coat that reached her knees, her hair long black hair gliding on her back, and her lips curled in a taunting smile.

    The air between them seemed to thicken.

    "Fancy seeing you here," Crystal said, her tone light but dripping with mock curiosity. "What brings you out at this hour? Busy night?"

    Mercury stayed silent for a moment, her gaze narrowing behind her dark sunglasses.

    She could feel the underlying venom in Crystal''s voice, but she wasn''t in the mood for games. "Get lost," Mercury replied, her tone flat, almost bored.

    Crystal took a slow, deliberate step forward, the soft click of her boots echoing in the empty street.

    "Oh, come on, at this point we aren''t just acquaintances anymore, we should be more civilized. I''m just out for a stroll. But you... you seem preoccupied. Thought I might find you somewhere more... exciting, given your recent activities. Are you going home? Or perhaps, an hotel?"

    Mercury''s jaw clenched under her mask. Crystal''s eyes were sharp, glinting with a dangerous curiosity, and her smile widened ever so slightly.

    "You and Eratz," Crystal continued, her voice dropping slightly, "you''ve been... busy, haven''t you?"

    Mercury didn''t respond immediately, but she felt something burning in her chest.

    Crystal was fishing for something, some confirmation of what she already suspected, and it only fueled Mercury''s irritation.

    Crystal tilted her head, stepping closer.

    "It''s funny, really. Eratz, the boy who was once at my feet, the one I saved from despair and isolation... now so... attached to you. I wonder how far you''ve gone together."

    Mercury''s fists clenched at her sides, but she kept her voice calm, laced with the same passive aggression Crystal was dishing out.

    "I''m not interested in chitchat, girl. Shut your mouth before somebody hurt you."

    "Oh, you''re quite the savage, aren''t you? Well, I''m not unforgivable, I get it. I did a few interesting things to Eratz, I understand you would hate me,"

    Crystal purred, her eyes flickering with malice.

    "Between us, there was nothing personal in it. I wanted something, and he got successful that day. Technically you owe meeting him to me, so it''s really fairplay. I just hate being ignored... did he ignore me for you? What did you do to hypnotize him? The Eratz I know is a little sheep, so what exactly did you do?... Maybe giving your body?"

    That did it.

    Without a word, Mercury stepped forward, closing the distance between them in an instant.

    She was so much taller than Crystal, looming over her with a quiet, deadly intensity.

    Crystal flinched but didn''t move, her smirk faltering ever so slightly.

    In one swift move, Mercury swung her arm and slammed her fist into the streetlamp beside Crystal, the metal yielding under the force of the blow.

    Crystal''s eyes widened, her body stiffening as the shock of it ran through her.

    Mercury leaned down, her voice low and ominous.

    "Maybe Eratz has his reason to ignore you, but let me make one thing clear, if you ever try me

    again, I will crush your little head. With my bare hands."

    Crystal swallowed, her smirk completely gone now, replaced with something closer to fear.

    Mercury''s shadow fell over her like a dark cloud, her presence suffocating.

    "You can play your sick little games with trash like Kenny," Mercury continued. "but don''t ever think you can push me. Keep playing, and you''ll regret it. Your face might still be

    pleasing to someone... Don''t be more stupid than usual."

    Crystal could feel sweat forming at the back of her neck, the weight of Mercury''s threat hanging in the air between them.

    She had gotten too confident, too sure of herself after seeing Mercury hesitate in the mall days before and in the forest, but now the cold, terrifying reality set in.

    Mercury was not some weak student from the academy. She was on a completely different level than them.

    The tension lingered for a moment longer before Mercury stepped back, her eyes never

    leaving Crystal''s.

    Then, without another word, she turned on her heel and walked away, her steps firm and

    unyielding.

    Crystal stood there for a long moment, her body frozen in place, her fist clutched tightly

    against her chest.

    Her heart pounded in her ears, and the cold sweat on her skin made her shiver.

    The night air felt colder now, sharper, and the streetlamp beside her still hummed softly, the

    dent in its frame a reminder of just how real that threat had been.

    It was unbearable, this gnawing frustration, this sickening jealousy. Crystal''s breath came in short, shallow bursts, her mind racing. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms, and a sick smile crept across her lips.

    "It was a mistake," she whispered to herself, her voice trembling with emotion. "It was only

    my mistake... for having a damn crush for an idiot. Eratz was at my feet, he was just a little puppy... and I hate seeing him with anyone else. Who do you think you are?"

    Her eyes followed Mercury''s retreating figure, disappearing into the shadows of the night.

    The bitterness in her chest burned like acid, but she refused to give up.

    No matter how far Eratz had gone, she wasn''t done yet.

    The following afternoon, the sun bathed Lugina Garden in a golden glow, illuminating the immense crowd that had gathered for the first round of the qualifications.

    The energy in the air was electric, every seat was taken.

    People of all ages flooded the stands, their excitement palpable as they waved flags and

    cheered.

    Vendors weaved through the crowds, selling drinks and snacks, while the distant hum of conversation and excitement filled the space.

    Massive screens around the arena displayed highlights from previous battles, stirring up the

    crowd even more.

    Each clip featured past local champions, titanic beasts, and moments of victory, fueling the anticipation for what was to come.

    The entire city seemed to have gathered, and Lugina Garden buzzed like a hive of energy.

    This was the first round of the qualifications, and Eratz, still undefeated, was one of the main

    attractions.

    In one of the premium stands Mercury, Zara and Victoria were sitting.

    Their expressions were sharp, focused, knowing that today would set the tone for their

    agency''s future.

    Despite the roaring crowd, the three of them shared a moment of silence, their thoughts on

    Eratz and what was to come.

    Mercury''s nerves were tightly coiled, but she showed no sign of it, not in front of Victoria and

    Zara.

    In different towns, Kaida, Catarina, and Ryder were watching the broadcast on TV. They sat quietly, eyes glued to the screen, their thoughts on Eratz. Meanwhile, in a small house miles away from the roaring arena, the atmosphere was

    suffocatingly quiet.

    The television was on, the volume low as the broadcast of the match flickered on the screen.

    Marcus busied himself, packing their belongings into suitcases, his movements mechanical, detached from the moment.

    His face was hard, as though he refused to acknowledge the significance of what was

    happening.

    Liora, however, was seated on the bed in the next room, her hands folded in her lap, staring at the screen with empty, lifeless eyes.

    Her body sat rigid, her expression devoid of emotion. She barely blinked as the camera panned to the grand stadium, the booming voices of the announcers echoing faintly in the

    background. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the first round of the Lugina Garden Beast Master Qualifications!" The crowd roared in response, banners waving, voices raised in anticipation. "We have an exciting match for you today, a clash between titans!"

    The massive screen above the arena shifted, displaying the bold names of the competitors.

    The announcer''s voice echoed as he spoke the words that everyone had been waiting for. "For the first match, ladies and gentlemen, The Apex Predator versus The Bone Crusher!"

 Chapter 95: The Qualifications Begins

    Chapter 95: The Qualifications BeginsThe roar of the crowd was deafening as Eratz stepped into the arena. The energy in the air was almost tangible, and as soon as his figure emerged from the tunnel, the noise hit a fever pitch.

    Fans screamed his nickname, a little few waving banners and flags, their voices mingling in one unified cheer.

    He stepped into the light, his white hair glistening like silver in the sun, flowing freely down his back, a stark contrast to the white and deep blacks of his intricate, tailored outfit.

    His outfit was regal and yet wild, a long, flowing white coat decorated with black designs, the back being embroidered with elegant silver designs.

    His boots were black, pointed, with metallic accents that clattered against the ground as he walked with a calm, unwavering confidence.

    Eratz''s movements were fluid and precise, each step radiated calm strength, and his entire figure seemed honed for agility and speed. His muscular figure was elegant, not too bulky, but defined, as if carved from marble, giving him a predatory elegance.

    His face, usually intense, now seemed softer, more relaxed, and as he cast his gaze across the stands, he wore a calm, confident smile, but with a gleam in his crimson eyes that overlaid a just bubbling excitement. below the surface.

    He looked almost untouchable as if the air around him was a shield of an invisible energy.

    The crowd roared in astonishment, noticing how Eratz seemed much more refined, even powerful, compared to his previous battles.

    Mercury watched from the stands, a smile growing on her lips, proud and impressed by everyone''s reactions.

    The masterpiece here was her man, and she couldn''t help but be deeply proud of him. Victoria and Zara exchanged glances, equally impressed by their rising star''s transformation.

    Even those watching on TV, like Kaida, Catarina, and Ryder, couldn''t help but smile, their eyes glued to the screen.

    It was still just the appearance, but it was already clear that he was the true apex of their group.

    But Eratz wasn''t the only one attracting attention.

    His opponent, Titus appeared at the opposite end of the arena. He was a formidable figure, taller than Eratz by a few inches, with broad shoulders and a commanding presence.

    Titus wore a sleek, dark mask that concealed most of his face, revealing only his piercing, calculating eyes.

    His outfit was a blend of deep reds and blacks, giving him a mysterious, almost ominous aura. The intricate armor he wore was light but strong, allowing him to move swiftly without sacrificing defense.

    The crowd murmured in awe at the sight of these two titans, facing each other across the arena, the tension thick in the air.

    The contrast between Eratz''s elegant, storm-like appearance and Titus''s dark, shadowy form made for an unforgettable sight, and a magnificent picture.

    The arena fell into an eerie silence, broken only by the resonating sound of a gong.

    The battle had begun.

    For a moment, the two warriors stood still, their eyes locked in an intense gaze, each waiting for the other to make the first move. The silence was deafening, the entire crowd holding its breath.

    Eratz smiled, his eyes narrowing with a dangerous glint. His calm demeanor belied the storm building inside him.

    "You really want to give me the first punch? Don''t regret it," he muttered under his breath. Titus remained silent, through his mask, it was hard to determine if he was even conscious, but his immobility only fueled Eratz''s will to unleash everything now.

    Suddenly, a blue flash erupted from Eratz''s legs, lightning quick. In the blink of an eye, the Thunder Lycaon materialized beside him, its powerful muscles rippling as it lunged toward his opponent with ferocious speed.

    The crowd gasped in unison as the Lycaon''s attack was barely parried.

    The masked opponent staggered slightly, his shiny red eyes narrowing as he struggled to fend off the beast''s relentless assault. He was visibly caught off guard, and the audience was stunned by the speed and ferocity of Eratz''s first beast.

    From her seat, Victoria''s lips curled into a wide smile. The change in the Thunder Lycaon was unexpected and very welcomed. Its movements were sharper, heavier, as if it had been reborn with a new identity. This was Eratz''s evolution on display.

    But Eratz''s opponent wasn''t easily rattled. His eyes glinted under the mask, glowing faintly as he took a step back. Eratz realized in that instant, his opponent had been in beastification from the very start of the match.

    The shadows beneath Titus''s feet began to twist and stretch unnaturally. A hulking figure emerged from the darkness, a towering minotaur, its massive form wielding a colossal hammer that was shimmering with the sun.

    The ground trembled slightly beneath its weight as it swung the hammer down toward the Thunder Lycaon, but the beast dodged swiftly.

    For a brief moment, the thunder Lycaon and the Minotaur locked eyes, their primal instincts taking over. They roared simultaneously, the sound echoing across the arena before they launched at each other, colliding with an explosive force.

    The clash was intense, each strike from the Minotaur sent shockwaves through the ground, its hammer charged with raw power, shaking the earth with every blow.

    The Lycaon, smaller but far faster, darted around its massive opponent, its strikes precise and lightning-fast. Each attack was countered with another, the two beasts moving in a deadly dance of power and speed.

    From the stands, the crowd watched in awe, the battle leaving everyone on the edge of their seats. The ground cracked beneath the force of their attacks, chunks of earth flying into the air with every strike.

    The minotaur''s hammer slammed into the ground with enough power to make the entire arena shudder, but the Lycaon weaved around it, its fur crackling with electricity.

    Suddenly, the ground in front of Eratz cracked open as his opponent leapt into the air, the earth shaking beneath him. He descended with a powerful blow, aimed directly at Eratz, and the crowd gasped in unison, fearing the worst.

    The impact was devastating. Dust and debris flew into the air, obscuring the view in a thick cloud of smoke. For a moment, it seemed as though the blow had landed, that Eratz had been crushed under the weight of his opponent''s attack.

    But as the smoke cleared, their figure emerged.

    Eratz stood, unharmed, his arm raised in defense, having parried the attack with a calm, focused expression. He stood face to face with his opponent, his chest rising and falling with steady breaths. Then, slowly, a wide, almost manic grin spread across his face.

    He loved a real challenge.

    His opponent''s eyes widened in disbelief, but before he could react, a shockwave of blue energy exploded from Eratz''s body, sending him flying backward.

    He landed hard, stumbling backward, but managed to recover his footing, his cloak billowing around him as he struggled to regain his balance.

    Eratz advanced, his body emanating a bright blue aura, each step slow, predatory. The crowd was stunned, watching in awe as he moved with a calm precision, then, in an instant, he

    vanished.

    The crowd gasped as his fist came down like a sledgehammer, an arc of blue lightning trailing

    behind it.

    The impact was immediate, a deafening explosion rocked the arena as his opponent was sent flying, crashing into the far wall with enough force to send tremors through the stands. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The impact was monstrous, Titus staggered back, but he remained standing, his chest heaving

    as he absorbed the blow.

    The audience gasped in awe, marveling at the sheer power of Eratz''s attack.

    Titus gritted his teeth, his eyes glowing brighter beneath the mask. He raised his arms, summoning the minotaur''s hammer on himself, Eratz''s eyes sharpened as he recognized the

    same pattern with Kaida''s beastification.

    The battle continued in a flurry of strikes, each one more powerful than the last. The minotaur''s hammer glowed with energy as it swung toward the Lycaon, who dodged and struck back with blinding speed. The ground shook with each hit, the arena vibrating under

    the immense power of their blows.

    Eratz and his opponent danced across the battlefield, their bodies moving with a synchronization born of experience. Each blow they exchanged seemed to grow more intense, their power building with every second.

    The battle had only just begun, and Eratz power kept building up with each passing second.

    In an instant, his body lit up with electricity, his movements growing faster, more fluid.

    He dodged Titus''s next attack with ease, his body blurring as he disappeared and reappeared in different places around the battlefield.

    Each time he moved, he delivered a crushing blow, first a reverse kick to the ribs, then a slap to the chest that sent shockwaves through the air, followed by a circular punch that cracked the ground beneath their feet.

    Eratz''s strikes were relentless, precise, and brutally effective. He moved like lightning, dodging every counterattack while delivering his own with devastating power.

    The crowd could barely keep up with his movements, their cheers growing louder with each

    passing second and impact.

    Titus, though strong and unyielding, began to feel the weight of the battle.

    His mask began to crack under the force of Eratz''s blows. He summoned another beast, a

    massive golem made of stone and earth, hoping to tip the scales in his favor, but Eratz was

    unstoppable.

    He dodged the golem''s lumbering strikes with ease, never giving a second of rest to Titus. The Thunder Lycaon roared, electricity crackling around its body as it engaged the golem too, while Eratz continued his relentless assault on Titus.

    Eratz moved with an almost elastic grace, his body twisting and bending as he unleashed a

    flurry of hits, his strikes coming in rapid succession, a blur of punches, kicks, and slashes that

    left Titus reeling.

    Each impact was explosive, charged with the power of the Thunder Lycaon and his permanent

    beastification.

    Titus tried to fight back, but Eratz''s agility and speed were overwhelming. The crowd watched in awe as Eratz danced around his opponent, delivering blow after blow with terrifying

    precision.

    His punches landed with the force of a thunderstorm, each one pushing Titus closer to the

    edge. Titus''s breathing grew ragged, his body bruised and battered from the onslaught. He couldn''t understand it, how was Eratz still standing, still fighting with such monstrous strength? Every hit Titus landed should have been enough to bring down any normal fighter, but Eratz

    only seemed to get stronger.

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed with excitement as he closed in. He launched himself into the air,

    delivering a series of thunderous blows, first a powerful uppercut, followed by a spinning kick, then a crushing elbow to the chest.

    Each hit was accompanied by a crackle of electricity, the air humming with the raw energy of

    the Thunder Lycaon.

    Titus staggered back, his legs wobbling as he struggled to stay on his feet. His mask, now half shattered, fell away, revealing half his face, eyes wide with disbelief and exhaustion. Eratz grinned, his breath coming in steady, controlled bursts.

    With one final burst of speed, Eratz delivered an explosive blow to Titus'' back, the force of the

    impact sending shock waves through the arena.

    Titus''s body crumpled to the ground, his consciousness fading as he succumbed to the

    relentless assault.

    The crowd erupted into deafening cheers, their voices echoing through the stadium as they

    celebrated Eratz''s victory. Mercury, standing in the stands, couldn''t hide her pride. Her eyes sparkled with joy as she watched Eratz rising his fist in triumph.

    But Eratz wasn''t done yet.

    He turned toward the battlefield, his eyes locking onto the minotaur and golem still standing.

    With a simple snap of his fingers, for effect, he summoned an army of monsters, of all shapes and sizes materializing around him, their eyes glowing with ferocity.

    The minotaur roared, charging forward with its hammer raised high. But it didn''t stand a

    chance.

    Eratz''s beasts swarmed the battlefield, their combined strength overwhelming the minotaur and golem in a matter of moments.

    The two massive beasts were brought to their knees, their bodies crushed under the power of

    Eratz''s monstrous army.

    As the dust settled, Eratz stood tall, his body glowing with blue energy, his fist raised high in

    victory.

    The crowd''s cheers grew louder, their voices filled with admiration and awe.

    Eratz had won.

 Chapter 96: Battle Cry

    Chapter 96: Battle CryThe days moved fastly as the battles continued in the Greenridge League qualifications.

    Each day, the Crescent Moon Agency fighters took to the arena, their victories cementing their place as top contenders.

    Mercury was unstoppable. Her mastery of her water field spell and long-ranged attacks left her opponents floundering.

    Each battle ended swiftly, the crowd roaring in amazement as her the Raging Wave lived to her name.

    Kaida embrased the battlefield both literally and figuratively.

    Her combat style was relentless, and her opponents didn''t stand a chance as they were consumed by her flames.

    The ash and debris of her victories littered the arena, leaving the audience in awe of her power.

    Catarina and Ryder faced more challenging battles. Catarina struggled against an opponent with nearly equal speed.

    Every move she made was countered, even her field spell wasn''t enough and for a moment, it seemed like she would be defeated.

    But in a flash of agility and heavy impact, she turned the tide, narrowly securing her victory.

    Ryder''s battle was a grueling test of endurance. His opponent, a brute with strength-based tactics, battered him with raw power.

    But Ryder''s ability to transform swiftly between his beast forms gave him the edge he needed. He won by the skin of his teeth, collapsing in exhaustion as the crowd cheered him on. By the time Eratz stepped into the arena for his second match, the crowd was electric.

    His undefeated streak was the talk of the tournament, and everyone was eager to see if this new challenger could finally bring him down.

    Across from him stood a boy, barely younger than Eratz but burning with excitement and determination.

    The boy grinned, pointing at Eratz with a confident smirk.

    "I''m going to be the one to end your undefeated streak!" the boy called out, his voice booming across the arena.

    Eratz chuckled, his crimson eyes narrowing as he tilted his head slightly.

    "Undefeated? I don''t think anyone stays undefeated forever. I just haven''t met the right match yet."

    The boy''s expression faltered for a second but then hardened.

    "Well, I''m that match, brace yourself!" he spat, summoning his field spell, a watery abyss filled with piranha monsters.

    The water was dense, restricting movement, and the piranhas circled with sharp teeth gleaming in the light.

    The audience gasped as the deadly water beasts rushed toward Eratz. People in the stands began to panic, fearing for the safety of their idol.

    But Eratz remained calm, almost bored, as he sighed softly.

    In an instant, the water around him turned bright yellow, an ocean of electricity engulfing the entire field.

    The boy screamed as lightning coursed through him, his piranhas paralyzed and immobilized by the power.

    The air crackled with energy as the crowd watched in stunned silence.

    Eratz walked forward slowly, keeping the boy electrocuted as he spoke.

    "It''s useless to focus on things like invincibility, what really matters is being stronger than you were yesterday. You made a big speech, but look at you now. You just look ridiculous. This is why you stay quiet until it''s over."

    He reached the boy, the intensity of the electricity was even higher, triggering an intense

    screem.

    "You were so confident, so I won''t change my strategy now. Give me reason to respect you." The boy''s body twitched, his eyes rolling back, but with a final effort, he undid his field spell. His body shook violently, his fists clenching as he tried to stay conscious.

    With immense difficulty, he managed to throw a weak punch, tapping Eratz lightly on the forehead.

    Eratz smiled.

    "That''s more like it," he said softly, patting gently the boy''s head, before tightening his grip. With a sudden, brutal force, he drove him head first into the ground.

    The impact was thunderous.

    The arena floor cracked beneath the boy''s body, sending a violent shockwave through the stands.

    Dust and debris shot into the air as the earth gave way, forming a massive crater where the boy landed.

    The boy''s body jerked, his arms and legs going limp as his consciousness slipped away.

    His head lolled to the side, his eyes rolling back.

    The crowd gasped in shock, their eyes wide. For a moment, there was silence. Then, the

    applause began, slowly at first, before growing into a roar of joy.

    Eratz had won his second match. He was qualified for the finals. The public chanted his name in unison, celebrating the qualification of their local hero.

    From the stands, Zara watched in disbelief.

    "He''s always so violent," she muttered, shaking her head.

    But Mercury was on her feet, clapping joyfully and chanting Eratz''s name with the public.

    "Go, Eratz!" she yelled, her voice rising above the crowd.

    Zara raised an eyebrow at her, crossing her arms.

    "You know he''s a counter to your water-based magic, right? How can you cheer for him? He''s

    your archenemy."

    Mercury flashed a confident, mysterious smile.

    "It doesn''t matter if he''s my counter," she said with a grin. "He''s my man, and I''ll cheer for

    him no matter what."

    Zara blinked, then her eyes widened as she processed the implications of Mercury''s words.

    "Wait... did I hear that right?"

    But Mercury just continued chanting, her voice joining the roar of the crowd.

    On the television, an interview with three beast master specialists aired, their faces serious as they discussed the upcoming Greenridge League finals.

    "So, who do you see as the favorite to take the league this year?" the first specialist asked,

    leaning back in his chair.

    The second expert, adjusting his glasses, responded after a brief pause.

    "Well, I''d say Sia Verizion, the ''Frost Empress,'' is a strong contender. Her ice-based field spells are practically untouchable when it comes to controlling the battlefield."

    The third specialist nodded.

    "That''s true, but some argue her reliance on her ice manipulation limits her adaptability. If someone forces her out of her comfort zone, she might not have the versatility to bounce

    back."

    "Fair point," the first expert agreed. "But what about Gabriel ''The Beast Whisperer''? The way he communicates with his creatures is exceptional, especially for someone his age." "Yeah, Gabriel is impressive, no doubt," the second expert said, "but he''s still young, and his emotional connection with his beasts can be a double-edged sword. If his creatures get injured, it might affect his focus and strategy in the heat of battle."

    The first expert nodded in agreement before offering another name.

    "And let''s not forget the Apex Predator, Eratz Pandora. He''s still undefeated in professional

    matches."

    The room fell silent for a moment as they all considered Eratz''s track record.

    "Eratz is definitely a wildcard," the third specialist noted. "He''s got power, but his

    unpredictability might be his strength or his downfall. If he faces someone who can outmaneuver his aggressive style, he could be in trouble. It''ll depend on who he matches up

    against in the finals."

    "True," the second expert added. "He''s dominated so far, but we have yet to see him use a field spell, some even suggest he doesn''t know how to do it, and we''ve yet to see how he

    handles a real tactical opponent."

    The first expert crossed his arms, considering this opinion.

    "Didn''t he defeat the Feline Phantom? That''s quite the opponent I would say."

    In a small, dark room, Kenny sat on his bed, staring blankly at the television as the interview

    played.

    His eyes were hollow, his face pale and devoid of emotion. The words of the specialists barely registered as he sat there, his mind a whirlwind of despair.

    Later, he wandered through the halls of the academy, his steps slow and heavy. No one

    greeted him. No one even acknowledged him. He was invisible.

    Outside, the rain began to fall, and Kenny stood by the road, watching the cars pass by. His

    gaze was vacant, his thoughts distant.

    "Kenny," a voice called, breaking through the rain. It was Crystal.

    Later, they sat in a small caf¨¦, Crystal sipping a juice while Kenny sat across from her, barely

    touching the glass in front of him.

    "Life outside the academy is amazing," Crystal said, her voice too cheerful, almost strange.

    "I mean, most people leave in their third year once they get signed by an agency. The ones who stay are... well, you know, the failures."

    Kenny looked at her, his expression dead. He forced himself to take a sip of juice.

    Crystal smiled and gestured to his drink.

    "You like it? It''s a new drink sponsoring Eratz."

    Kenny''s hand twitched, and he spilled the juice across the table.

    His eyes narrowed, his voice shaking with anger.

    "Why are you toying with me?"

    Crystal tilted her head, her smile unwavering as she leaned forward.

    "Let me tell you a little story, Kenny," she began, her voice almost playful. "You know the

    academy, right? It''s a place where the strong rise, and the weak... well, they''re left behind."

    Kenny shifted in his seat, his eyes narrowing slightly, but he said nothing.

    Crystal continued, her gaze fixed on him.

    "You came in with potential, Kenny. You had talent. People noticed you. But somewhere

    along the way, you stopped pushing. You let yourself fall behind."

    She let the words hang in the air, watching for his reaction. Kenny clenched his fists under the table, his jaw tightening, but still, he remained silent.

    "And now?" Crystal''s smile turned colder. "You''re about to become a second year, with nothing to show for it. The academy doesn''t bet on failures, Kenny. They''ll just move on. They''ll find a new Kenny among the next first years, or better yet, a new Eratz. Someone with real drive and results."

    She leaned back, her tone softening, but the venom still clear.

    "You''ve had every opportunity, but you didn''t take it. And now, you''re watching your chance

    slip away."

    Kenny''s lips trembled as he forced a sick, twisted smile. Against his will, tears filled his eyes as he whispered.

    "Why does everyone hate me? Why did you come to me if you were just going to abandon me?

    I didn''t force you, I didn''t push you away, I fucking tried! Why are you turning against me?!" Crystal sighed, patting his hand gently.

    "The problem is, I liked Kenny. But you''re not Kenny anymore. The Kenny I liked had talent

    and pride. This... this is just a shell. You know the true value of someone once they get famous,

    and while some stay the same, you, you became a trash, running from women to women. I''m praising your courage though, going after that bitch after your failures was definitely courage... Or stupidity. But, in brief, you showed me that I was wrong trusting you, and unless

    you get back on top, I prefer saving myself from the humiliation of supporting a loser womanizer."

    She stood, preparing to leave.

    "Think about it, Kenny. You have three weeks before the expedition ends. That''s all the time Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    you have left to figure it out. If you get back to Grushia like that, it''s over for you."

    She glanced back at him, her voice dropping.

    "By the way, I saw her last week looking at protections in a shop, you know what it means?"

    Her eyes narrowed. "Every second you waste crying, Eratz is rearranging Mercury''s guts."

    Kenny''s face twisted in agony as Crystal smiled and left. He gripped his head, his mind

    spiraling into dark thoughts.

    Outside, Crystal pulled out her phone and whispered to herself, "Whatever, I can''t trust anyone again... Maybe it''s time to sacrifice him."

    Meanwhile, the soft murmur of rain against the hotel windows filled the hallway.

    Lisa stood at the end of the corridor, her hands fidgeting with the sleeves of her jacket.

    She had been called by Rowan, and now she was here, waiting for him, unsure of what he could possibly want.

    Rowan approached her, with a serious expression. He hadn''t given much explanation when he asked to meet, only that it was important.

    Lisa had felt uneasy the entire time, a knot of anxiety tightening in her chest as she waited.

    When he finally stopped in front of her, she hesitated before speaking.

    "What is it?" she asked quietly. "Why did you want to meet?" Rowan shifted, his eyes meeting hers with a look of determination, but there was a weight

    behind them, something that had clearly been bothering him for a while.

    He let out a slow breath before speaking, his voice steady but laced with regret.

    "I need your help," he said. "I''m now sure that we made a mistake. I want to apologize and

    pay my debt... for what I did to Eratz. I want to prove his innocence."

 Chapter 97: Drowned in Silence

    Chapter 97: Drowned in SilenceLisa froze, the air in the hallway felt heavier. The rain outside tapped stronger against the windows. She hadn''t expected this.

    Since the event of the calamity birds, she had tried to avoid anything connected to Eratz, burying the pain deep inside herself.

    Her pulse quickened, and she swallowed hard, her mouth suddenly dry.

    Rowan''s eyes never left hers as he continued.

    "I need your help, Lisa, I don''t know if Eratz was innocent or guilty, but I can''t shake the feeling that Kenny''s been hiding something. I want to believe in what the students have been saying these days and prove Eratz was framed."

    Lisa''s heart skipped a beat. She had tried to bury those memories, tried to move on, but now Rowan was pulling her back into the very thing she had run from.

    "Why me?" she whispered, her voice shaky. She couldn''t look him in the eye. "Why not someone else? I''m... not the right person for this."

    Rowan lowered to her height level, his voice filled with frustration and resolve.

    "Because you knew him," he said firmly. "You were close to Eratz. You saw everything happen. And Kenny... I know something''s off with him. I''ve been watching him long enough to know this is a real possibility, but I can''t take him down alone."

    Lisa swallowed hard, her mind racing. She wanted to find a way out, to refuse, to make up an

    excuse.

    But Rowan''s intensity was unnerving, and she could feel the weight of his conviction pressing down on her.

    "I... I don''t know," she stammered, her hands trembling. "What if we''re wrong? What if Eratz really was guilty?"

    Rowan shook his head, his eyes narrowing with determination.

    "You saw him like everyone else. Eratz is still the same, it''s not a coincidence he''s suddenly

    that strong. Kenny was the one who accused him, this is not a hazard. I''m sure he tricked him, and he deserves to be exposed."

    Lisa''s chest tightened. She felt the walls closing in around her, the guilt she had been suppressing rising to the surface.

    She had been there, had seen it all unfold, and she knew more than anyone the whole story.

    Now Rowan was asking her to step back into the mess she had tried so hard to escape.

    "I can''t," she whispered, shaking her head. "I... I don''t think I can do this."

    Rowan''s expression softened slightly, but his resolve remained unshaken.

    "Lisa, this isn''t just about you or me. It''s about making things right. Eratz was our friend, and

    we abandoned him. Maybe he was guilty, maybe he wasn''t. But we let him sink while we

    looked the other way. We can''t keep living with that."

    His words hit her hard. She wanted to deny it, to push the blame away, but the truth was staring her in the face.

    They had all failed Eratz, and she had played a part in that.

    The guilt weighed down on her like a heavy stone, crushing her beneath its weight.

    Lisa closed her eyes, tears threatening to spill over.

    She couldn''t tell Rowan the full truth, not without losing everything, but the thought of letting him fight alone, of letting Eratz remain unvindicated, tore at her.

    After a long silence, she gave a small, hesitant nod.

    She didn''t say anything, but the gesture was enough. Rowan saw the movement and exhaled in relief.

    "Thank you," he said quietly. "We''ll figure this out together. We''ll expose Kenny for what he''s done."

    Lisa remained silent, her mind a storm of fear, guilt, and regret. She hadn''t told Rowan everything, hadn''t admitted her role in Eratz''s downfall, but she had agreed to help.

    And now, there was no turning back.

    The rain poured down relentlessly, drumming against the pavement and pooling in the narrow streets of the city.

    Each drop fell with its own weight, soaking through the clothes of anyone caught in it.

    Lisa walked without an umbrella, her feet splashing through the puddles, her hair plastered to her head, and her jacket clinging to her skin.

    The city around her usually felt empty, the rain muting its vibrant beauty.

    The lamplights flickered softly through the downpour, casting a soft hue on the wet cobblestones, reflecting the shimmering puddles at her feet.

    She barely noticed the people rushing past her, huddling under umbrellas or darting into shops to escape the downpour.

    She was lost in her own thoughts, her heart heavy with the weight of the tragedy falling on her.

    Her parents. They had given everything for her.

    She could see her father''s hands, rough and calloused from long hours of work.

    He had always told her that she was their future, that everything they did was for her. She could remember the quiet moments when her mother would sit by the window after a long day, staring out into the distance, her face lined with exhaustion, but always smiling when Lisa came home.

    They had poured all their hopes into her, worked tirelessly to give her a chance. They never complained, they never faltered. And what had she done? She had failed them, time and time

    again.

    She couldn''t be a top student at the academy, she couldn''t get any opportunity, she was bad at everything, even cheating.

    The thought of their disappointment was like a knife twisting in her chest. She had tried so hard, but it was never enough.

    The rain mingled with the tears on her face, making it impossible to tell where one ended and the other began. She could barely see through the blur of emotion, her chest tight, her breath uneven as she pushed forward through the storm. The city''s beauty, its soft glow through the rain, went unnoticed.

    She stopped suddenly, her breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding.

    Slowly, she lifted her head, the raindrops slipping down her face as her gaze met his. Eratz stood a few feet away, under an umbrella. For a moment, they both stood there, staring at each other in silence, the rain cascading down around them, the world narrowing to just the

    two of them.

    Later, in a hotel, Lisa was sitting on the edge of the bed, the soft towel brushing over her skin as she dried herself off. Her hair was still damp, droplets of water trickling down her flushed face. She was in a simple, unfamiliar room now, and her thoughts were hazy as she tried to understand how everything had led to this moment. How did it come to this? She wondered. How had she ended up here, with the most unexpected person?

    In the other room, Eratz sat in a chair, his focus on his phone. The silence between them was tense, but neither seemed ready to break it.

    At the door, a staff member had a teasing smile on his face.

    "So, planning to stay the whole night, huh?" he asked, a playful lilt to his voice.

    Eratz shot him a deadly gaze, and the staff member immediately backed off, realizing his

    mistake.

    "Sorry about that," the staff member muttered, bowing slightly before stepping back.

    Eratz sighed, shaking his head before pulling out his wallet and placing the payment on the

    table.

    "Here. For the whole night. Just in case," he said, his voice low and flat.

    The staff member nodded quickly, muttering another apology before slipping out of the room. The door clicked shut, leaving Eratz alone once more. He returned to his phone, raising an eyebrow, then decided to leave.

    Just as he stood up to go, he felt a small tug on the back of his shirt. He sighed and turned, already knowing who it was.

    Lisa stood there, her eyes wide and filled with something fragile, her hand clutching the fabric of his shirt like a lifeline. She was trembling slightly, her body barely covered by her underwear. Her skin was still damp, and her face was a mixture of desperation and sadness. "Wait..." she whispered softly, her voice almost lost in the quiet room. "Please, don''t leave. Just... stay for a moment. I don''t... I just want to talk."

    Eratz''s eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion before he let out another sigh, his voice

    tired.

    Lisa''s grip on his shirt tightened, her lips trembling as she tried to find the words. Her heart ached with everything she had been holding back, and now, standing there, so vulnerable, it all came rushing to the surface.

    "I''m lost..." she began, her voice shaking. "I''ve been lost for so long. And then... you came back into my life, just when I thought I was in hell."

    She bit her lip, the tears welling up in her eyes as she struggled to continue. Meanwhile, Eratz focused on his phone again, as if she didn''t exist.

    "Every time I see you, you ignore me, but... you keep giving me hope. And I don''t know why."

    Her voice cracked, her sobs finally breaking free. "I can''t bear it anymore. I can''t... I don''t know how to keep going."

    Her tears fell freely now as she leaned against him, her forehead resting gently on his back as

    she cried, but then, with a sudden movement, Eratz stepped away, causing Lisa to stumble slightly as she lost her balance.

    She looked up at him in surprise, her tear-filled eyes searching his face for an explanation.

    Eratz''s expression remained calm, but his voice was firm.

    "Get dressed, if you want to talk to me, put some clothes on first."

    Lisa stood there, frozen for a moment, her mind struggling to process his words. Slowly, she

    wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, her lips trembling. She didn''t say anything, but after a brief moment, she looked away, nodding silently.

    Without another word, she turned back toward the bed and reached for the clothes that lay

    folded on the edge. The sound of the rain outside filled the silence, the distance between them growing with every drop. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Lisa sat on the edge of the bed, her knees pulled up to her chest, while Eratz reclined in the

    chair, focused on his phone. The sound of his fingers tapping against the screen was the only

    thing breaking the silence. She wiped the lingering moisture from her hair, her eyes still red from earlier.

    She began slowly, her voice soft and hesitant.

    "You know... we''ve known each other since we were kids," she started, glancing at Eratz,

    though he didn''t look up from his phone. "I still remember the first time we met. You were the one who pulled me out of that river when I slipped and nearly drowned. I was terrified, but you didn''t hesitate. I don''t think you''ve ever hesitated when it comes to helping me."

    Her eyes drifted to the floor, her mind wandering through memories she had buried.

    "Do you remember that time in the forest when we got lost? It was dark, and I was freaking out, thinking we''d never find our way back. I was crying so hard, I couldn''t even see straight,

    but you... you stayed calm. You kept telling jokes so I would forget to be scared, and

    you figured out the way home."

    She let out a soft, bitter laugh.

    "You were always like that. Always there to save me. Always strong. You made me feel like

    everything would be okay... even when it wasn''t."

    Eratz didn''t respond, his attention still absorbed by his phone, though there was a faint smile

    playing on his lips.

    Lisa bit her lip, pressing on despite his indifference.

    "You were the one person I could count on, you know? Whenever I messed up, whenever things got hard, you were always there. And I... I didn''t even realize how much I depended on

    you. Until it was too late."

    Her voice cracked slightly as she continued, her fingers curling into the fabric of the blanket

    beneath her.

    "My parents... they sacrificed everything for me. They scraped together every penny they had,

    worked late nights, and took out loans just to get me into Genova. They told me that I was their hope, their future. I was supposed to make everything right for them." Tears welled in her eyes again, but she wiped them away quickly, trying to maintain her

    composure.

    "They believed in me so much. They didn''t care how hard they had to work, how tired they were. They just wanted me to have a better life than they did. And I... I was determined not to

    let them down. I wanted to be the top student. I wanted to be the best, to become a top beast

    master, make money, and finally give them the life they deserved."

    She swallowed hard, her chest tightening.

    "But... I wasn''t good enough. No matter how hard I tried, it was never enough. I wasn''t like

    you, Eratz. You were naturally so good, but me? I had to claw for every scrap of recognition." Her voice grew shakier as she berated herself.

    "I thought... if I could just get a little better, if I could just do something to catch up, maybe I

    wouldn''t fail them. So... I stole the Karinite 4. I thought it would help me get the results I

    needed. I thought... I could finally make them proud."

    Her breathing hitched as the weight of her confession settled over her, the shame clinging to

    her like a shroud.

    "But I messed up. I you caught me, and you... you were the one who saved me. Again. You

    made me realize what a huge mistake I was making, but it didn''t matter, because Kenny reported you. And I..."

    She paused, her throat tightening, tears now streaming freely down her cheeks.

    "I should have spoken up. I should have told the truth, but I didn''t. I was too scared of being

    expelled, too scared of what my parents would think. I couldn''t face them after everything they sacrificed for me."

    The room fell silent, save for the sound of Lisa''s quiet sobs. Eratz''s tapping on his phone

    slowed down, his expression shifting subtly.

    "I was desperate, Eratz," Lisa whispered. "After you got suspended, I didn''t know what to do.

    I was completely lost. I had no one to turn to, no one to help me. And then... Kenny asked me

    out."

    Her lip trembled as she forced herself to continue.

    "I hated him for what he did to you. I despised him more than anyone, but he was my last

    chance. If I couldn''t be successful on my own, I thought... maybe I could save my family by being with someone who was."

    Her voice dripped with disgust as she spoke about Kenny.

    "But he''s... he''s nothing. A disgusting liar, a coward. I thought I could stomach it, but every

    time I looked at him, all I could see was how he betrayed you. I hated him for it... I still do, I..."

    Eratz suddenly spoke up, cutting her off mid-rant.

    "Stop."

    His voice was quiet but firm, and Lisa blinked, startled. She hadn''t expected him to say

    anything.

    Eratz''s eyes finally left his phone, locking onto hers for the first time since they''d sat down. "Time''s up. You don''t need to keep going."

 Chapter 98: Raindrops

    Chapter 98: RaindropsEratz''s expression was unreadable as his words hung in the air. The gentle rhythm of the rain outside the window seemed to amplify the tension between them.

    He looked at her, his face calm, disturbingly so, and when he spoke, his voice was gentle, too gentle.

    "There''s really nothing to explain, Lisa. Nothing to complain about. It''s fine."

    His tone was infuriatingly calm, as if her outburst of guilt and anguish was no more than an idle conversation.

    There was no anger, no hurt, just that calm, detached voice, as though everything she''d said didn''t touch him at all.

    Lisa''s heart pounded. It was too much. How could he act like this? How could he be so

    indifferent? Her breath hitched, and she swallowed hard, her voice shaky as she tried to make him understand.

    "Eratz... please... I don''t want to be a coward anymore," she stammered, trying to keep her voice steady. "I can''t just pretend everything''s fine. I know what I did..."

    "It''s fine," Eratz repeated, his voice so calm, it was like he was trying to soothe a frightened child. "I understand. You did it for your parents. They gave everything for you. It''s okay."

    The words were like a knife in her chest. He wasn''t angry, he wasn''t hurt, he wasn''t anything.

    His voice was so calm, so accepting, that it made her feel like everything she was carrying, the guilt, the shame, the pain, was just... nothing.

    Her hands clenched into fists, trembling with the weight of everything she couldn''t say. The air in the room felt suffocating. She was drowning in his indifference.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, her voice fragile, barely holding together. "I..."

    "It''s fine, Lisa," he said again, almost too softly. "You did what you had to do. For them."

    His words were meant to be kind, but they cut deeper than anything else. He was brushing everything aside, making her feel like none of it mattered. Like her pain didn''t matter. Like she didn''t matter.

    Lisa''s chest tightened, the pressure building up inside her until it was unbearable. She couldn''t breathe.

    She couldn''t think. The calmness in his voice was driving her mad, pushing her to the edge of something dark, something she had been trying so hard to hold back.

    "Stop it!" she screamed, her voice breaking, raw and desperate. "Stop talking like it doesn''t matter!"

    The room seemed to shake with the force of her voice. Tears streamed down her face, her red hair sticking to her wet cheeks, but she didn''t care anymore.

    Her whole body trembled, the emotions she had been trying to suppress for so long flooding to the surface.

    "I can''t take it, Eratz!" she cried, her sobs choking her words. "I can''t stand how you''re acting like none of this matters! Like I don''t matter! I destroyed everything, I ruined your life, and you''re just sitting there, saying it''s fine!"

    Her voice cracked, and her sobs came harder, more uncontrollable.

    She felt like she was falling apart, piece by piece, in front of him. She clutched at her chest, trying to hold herself together, but it was no use.

    "I did it for them, yes, but I..." she gasped, her voice ragged. "But I hurt you! I betrayed you, and I stood by while you were thrown away like you were nothing! I''ve lived with that every single day, and you''re sitting there, acting like it doesn''t even matter!"

    Her words hung in the air, raw and exposed. The silence that followed was deafening, only broken by her ragged breathing, her sobs filling the space between them.

    Eratz looked at her, his face still calm, almost too calm. He didn''t say anything. He just watched as Lisa crumbled in front of him, her emotions spilling out uncontrollably, her heart breaking wide open.

    Her sobs echoed through the room, her chest heaving with the weight of everything she had been holding in for so long.

    She couldn''t see through her tears, her vision blurred as she buried her face in her hands.

    For a long moment, there was nothing but her cries filling the space between them. Lisa''s sobs quieted, but the pain in her chest remained. She could barely catch her breath, her words coming out in broken gasps.

    "It hurts so much... because Crystal was right," she whispered, her voice trembling. "Hate and love... they''re two sides of the same coin. If you hated me, at least... at least I would know that I still mattered to you. That I wasn''t nothing. But this..."

    She choked on her words, her throat tight with emotion. Eratz just sat there, calm as ever, his gaze unflinching.

    "This... indifference," she continued, her tears falling faster now. "It''s worse than hate. It''s like... I''m not even worth hating anymore. Like we were never even friends. Like I never meant anything to you."

    Her chest heaved, the weight of her confession crushing her. She felt raw, exposed, as if every scar she''d been hiding was now on full display.

    "Please," she begged, her voice barely more than a whisper. "Hate me, Eratz. Show me that I mattered to you, even if it''s through anger. Make me regret what I did... anything, just don''t act like I''m nothing to you."

    Eratz sat there, his expression the same, but he let out a long sigh and scratched his head, almost as if he were trying to make sense of her words.

    He leaned back in his chair, his eyes looking away for a moment before meeting hers again.

    "Lisa," he began, his tone still calm, almost casual. "You''re making this way too complicated. Seriously, what do you want? What will that change?"

    His voice wasn''t cold, but it lacked the intensity she so desperately craved. It was just... calm.

    "My life''s changed a lot since back then. I''ve moved on. Genova Academy, Kenny, Crystal... even you, none of it really matters to me anymore. I''m not angry at you, I''m not holding onto any of that."

    Lisa''s heart clenched, her tears flowing freely now. The way he spoke, so detached, so unaffected, was tearing her apart.

    It was exactly what she feared, the confirmation that she had become irrelevant in his life.

    "I''ve got new things, new projects," he continued, scratching his head again. "I don''t dwell on the past or play the guilty game. That''s not how I live. It''s not that I''m pretending, it''s just

    how I feel."

    His words felt like a punch to her gut. She had been bracing herself for his anger, his resentment, anything to prove that she still had a place in his heart, even if it was a bitter one.

    But this, this indifference was worse than anything she could''ve imagined.

    "I don''t care about Kenny, Crystal... or you," he said, his voice unwavering. "Not in the way you think. It''s not because I''m heartless or cold. It''s because I''ve moved on. And you should too."

    Lisa sat there, her breath catching in her throat, staring at him through her tears. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She had spilled her heart out, laid everything bare, and his response was a calm, almost philosophical dismissal. He wasn''t angry, he wasn''t hurt, he simply... didn''t care.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, her voice broken. "How can you say that? How can you just... not care

    anymore?"

    He looked at her, but there was no trace of the anger or passion she had hoped for.

    "Because, Lisa," he said quietly. "I''ve moved on. You were part of my past, but my life''s different now. I''m not the same person you knew back then."

    The weight of his words sank in, and Lisa''s sobs returned, even more desperate than before.

    She had wanted him to hate her, to scream at her, to show her that she had mattered enough

    to hurt him.

    But instead, he was offering her nothing but a peaceful indifference, a quiet resignation that her role in his life had ended long ago.

    She buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking as she cried, feeling the full force of what she had lost, not just Eratz, but the person she had been to him.

    Lisa lowered her head, her voice barely above a whisper as she spoke through her tears.

    "I... I will tell the truth about what happened. Rowan and I... we''re working to clear your

    name, Eratz."

    Eratz rolled his eyes, exhaling a long, tired sigh. He looked at her, almost annoyed.

    "That would be the stupidest thing you could do," he said, his tone sharp but not unkind.

    "What would that even change? What''s your goal here, Lisa? What do you think is going to happen if you do that?"

    Lisa''s tears flowed harder now, her hands trembling in her lap as she shook her head, her voice

    breaking.

    "I... I don''t know," she admitted, her words shaky and desperate. "I don''t know anymore, Eratz. My goal... it was to get to you, to fix things, to make things right. But now... now I don''t even know what I''ll do without you."

    Eratz observed her for a long moment, his expression softening slightly as he watched her struggle with her emotions. After a while, he let out a slow breath, leaning back slightly. "Look, I''ll give you some advice, in memory of the past. For our past friendship," he said, his voice surprisingly calm. "Go back to the academy. Eat, sleep, wake up, and start the day as a new person. There are many ways to find happiness, Lisa, but it''s not on the path you''re on

    right now."

    Lisa looked up at him, her face filled with tears, confusion and sorrow.

    "What... what do you mean?"

    Eratz sighed again, crossing his arms as he leaned against the doorframe.

    "Your parents didn''t sacrifice everything just for you to feel like you owe them some grand

    success in return. They didn''t want that from you, they just wanted you to be happy," he said, his voice steady but gentle. "Live a life that makes you happy, Lisa. That''s how you''ll make

    them happy." Lisa''s heart broke at his words, her tears falling even harder now.

    She stood up, her legs trembling beneath her as she stepped closer to him, grabbing his face

    with both hands.

    Her voice cracked with raw emotion as she pleaded with him.

    "But I want a life with you, Eratz," she cried. "I want to go back to what we were. I just want

    to be with you!" Eratz looked at her, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips, but there was a sadness

    behind it. He gently took her hands off his face, holding them for a moment before letting go. "Lisa," he said quietly, "that''s exactly why I can''t let you into my new life."

    Lisa''s breath hitched as she stared at him, her heart sinking as she realized what he was

    saying. "You''re still looking for something from me that I won''t give you. That''s the real problem here," Eratz continued, standing up and stepping back slightly, putting distance between them. "You need to figure out what will make you happy. But it''s not me, and unless you start seeing me differently, we can''t be friends anymore."

    He moved toward the door, resting his hand on the knob as he glanced back at her one last

    time.

    "I don''t hate you, Lisa. I don''t know if it''s bad or not. But this... whatever this is that you want, it can''t work."

    Without another word, he opened the door and stepped out, leaving Lisa standing in the

    middle of the room.

    As the door clicked shut behind him, she crumpled, her head falling into her hands as she broke down in sobs, the weight of everything finally crashing down on her. Outside, the rain had slowed to a soft drizzle, the cool air clinging to the night. Eratz walked through the entrance of the hotel, lost in thought for a brief moment, when he

    saw Mercury waiting for him by the doorway.

    She had her hands in the pockets of her jacket, her expression calm but curious as she watched

    him approach.

    She gave him a teasing smile as he approached.

    "Well, well, look who''s finally done with his little chat," she said, crossing her arms and

    leaning against the doorframe. "You know, for someone who''s supposed to be so tough, you sure were sending a lot of panicked messages."

    Eratz shot her a sideways glance, a smile tugging at his lips.

    "You could''ve been here in an instant," he muttered. "Instead, you took your sweet time just

    to piss me off."

    Mercury chuckled.

    "Oh, don''t be like that," she said with a playful grin. "It''s kind of cute. My little boy was so afraid of accidentally cheating on me that he had to call for backup." Eratz smirked, running a hand through his damp hair.

    "I was just testing your priorities. Wanted to see if you''d drop everything to come running to

    me. Guess I can''t trust you, huh?" Mercury laughed, nudging him with her shoulder as they started walking together.

    "You wish. You''re lucky I didn''t take even longer just to mess with you more. Plus, I knew you

    could handle it. Besides, we''ve gotta save some energy for the finals." Eratz raised an eyebrow, his smirk deepening, his voice dropping to a lower tone. "Save energy, huh? That''s too bad. I had some plans for us tonight, you know, something a

    little more... exciting than just going back home."

    Mercury blinked, caught off guard, suddenly, she grasped the idea, a blush creeping up her

    neck as she tried to keep her composure.

    "Plans, huh?" She tilted her head, biting her lip slightly. "Um... Well, we could always call

    home, say there''s an emergency at the agency. Then, maybe we... sneak off somewhere more

    private." Eratz''s smirk widened.

    "Oh, but I''m sure we could. I had something more in mind though, a lot of crazy stuff... but

    maybe you''re right. You probably need all your strength for the finals." Mercury blinked again, her confidence faltering for just a second. She opened her mouth to say something, then hesitated, realizing he''d flipped the situation on her. She pouted, narrowing

    her eyes playfully.

    "You think you''re funny, don''t you?" she said, feigning annoyance. "Teasing me like that."

    Before he could respond, she grabbed him by the neck and pulled him into a playful headlock, tightening her grip as she ruffled his hair.

    "Looks like someone needs a reminder of who''s really in charge here," she teased, her voice playful but with a competitive edge. Eratz laughed, barely trying to break free.

    They both laughed, the tension easing as they started walking side by side, the rain now only

    a light drizzle. As they left the hotel behind, the city streets, glistening with rain, offered a beautiful sight to see.

    They exchanged a few more teasing remarks, but the weight of the upcoming days lingered in

    the back of Eratz''s mind.

    The finals were approaching fast, and with it, the challenge he had been waiting for. Tomorrow, the draws for the Greenridge League finals would be announced. The battles that would determine the top beast masters in the region were finally about to

    begin.

 Chapter 99: Draw

    Chapter 99: DrawThe anticipation for the Greenridge League finals was palpable throughout the city. Newscasters filled the airwaves with excited chatter about the upcoming event.

    It promised to be one of the most competitive finals in years, with speculation running wild about who would emerge victorious.

    Today marked a crucial moment, the official draw for the tournament. Fighters and their supporters would soon know their matchups, and everywhere, people gathered, glued to their

    screens.

    From Cassie and Roger''s apartment to Genova''s academy hotel, tension filled the air.

    In the Crescent Moon Agency, Victoria, Mercury, and Zara sat around the conference table, eyes fixed on the large screen.

    The room was still, every breath held in anticipation of the first name to be revealed.

    In the gym, Ryder and Kaida had paused their training, surrounded by other fighters, all intently watching the screen.

    Ryder paced back and forth, while Kaida remained calm, her eyes sharp, waiting for the results.

    In one of the most unconventional places, Catarina sat in a bathroom stall, phone balanced on her knees as she munched on a snack.

    Despite the odd setting, her attention was completely on the draw, eyes wide and focused.

    Meanwhile, deep in the forest, Eratz sat on a log, his beasts quietly gathered around him. The moonlight barely illuminated his phone, its glow cutting through the peaceful night as he listened closely to the unfolding event.

    The draw began, and the atmosphere was electric. The presenter stood on a grand stage, reminiscent of a major sporting event, with dramatic lighting and visuals. His voice echoed through the large conference hall.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Greenridge League finals draw! Thirty-two of the strongest fighters have qualified for this prestigious tournament. Today, we will determine who faces whom in the first knockout round."

    The camera shifted to the large screen behind him, where the names of the competitors appeared.

    "We have 32 fighters who will compete in this year''s finals. The tournament will be structured in traditional knockout rounds. In the first round, we will have 32 fighters. Then 16 fighters will progress to the round of 16, followed by the quarter-finals with 8, the semi-finals with 4, and, of course, the grand final to determine Greenridge champion."

    As the crowd applauded, the fighters, scattered across the region, waited in silence. Nerves built with each passing second.

    "As you know, the draw is completely random," the host continued, gesturing to a large electronic wheel that would determine the matchups. "And without further ado, let''s begin with the first name."

    The virtual wheel began to spin, flashing through the names as the first matchup was about to be revealed.

    "''The Mage,'' Jaden!"

    Jaden, the one who humiliated Milo at the selections, was known for his mastery over fairies and spirits, using a soft and mystic field spell that lulled opponents into a false sense of security before unleashing monsters, most of them still a mystery for the fans.

    "And Jaden will face... ''The Explosive Fist,'' Ellis!"

    Ellis, a brute known for his electrified strikes, was a powerhouse of raw strength. His attacks were capable of bringing down even the sturdiest beasts. But Jaden''s smirk remained as the name was called, there was a glint of excitement in his eyes. He relished a challenge, especially when facing someone who relied purely on physical power.

    The wheel spun again.

    "''The Blazing Tempest,'' Kaida!"

    Kaida''s eyes narrowed as her name appeared. Her focus sharpened.

    "And Kaida will face... Iris, ''The Wild Vine!""

    Iris was known for her nature-based beasts, controlling vines and plants with ruthless efficiency.

    Iris was renowned for her control over nature-based beasts, manipulating vines and plants with ruthless efficiency. But against Kaida, it felt like a death sentence.

    Ryder, watching Kaida chuckled softly.

    "Looks like it''s fire against grass. Go easy on her," he teased.

    Kaida cracked her knuckles with a smile.

    "Everything is easier in the infirmary."

    The wheel spun once more, and the crowd''s excitement grew as another popular name was revealed.

    "''The Beast Whisperer,'' Gabriel!"

    Gabriel was a rising star, feared for his incredible bond with his beasts.

    His creatures seemed to move as if they shared a single mind with him, reacting instinctively

    to his every command.

    "And Gabriel will face... ''The Iron Fortress,'' Cassius!"

    Cassius was known for his impenetrable defenses and devastating counterattacks. His

    nickname, "The Iron Fortress," was no exaggeration.

    But Gabriel, one of the most respected names in the finals, left no room for doubt, this was going to be a tough battle.

    The draw continued, and the next name that appeared sent a ripple through the audience.

    "''The Frost Empress,'' Sia Verizion!"

    Sia, a field spell specialist who commanded ice beasts, had quickly made a name for herself in the selections among Eratz and Jaden.

    Her control over ice beasts and her ability to freeze entire battlefields made her a formidable

    opponent.

    "And Sia will face... ''The Crimson Reaper,'' Nyx!"

    Nyx was known for her chaotic style and feared for her unpredi lity.

    Her volatile style promised an explosive clash with Sia''s calculated and controlled ice

    techniques.

    This would be a battle of fire against ice in more ways than one.

    The draw continued, revealing more pairings.

    Matchups that could have shifted the balance of the tournament were announced, but the

    next name that caught the audience''s attention was a Crescent Moon favorite.

    "''The Furry Gentleman,'' Ryder Crow!"

    Ryder grinned, leaning forward as his name was announced.

    "And Ryder will face... ''The Phantom Blade,'' Raya!"

    Raya, notorious for a very special beastification and mystical presence on the battlefield,

    would be a challenge even for Ryder''s attributes.

    He scratched his head, grinning at Kaida.

    "Guess I''m gonna have to be extra careful with this one."

    Kaida smirked.

    "Try not to get humiliated, Crow."

    Then came another familiar name from Crescent Moon.

    "''The Feline Phantom,'' Catarina!"

    From her bathroom perch, Catarina grinned, licking her fingers as her name flashed across the

    screen.

    "And Catarina will face... ''The Earthquake,'' Flint!"

    Flint''s earth-shattering blows were renowned throughout the region, but Catarina just

    yawned, popping the last bit of her snack into her mouth.

    "Miewm..." she muttered with a smirk.

    The next name was one of the most anticipated of the night.

    "''The Raging Wave,'' Mercury Banks!"

    Mercury smiled, her eyes glinting as she awaited her opponent''s name.

    "And Mercury will face... ''The Thunder Strike,'' Zera!"

    Zera''s reputation for her lightning monsters sent a ripple of murmurs through the audience.

    A formidable opponent, especially considering electricity was a natural counter to Mercury''s

    water-based abilities.

    In the Crescent Moon Agency, Zara frowned, leaning forward slightly.

    "Thunder versus water... that''s not ideal."

    Victoria, seated beside her, crossed her arms and remained silent, but her expression betrayed

    a hint of concern.

    She knew Mercury''s abilities were exceptional, but the match-up against someone like Zera

    was always risky.

    In the forest, Eratz''s eyes narrowed as he watched the draw.

    Meanwhile, in the apartment, Milo was with Cassie, Roger, and Colin, all huddled around the

    television, watching the draw unfold.

    The air in the room grew tense as Zera''s name flashed on the screen.

    "Thunder and water don''t mix well..." Cassie muttered, a hint of concern in her voice as she

    looked at Roger. "She''s got a hard battle from the beginning."

    Roger nodded slowly.

    "Mercury''s tough. But yeah, this isn''t an easy fight."

    Milo shifted nervously, glancing at Roger and Cassie.

    Mercury, however, was as composed as ever. She leaned back in her chair, catching Zara and

    Victoria''s concerned looks.

    "It''s your natural counter," Zara reminded her. "Be careful."

    Mercury shrugged lightly, her tone steady.

    "Zera''s strong, no doubt, but she''s not the first... nor the worst lightning user I''ve dealt

    with."

    Victoria gave her a quiet, approving nod.

    "Just be smart about it, dear." Mercury''s confidence was palpable. She wasn''t just calm, she was ready. The tension around

    the agency lingered, but Mercury''s calm demeanor eased the tension, even if just a little.

    "Don''t worry," Mercury added, her eyes gleaming. "I needed this challenge."

    Finally, the last and perhaps the most expected name flashed on the screen. "''The Apex Predator,'' Eratz Pandora! and he will face... ''The Crimson Claw,'' Darian!"

    Darian, a savage fighter known for his ferocious claw-based attacks, was one of the most

    feared challengers in the region.

    Yet, on his side, his confidence faltered slightly at the sight of Eratz''s name. Facing the Apex Predator and his undefeated streak was a task no one wanted.

    As the draw came to an end, the matchups were set. Thirty-two fighters, all hungry for S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    victory, knew the tournament was about to begin.

    But in every corner of the region, those watching understood: the true challenge would come

    when facing the favorites, those like Eratz, Sia, and Gabriel, whose reputations alone were breaking the records.

    In the Crescent Moon Agency, Zara leaned back with a sigh of relief.

    "At least none of you are up against each other... for now."

    Mercury smirked, her gaze still on the screen.

    "That''s good for a starter. Let''s see who can make it to the final."

    The Greenridge League finals were set. The true battle was about to begin.

 Chapter 100: Countdown to Greenridge

    Chapter 100: Countdown to GreenridgeThe Greenridge League tournament loomed closer.

    Every fighter, seasoned and novice alike, was preparing for the battles ahead, each with their own rituals, their own way of dealing with the pressure.

    The city buzzed with excitement, the tournament drawing closer with each passing hour.

    Eratz sat on a log in the quiet forest, the cool night air brushing against his skin.

    Around him, his three aces rested.

    Eratz stretched his legs out in front of him and thought to himself.

    "Four beasts... out of a thousand," he mused, his voice quiet but full of amusement. "You''d think I''d have more favorites by now."

    He wasn''t disappointed, though. These four, the Thunder Lycaon, the Aetheri, the Terrakrus, and Raijinara, were more than just beasts.

    They were reflections of him, each carrying a piece of his personality.

    The Thunder Lycaon lay stretched out a few feet away, its blue eyes half-lidded, watching Eratz with a mix of boredom and amusement.

    Fast, cynical, and always ready to strike when least expected.

    On the other side, the Terrakrus remained still, its massive form blending into the darkness.

    The black dragon''s calm exterior was deceptive.

    Beneath its surface lay a terrifying power, a force of nature waiting to be unleashed.

    Hovering close by, the Aetheri floated gently, its soft glow illuminating the night. The warmth it radiated was a stark contrast to the other two.

    It''s gentle presence was comforting, like a quiet reassurance that everything would be alright.

    He watched them quietly, appreciating the unique bond they shared.

    He glanced at Aetheri, who met his gaze with its usual calm, unblinking eyes.

    "What do you think, Aetheri? Should I start planning my strategy for Darian?"

    There was a flicker of amusement in Aetheri''s eyes. It was as if it already knew what he was thinking.

    "Yeah, I know," he muttered, shaking his head. "I''m overthinking it."

    Darian wasn''t the real challenge here. It was just the start. This tournament was about more than just winning

    This was his chance. A chance to prove, not just to others, but to himself, that he could stand among the best. That he belonged here.

    He looked up at the stars, a smile playing on his lips.

    "I''ve come a long way, haven''t I?" he muttered.

    This wasn''t just another fight. This was the culmination of everything he had worked for.

    Months of training, of taming beasts, of learning how to survive in a world that had cast him aside.

    But survival wasn''t enough anymore. He wanted more. He wanted to thrive.

    He wanted to enjoy every moment of the tournament, to feel the thrill of each battle, to savor the challenge.

    Winning was important, but more than that, he wanted to push his limits, to see just how far he could go. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His thoughts turned to his first real breakthrough, the moment he had unlocked his field spell during the battle with Raijinara.

    Controlling the energy around him, bending it to his will, it had been a revelation.

    He had felt something then, something he hadn''t felt before.

    "That was something, wasn''t it?" he said quietly, thinking back to the moment he had faced the defeated the calamity bird.

    The energy, the control, it had all came together at that moment.

    Could he do it again? Could he push even further?

    An idea sparked in his mind, something that made his eyes light up with excitement. He glanced at his beasts, his grin widening.

    "Let''s do just one little training."

    In the apartment, Colin and Milo sat cross-legged on the floor.

    Milo puffed his chest, grinning.

    "Mercury''s going to crush this, no problem. She will crush everyone."

    Colin crossed her arms, giving Milo a challenging look. "You know, Eratz would totally outsmart Mercury... uh... but, of course, big sis Mercury''s got her own style. I''m sure she''ll do great!"

    Milo rolled his eyes, grinning.

    "Please, Mercury would knock him out in seconds... but, um, you know, father has his own thoughtful way too, I guess."

    They both paused, then quickly nodded at each other in mock seriousness.

    "Uh, I mean... Mercury''s very... dynamic, she could and should maybe win," Colin stammered, attempting to recover.

    "Yeah! And father is... y''know, super thoughtful, if there''s a boy winner, it''s definitely him, or male Mercury," Milo added, as if that balanced things out.

    They both coughed, trying to act serious.

    Cassie couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Maybe they have already won the most important battle?"

    Colin and Milo froze again, looking at each other in shock as they both muttered under their

    breaths,

    "... Double winners?"

    The days leading up to the Greenridge League finals were filled with quiet moments, each fighter''s anticipation building as they went through their own personal routines.

    In the gym, Kaida trained relentlessly. She didn''t need anyone''s encouragement. Her focus was entirely on the upcoming battle, her eyes cold and determined. Facing Iris, someone who relied on nature, felt like an easy win, but she wasn''t going to let her guard

    down.

    The finals were too important for that.

    Meanwhile, after her training session, Mercury stretched in the resting area, rolling her shoulders and cracking her neck.

    She felt a calm confidence as she thought about her match against Zera, her natural counter.

    Thunder against water. A difficult challenge, but not one she feared. If anything, she

    welcomed it.

    She wasn''t here for easy victories, she wanted to push herself, to test her limits. That''s what made her smile every time the thought crossed her mind.

    In another corner of the agency, Ryder was pacing back and forth, hands running through his

    hair as he mentally prepared himself for the upcoming fight against Raya.

    His opponent was no joke, and the nerves were starting to eat at him.

    "Man, what if I fuck up?" he muttered under his breath.

    He could feel the pressure building, and it wasn''t helping that Kaida had shrugged off her own

    battle like it was nothing.

    Catarina, lounging nearby with her usual casual air, noticed his anxiety. She set down her

    phone, walked over, and lightly poked him in the side with her tail.

    "Nya, you need to relax," she said, grinning up at him. "You''re not gonna lose to some mystic

    blade girl. Just do your thing, be a furry, then a gentleman."

    Ryder stopped pacing and gave her a look, half-amused, half-exasperated.

    "Why you..."

    Catarina shrugged and offered him a chip.

    "Reject fear, embrace the furry. It''s all in your head. If you''re calm, you''ll be fine, like a

    furry." She gave him a mock salute.

    "Now, get out there and win. We''ve got a specie to represent, nya."

    Ryder sighed but nodded, feeling a little more grounded after Catarina''s odd but comforting

    advice.

    He could always count on her to help ease the tension.

    The internet was buzzing with reactions leading up to the finals.

    Fans debated endlessly on social media, speculating on who would advance to the later

    rounds.

    Posts were filled with excitement over the matchups, but there was a clear focus on the

    favorites.

    "Sia is gonna sweep the whole thing!"

    "Gabriel is so cute, can''t wait to see how he will do!"

    [Kaida''s gonna roast Iris, no contest.]

    But amidst the excitement, there were posts from the underdogs, too, fighters who knew they

    were up against the best.

    Some of them shared their training routines, posting videos and pictures to show how hard

    they were working.

    Iris could be seen practicing her vine-based techniques, trying to sharpen her precision in preparation for Kaida''s fiery attacks.

    Flint posted footage of himself striking the ground with devastating blows, trying to remind

    people that he wasn''t to be underestimated.

    The same day, Catarina unfollowed him.

    These fighters were no pushovers. They were determined to make a name for themselves,

    even if they had to face the likes of Eratz, Kaida, and Mercury.

    As the days counted down, the tension grew, but so did the determination.

    The favorites were prepared, but so were their challengers.

 Chapter 101: The Night Before

    Chapter 101: The Night BeforeThe Greenridge League finals were the talk of the region, reaching every corner.

    Streets bustled with tournament chatter; shopkeepers discussed matchups with customers. Posters of the competing fighters covered walls, especially those of the favorites like Sia and Gabriel.

    Excitement spilled into cafes, parks, and even family dinners. Everyone had an opinion, a favorite, and a hope for who would triumph.

    The thrill extended beyond any single town, it was a regional celebration. Fans from every place eagerly counted down the days, and televisions across the region displayed clips of the tournament''s location, adding to the hype.

    The finals would take place in a spectacular arena perched along the edge of lush, green cliffs, a breathtaking view overlooking a vast ocean that sparkled in the sunlight.

    Stone pathways lined with exotic flowers wove through the stands and walkways. The arena featured a lush, grassy terrain that extended across the field, giving fighters a serene starting point.

    Its beauty and challenge left viewers in awe, and anyone watching the unveiling could feel the prestige of competing there.

    In Genova, the tension was thicker. Students and teachers alike gathered in common areas to watch coverage of the tournament preparations.

    Kenny sat alone, arms crossed, scowling as the arena and lineup of competitors appeared on- screen. It seemed the whole academy was watching, drawn by the grandeur of the tournament.

    Lisa sat beside Clara, who kept an encouraging hand on her shoulder, but Lisa''s expression remained distant, her thoughts elsewhere.

    In the director''s office, she sat with Rowan, both watching the pre-tournament coverage on the wide-screen monitor mounted on the wall.

    The tournament''s grandeur filled the room with an anticipation for a great event, but Rowan''s thoughts were fixed on a mission he''d carried with him for too long.

    "Director," Rowan began, tone laced with determination, "I need to talk to you about proving Eratz''s innocence. It''s time to clear his name and bring Kenny down for what he did. We can''t let this stay buried if we''re going to uphold what Genova Academy stands for." The director studied him closely, her hands steepled in front of her as she observed the intensity in his eyes. She let a silence settle before speaking, her gaze steady.

    "Rowan, I''ve watched your dedication to this cause. It''s commendable, truly. But..." She paused, tilting her head thoughtfully, "you seem almost too eager to sacrifice Kenny. Does Eratz''s redemption need to rhyme with a student''s demise?"

    Rowan blinked, caught off guard by her response. He opened his mouth to reply, but her words held him in place. After a moment''s thought, he took a deep breath, though his expression remained firm.

    "It''s not just about Kenny," he insisted. "It''s about righting a wrong and showing that Genova stands for integrity. We failed Eratz terribly. We owe it to him and to our academy''s values to set this right. I''m committed to that." His voice trembled with emotion, a mixture of frustration and resolve.

    A slight smile played at the corner of the director''s lips, as though she understood but was far from moved.

    "Well, Rowan, Eliza''s already investigating something promising. We''ll see her at the finals." She paused, her voice turning softer, almost reflective. "But in the meantime, I hope you''ll take this opportunity to find some peace with Eratz, one way or another. We need to link his name to Genova indirectly."

    Rowan frowned.

    "Indirectly?" he repeated, confusion evident. "I thought the goal here was to make him our student again, to bring him back to Genova. Isn''t that why we''re doing all of this?"

    The director''s gaze softened slightly.

    "That, Rowan, is an unlikely outcome. Eratz has left Genova far behind and become a successful beast master on his own. Our academy has a long tradition of nurturing talent that eventually moves on to bigger agencies. That''s normal, even expected, in this world. But when they leave, they leave as Genova graduates, on our terms, with contracts that reflect their start here. Eratz, however, left as a first-year, without our seal, without the academy standing behind him."

    Rowan clenched his jaw, his eyes clouded with frustration and disappointment.

    "Director," he began, voice tense with barely restrained anger, "are you saying you only care about his fame? You want to make amends with him just so Genova can gain some of the credit? This isn''t about the academy''s image, it''s about Eratz''s life, his career, everything he''s achieved despite us."

    The director met his gaze with a calm expression, not a flicker of shame crossing her face. "Our academy''s purpose is to shape top beast masters, Rowan, and by failing Eratz, we''ve missed out on the very fame we strive to build. It''s a disaster, yes, that his success isn''t associated with our name. But if we show him that Genova has changed, that we''ve learned from our mistakes, there''s potential to forge a connection. Even if he isn''t our student, his achievements could still reflect positively on us."

    Rowan''s hands tightened into fists at his sides, his jaw clenched as he struggled to keep his composure. This was far from the reconciliation he had imagined.

    He had hoped the academy, like him, was ready to make a genuine effort to seek forgiveness, not for appearances, but because it was the right thing to do.

    "And what about Eratz?" Rowan asked, voice barely above a whisper, his eyes dark with frustration. "What about the fact that he was betrayed, thrown out, left to fend for himself? We should be focusing on clearing his name, not trying to ride on his success."

    The director sighed, her tone cold but measured.

    "Rowan, you''re too close to this. What is there even to clear? Who even talks about his wrongs anymore? It doesn''t matter. Yes, Eratz deserves justice, but the academy needs to survive, and aligning ourselves with his success is a way to ensure that. Whether he forgives us or not is his choice. But if he sees that Genova has changed, that we''re ready to acknowledge his

    achievements, that may be enough."

    Rowan shook his head slowly, a mixture of disillusionment and sadness.

    "I thought we were better than this, Director," he murmured, voice heavy. "I thought you understood how much damage was done, not just to Eratz, but to all of us who watched it happen. This isn''t about making Genova look good. It''s about doing right by someone who

    deserves it."

    The director raised an eyebrow, her tone almost dismissive.

    "Rowan, sometimes doing what''s right and doing what''s best aren''t the same. I''m asking you to think beyond personal grievances and focus on the academy''s future. I want Eratz, Kenny, and, if possible, the Raging Wave linked to our names."

    Rowan felt his last shred of patience slipping. He rose from his seat, a storm of emotions swirling within him.

    "Fine," he said, voice barely concealing his disappointment. "I''ll do what I can to help Eratz, but not for Genova''s reputation. If he decides to have anything to do with this academy again, it''ll be because we''ve shown him genuine respect, not because we''re looking to benefit from

    his name."

    The director gave him a polite, indifferent nod.

    "Suit yourself, Rowan. Just remember, this isn''t personal. At this point, it''s about the

    academy''s legacy."

    Without another word, Rowan turned and left the room, the weight of her words pressing heavily on him.

    As night fell, excitement over the finals settled into every corner of Eratz''s apartment. Bags were packed, and everyone prepared for the journey in their own way. Milo had already snuck into Eratz''s room, his belongings scattered across the floor as he made himself comfortable. Colin was supposed to be sharing her room with Mercury, but neither Eratz nor Mercury were

    in their assigned spaces.

    Instead, they found themselves in the bathroom, standing side by side in comfortable silence,

    brushing their teeth.

    Mercury broke the silence, her tone thoughtful.

    "It''s crazy, really, how we''re here. Feels like just yesterday we were struggling to scrape together enough wins for the agency. And now... it''s like we''ve made it."

    Eratz, mouth half-foamy with toothpaste, gave her a sideways glance. He quickly rinsed and

    chuckled.

    "Yeah, it''s been a wild ride. Though, if I''d had a few extra days, I probably would''ve squeezed

    in some aquatic beast hunting."

    Mercury shook her head, laughing softly, though her gaze softened.

    "Still thinking about beasts? You need to learn to relax, Eratz."

    He smirked, shrugging.

    "Maybe so, but roses are roses, spices are spices..."

    Mercury froze mid-brush, her gaze narrowing as she caught the sly grin he was trying to hide.

    "You did not just bring that up."

    "Hey, just appreciating your words of wisdom," he replied, tapping his toothbrush on the

    sink with a grin. "Guess I''ll hold off until after we win."

    She rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips. "You''d better. Got a tournament to win,

    after all. You''re going to need your own place."

    He chuckled.

    "Why do I feel like my single apartment would need two bedrooms?"

    She looked away, resuming brushing her teeth, her voice a little softer.

    "One bedroom, obviously... and one for just us. Because... well, sometimes it''s nice to have a

    little space, right?"

    Eratz observed her, amused.

    "Rock the world?"

    She rolled her eyes.

    "Oh, shut up."

    They fell into a comfortable

    silence, each reflecting on the day to come. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The tournament wasn''t just a competition; it was a step toward everything they''d fought for.

    The next morning, the apartment bustled with activity as everyone prepared for the journey. Colin packed her bags with determination, while Milo tried his best to keep up, his energy boundless. Cassie triple-checked everyone''s belongings, ensuring nothing was left behind. Across town, Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina prepared in their own ways, each focused and ready for the challenges ahead. At Crescent Moon, Zara gathered the last of the team''s gear, her expression calm but focused.

    This was the culmination of their hard work, and they weren''t about to let it slip by.

    As they all set out, the energy was almost electric.

    Each fighter knew the finals awaited, and with it, the chance to make history in the Greenridge

    League.

 Chapter 102: Eve

    Chapter 102: EveThe town hosting the Greenridge League finals sprawled like an oasis of color and life, bordered by lush forests and vast fields, with the ocean lapping gently at its edge.

    Exotic markets buzzed with activity, lined with stalls displaying rare beast-mastery gear, fragrant spices, and herbal remedies from distant regions.

    The scent of roasted meats and local delicacies wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and spirited chatter.

    Streamers hung from every lamp post, and banners displaying the faces of the tournament fighters fluttered in the breeze, adding to the festival ambiance that filled the streets.

    Towering above the town, the tournament arena gleamed with grandeur.

    Its stone architecture blended with natural elements: vines snaked around pillars, and lush plants bloomed along its pathways.

    The arena''s design, with tiers rising toward the sky and surrounded by gardens, felt as if it had been plucked from another world.

    This was a place where fierce battles would unfold, but its beauty and elegance lent it an almost sacred atmosphere.

    As the day wore on, competitors began to arrive. In groups and alone, some walked with quiet confidence, while others marveled at the spectacle around them.

    The crowd grew denser, and a palpable excitement hung in the air as fans and fighters mingled.

    Eratz and his family were among the newcomers. They paused at the edge of the bustling square, taking in the surroundings.

    Milo''s face was practically glued to every stall they passed, his eyes wide with wonder as he gawked at charms, colorful potions, and stalls stacked with beast-taming tools.

    "Whoa, look at this!" Milo''s voice rose as he took a feathered pendant from a nearby stall. "This is supposed to make you super fast!"

    Colin, beside him, tilted her head skeptically.

    "That thing? Probably just a decoration, Milo."

    "Maybe... but father told me that if I imagined it enough, I could do anything, so I''ll imagine this thing is magic!" he said, grinning as he handed it back to the vendor.

    Colin rolled her eyes.

    "If only you could imagine having good grades."

    Cassie and Roger shared an amused glance, taking in their children''s excitement with a quiet pride.

    For a moment, they were just travelers enjoying the beauty and energy of this place. Meanwhile, Genova''s contingent had arrived near the town''s western gate. The director led the group, her face composed but her eyes sharp, absorbing every detail of the place.

    Behind her, Rowan walked with an expression of deep thought, his gaze occasionally drifting toward the surroundings but mostly focused inward.

    "Alright, everyone," the director announced, "take in the sights if you must, but remember why we''re here. Be cautious, stick together, and don''t get distracted."

    Rowan, walking beside her, sighed.

    "This place is incredible, though. Hard to keep everyone from getting distracted."

    "Distraction is not a luxury we have," she replied briskly. "You are here to learn from the best, so behave and observe."

    Crystal lingered at the back of the group, her gaze sweeping over the town with a sly smile playing on her lips.

    They had freedom of movement for a little time, making her ''hunt'' more enjoyable.

    Her smile widened.

    Around her, the Genova students whispered among themselves, a mix of awe and trepidation in their voices as they took in the surroundings.

    Throughout the town, arriving fighters made their way, each captivated by the town''s lively energy.

    Among them, Kaida turned heads as she strode through the streets.

    She observed the beauty of the place, but her mind was elsewhere, already calculating strategies.

    Not far away, Ryder and Catarina wandered in together, Ryder''s nervous energy evident as he glanced around, absorbing the thrill of being here.

    "This place is something else, huh, Ryder-nya?" Catarina said, nudging him with a playful grin.

    Ryder chuckled, though his eyes still darted nervously.

    "Yeah, more than I expected. Kind of makes it all feel... big."

    "Still feeling nervous? Ryder, remember, inside of you, there are two wolves. One is a furry, the other likes furry, you are a furry." she teased.

    He rolled his eyes but couldn''t help smiling.

    Catarina''s confidence had always been infectious, and he felt a little lighter with her beside him as they navigated the bustling streets.

    A little later, Eratz, Mercury, and their family continued down the main avenue, they reached a modest yet cozy inn near the center of town.

    Cassie and Roger checked in and secured two rooms, one for themselves and another for Milo and Colin.

    They all gathered outside for a moment, the excitement giving way to a quieter, more reflective mood.

    Cassie hugged Eratz tightly, then turned to Mercury and, with a warm smile, hugged Mercury then placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

    "You''ve got this," Cassie said, her voice soft. "We''re proud of you, both of you."

    Roger gave Eratz a hearty clap on the back, a grin on his face. "Go make us proud, alright?"

    Milo beamed up at Eratz, his admiration clear. "You''ll win for sure!"

    Colin gave a shy nod, though her eyes were filled with determination. "Good luck, both of

    you."

    Eratz and Mercury shared a glance, absorbing the support of their family before finally saying their goodbyes and heading toward their own accommodations at the challenger''s hotel. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As they walked away, Mercury cast a look back at them, feeling an unexpected surge of

    warmth.

    In that simple moment, she realized she was more than just a friend to Eratz''s family, for everyone, she was part of their family, she and Milo had a real family and the thought brought a small smile to her face.

    The challengers'' hotel was simple yet elegant. Its stone facade was decorated with modest engravings, and tall glass doors opened into a clean, polished lobby.

    A single reception desk was manned by a discreet staff, ready to assist the selected fighters.

    Soft lighting cast a warm glow, and the place was quiet and calm.

    Outside, the rest of the Crescent Moon team gathered beneath a street lamp.

    Zara and Victoria were already there. Mercury and Eratz reached the meeting point and joined the others under the soft yellow glow of the lamp.

    Victoria looked at each of them, her gaze sharp and determined as they stood together under

    the soft glow of the street lamp.

    "Listen," she began. "You''ve all worked and sacrificed to reach this point. Tomorrow, it''s not about Crescent Moon. It''s not about agencies, teams, or names." She let that sink in, her eyes moving from one face to the next.

    "This is about each of you, as individuals. Every ounce of strength, every lesson you''ve learned, everything that makes you, you. That''s what will be tested out there."

    Her voice was calm but held a spark that lit a fire in each of them.

    "Tomorrow, the only person you''ll answer to is yourself. Whether you win, or lose, it will be

    you facing your own limits, your own fears."

    Ryder took a deep breath, nerves still simmering, but he nodded, squaring his shoulders.

    Catarina gave a small grin, her usual playful confidence shining through.

    Mercury and Kaida exchanged glances, their expressions calm and focused, while Eratz simply met Victoria''s gaze with his own, unwavering.

    Victoria''s voice softened, but her words could still pierce them.

    "There will be noise, there will be crowds, and there will be challengers who''ll push you to

    your edge. But when you''re out there, remember why you came. What drove you to this point.

    Let that drive carry you further."

    She smiled, a rare, small one, but it was genuine.

    "And I know each of you will show everyone something unforgettable."

    They shared a moment of silence, letting her words sink in, feeling the anticipation in the air.

    Then, with one final nod, Victoria said.

    "Now rest up, and tomorrow... make yourselves proud."

    Under the quiet night sky, they each felt the resolve growing within, ready for the battle of the

    next day.

 Chapter 103: The Stage of Champions

    Chapter 103: The Stage of ChampionsThe stadium roared to life as the opening ceremony for the Greenridge League finals began. Bright sunlight bathed the arena, casting a golden glow on the thousands of spectators filling the stands.

    Streamers waved in the air, and colorful banners of the 32 finalists rippled with the wind. The atmosphere was electric, excitement buzzing through every inch of the massive venue.

    From the top rows to the arena floor, the crowd''s energy was contagious. Cheers and applause echoed in waves, building anticipation for the matches to come.

    People of all ages, from seasoned beast masters to eager young fans, watched in awe, eyes wide with wonder, for the beginning of the region''s greatest tournament.

    The chairman of the league, a tall man with silver hair slicked back, dressed in a deep blue tailored suit, stood at the center of the massive arena.

    "Welcome, everyone, to the Greenridge League Finals!" his voice boomed across the stadium, amplified by the speakers surrounding the arena. The crowd erupted again, but quickly fell silent to hear his words.

    "Today, we celebrate the culmination of skill, strength, and perseverance. Throughout this league, these beast masters have shown us the power and wonder of their abilities, dominating every challenge in their path." He paused, letting the weight of his words settle in. "But this is only the beginning."

    The chairman''s gaze swept over the crowd, his voice steady and filled with pride.

    "This tournament is not just about the competition. It''s about the bond between beast masters and their creatures. It''s about pushing past limits, about standing in the face of fear and daring to overcome it. The Greenridge region is known for producing some of the finest beast masters in the world, and today, we witness the strongest among them."

    With that, the crowd cheered again, their excitement at a fever pitch as the chairman gestured to the tunnel on the far side of the stadium. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "And now, I give you...the 32 finalists of the Greenridge League!"

    The roar of the crowd returned, and then the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived.

    The gates to the arena opened, and the 32 finalists entered together. The sound of footsteps and cheers combined in a wave of excitement as each fighter strode confidently into the spotlight.

    Kaida led the way, her expression stern and intense, eyes forward, her sharp gaze unbothered by the noise around her. Catarina followed, flashing a wide grin, her tail swishing playfully as she waved to the crowd, clearly enjoying the attention.

    Sia walked with a cold, composed demeanor, her icy stare fixed ahead. Gabriel, the youngest of the finalists, looked around in awe, almost swallowed by the grandeur of the stadium. The tiny creature perched on his shoulder chirped, matching his astonishment, and the crowd seemed to adore him instantly.

    Eratz walked with quiet confidence. His eyes scanned the battlefield, the soon-to-be stage of chaos, and a slow, widening smile spread across his face. He was ready.

    As the finalists moved into formation in the center of the arena, the crowd''s excitement hit a fever pitch. Among the public, Cassie and Roger were beaming with pride as they watched their nephew and Mercury stand among the best. Colin and Milo cheered loudly, waving their arms as if they could somehow reach them in the sea of faces.

    At the same time, Genova''s people sat with mixed reactions. Some of the students, wide- eyed, whispered to one another about how incredible the arena was, their hopes and dreams of reaching such a prestigious tournament someday growing stronger.

    Kenny sat in silence, his jaw clenched, his fists tight on his lap. As he watched Eratz among the finalists, a bitter fury began to stir within him. He couldn''t believe how far Eratz had come, how quickly he''d surpassed them all, and something deeper ignited in him.

    - Why him, and not me?

    Nearby, Lisa sat with her hands clenched tightly on her knees. She watched Eratz walk with the other finalists, and her heart twisted painfully. She bit her lip, her frustration and regret boiling under the surface as she stared at him.

    A girl beside Crystal murmured.

    "Eratz looks even more handsome than before. Maybe I''ll ask him out after the tournament."

    Crystal gave the girl a sharp side-eye but said nothing.

    In the center of the arena, the chairman raised his hand for silence once more. The crowd quieted instantly, their focus locked on the 32 finalists standing proudly before them.

    "Now, without further delay," he said, his voice filled with anticipation, "I declare the start of the Greenridge League Finals!"

    The cheers that followed were deafening. The stage was set, the competitors ready, and the region watched eagerly as the tournament of a lifetime was about to begin.

    The tension in the air was palpable, a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and the knowledge that only the strongest would advance. As the noise of the crowd began to settle, the massive screen displayed the names of the competitors in order:

    1. Sia Verizion vs. Nyx

    2. Gabriel vs. Cassius Alden

    3. Kuro vs. Vanya Roth

    4. Mercury Banks vs. Zera Ardent

    5. Catarina vs. Flint Hawk

    6. Jaden vs. Ellis Marrick

    7. Cyril Haven vs. Talia Brin

    8. Kaida vs. Iris Vallon

    9. Bastian vs. Ophelia Winters

    10. Alaric vs. Leona Greaves

    11. Fenris vs. Amara Solis

    12. Ren vs. Titus Voss

    13. Ryder Crow vs. Kobayashi Raya

    14. Eratz Pandora vs. Darian Kross

    15. Ari Dales vs. Xyla Nore

    16. Viktor vs. Lila Wynne

    The excitement in the stadium built as the crowd took in the matchups, murmurs and cheers rippling through the stands. The announcer''s voice cut through the air once more, capturing everyone''s attention.

    "And now," the announcer continued, his voice rising in anticipation, "we begin the first match of the Greenridge League finals! Entering the arena... Sia Verizion!"

    A hush fell over the crowd before erupting into cheers as Sia stepped into the spotlight, her long black hair trailing behind her like a shadow, and her icy blue eyes locked on the

    battleground.

    She wore sleek, dark blue and silver gear that gleamed under the lights, embodying the cold precision she was known for. The crowd erupted in cheers

    Her presence was as chilling as her abilities, her aura exuding a calm, untouchable strength that sent a shiver of excitement through the audience.

    "And her opponent... Nyx!"

    Then came Nyx. Her confidence radiated as she strode in, her sharp crimson eyes scanning the battlefield with dangerous calm. Dressed in black and red, her short hair barely shifted as she moved, a smirk playing on her lips.

    Though the crowd clearly favored Sia, there was an undeniable tension in the air, Nyx was not

    to be underestimated.

    The crowd roared, the energy in the arena escalating as the two competitors faced each other across the battlefield, each preparing for the intense battle that was about to begin.

    The announcer''s voice boomed once more.

    "Let the first battle of the Greenridge League finals... BEGIN!"

 Chapter 104: Battle of Extremes: Frost Empress vs. Crimson Reaper

    Chapter 104: Battle of Extremes: Frost Empress vs. Crimson ReaperThe moment the announcer declared the start of the battle, Sia acted immediately. With a graceful sweep of her arm, she summoned two ice beasts,

    The first was a hulking, four-legged beast, its icy armor covered in jagged spikes, the second was more ethereal an ice bird that slithered through the air, its transparent body shimmering like glass.

    The crowd watched in awe as the beasts roared to life, a mist of frost following every breath they took. Sia stood in the center, calm and composed, her icy blue eyes fixed on Nyx.

    Nyx, however, remained still, her crimson eyes locked on Sia with an unsettling calm. She didn''t summon any beasts, her crimson eyes watching Sia''s monsters with an amused smirk. The crowd began to murmur in confusion.

    "Is she not using any monsters?"

    Sia remained unbothered, raising her hand and commanding the ice beasts forward. The massive, armored creature lunged first, each step spreading ice on the grass.

    But then, Nyx''s entire body began to glow with dark crimson energy. Shadows twisted around her, and her beastification began.

    Her black hair turned longer, streaks of red glowing like embers, and her body transformed, surrounded by an aura of crimson and shadow.

    Mechanical, claw-like appendages erupted from her back, their jagged edges dripping with energy.

    With a burst of speed, Nyx met Sia''s armored beast head-on, her clawed appendages tearing through its icy armor with a savage force. Ice and shards flew everywhere as Nyx ripped the creature apart with ease. The crowd roared in awe and disbelief.

    Sia''s expression barely changed. She raised her hand again, and the bird dove down, but Nyx was relentless. Her claws slashed through the bird, and it shattered into icy fragments that scattered across the battlefield.

    The crowd gasped as they watched her change, some in awe, others in fear.

    "That''s Nyx''s style," someone in the stands shouted. "She never uses monsters, she only fight with her beastification."

    The realization spread quickly. Nyx wasn''t like other beast masters, she fought with raw, violent power, using her own beastification to become a living weapon.

    Nyx grinned, her sharp teeth visible. The swirling crimson energy around her pulsed as if alive.

    "Why bother with a beast battle, when I can tear you apart with my own hands? There''s nothing like tearing through your opponent, shredding them to pieces... Don''t you think, Ice Empress?" she taunted.

    Sia didn''t flinch, with a wave of her hand, she called upon one of her ice beasts, an elegant creature with a body of pure frost, glowing with ethereal light.

    Its form resembled a great wolf, tall and menacing, its breath misting in the frigid air. The crowd gasped at the beauty and raw power of Sia''s beast as it stood by her side, its icy claws scraping the ground.

    "Great," Nyx growled, launching herself toward Sia''s ice beast with terrifying speed.

    With a burst of speed, she lunged forward, her claws slashing through the icy air as she met Sia''s beast beast head-on. The impact was explosive, ice shards flying in every direction as Nyx tore through the creature, her claws ripping it apart in a brutal display of power. The crowd roared, caught between excitement and shock.

    Sia barely reacted. Her gaze remained cold and focused as she summoned a floating orb to fire a barrage of ice spears at Nyx. But Nyx was already moving, her speed unmatched as she dodged each attack effortlessly, her laughter echoing across the arena. She was toying with the ice beasts, slashing them apart with sadistic glee.

    The crowd was in awe of Nyx''s destructive power, but Sia was far from finished.

    "You rely a lot on chaos. I prefer precision stillness."

    And then, the moment arrived.

    Sia raised both hands, and the entire battlefield erupted in ice.

    The ground beneath them froze even further, the icy energy surging up and covering the battlefield. Massive ice pillars shot up from the earth, creating a maze of frozen structures.

    The temperature dropped even further, frost creeping up Nyx''s legs as the arena transformed into a frozen land under Sia''s control.

    "This is it! The Frost Empress'' field spell!" a spectator shouted, excitement rippling through the stands.

    Sia''s field spell was one of the most feared, and now the crowd understood why. Every inch of the battlefield was hers to command, every movement Nyx made risked being trapped in the ice.

    The audience held its breath, watching as Nyx''s movements slowed, her claws struggling against the frost that was starting to cling to her.

    But Nyx''s grin never wavered.

    "...I love it," she hissed, her voice laced with both amusement and malice. "With your full potential... it just makes breaking you even more fun."

    With a furious roar, Nyx shattered the ice around her with a powerful swing of her claws, sending chunks of frozen debris flying through the air.

    She lunged toward Sia, her claws crackling with crimson energy. Sia, in response, summoned a wall of solid ice in front of her, blocking Nyx''s attack. The impact was thunderous, and cracks spread across the ice wall.

    Both locked eyes, Sia with a deep calm, Nyx with a twisted smirk, then Nyx''s crimson claws glowed with chaotic energy.

    With a primal roar, she slashed through it, shattering the ice into countless shards that exploded across the arena. The crowd gasped in awe as Nyx weaved between the debris.

    Sia, unfazed, raised her hand and unleashed a blast of freezing wind, sharp as knives, aiming directly at Nyx. The air crackled with icy energy, but Nyx dodged it with a graceful roll, her movements wild but controlled. She smirked, fully in her element now, her red eyes gleaming with dark intent.

    "You can''t hide behind your walls forever!" Nyx shouted.

    In response, Sia summoned another ice beast, a massive, multi-legged creature covered in jagged, crystalline armor. It charged toward Nyx with terrifying speed, its legs pounding the frozen ground, sending tremors through the arena.

    Simultaneously, a smaller ice beast, slender and swift, circled from above, swooping down like a bird of prey, its wings leaving trails of frost in the air.

    Nyx snarled, ducking under the massive creature''s swipe and leaping to avoid the smaller beast''s icy dive. She was fast, but every move she made left traces of frost creeping up her

    arms and legs.

    Sia''s freezing influence was slowly encasing her, and with every attack Nyx dodged, she had to shatter the growing ice from her limbs, slowing her down bit by bit.

    Sia, cold and composed, barely spoke, but her focus was razor-sharp. She raised her hand again, and icy tendrils shot up from the ground, twisting around Nyx''s legs, trying to bind her

    in place.

    Nyx growled, tearing through the ice with her claws, her movements becoming more frantic as she fought to stay free.

    Nyx lunged forward, her claws crackling with red energy, aiming directly for Sia. Her attack was vicious, forcing Sia to sidestep just in time. The crowd erupted as Nyx closed the distance, almost landing a direct hit on the Frost Empress.

    For the first time, Sia had to move. She conjured a beam of pure ice, firing it at Nyx, who dodged just in time, the freezing blast grazing her shoulder. The air between them buzzed with tension, the clash between Nyx''s chaotic, destructive force and Sia''s calculated, unyielding control.

    But Sia was starting to dominate. Each step Nyx took became heavier, the ice around her limbs spreading faster. The crowd could see it, the relentless cold was taking its toll on Nyx, her movements slowing, her attacks less precise.

    Nyx roared in defiance, slashing through another ice beast that charged at her. But as she shattered its body into a thousand pieces, the frost clung to her arms, spreading further up her shoulders, making her attacks more labored.

    Sia was summoning ice beasts faster than Nyx could destroy them, forcing the dark warrior to keep moving, to keep dodging, all while her own strength waned. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    With a final growl, Nyx hurled herself toward Sia, her claws raised high for a decisive strike. But just as she was about to land her blow, Sia''s eyes flashed coldly, and she raised both arms.

    The temperature dropped in an instant.

    A massive surge of icy energy exploded from Sia, covering the entire battlefield in an instant.

    The ground cracked under the weight of the sudden freeze, and towering ice formations shot up from the arena floor. The audience gasped as a wave of frost cascaded over Nyx, freezing

    her mid-air.

    In mere seconds, Nyx''s entire body was encased in solid ice. Her menacing form was now frozen like a statue, her claws still outstretched in a final, futile attempt to strike.

    The arena fell silent. Sia lowered her arms, her breath steady as the icy mist cleared. She had

    won.

    The crowd erupted in thunderous applause, awed by the sheer display of power they had just witnessed. Sia stood calmly, her icy gaze fixed on Nyx''s frozen form. She walked over, observing her opponent with a critical eye.

    "You fought well," Sia muttered softly to herself, barely audible over the cheers of the crowd.

    "But you lack discipline."

    With a final glance at her frozen opponent, Sia turned and walked away, her expression as cold and calm as ever. She had won this battle, but her mind was already on the next.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the arena.

    "And the winner of this match, the Frost Empress... Sia Verizion!"

    The crowd roared, their cheers reverberating through the stadium as Sia exited the battlefield.

 Chapter 105: Clash of Guardians: Beast Whisperer vs. Iron Fortress

    Chapter 105: Clash of Guardians: Beast Whisperer vs. Iron FortressThe arena remained electrified after Sia''s victory over Nyx, and the crowd''s excitement only intensified as the next match was announced. The massive screen in the stadium lit up once again, revealing the next set of competitors:

    Gabriel vs. Cassius Alden.

    The murmurs in the crowd quickly grew into cheers. Gabriel, known as "The Beast Whisperer," was the youngest of the finalists, but his abilities were already legendary. Cassius, on the other hand, was a fortress, a beast master renowned for his unshakable defense.

    "And now, please welcome... Gabriel!"

    Gabriel stepped into the arena, his innocent, kind face a stark contrast to the intensity of the competition around him. His messy dark brown hair framed his wide, curious eyes, which sparkled with excitement. The boy, barely fourteen, waved shyly to the audience.

    A ripple of adoration swept through the crowd, especially from the younger spectators and a few fangirls who couldn''t help but comment.

    "He''s so cute! I can''t believe he''s in the finals at his age!"

    "He''s like a little prince! Look at that smile!"

    A few girls in the stands giggled and waved back, some even swooning over the young competitor.

    In the Genova section, a teacher leaned over to another with a playful grin.

    "Maybe we should start scouting talents at a younger age," he said, half-joking.

    His colleague chuckled in response.

    "Not a bad idea. If this kid''s already in the finals, he''s already done more than our ace."

    The words hung in the air, drawing a silent reaction from Kenny, who sat a few seats away. His eyes narrowed slightly, his jaw tightening as he listened to the casual remarks.

    As the teachers laughed quietly, Kenny''s stare focused on Gabriel, the young boy standing confidently in the arena.

    The sight of him, a rising star at this age, even earlier than Eratz, and effortlessly commanding the crowd''s affection, only deepened the bitter jealousy simmering inside Kenny.

    Gabriel, oblivious to the chatter, continued walking calmly toward the center of the battlefield. His serene demeanor and genuine warmth had already captured the hearts of the crowd, and despite his youth, the respect he had earned as a beast master was undeniable.

    "Beasts aren''t just companions," he had once said in an interview. "They''re friends. We talk, we share everything."

    Gabriel was not an ordinary beast master. He was said to have the rare gift of being able to communicate directly with his beasts, and this connection made him a formidable force.

    As he walked calmly to the center of the battlefield, the ground beneath him began to tremble ever so slightly. The crowd''s anticipation grew, their excitement palpable.

    "And his opponent, the unmovable wall, the Iron Fortress... Cassius Alden!"

    The applause shifted as Cassius entered, his presence commanding. Taller and much broader than Gabriel, Cassius exuded strength and stability. He had short black hair, a chiseled face, and wore heavy armor that gleamed under the lights. His stoic demeanor conveyed experience, and his unflinching gaze was locked onto Gabriel.

    Cassius was known for his defensive beasts, a master at creating an impenetrable wall with them. His strategy was simple: endure the attacks and retaliate with heavy moves.

    As Cassius reached the center of the arena, the crowd settled, eager to witness this clash of styles, offense versus defense, youthful agility against seasoned endurance.

    They exchanged glances, and Gabriel smiled brightly.

    "Sir, I can already tell your beasts are strong," he said, his voice filled with kindness. "Let''s give everyone a good show."

    Cassius nodded curtly. "I don''t take children lightly. Show me what you''ve got."

    The crowd held its breath as the announcer''s voice echoed once more.

    "Let the second battle of the Greenridge League Finals... BEGIN!"

    Gabriel was quick to act, raising his hand with a serene grace. The ground beneath him cracked, and from it emerged three massive beasts. The audience gasped as they materialized.

    The first was a colossal, majestic lion-like creature with shimmering silver fur and deep, glowing blue eyes. Its mane sparkled like starlight, and its roar was a song that echoed through the arena.

    The second was an enormous bird of prey, its feathers burning with a golden light. It soared above the arena, casting a radiant glow as it screeched into the sky.

    The third was an amphibious beast with a sleek, almost liquid body. It slithered through the air as though swimming, its translucent form rippling with hues of green and blue, as if made from water itself.

    The crowd erupted in awe. Gabriel''s beasts were not just rare, they were extraordinary, each one exuding an overwhelming aura of strength and unity with their master.

    "Wow!" someone in the crowd shouted. "I''ve never seen anything like that!"

    Cassius, unfazed by the spectacle, raised his arm and summoned his own companions. Two massive beasts emerged beside him, their sheer size and bulk dwarfing the battlefield.

    One was a towering, stone-skinned creature with thick armor plates that looked like a moving fortress. The second was a massive, turtle-like beast with a shell that seemed to pulse with energy, glowing runes etched into its surface.

    These were beasts bred for defense, their purpose clear in the way they moved with deliberate, slow steps, standing guard over Cassius. The crowd watched in awe as the defensive giants stood tall, casting long shadows across the battlefield.

    Gabriel''s eyes gleamed as he watched them.

    "They''re incredible," he whispered, and then, in a strange, melodic tone, he began speaking, or, from the eyes of anyone else, making sounds, in a language only his beasts understood. The silver lion growled, the golden bird screeched, and the amphibious beast''s form rippled.

    Cassius''s beasts stirred in response to Gabriel''s strange melodic tones, their eyes narrowing as if they, too, understood the language. Cassius raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised by the reaction, but remained composed.

    "What''s that... can this boy really... Uh, whatever, let''s crush him now," Cassius muttered under his breath.

    With a deep, commanding shout, he ordered his beasts to move forward. The ground shook as the towering stone-skinned creature raised one massive fist and slammed it down toward Gabriel''s lion, the impact sending tremors through the arena.

    But Gabriel''s lion was quick, dodging the attack with a nimble leap, its silver mane glowing brighter as it landed gracefully on its feet. The bird above swooped down, its radiant wings leaving trails of light as it darted toward Cassius''s turtle-like beast.

    The crowd gasped as the golden bird collided with the turtle''s glowing shell. Sparks of energy flew as the bird''s talons scratched against the runes, but the shell held firm, its energy pulsing

    in defense.

    Cassius smirked.

    "They''ll need more than speed and agility to break through this wall."

    His stone-skinned beast charged again, this time its fists glowing with energy as it swung at Gabriel''s lion with even more force. The lion dodged again, but the stone beast quickly changed tactics, smashing the ground to create a shockwave that rippled toward Gabriel and

    his beasts.

    Gabriel''s calm demeanor didn''t falter. He closed his eyes for a brief moment, continuing his

    melodic command. His lion''s ears twitched, and in a flash, it leaped high into the air, completely avoiding the shockwave. The amphibious beast, with its fluid form, rippled through the air, effortlessly dodging the attack.

    "Go, Gabriel, You''ve got this!" one fan shouted from the stands.

    The crowd was on the edge of their seats, watching the graceful dance of Gabriel''s beasts versus the raw power of Cassius''s defensive giants. Cassius, realizing his slower beasts couldn''t keep up with Gabriel''s nimble companions, shifted tactics.

    "I''ll crush you kid!" Cassius shouted, his eyes narrowing.

    His turtle-like beast, previously standing in a defensive stance, reared up. Its runes began glowing even brighter, and suddenly, it released a massive energy pulse, expanding outward

    like a wave of force.

    The pulse slammed into Gabriel''s lion mid-leap, sending it skidding back across the battlefield, though the lion quickly regained its footing.

    Gabriel''s smile faltered for a moment, but his connection with his beasts remained strong.

    "Don''t give up. We''re in this together," he whispered, his voice soft yet reaching his beasts.

    The lion growled in response, the bird screeched, and the amphibious beast coiled tighter, preparing for another round.

    Cassius''s beasts weren''t done yet. The stone-skinned creature, now glowing with energy, began charging toward Gabriel, each step a thundering quake as it raised its fists for another massive blow. The turtle beast unleashed another shockwave, this time aiming for Gabriel''s bird, hoping to ground it.

    But Gabriel''s bond with his beasts was too strong. With another melodic command, his lion roared and charged forward, its claws glowing with silver energy as it met the stone-skinned

    beast head-on.

    The clash sent sparks flying, and the crowd roared in excitement. Meanwhile, the golden bird soared higher, narrowly avoiding the shockwave, before diving down in a brilliant burst of light, aiming for the turtle''s exposed underbelly.

    Cassius''s eyes widened, realizing the turtle beast couldn''t defend against the aerial attack. The bird''s talons struck hard, and the turtle staggered, its defenses momentarily faltering.

    Gabriel seized the opportunity.

    "Now!"

    The amphibious beast, quick as a flash, darted forward, wrapping itself around the stone- skinned beast''s legs. Its fluid form glowed with a strange light as it tightened its hold,

    disrupting the creature''s balance.

    Cassius growled, knowing his beasts were being outmaneuvered.

    "Not bad... but we''re not done yet."

    The stone beast roared in defiance, lifting one massive leg to try and shake off the amphibious

    creature. But as it struggled, Gabriel''s lion pounced, its glowing claws striking the stone beast with precision. Cracks began to form along its surface.

    Cassius''s beast bellowed in pain, staggering under the force of the coordinated assault. The audience watched in awe as Gabriel''s beasts, working in perfect harmony, overwhelmed Cassius''s defenses.

    With one final, powerful swipe, Gabriel''s lion shattered the stone-skinned beast, its body crumbling into pieces. The crowd gasped as the mighty defensive creature fell. Cassius''s turtle, weakened by the bird''s relentless strikes, was the only beast remaining. It roared, struggling to maintain its defense, but it was too late. Gabriel''s beasts circled it like predators, each one glowing with energy as they prepared for the final blow.

    Cassius, realizing his beasts were outmatched, raised his hand in surrender.

    The crowd erupted into cheers as the announcer''s voice boomed across the arena.

    "The winner is, the Beast Whisperer... Gabriel!"

    Gabriel''s beasts gathered around him, their bond as strong as ever. The lion nuzzled Gabriel''s

    side, the bird circled above, and the amphibious creature coiled playfully around his legs.

    Gabriel smiled, walking over to Cassius.

    "Your beasts are amazing, sir. I could feel their strength."

    Cassius, though defeated, gave a nod of respect.

    "You''ve got heart, kid. Your bond with your beasts is something special. But if you want to

    win the league..." He paused, a wry smile crossing his lips. "You''ll need more than that."

    Gabriel looked at him, his eyes still bright but with a hint of understanding in them.

    "Don''t worry... we only used what was necessary for this battle, we''ll adapt for other challenges."

    Cassius paused, studying Gabriel for a moment, then let out a small, bitter-sweet chuckle.

    "I figured as much... You held back." He shook his head, impressed despite himself. "Well, I guess that makes your win even more deserved." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    With a gesture of respect and fair play, Cassius raised Gabriel''s arm to the crowd. The audience roared in approval, their cheers deafening as Gabriel stood victorious. His quiet strength and bond with his beasts had spoken louder than any boast.

 Chapter 106: Elemental Mastery: The Raging Wave vs. Lightning Fury

    Chapter 106: Elemental Mastery: The Raging Wave vs. Lightning FuryThe arena rumbled as the next battle was announced: Kuro versus Vanya Roth. The audience buzzed with excitement, eager to witness this clash between two powerful beast masters.

    Kuro was the first to step onto the battlefield, his dark, sleek figure blending into the shadows that seemed to cling to him. His beasts appeared, two shadowy panthers, their bodies rippling with an eerie, energy. The panthers'' eyes gleamed with a ghostly light, and the crowd held its breath, entranced by their predatory grace.

    Opposite him, Vanya Roth commanded three formidable beasts: a hawk with fiery plumage, a crimson wolf, and a massive armored stag whose glowing antlers hummed with power. Each of her creatures radiated strength and precision, moving in perfect sync with her.

    The battle began with a clash of elements. Kuro''s shadow panthers darted in and out of the shadows, striking from the darkness with deadly precision, while Vanya''s hawk circled above, guiding her other beasts toward Kuro''s elusive creatures. It was a dance of speed and strategy, each fighter testing the other''s limits.

    Kuro''s beasts were fast, slipping through Vanya''s attacks with ease, but the hawk''s sharp eyes and the wolf''s swift movements kept them cornered. Vanya fought with precision, aiming to box Kuro in, but Kuro''s panthers had the upper hand in the shadows, their movements growing more fluid as they adapted to Vanya''s strategies.

    With a final, coordinated strike, Kuro''s panthers overwhelmed Vanya''s wolf and stag, tearing through them with a savage grace. The hawk fell next, brought down by a leap from the shadows.

    "Kuro is victorious!" the announcer declared, and the crowd cheered, their excitement carrying over to the next battle.

    Inside the locker room, the energy was tense. Screens lined the walls, displaying the battles. There were rows of lockers and benches, and a section with fitness tools for warm-ups. Some competitors were watching the ongoing fights, while others were mentally preparing themselves for their turn in the arena.

    Catarina was glaring at her opponent, Flint Hawk, who was casually lifting small weights, often glancing at her. Her eyes narrowed with clear disdain as he showed her a terrible smile with every lift.

    "... Nul and void," Catarina groaned, "Who even fear a little weight?"

    Mercury chuckled softly, leaning back against her locker. She had her mind on her upcoming battle against Zera Ardent, the electric-type master. The Crescent Moon members were gathered around her, offering quiet words of encouragement. Ryder tapped the screen showing the previous match.

    "Zera''s no joke, but neither are you, you''re our veteran after all," he said with a grin. Eratz approached, arms folded.

    "She''s going to use that elemental advantage of hers 100%. You know that, right?" Mercury simply smiled, her eyes glinting with confidence.

    "I hope she does."

    Kaida nodded.

    "I don''t know what you''re planning, but you look confident, so I''m expecting good news,

    sis."

    The room quieted for a moment, everyone feeling the anticipation of the match. Then, a staff member appeared at the door, calling for Mercury to head out. The Crescent Moon members rallied behind her, cheering her on in their own way.

    "Good luck, Mercury!" Ryder called.

    "Go smash her, Raging Wave," Catarina waved.

    "Imagine training the whole year just to lose on the first round," Eratz said nonchalantly. "You wish," Mercury grinned at him.

    As she walked down the narrow corridor, her focus on the match ahead, she saw a figure leaning casually against the wall, Jaden, the one who had humiliated her brother and kept him from being one of the youngest professional beast masters. Her expression darkened as she neared him.

    When he saw her glare, a smirk spread across his face.

    "Well, well, why the long face? Need an autograph?"

    Mercury kept walking, her expression cold and unreadable, but as she passed him, she paused. Without turning, she said.

    "Don''t lose."

    Jaden raised an eyebrow, clearly amused.

    "Hm? Oh? Is the infamous Raging Wave worried about me?"

    She took a step forward, her back still to him, her voice calm but deadly.

    "Before facing me."

    Jaden''s grin grew wider, his playful nature ever present.

    "Hm, start by surviving this, then, I''ll make sure to give you a memorable show."

    Without another word, Mercury resumed walking, her mind clear and sharp, ready for the battle that awaited her.

    The crowd buzzed with excitement as the announcer''s voice filled the arena once more.

    "And the next challenger... Mercury Banks!"

    The cheers were thunderous as Mercury entered the battlefield. She scanned the crowd, her sharp gaze moving to the stands.

    Among them, Cassie and Roger stood, waving enthusiastically. Colin and Milo cheered loudly, Milo practically jumping out of his seat.

    Meanwhile, in the Genova section, the students who remembered her from the calamity birds incident exchanged nervous glances.

    "It''s incredible to think we were that close to her," one whispered.

    "Yeah, too bad I couldn''t befriend her that time," another added.

    Kenny, though filled with bitterness, couldn''t ignore her entrance, his jaw tightening as he watched her.

    He forced himself to not seeing her as a girl and silently rooted for her opponent.

    On her side, Lisa watched silently, her gaze following Mercury but her expression neutral,

    while Crystal, leaned forward with a slight smirk.

    "Let''s hope Zera gives her what she deserves."

    "And now, her opponent, Zera Ardent!"

    The crowd cheered as Zera entered the arena, her bright yellow hair practically glowing under the sunlight. Her lean, athletic frame was perfect for her lightning-fast fighting style.

    She wore sleek, outfits with jagged electric patterns running down the sides. Her eyes sparkled with a fierce determination.

    She raised her arms, and the crowd erupted in cheers for her too, her reputation as a fierce fighter preceding her, and for those knowing both of them, she was the grand favorite of this

    match.

    The tension between them was palpable as the two stood face to face.

    Zera''s eyes were sharp with determination, while Mercury''s calm, confident expression

    showed no sign of doubt.

    The announcer''s voice filled the stadium once more.

    "Let the battle... begin!"

    Zera reacted immediately, charging bolts of lightning in her hands, the energy spreading

    around.

    Mercury responded with her classic move, summoning water to surround her in an elemental

    field spell.

    Water surged from the ground and formed a dense barrier around her, the field rippling with

    power.

    Zera smirked, her eyes glowing with anticipation.

    "So you''ve chosen suicide." Mercury''s expression remained unreadable as she allowed Zera to strike.

    Zera launched a barrage of electric strikes, arcs of lightning shooting toward Mercury like

    whips, the lightning hitting the water field head-on.

    Sparks exploded as the electricity surged through the water, but instead of recoiling, Mercury grinned. She had been waiting for this.

    Zera''s confidence wavered as the water didn''t conduct the lightning the way she expected.

    The spectacle was strange to witness, the field spell growing in size was at the same time losing in it''s constitution, becoming more transparent, without visible water. Mercury''s field spell had changed. Instead of a dense body of water, the water was spread thin across the battlefield, dispersed in a fine mist and thin layers across the ground and air. The crowd watched in awe as the lightning scattered through the mist, unable to find a clear path to deal concentrated damage.

    "What..." Zera muttered, confused by the lack of impact. Her lightning strikes fizzled out, dispersed into the mist that hung around Mercury like a protective veil.

    Mercury raised a brow, her tone calm and controlled.

    "Are you winning, girl?"

    Zera''s eyes narrowed, frustration creeping in. She unleashed another wave of electric energy,

    but Mercury''s strategy was clear.

    The water danced around her, moving fluidly to redirect the lightning''s charge.

    The electricity crackled harmlessly through the air as Mercury manipulated the water''s

    pathways, guiding the lightning away from her.

    The crowd cheered in amazement as Mercury demonstrated her control over the battlefield,

    her mastery of both water and wind stunning everyone.

    Eratz leaned forward, impressed.

    "Smart, she''s controlling the lightning... what a great idea."

    Zera''s anger flared, her face contorted in frustration.

    "You think you''re clever, don''t you? Let''s see how clever you are when I turn up the voltage."

    Zera surged forward, her entire body crackling with energy as she aimed for a more direct hit.

    But Mercury was already prepared. She moved with precision, summoning insulating layers of vapor around herself.

    As Zera''s electric punch connected, the vapor acted as a buffer, dispersing the charge and

    leaving Mercury unharmed.

    "She''s untouchable!" someone in the crowd yelled, and the cheers grew louder.

    But Zera wasn''t done. She pushed harder, her attacks growing more frantic as she hurled bolt

    after bolt of lightning at Mercury.

    The arena flashed with bright electric strikes, but Mercury''s calm composure never wavered.

    Mercury knew it was time to shift the momentum. With a wave of her hand, she directed the

    water around the battlefield to form channels, creating conductive pathways leading straight

    to Zera.

    Zera, so focused on overpowering Mercury with lightning, didn''t notice until it was too late.

    Mercury smirked.

    "Thanks for the refill."

    Zera''s eyes widened in shock as the lightning she''d been unleashing at Mercury suddenly

    redirected.

    The water, manipulated to form intricate pathways, had turned into a trap. Mercury

    channeled the electricity into a tank of highly pressurized water, launching it back toward

    Zera with devastating force.

    The impact was immediate. Water and lightning exploded in unison, creating a violent storm

    of energy that sent Zera flying back.

    Her body jolted as the charged water surged through her, knocking the breath out of her

    lungs. She staggered, gasping in pain, trying to stay on her feet.

    The crowd collectively erupted, watching as Zera''s own elemental power turned against her.

    But Mercury wasn''t finished yet.

    She surfed along the thin streams of water she had created across the battlefield.

    The mist and vapor provided the perfect cover, making it impossible for Zera to track her.

    Zera''s attacks grew frantic, lightning crackling wildly through the air, but each bolt was either deflected or absorbed by Mercury''s water manipulation.

    Zara, watching from the stands, shook her head, muttering under her breath.

    "She''s so focused on the lightning advantage, she''s forgotten to use her beasts." Zera hesitated, realizing that every time she unleashed her power, it came right back at her with twice the force. Her confidence crumbled as she began to second-guess every strike. "Where is she?" she muttered, panic creeping into her voice as her eyes darted around the

    arena.

    But the dense mist and multiple water streams made it impossible to locate Mercury.

    Her vision blurred from the lingering electricity running through her body, her movements slower now, each step more labored.

    Then, like a predator emerging from the fog, Mercury appeared. Her body cut through the mist, and before Zera could react, Mercury unleashed her final move.

    All the water particles in the air, the streams, the mist, they converged at once, forming a massive, pressurized wall of water.

    With a flick of her wrist, Mercury released the full power of the attack.

    The explosion of water was immense, the force crashing down on Zera with an earth-

    shattering roar. Zera''s body was thrown across the arena, battered and drenched, the sheer pressure leaving

    her struggling to breathe. She collapsed to the ground, gasping for air, too weak to stand.

    Zera attempted to rise, her body trembling with effort, but the battle was over. She had been completely overwhelmed.

    The crowd erupted into deafening cheers, standing in awe of Mercury''s absolute control over

    the battlefield.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the arena, filled with amazement.

    "The winner is... Mercury Banks!"

    The crowd roared in approval, their cheers echoing through the arena as Mercury stood tall,

    her mastery over the elements undeniable.

    Zera, bruised and humbled, could only watch from the ground as the woman who had

    dominated her received the praise she had rightfully earned.

    Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo cheered louder than anyone, their pride and excitement

    evident.

    In the Genova section, students stared in awe.

    Kenny, watched her drenched appearance on the big screen with clenched fists, couldn''t deny

    the burning in his chest any longer. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Lisa remained quiet, this was the level of the closest person to Eratz, meanwhile, Crystal

    scowled, furious that Mercury had won.

    In the locker room, other challengers watched in awe, even Sia nodded in quiet approval.

    Jaden groaned, and left the room.

    Mercury left the battlefield victorious, her strategy flawless. As she walked off, she allowed herself a small smile, bathed under the cheers of the public.

    There was a brief pause before the announcer added, his voice filled with reverence.

    "More than just a wave... Mercury Banks has become water itself!"

 Chapter 107: Beasts and Blades

    Chapter 107: Beasts and BladesThe arena''s temperature rose up as the battle pursued, and after Mercury''s show, as the next match was about to begin: Catarina vs. Flint Hawk.

    The crowd settled, eager for another thrilling display. Flint Hawk entered the battlefield with the kind of swagger that only came from overconfidence.

    His broad frame, thick muscles, and the constant flexing of his arms added to his presence.

    He cracked his knuckles and shot a grin at Catarina, who stood on the opposite side, arms crossed, her expression annoyed and her tail swishing in mild irritation.

    Flint wasted no time playing up to the crowd, slamming his fist into his palm and grinning like a showman.

    "You ready, pussycat? I''ll crush you so hard, you''ll be a flat little puddle! I''m coming for your booty!"

    The crowd gave a mixed reaction, with some laughing at, while others remained silent.

    "What is a booty?" Milo turned to Colin.

    Colin crossed her arms with a serious face.

    "I think he steals people''s shoes after winning."

    Cassie and Roger exchanged a gaze, both decided to stay silent.

    The Crescent Moon team laughed in the locker room.

    "Your funeral." Catarina muttered under her breath, giving him a bored look. She wanted to quickly get rid of him but now her soul reclaimed blood.

    Flint continued, undeterred.

    "You think that cute face of yours is gonna save you, huh? Well, I..."

    "Are you done yet?" Catarina interrupted, her voice flat. "Seriously, who talks this much? Shut up so I can kick your ass!"

    Flint''s grin faltered, and he sneered.

    "Oh, I''ll show you who talks too much!"

    The announcer''s voice boomed across the stadium.

    "Let the battle... begin!"

    With a loud roar, Flint summoned his beasts. Two enormous creatures appeared at his side, a massive, boar-like beast with tusks as long as swords and a heavy, rhino-like creature covered in thick armor plates.

    Both beasts stomped the ground, causing tremors beneath them.

    Flint wasted no time, charging forward with his fists raised, his beasts thundering alongside him.

    The ground shook with every step they took. The crowd cheered loudly, eager to see the clash of strength versus agility.

    Catarina, however, didn''t move. She stood still, her eyes lazily following Flint''s charge. As he drew closer, she sighed, raising her hand with an elegant flick of her wrist.

    Her field spell activated.

    The arena transformed as cat heads began to materialize around Flint, their glowing eyes locking onto him.

    The air grew thick with shadowy energy, and the feline apparitions hissed and circled, watching Flint''s every move.

    Flint hesitated for a split second but quickly brushed off the sensation, roaring as he continued his charge.

    His boar beast lunged at Catarina, tusks gleaming, but she gracefully sidestepped, barely even acknowledging the creature''s attack.

    Flint swung his massive fists toward her, but she easily ducked and spun away, dodging every strike with effortless grace.

    Her tail flicked behind her, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

    "Mew, come on, is that the best you''ve got?" Catarina taunted, smirking as Flint''s punches continued to miss.

    The boar beast roared and charged again, but Catarina''s shadowy cat heads sprang into action. One of them lashed out, striking the boar with claws that left deep gashes along its side. The beast staggered, howling in pain.

    Flint gritted his teeth, his frustration growing.

    "Stay still, you damn pussycat!"

    "Nyan, you bastard," Catarina shot back, her tone playful.

    The rhino beast tried to corner her, its heavy footsteps shaking the ground, but Catarina simply leaped into the air, flipping gracefully over its head.

    The crowd gasped at her agility as she landed softly on her feet, completely unfazed.

    Flint''s beasts roared in frustration, unable to land a hit. The shadowy cat heads darted in and out of the battlefield, their energy claws slashing at Flint''s beasts relentlessly.

    The boar collapsed first, overwhelmed by the strikes, and the rhino wasn''t far behind, its thick armor barely holding up against the barrage.

    Flint himself was slowing down, his attacks becoming sloppier as Catarina continued to dodge effortlessly.

    She didn''t even seem to attack directly like before, her field spell seemed to have a will of its

    own.

    Her expression remained calm, almost bored.

    "Really, this is just embarrassing," she said with a sigh, sidestepping another one of his wild

    swings.

    Flint, panting heavily, glared at her. "You... you won''t..."

    Before he could finish, one of the shadowy cat heads slammed into him from behind, knocking him off his feet. He hit the ground with a heavy thud, then Catarina followed by

    swinging her arm toward the ground.

    An enormous cat paw materialized and crushed flint, the man unconscious before he even realized what happened.

    The crowd erupted into cheers as Catarina casually brushed off her hands.

    "The winner is... Catarina!" the announcer declared, and the audience roared in approval.

    Catarina glanced at Flint''s unconscious form, shaking her head.

    "I wanted to make a joke about pussycat but you would miss it," She purred off the

    battlefield, her tail flicking behind her in satisfaction.

    The next match between Jaden and Ellis Marrick was swift and deadly.

    As soon as the battle began, Jaden enveloped the arena in his signature mist field spell, the thick fog swirling around like a ghostly veil.

    Ellis, though strong, struggled to see through the mist, his attacks becoming more erratic as The tried to find his opponent.

    But Jaden was patient, biding his time until Ellis was completely disoriented. With a smirk, Jaden unleashed a series of mystic energy blasts, striking Ellis from all sides.

    Ellis never saw the attacks coming. Within minutes, Jaden had secured his victory, emerging from the mist as calm and collected as ever.

    The next battle between Cyril Haven and Talia Brin passed quickly, with Talia''s agile movements proving too much for Cyril''s grounded beasts. Talia''s swift maneuvers and precise strikes earned her a clean victory, leaving Cyril little room to counterattack.

    Then came Kaida''s turn.

    Kaida entered the battlefield like a storm, her fiery eyes burning with intensity.

    Her opponent, Iris Vallon, specialized in plant-based beasts, a direct vulnerability against Kaida''s fire abilities.

    As the battle began, Iris summoned her beasts, massive, vine-covered creatures with thick, thorny hides. But Kaida was ready. With a step forward, her fire field spell erupted around her,

    flames roaring to life and consuming the battlefield.

    The heat was overwhelming, and Iris''s plant beasts stood no chance.

    They withered under the intense flames, their vines turning to ash within moments. Kaida''s attacks were relentless, her fire burning brighter with each passing second.

    The crowd watched in awe as Kaida overwhelmed Iris with sheer force, her flames reducing the battlefield to a scorched wasteland. Within minutes, Iris was forced to surrender, her plant beasts unable to withstand the heat.

    "The Blazing Tempest is victorious!" the announcer declared as Kaida walked off the

    battlefield.

    With several intense battles behind them, the crowd eagerly awaited the next match: Ryder

    versus Raya Kobayashi.

    The arena buzzed with excitement as Ryder entered, the crowd chanting "Furry! Furry!

    Furry!" in support of the Crescent Moon member.

    Ryder smiled nervously, waving to the audience as he stepped into the battlefield. He could feel the energy of the crowd, but the pressure weighed on him.

    Opposite him, Kobayashi Raya entered with a serene smile. Her outfit was worn and bruised,

    but her demeanor remained calm and kind.

    Her long, dark hair flowed gently in the breeze, and her eyes, though seemingly unfocused,

    were filled with warmth. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She bowed slightly to Ryder, her smile soft.

    "Good luck, Ryder. May this be a good fight."

    Ryder hesitated for a moment before returning the sentiment, his nerves getting the better of

    him.

    "Uh... yeah. You too."

    From the stands, Zara leaned forward and muttered.

    "Don''t underestimate her, Ryder. She''s more dangerous than she looks."

    The battle began, and Ryder wasted no time. He summoned three of his beasts: his thunderbird crackling with electricity, his wind lycaon, with wind swirling around its paws,

    and a massive, armored bear.

    Immediately, he entered beastification with the three monsters, lightning crackling around his body as he prepared for battle.

    Raya smiled gently, clearly impressed by Ryder''s quick response. She raised her hand and

    summoned a single beast, a tall, armored figure resembling a samurai, its armor gleaming under the light.

    The crowd murmured in surprise as the samurai beast moved with a precision and grace that

    belied its size.

    The battle commenced, Ryder''s beasts charging toward the samurai beast, but Raya''s control

    over her creature was flawless.

    The samurai beast parried and countered each attack with effortless ease, its movements fluid

    and calculated.

    Ryder''s thunderbird dove from above, crackling with electricity, but the samurai beast

    deflected the strike with a single, graceful movement of its blade.

    The crowd gasped at the display of skill, and Ryder, though impressed, felt a growing sense of

    unease.

    Something about Raya''s gaze seemed... different.

    Ryder, preparing for his next move, paused suspiciously. His brow furrowed, and instead of

    attacking immediately, he hesitated.

    "I''m about to attack," he warned, his voice unsure. "You better be ready."

    Raya''s smile widened, her cheerful demeanor never wavering.

    "Don''t worry, Ryder. I''m more than ready. Give it your best."

    The crowd began to murmur. Some spectators exchanged confused glances, wondering why

    Ryder was delaying his move.

    The tension in the air thickened as everyone waited for the battle to truly begin.

    "Why isn''t he attacking?" a voice from the stands asked.

    In the stands, Zara crossed her arms, her expression tight with frustration. She knew exactly

    why Ryder was hesitating. "Damn it, stop with that crap, move!" Zara muttered under her breath. Ryder''s gaze flickered toward Raya''s face, and in that moment, he noticed something.

    Her movements were smooth and graceful, but her eyes... they weren''t focused on him or his beasts. Instead, they appeared distant, unfocused, moving in a troubling way.

    As the big screen zoomed in on Raya''s face, the truth became clear to everyone. Her eyes did

    not properly align with each other, and her pupils were cloudy.

    The crowd began to whisper.

    "Wait... she''s blind," someone in the crowd gasped.

    "Look at her eyes," another voice called out. "She really can''t see!" Ryder''s hesitation deepened as the crowd grew louder. His empathy for her swelled, and it

    made his resolve falter.

    "She''s blind..." he murmured. His attack, prepared moments ago, faltered.

    Zara''s patience ran out. She leaned forward, her voice sharp with annoyance. "Ryder, stop hesitating! She''s here to fight! You can''t hold back just because of that!"

    But Ryder''s hesitation remained. He was torn between the battle and his growing reluctance

    to attack someone he now viewed as vulnerable.

    Sensing his internal struggle, Raya chuckled softly. Despite not seeing him, she seemed to understand Ryder''s hesitation completely, she was used to it.

    "Don''t pity me, Ryder," Raya said softly. "I''ll give you a reason not to."

    Suddenly, her aura shifted, and an intense wave of energy spread outward, causing the crowd

    to fall silent. Everyone watched in awe as a spiritual form manifested behind Raya, a tall, red figure with several arms, each one gripping a katana.

    The energy in the air grew in size, thick and tense.

    As the energy converged into a katana in her hand, Raya brought the blade closer to her face

    and murmured.

    "Beastification."

 Chapter 108: Roar of Silence: Beast Man vs. Blind Samurai

    Chapter 108: Roar of Silence: Beast Man vs. Blind SamuraiThe energy swirling around Raya coalesced into a formidable form, a massive samurai-like figure with six arms, each wielding a katana.

    The massive figure stood with an imposing grace, radiating a powerful aura that silenced the crowd. It was unlike anything they had seen before.

    Raya herself stood in front of the beast, her red and black katana glowing with a mystic aura. Her entire body was surrounded by a crimson and shadowy energy, pulsing like a heartbeat.

    In the locker room, the challengers watched in awe.

    "What is that?" Eratz asked, leaning forward as he observed the massive creature beside Raya. "What kind of beast is it?"

    Kaida clenched her jaw, her usual cool demeanor cracking slightly.

    "There was someone with that level and we did not study her?"

    Back on the battlefield, Ryder stood frozen, his eyes locked on Raya''s towering beast. Sweat dripped from his brow as his thunderbird, wind lycaon, and armored bear readied themselves beside him.

    "You have a big heart, Ryder. Worrying about your opponent, I respect that. But you must wake from that illusion." Raya''s katana hummed with energy as she lifted it slightly. "In this arena, your opponent is as monstrous as you. If you show your neck, you won''t have time to surrender... you will be executed."

    Her aura pulsed once more, and the six-armed beast leaped into action with terrifying speed.

    Each of its katana slashed through the air like a blur, descending upon Ryder''s beasts with merciless precision. Ryder''s thunderbird was the first to meet its fate.

    A single strike from the six-armed samurai sliced through the bird''s defenses, sending it crashing to the ground in a flurry of sparks and broken feathers.

    The lycaon howled and charged, but it, too, met a brutal end, cut down by the swift, clean strikes of Raya''s beast.

    The armored bear roared and stomped the ground, trying to block the incoming attacks, but even its thick armor couldn''t withstand the samurai''s blades.

    The bear crumbled under the force, collapsing with a thunderous crash.

    In the locker room, Mercury gritted her teeth, her hands clenching.

    "She''s completely overpowering him..."

    Ryder''s eyes widened in disbelief as his beasts fell one by one. He grit his teeth, struggling to find an opening.

    The samurai beast moved with a deadly grace, its six katanas swirling through the air like a storm. Ryder, back against the wall, clenched his fists and braced himself. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "You need to stop hesitating," Raya said gently, her voice filled with a strange calmness. "In battle, hesitation is the path to defeat."

    Ryder flinched, but before he could respond, Raya moved.

    She darted forward with her katana raised, aiming directly for him. Ryder dodged at the last second, narrowly avoiding the blade.

    Desperate, he swung his leg in a powerful kick, but Raya countered it effortlessly with her katana, deflecting the attack as if it were nothing.

    Ryder grunted, frustrated by his inability to land a solid hit.

    He leaped back, breathing heavily, but before he could regroup, Raya''s samurai beast closed in again, striking with terrifying speed.

    Each slash left glowing red scars on Ryder''s body, not deep enough to bleed, but the pain he felt was real.

    "Focus, Ryder!" came a shout from the stands. Zara clenched her fists, her frustration visible.

    "Stop pitying her! She''s not holding back, and neither should you!"

    But beside her, Victoria shook her head.

    "No... he''s not holding back. Raya''s just on another level."

    Ryder summoned his beasts again, but they struggled to match the speed and precision of Raya''s six-armed beast.

    Each time they attacked, they were met with cold steel, their strikes easily parried or dodged. His eyes darted back to Raya, her calm, almost serene expression breaking his mind.

    He realized, with a sinking feeling, that he had yet to even touch her. Every strike was met with a parring, every movement a masterclass in control.

    He knew he couldn''t keep up this pace. His beasts had fallen, and he was running out of options.

    Taking a deep breath, he roared, calling upon the power of all his beasts at once.

    His body began to morph, transforming into a chimeric form as he fused their abilities into himself mixing thunderbird, wind lycaon, and bear.

    Electricity crackled around him, wind howling at his arms, and his body shifted into something more primal, more dangerous.

    He had become a chimera, a true hybrid of man and beast. His muscles bulged, his eyes gleaming with a predatory light as he let out a roar that shook the arena.

    The crowd was stunned, their cheers filling the air as Ryder transformed before their eyes.

    "What is that?!" someone shouted.

    "He looks like a beast himself!" another added.

    Even the other challengers watching from the sidelines couldn''t believe their eyes. Gabriel''s eyes sparkled, Kaida muttered under her breath.

    "Good... now fight."

    The crowd gasped in awe at Ryder''s new form, his roar echoing through the arena, his predatory gaze locking onto Raya.

    "Finally," Raya said, her smile growing. "Now you''re ready to fight."

    With his new form, Ryder launched himself forward with blinding speed, the air crackling with energy as he closed the distance between them.

    He attacked with ferocious intensity, his claws slashing through the air, but Raya was ready.

    Her six-armed samurai beast countered every blow with ease. No matter how fast Ryder moved, no matter how hard he attacked, Raya''s samurai beast was always one step ahead. Each time Ryder lunged, the samurai beast met him with a strike, leaving glowing red scars on his body. Ryder roared in frustration, unable to land a single hit.

    "You''re improving," Raya said softly, her voice filled with patience. "But blind brute force isn''t an answer."

    Ryder growled, pushing himself harder, but no matter how much power he unleashed, Raya remained untouchable.

    The crowd watched in awe, stunned by Raya''s effortless dominance. Her control over the battlefield was absolute, her movements precise and graceful. Ryder, despite his strength, was being outclassed at every turn.

    Catarina''s arms dropped, while Mercury clenched her fists, frustration building inside her.

    "She''s not even going all out... Where did we get wrong?"

    Ryder, panting heavily, was desperate. With a roar, he pushed his beastification even further, unlocking a new mode.

    His eyes glowed with a wild intensity, his body surging with power as his form became even more monstrous.

    The crowd gasped in awe as Ryder''s transformation reached its peak, but Raya remained calm, her expression unchanged.

    "Is this the full extent of your training?" Raya said. "In that case, I shall put an end to this

    battle."

    She tapped the ground lightly with the tip of her katana, and the entire arena shifted.

    The chaotic energy of the battlefield vanished in an instant, replaced by a deep, tranquil stillness. It was as if time itself slowed, the air growing heavy with a sacred calm.

    The space around her became an oasis of serenity, far from the tension from before.

    The crowd fell silent, their excitement momentarily replaced by silence.

    Everyone felt it, the challengers in the locker room, the spectators in their seats, everyone paused as if drawn into this aura of absolute stillness.

    "What... is this?" Eratz muttered.

    Mercury tensed, her eyes narrowing.

    "It''s like... a field spell?"

    Raya stood at the center, her blind eyes calm, her expression serene. She raised her katana

    slightly, the blade reflecting the stillness around her.

    "Come, Ryder. Let''s put an end to this."

    Ryder hesitated for a split second, the fear of unknown creeping into his mind. But he had no

    choice, he had to win.

    He crouched lower, then launched himself into the air, his body crackling with energy as he

    aimed for Raya.

    Time seemed to slow as he flew toward her, his mind racing with thoughts of what would

    happen if he lost.

    "I can''t lose here. Not now. Not like this. Everyone else won... except me. I can''t be the first to

    fall... I can''t..."

    But as he closed in, Raya''s voice resonated in his mind.

    "You should never feel fear in a battle."

    And then, in a flash, Raya was behind him. The world stopped.

    Ryder froze mid-air, his body no longer responding, his eyes widening.

    He hadn''t seen her move, he hadn''t even felt her strike, but she was there, standing on the

    opposite side of the battlefield, her katana lowered.

    The audience gasped, stunned by the speed and precision of Raya''s movement. Ryder''s chimera form began to flicker, the beastification slowly unraveling as his strength left him.

    He stumbled, his body trembling.

    Raya''s aura faded, her beast and katana disappearing. She spoke softly.

    "You have a noble heart, Ryder. But on this battlefield, we are warriors. Pity, hesitation, they

    have no place here. Only resolve matters."

    Ryder''s body began to flicker as his beastification unraveled, his strength draining from him.

    Slowly, his monstrous form faded, and he collapsed to the ground, unconscious before he

    even hit the dirt.

    The crowd erupted into wild cheers as the announcer''s voice filled the air.

    "The winner is... Raya Kobayashi!"

    The cheers roared through the arena as Raya stood victorious, her expression calm and

    respectful.

    She had won, but she had also earned the respect of everyone watching.

    But in the locker room, there was no cheering.

    Mercury sat quietly, her hands clasped tightly, her eyes focused on the screen showing the

    final moments of the battle. Catarina leaned against her locker, a look of deep frustration crossing her face. Kaida sat on a bench, her jaw clenched, fists tight in her lap. Eratz stared at

    the ground, his brow furrowed.

    "Ryder..." Mercury whispered, her voice heavy with emotion.

    Catarina kicked the bench lightly, frustration bubbling over.

    "He should''ve won. He had it in him. She... This is so unfair..."

    Eratz shook his head.

    "We are in the finals, it''s not the time for excuses anymore. We knew the challenge would be

    hard, we should have prepared for this better. It could have been any of us."

    Kaida let out a quiet groan, her voice low but filled with regret.

    "Fuck..."

    In the stands, Zara leaned back in her chair, her hands covering her face as she let out a long,

    exhausted sigh.

    Victoria, sitting beside her, gave a knowing sigh.

    "This new generation is filled with incredible talent."

 Chapter 109: Domination

    Chapter 109: DominationThe tension in the locker room was thick as the Crescent Moon challengers stood in silence, their spirits bruised by Ryder''s defeat.

    Mercury paced back and forth, her hands clenched at her sides, barely holding in her frustration.

    Kaida leaned against the wall with her arms crossed, looking down with a frown.

    Catarina, usually quick with a joke, sat quietly, her tail flicking anxiously behind her. Eratz seemed calm, looking at the screen, though his gaze was distant and his expression hard to read.

    Finally, Catarina spoke, breaking the silence.

    "I think we should go check on him, nya," she said, her voice filled with worry. "Ryder... he looked really bad out there."

    Kaida grunted, nodding.

    "Yeah, we should be there for him. He gave it everything. Sitting here feels wrong."

    Mercury''s pacing picked up as she ran a hand through her hair.

    "You''re right. Ryder fought his heart out. He deserves us being there for him."

    Just then, the door to the locker room swung open, and a staff member entered holding a clipboard. He adjusted his glasses before speaking.

    "Eratz Pandora," the man announced, his voice cutting through the tension. "It''s your turn."

    The room went still. Mercury stopped walking, her eyes snapping to Eratz. Catarina''s ears perked up, and Kaida looked up sharply.

    Catarina glanced between Eratz and the others.

    "Or maybe we should stay, nya," she suggested hesitantly. "We can check on Ryder afterward."

    Kaida bit her lip.

    "Yeah, we should stay here, we must support each other during our match."

    Eratz gave them a small, reassuring smile and waved his hand.

    "Go. Ryder needs you more right now. He fought hard, and it''s our job to be there for him. Don''t let him be alone when he''ll wake up. I''ll handle this on my own."

    Mercury stepped closer, her face filled with concern.

    "But you shouldn''t have to go out there alone," she protested. "We can be there for both of you."

    He shook his head gently.

    "I''ve done this plenty of times. I''ll be fine," he assured them. "Besides, I''m in love with this mentality, let''s support each other in good and hard times. If we''re friends, now''s the time for showing it. Go to him, I''ll join you later."

    Kaida shifted uneasily.

    "You''re sure, buddy?"

    Eratz''s eyes met hers steadily.

    "Do you really see me lose here?"

    The staff member cleared his throat politely.

    "Mr. Pandora, we should get going."

    Eratz nodded.

    "Got it." He glanced back at his team one last time. "Take care of Ryder. See you in five minutes."

    Catarina exchanged a glance with Kaida, both clearly conflicted.

    "Nyaa... he''s right. Ryder probably feels like a furball right now. Let''s go."

    Kaida nodded, though reluctantly.

    "Alright, but we''ll be back as soon as we can. Don''t you dare lose."

    Mercury paused, still looking torn, then sighed.

    "Fine. But you better come back in one piece."

    She stepped forward and, without hesitation, leaned in, giving him a quick kiss just beside his

    lips. Her expression stayed cool, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

    Eratz simply smiled, but Catarina''s eyes went wide, her tail shooting straight up.

    "M... Mew? Did... did she just..."

    Kaida''s mouth dropped open.

    "What the...?"

    Mercury pulled back, running a hand through her hair.

    "Good luck. Don''t let me carry our name." She turned and headed for the door, her usual

    swagger back.

    Eratz chuckled, grinning.

    "First time for everything."

    The arena buzzed with excitement as the announcer''s voice filled the stadium.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, for our next match, we have one of the favorite of these finals, a rising star, undefeated in the regional league, the one and only, the Apex Predator, Eratz Pandora!"

    The crowd erupted as Eratz entered, walking calmly, eyes sharp and ready. In the stands, Cassie had her hands tightly clasped, her face glowing with excitement.

    Roger clapped with a wide grin, and Milo was practically bouncing in his seat, cheering as loud as he could. Colin joined in, her voice difficultly blending with the crowd''s roar.

    Across the stadium, Genova''s students and teachers watched with mixed feelings.

    Lisa bit her lip, her eyes fixed on Eratz. Kenny''s jaw tightened, fists clenching in his lap, while Crystal looked on with a cold, blank expression.

    Rowan leaned forward, watching closely, his gaze shifting between Eratz and the screen above, not able to decide between a clear visual or the man in the flesh.

    "And now, his challenger," the announcer continued, "a beast master with unmatched skill

    the terror of the beasts, Darian ''The Crimson Claw'' Kross!"

    Darian strode in confidently, his muscular form making him look strong and powerful. He looked straight at Eratz, a sneer on his face.

    "So, Apex Predator?" he taunted, arms crossed. "Hope you''re ready because today, your reign

    ends."

    Eratz met his stare with a calm, almost bored smile.

    "Great, the ''easy-win'' speech," he sighed.

    The crowd held its breath, the tension thick as they stared each other down.

    Then, the battle began.

    With a sudden burst of energy, Darian activated his beastification, transforming in a flash of

    crimson light.

    His body twisted and grew, his skin darkening, and his eyes glowed a fierce red.

    A blood-red mist spread around him, its energy thick and dark, filling the air with a sinister

    feeling.

    In the locker room, the challengers watching the screens leaned forward, transfixed.

    Gabriel squinted at the screen, a look of confusion on his face.

    "What kind of beastification is that? I can even feel his... field spell? Is that it? I can feel it

    from here."

    Sia, standing behind him, studied the screen with a rare, intense focus.

    "It''s not a field spell, but it''s close," she said quietly. "That''s his bloodlust, a power that

    makes even the strongest beasts feel weak. He can blend in it and assimilate the damages inflicted to his opponents and use it as a buff for himself. Basically, the longer he fights, the more his opponent suffers. I''ve heard of it, but... I didn''t know it was this strong." Her eyes narrowed as she watched the screen, and she murmured, "But if anything, this could be the perfect chance to finally see his full power."

    Gabriel glanced at her, caught off guard by her words.

    "His full power? You already seem to know a lot about Darian," he said, his voice uncertain.

    Without breaking her focus on the screen, Sia murmured.

    "I''m not talking about him."

    In the infirmary, Mercury, Kaida, and Catarina sat by Ryder''s bed, watching over him with

    concern.

    Ryder lay motionless, still unconscious, but suddenly, an intense, suffocating darkness crept into the room, sending a chill through each of them.

    Catarina''s ears flattened, her fur standing on her tail before she scrambled onto the ceiling,

    her eyes wide with alarm.

    "Nyaa! What is that?!" she hissed, her voice trembling slightly.

    Back in the stands, the aura seemed to press down on everyone, reaching even the highest rows, where whispers of dread rippled through the crowd.

    Milo pressed closer to Cassie, the woman wrapping instinctively an arm around him, her own

    face tight with worry, while Roger placed a steadying hand on Colin''s shoulder, though he,

    too, was shaken by the terrifying force.

    Darian''s eyes gleamed with fierce hunger as he closed in on Eratz, each step carrying a dangerous weight. His voice was a low, taunting growl.

    "You''re underestimating me," he sneered, his teeth bared. "Accept my challenge if you dare,

    but this time, you''ll be the one on the ground."

    Eratz tilted his head slightly, his face calm, almost bored, his gaze steady on Darian''s.

    "I''ve learned to underestimate my opponents so I''m not disappointed when I beat them," he replied coolly, his words slicing through Darian''s challenge like a knife.

    A twisted grin spread across Darian''s face as he disappeared into a swirling mist of crimson

    and black.

    The fog thickened, twisting around the arena, choking the air with a thick, poisonous energy.

    It clung to everything like a dark stain, pulsing with an intensity that left the crowd holding

    their breath. The arena felt smaller, the dark energy pressing down on everyone.

    From the stands, uneasy murmurs spread as people felt the weight of Darian''s power, the challengers stared at the screen, the atmosphere tense as they watched the red mist consume

    the field.

    For a few seconds, Darian seemed unstoppable, his presence like a storm of blood and

    darkness.

    But then, slowly, Eratz raised his hand, calm and unwavering, his eyes unphased.

    In one swift movement, his own aura erupted outward, a powerful dome of pure, radiant

    energy that surged like a wave.

    The burst of light blasted through the dark mist, ripping it apart and swallowing the

    oppressive energy.

    The entire arena went silent as the mist vanished, leaving Eratz standing at the center, steady

    and calm.

    Darian, exposed beside him, stared in shock, his confidence shattered in an instant.

    The crowd gasped, unable to process what they had just seen.

    In the locker room, the challengers were stunned. Sia''s eyes widened, her calm facade

    slipping, and Gabriel leaned back, speechless.

    Just moments ago, Darian''s power had filled the room with dread, but with one effortless

    action, Eratz had erased it.

    Eratz kept his gaze on Darian, his eyes cold. He lifted a hand, pointing it directly at Darian''s

    face.

    "Give me reason to take you seriously,"

    Darian''s mouth opened, but he had no time to speak. Eratz''s hand pulsed with energy, and in the next moment, he unleashed a concentrated blast of pure, dense aura.

    The beam struck Darian dead-on, and as he noticed it, Eratz pushed forward. He increased the power, layer upon layer, the energy surging and compounding, intensifying with each second. The arena trembled, the ground beneath them beginning to shake, cracks spiderwebbing out

    from the point of impact. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The tremors spread, and the entire stadium shook as if caught in the grip of a massive quake.

    The audience clutched their seats, stunned as the relentless power grew even stronger, the blast rumbling like distant thunder.

    Some spectators shielded their eyes from the brightness, while others stared in disbelief,

    mouths open.

    Soon, Eratz''s attack peaked, the energy radiating upwards like a volcanic eruption, and then,

    as suddenly as it had begun, he stepped back, letting the energy fade.

    Dust and debris slowly settled, revealing the aftermath of his attack.

    Darian lay crumpled at the center of a massive crater, unconscious, his body battered and

    broken.

    For a moment, the stadium was silent, the crowd frozen in sheer awe.

    Then, like a wave crashing onto the shore, they erupted in cheers, the sound so intense it

    seemed to shake the very walls of the arena.

    Eratz lowered his hand, his expression calm and focused, as if this outcome had been

    inevitable.

    He stood in the middle of the crater he''d created, completely unshaken, his gaze still as steel.

    It was the fastest, most decisive victory of the tournament.

    In the stands, Cassie and Roger cheered with all their might, their faces lit with pride and awe.

    Milo and Colin jumped up and down, their excitement spilling over, unable to contain the thrill of what they''d just seen.

    Across the arena, Genova''s students and faculty sat in stunned disbelief. Some gaped openly,

    while others exchanged uneasy glances, the reality of Eratz''s power settling heavily over

    them.

    the Genova director sat with a look that was hard to read. Her gaze was cold and calculating, though there was a faint tightening at the corners of her mouth.

    Rowan''s expression was a mixture of regret and wonder, his eyes following Eratz as he walked

    off the battlefield.

    In the locker room, the challengers looked at each other, their expressions tense.

    Sia''s usual calm was broken by a flicker of unease, while Gabriel sat silently, his eyes wide

    with realization. They all knew it, they knew his reputation but seeing it in the flesh lightened back this

    memory: Eratz was no ordinary opponent. His victory wasn''t just a win; it was a warning for

    everyone.

    Facing him would be a whole different battle, one they''d have to prepare for in ways they

    hadn''t anticipated.

    Eratz walked casually off the battlefield. Behind him, the roar of the crowd grew even louder.

    "Apex! Apex!"

    echoing through the arena like a pulse.

 Chapter 110: Unfinished Business

    Chapter 110: Unfinished BusinessRyder fought relentlessly against Raya, but it was pointless.

    Her massive, six-armed samurai beast moved with terrifying speed.

    Every swing of her blade sent waves of energy crashing toward him.

    He couldn''t keep up, couldn''t dodge, couldn''t...

    He woke up with a gasp.

    He blinked, disoriented, his breathing heavy.

    Mercury, Catarina, and Kaida stood around his bed, watching him.

    "Ryder! You''re awake!" Mercury''s voice was a mix of relief and concern as she leaned closer.

    Catarina flicked her tail nervously, giving a small, relieved smile.

    "Nyaa, you really scared us there."

    Ryder blinked, still disoriented, glancing around at the worried faces of his teammates.

    He took in their expressions before looking down at his own body, realizing that the injuries he remembered had somehow vanished.

    "What... what happened?" he murmured, confusion thick in his voice. "Did I... already fight Raya?" he whispered.

    The girls exchanged glances, unable to meet his eyes at first. Finally, Kaida stepped forward, placing a firm but gentle hand on his shoulder.

    "You did your best," she said quietly, her voice steady. "But Raya... she''s in a league of her own."

    The realization hit Ryder like a punch. His head lowered, and a wave of disappointment washed over him.

    "So, I lost..."

    Mercury''s expression softened as she placed a comforting hand on his arm.

    "Hey, you gave it your all. It''s your first tournament, and you faced one of the toughest competitors out there. Don''t let this one match define you."

    Catarina gave a small, sheepish laugh, scratching the back of her neck.

    "And, uh... sorry if I was a bit over-the-top with all the cheering this week. Maybe I should come up with a quieter ''you can do it'' for next time."

    Kaida crossed her arms, her usual fierceness returning.

    "Losing isn''t the end, man. Use this as fuel. We''re all here to get better, not just win every time. You''ll come back stronger."

    Ryder clenched his fists.

    "I know... but... Fuck... I wanted to win... Like you... I wanted to prove I belong here," he said, his voice shaky.

    Kaida sat beside him.

    "Don''t be stupid, man, this is just one battle. What counts is how you come back from it."

    "Absolutely," Mercury agreed. "We''re a team. We''ll help each other get stronger."

    Ryder forced a small smile, grateful for their support, though the sting of defeat still weighed heavily on him.

    Just then, the door swung open, and a familiar voice broke the tension.

    "Ah, finally awake," Eratz said, strolling in with a white towel slung over his shoulder.

    All heads turned to him in surprise.

    "Eratz?" Mercury jumped. "What are you still doing here?! What''s about your match?"

    Eratz shrugged, leaning casually against the doorframe.

    "Already done. Had enough time to take a bath and everything."

    Catarina''s eyes widened, and she nearly choked.

    "You''re serious? You already finished?" she asked, completely taken aback.

    Eratz smirked, enjoying their reactions. "Should have been even shorter, I wanted to take a bath for dramatic effect but I dropped the soap in the process and my honor forbid me to take it back."

    Mercury walked over, giving him an appraising look.

    "You''re not hurt or anything, right?"

    Eratz put a hand over his heart.

    "Only my heart, everyone got an interesting challenge and I''m here completely and utterly bored."

    The others couldn''t help but laugh, though Mercury''s gaze lingered on him a little longer than necessary.

    Eratz''s attention shifted back to Ryder, and he gave a small nod.

    "You okay, Ryder?"

    Ryder looked down, his hands clenching slightly.

    "I... I''m sorry. I lost." His voice was barely above a whisper, the weight of disappointment

    clear.

    Eratz leaned in, resting a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

    "Hey, don''t sweat it. It''s just your first tournament. We''ve got time to get stronger. Let''s train harder together after this."

    Ryder nodded, his face contorting as he tried to hold back tears.

    "I... I really wanted to do better for all of you..."

    Mercury squeezed his shoulder gently. "We''re proud of you, Ryder. You''ve come so far.

    Losing one match doesn''t change that."

    Ryder''s resolve finally cracked, and a few tears slipped down his cheeks.

    "Thank you... all of you. I''ll do better next time."

    The team gave him a moment, each of them silently vowing to help him come back stronger.

    Back in the arena, the final matches of the first round were concluding. Bastian faced off against Ophelia Winters, securing a win with his strength and strategy.

    Back in the arena, the final battles of the first round raged on. Bastian''s agility narrowly outmatched Ophelia Winters, securing his place in the next round.

    Alaric triumphed over Leona Greaves with a precise and calculated approach, while Fenris barely edged out a victory against Amara Solis in a close, nail-biting match.

    Ren''s finesse overwhelmed Titus Voss, and in two closely fought battles, Ari Dales bested Xyla Nore, while Lila Wynne triumphed over Viktor.

    With all matches completed, the announcer''s voice boomed.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the first round of the Greenridge League Finals is now complete!"

    The fighters, both winners and those who lost, lined up in the center of the arena.

    The chairman stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over them.

    "Today, we witnessed incredible skill and courage," he began. "To those who advanced, congratulations. To those who did not, hold your heads high. Your journey does not end

    here."

    He gestured toward the defeated fighters. The crowd rose to their feet, giving them a standing ovation.

    Ryder stood among them, looking up at the cheering audience. He felt a mix of emotions but managed a small smile.

    As the applause continued, Sia murmured something and Nyx, who stood beside her, widened

    her eyes in surprise, but she nodded.

    The announcer continued.

    "Now, it''s time to reveal the matchups for the Round of 16!"

    The big screen lit up, names shuffling before settling into pairs:

    1. Sia Verizion vs. Ren

    2. Bastian vs. Viktor

    3. Mercury Banks vs. Jaden

    4. Gabriel vs. Fenris

    5. Eratz Pandora vs. Alaric

    6. Catarina vs. Ari Dales

    7. Kaida vs. Kuro

    8. Raya Kobayashi vs. Lila Wynne

    A dark smile tugged at Mercury''s lips as she saw her pairing on the screen: Jaden. This was the opponent she had been hoping for, a chance to settle things and stand up for Milo. Her eyes

    gleamed with fierce satisfaction.

    "Finally," she murmured.

    Catarina noticed and leaned over, curiosity in her gaze. "Hm? You''re actually happy about this

    matchup?"

    Mercury nodded, a hint of excitement in her eyes. "I''ve been waiting for a chance to tear the

    wings off this butterfly."

    Across the lineup, Ren''s face had gone pale, his heart pounding as he realized he''d be facing

    the Ice Empress.

    A tight knot formed in his stomach, and his hands felt clammy.

    He glanced at Sia, who stood composed and calm, her icy blue gaze never wavering. Next to him, Alaric swallowed hard, his eyes landing on Eratz''s name beside his. He let out a defeated sigh, muttering to himself,

    "The Apex Predator... just my luck." He groaned softly, clenching his fists until his knuckles

    turned white.

    Ari Dales took a sharp breath as he saw he''d be facing Catarina. He''d seen her last match, her agility, her confidence, it all made him nervous.

    "Well... better than anything else," he whispered, trying to psych himself up. Catarina, meanwhile, caught him looking and flashed a mischievous grin, clearly enjoying his unease. Raya was paired with Lila Wynne, who shifted uncomfortably, clearly unnerved. She tried to keep her composure, but her hands fidgeted, her eyes darting toward Raya.

    "It''s definitely rigged," Lila said. "They just wanted to get rid of us." After the match-ups were announced, the fighters were given a few hours of free time before

    the next round. Everyone had their own way of dealing with the anticipation.

    Kaida stretched her arms with a yawn, glancing around.

    "I''m hitting the bed early. Gonna need every ounce of energy to crush my match tomorrow,"

    she said with a grin, giving everyone a quick wave before heading off to her room.

    Catarina, already fidgeting, smirked.

    "No way I''m missing out on exploring this town. Gotta see what it''s got to offer, nya!" She

    winked, flicking her tail as she glanced at Eratz and Mercury. "Catch you guys later."

    Eratz hesitated, glancing at Mercury.

    "I was thinking of going out to hunt some new creatures," he said, his tone leaving room for something else, a silent offer, a willingness to shift his plan if she wanted something

    different.

    Mercury''s lips curved into a slight smile, her eyes meeting his with an understanding that

    went beyond words.

    She didn''t need to say anything, just a nod, quiet and steady. Her gaze held a warmth that

    seemed to tell him.

    "Go on, do what you want. I''ll be here." she said softly, giving him the freedom he was

    looking for.

    He grinned, nodding.

    "Alright. Catch you later." "Make it worth it," she added, a warmth in her eyes that lingered as he turned to leave.

    They shared a brief moment, a silent understanding, before she added.

    "I''ll get my payment after the tournament."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "Noted."

    With that, they each went their separate ways, each ready to take a moment alone before the

    intensity of the next day.

    Later, Eratz was perched atop one of the tallest buildings in town, the view unfolding beneath

    him like a tapestry of lights.

    The city stretched out under the night sky, bustling but calm, as if holding its breath.

    The cool night air was refreshing, and for a moment, he felt lighter, like he was floating above

    everything else. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He smiled to himself, feeling an unfamiliar sense of peace.

    "It''s not every day we get to see things like this," he muttered, his voice barely a whisper.

    But as he watched the lights flicker below, a thought tugged at him, a small regret that he hadn''t brought his family out to enjoy the moment, too.

    They didn''t get nights like this often, and it felt strange to experience it alone.

    He sighed, half to himself.

    "Maybe I should head back and find them..."

    A soft voice drifted from the shadows, breaking the quiet.

    "There''s always time to do what you want," the voice said calmly, almost gently. "You just

    need to remember to enjoy it... like you did before."

    Startled, Eratz turned, scanning the shadows. Sitting cross-legged, calm and almost ethereal,

    was Raya.

 Chapter 111: The Beast and the Sage

    Chapter 111: The Beast and the SageEratz leaned against the ledge, raising an eyebrow as Raya settled into the shadows with a calm, mysterious smile that seemed right at home in the night.

    "I take it you knew I was here?" she asked, a palpable calm in her voice. "Your heart didn''t miss a beat when you saw me."

    He chuckled, scratching the back of his neck.

    Eratz shrugged, still eyeing her with curiosity.

    "I respect people''s privacy," he replied. "Thought maybe you were meditating or... sleeping."

    Raya rose gracefully, brushing off the folds of her simple robe as she stepped closer, her movements almost soundless. She tilted her head thoughtfully.

    "Meditating, yes, perhaps... or maybe just... existing." She paused. "I imagine that''s something you''re used too, I can also feel that you''re an endless stream of will."

    Eratz gave her a bewildered look, his lips twitching into a smirk.

    "What''s happening here?"

    Raya laughed softly, tilting her head.

    "Odd situation, isn''t it?" she said, her voice low. "You''re out here, thinking of your family, a part of you wanting to stay close. But fate pulls you somewhere else, keeps you moving forward."

    "Fate," Eratz repeated, studying her. "How does fate work in all this?"

    Raya paused, then faced him, her expression thoughtful.

    "Everyone has a kind of fate," she said. "Sometimes good, sometimes bad, but the script can change depending on our will."

    She leaned forward, stopping at the level of his chest, close enough to seem as if she were trying to sense something in him, to catch some deeper scent.

    "In this soul," she murmured, "your script is nearly perfect. You feel closer to what I see in my deepest immersion."

    Eratz blinked, unsure.

    "Miss, that''s bleach."

    Raya laughed, the sound light but distant.

    "I mean, farther than the skin, but bleach has several virtues, except for consumption, trust me," she admitted. "My soul is also an anomaly. I can''t see this world, but sometimes, when I look deep enough, I see another world... on top of this one." She looked off into the distance. "It doesn''t make much sense."

    Eratz shook his head, both intrigued and perplexed.

    "So, what exactly are you?"

    "Just a beast master, like you," she replied

    Like a secret code, this last sentence triggered a smirk on him.

    "I see, a beast master, uh? So... that samurai beast of yours. Gotta say, it was impressive." His voice stayed casual, trying to sound merely curious. "Where''d you find it? It looked very human to me, can you summon it one minute?"

    Raya''s smile widened, and she gave a little nod.

    "Curiosity... such a dangerous quality," she said lightly. "Some things are gifted by fate, others are drawn from the depths of the soul, but I would dig my own grave by showing my abilities to you now."

    "Fair play," Eratz groaned. "So, was this one of those ''fate'' deals?"

    She seemed to consider this for a moment, then tilted her head thoughtfully.

    "Depends... does fate work through skill, or skill through fate?"

    Eratz let out a low sigh, giving her a look that was halfway between amused and exasperated.

    "You don''t have many friends, do you?"

    Raya chuckled.

    "Do you? I feel the same about you."

    She studied him, without her eyes, as if her nose took this role.

    "It''s true, I can sense it," she murmured. "There''s something you seek out there, something you know exists but haven''t quite found yet. Modesty aside, I believe I can help you find it... for the sake of our past link."

    "Our link?" Eratz repeated, his brow furrowing in confusion. "I''ve never met you before." "Neither have I," Raya replied easily, giving him a light smile. "But perhaps in some other world, we might''ve been like brothers."

    Eratz''s mouth opened, closed, then opened again as he tried to form a response.

    "You... think you were my sister in some other life?" he finally managed, sounding thoroughly baffled.

    "No, I think I was a boy," Raya replied easily

    Meanwhile, across town, Crystal strolled down the bustling streets, surrounded by a few other students who were laughing and chatting.

    The students around Crystal were buzzing with excitement, trading stories and hyping each other up as they strolled through the lively streets.

    "One of these days, they''ll see me on that stage, no question," one of them said, flashing a grin at Crystal.

    "Yeah," another chimed in.

    "Next tournament, they''re not even gonna know what hit them. Just watch, I''m going all the way to the top," he added, nudging her with a smirk.

    Crystal gave them a polite smile, nodding in agreement, but her gaze drifted away, only half- engaged in the conversation. Her eyes were scanning the street, following something invisible that the others seemed oblivious to.

    Back on the rooftop, the conversation between Eratz and Raya had shifted to lighter topics.

    They leaned against the ledge, overlooking the city with a shared appreciation of the view. "I''ll admit, flying monsters are the best way to get around," Eratz was saying, his eyes scanning the skyline. "Fast, efficient, and the view? Unmatched."

    Raya shook her head, amused. "Flying is efficient, I''ll give you that, but it misses the point of

    a journey."

    He gave her a sideways glance. "Misses the point?"

    "Yes," she replied, her voice thoughtful. "When you walk, you''re part of the world around you. Every step connects you to the earth, the smells of the surroundings, the feel of the ground. The world isn''t a blur passing by; it''s a presence, grounding you with each step, and when you melt with it, you become the world."

    Eratz observed her for a moment, his gaze lowering instinctively to a specific area and then, he noticed something odd, she was barefoot.

    "Ahh, I see," he said, smirking as a thought struck him. "So that''s why you''re barefoot... To feel the ground beneath you, the ground you need to know what''s around you, knowing what''s around to protect yourself, that amazing ground..."

    Raya frowned thoughtfully.

    "You''re really dangerous."

    She tilted her head

    "Anyway, what about you? What''s drawn you up here?"

    "Hunting my next meal," he said with a half-smile, then raised an eyebrow as scratched her

    chin thoughtfully. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Your menu must be quite... unique, then, if it brings you all the way up here."

    "It''s not the menu," he replied, grinning. "It''s how you get it."

    For a second, there was nothing but the quiet night around them. Then, with a casual

    movement, Eratz extended his shadow.

    Sparks danced within the shadow as it twisted, and suddenly, his Thunder Lycaon emerged, materializing with an electric crackle.

    Raya held her breath, and she took in the beast''s aura with genuine admiration.

    "Your beast..." she murmured, as though recognizing something again. "It feels almost like a mirror of you. Its spirit... similar, somehow."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, glancing down at his Lycaon with a proud smirk. But before he could say anything, she added.

    "Yes... the presence, this spike feeling... you resemble each other quite a bit... No, You look just

    like him!"

    Eratz blinked, his pride giving way to slight annoyance as the Thunder Lycaon turned to him, eyes glinting with an almost mocking intelligence. It bared its fangs in a grin. "Wrong order," Eratz muttered, rolling his eyes and shooing the Lycaon with a quick flick of

    his hand.

    The Thunder Lycaon let out a low, rumbling laugh, its body crackling with electricity before it leapt from the building, vanishing into the night in one swift, powerful bound.

    The force of its leap sent a shockwave of energy rippling around, leaving a faint trail of sparks

    in its wake.

    Down in the bustling streets below, people paused mid-step, feeling the strange, electric

    pulse.

    Genova''s students exchanged puzzled glances, murmuring in surprise at the sudden surge of

    power.

    The city had its mysteries, and for most of them, it was just another unexplained oddity.

    But standing slightly apart from her group, Crystal reacted differently. Her eyes sharpened, lips curving into a small, satisfied smile as she gazed into the night.

    "There you are," she whispered.

 Chapter 112: Predatorâ€™s Game

    Chapter 112: Predator¡¯s GameAs soon as Crystal felt the ripple of power in the air, she bolted down the city streets, her gaze locked on the distant forest where the surge was heading.

    The other students called after her, voices filled with confusion and concern as they tried to keep up.

    "Crystal, wait up! What are you doing?!" one boy yelled.

    But Crystal didn''t respond, her heart pounding with certainty.

    He was out there.

    She''d known Eratz wouldn''t just spend his night resting.

    No, he was as relentless as ever. Just like before, he would definitely go exploring the wild, like he used to do at Genova.

    Ahead, the shadow of the Thunder Lycaon darted into the dense trees, a flash of lightning crackling from its body and leaving an energy trail in the air.

    Crystal''s chest tightened as she sensed the beast''s power, unmistakable, terrifying, and strangely familiar.

    It was the same energy she''d felt when they had faced the calamity birds together in the forest, it was Eratz''s signature.

    Reaching the forest edge, Crystal barely slowed as she plunged in, her friends still calling after her.

    But their voices turned to murmurs of unease as they set foot inside.

    A terrifying aura blanketed the trees, each step pressing down on them.

    "What... what is that?" one student muttered, glancing nervously around.

    Another shook his head, his eyes wide.

    "I don''t know, but whatever it is... we shouldn''t be here."

    A beast roared from somewhere deeper within the forest, the sound echoing through the trees, and more cries followed, forming a chorus of monstrous noises that filled the night.

    The students shrank back, voices trembling.

    "Crystal, this is insane! Let''s get out of here!" one of the girls begged, her face pale with fear. But Crystal kept pushing forward, her resolve hardening with every step. She had failed too many times, lost too many opportunities.

    Now, she was ready to take risks, to face fear head-on. His energy was there, so he was the origin of the noises.

    It was her best opportunity, she couldn''t hope to stand a chance against Mercury if she didn''t act now.

    "Crystal, stop!" one of her friends pleaded. "This isn''t worth it!"

    She ignored them, her focus locked on the path ahead. Suddenly, a loud explosion thundered nearby, the shockwave sending everyone tumbling backward.

    Crystal gritted her teeth, forcing herself up, but before she could regain her balance, she turned and froze.

    Towering above her, jaws bared, was the enormous, menacing face of the Thunder Lycaon.

    The students behind her screamed, stumbling over each other in their panic, but Crystal was rooted in place, her eyes wide with terror as the creature''s hot, electric breath blew across her face.

    The Thunder Lycaon growled, its gaze piercing as it sized her up, seeming to savor the fear radiating from her.

    As Crystal struggled to breathe, several of her friends rallied, their terror replaced with desperate courage as they fired weak elemental attacks, fireballs and lightning bolts, toward the creature, hoping to drive it off.

    But the Thunder Lycaon barely reacted, flicking its gaze toward them as if they''d merely brushed against it.

    With a low snarl, the beast slashed at the ground, unleashing a powerful shockwave that tore through the earth, scattering rocks and debris.

    The students braced themselves, but then a loud voice cut through the chaos.

    "Go, Aegiron!"

    A massive, armored turtle-like beast emerged, standing firm in front of the group, its shell absorbing the Lycaon''s attack with a resounding clang.

    The students watched in stunned silence as the creature faced off against the Thunder Lycaon, holding the line.

    Just then, someone sprinted toward Crystal, pulling her back from the brink. She turned, her shock giving way to surprise as she realized who it was.

    "G... Gabriel?" she breathed, barely believing her eyes.

    The other students stared, equally astonished. Gabriel was there, urging them all to move.

    "Run! We can hold it back, just go!"

    But before they could even take a step, a flash of lightning streaked toward them, and Gabriel''s turtle beast was flung backward, landing heavily in front of the group.

    It struggled, then fell still, a single, crackling wound across its body.

    Gabriel turned, his jaw clenched as he faced the Thunder Lycaon.

    The beast''s menacing growl filled the air, and its eyes glinted with malice.

    "Is this even a natural beast?" Gabriel muttered, genuinely stunned by its power. Taking a deep breath, he began humming a strange, low tune, a method of communication he used with beasts. Slowly, the Lycaon raised its head, seeming to recognize the sound.

    Gabriel''s lips curled into a hopeful smile, he turned to the students to tell them to relax, but his turtle beast moved suddenly, positioning itself between Gabriel and the Thunder Lycaon just as the creature launched a sneak attack. Aegiron took the blow, skidding back but standing firm.

    Gabriel summoned a lion, joining the fray, and for a tense moment, it was Thunder Lycaon against both of Gabriel''s beasts.

    The battle raged with relentless ferocity. Each move the Lycaon made was like the strike of a lightning bolt, precise, fast, and devastating.

    The lion and turtle, though fighting with courage and skill, were slowly being pushed to their limits. The Lycaon''s movements grew more aggressive, more calculated, as it began toying with them, feinting attacks to create openings and then striking with brutal efficiency.

    Gabriel could feel the tension rising, the danger pressing down like a heavy weight. It was no ordinary beast, it was way too powerful.

    Then, with a powerful blow, it sent the lion sprawling, then pinned it under a massive paw, its tongue flicking out in a cruel smile, revealing rows of sharp, gleaming teeth as it locked eyes

    with Gabriel.

    Gabriel stood, fists clenched. He turned to the other students.

    "You need to go, now. I can''t protect you if you stay."

    The students looked to each other, hesitating before giving him nods of thanks and

    retreating.

    But Crystal remained, her gaze locked on Gabriel. Her knees shook as she looked between him

    and the Thunder Lycaon, fear drowning her.

    "Crystal!" one of the students called, extending a hand toward her.

    But Crystal barely noticed them, her body frozen with fear. Her breath hitched, her eyes wide as the Lycaon''s gaze settled on her.

    The creature crouched low, the tension building to a breaking point.

    Its eyes flicked back and forth between Gabriel and the students, as though calculating its

    options, savoring the moment of terror it had created.

    The energy around it crackled and intensified, lighting up the night as if a storm was about to

    break.

    Gabriel''s fists clenched.

    He knew the Lycaon was an intelligent predator, it was playing with them, using its power to

    keep them cornered, to keep the fear simmering just below the surface, preventing him from

    fighting back.

    It was exactly the impression, the beast really seemed to understand who was the head of their group and how to keep him in check.

    He held his breath, not daring to move, watching as the beast''s claws dug into the ground, leaving deep, smoldering gashes.

    Suddenly, the Lycaon''s lips parted in a grotesque smile, its jaws snapping together with a dry, bone-chilling click that echoed through the forest.

    It was a taunt, a signal that it was ready to strike, and there was no escaping it.

    The students trembled, feeling the impending doom closing in on them. Gabriel knew they were moments away from disaster, the Lycaon was seconds from

    unleashing its fury.

    He reacted instantly, his body glowing with energy as he sprinted forward, bracing himself.

    The Lycaon lunged, and Crystal screamed as the creature''s massive jaws descended.

    An explosion rocked the forest, a shockwave that seemed to freeze the world around them.

    When the dust settled, Crystal opened her eyes, her heart pounding. Gabriel stood before her, hands gripping the Thunder Lycaon''s jaws.

    His body glowed with a warm, protective aura, and deep grooves in the ground marked where he''d been pushed back by the force of the attack.

    Gabriel glanced at the Lycaon, his voice barely above a whisper.

    "Your heart... it isn''t as convinced as before, is it?"

    The Thunder Lycaon hesitated, its fierce gaze changing just slightly. Slowly, it retracted its

    jaws, stepping back, its posture less aggressive.

    Gabriel straightened, his aura steady as he watched the beast with a calm intensity. "What''s wrong?" Gabriel asked, his voice gentle but firm. "You''re clever. So don''t hesitate now."

    The Lycaon growled, stepping back again. Gabriel kept his gaze on it, speaking softly.

    "I don''t enjoy fighting you... or any beast. I believe in befriending creatures, not battling them. But you..." He paused, his tone hardening. "You''re different. You enjoy this. The fear, the pain, it''s all a game to you. And if that''s true... I''ll go as far as I need to stop you." He let his aura flare, his body surrounded by a golden light.

    The Lycaon flinched, its jaws parting, but just as it looked ready to attack again, the source of

    his hesitation echoed through again.

    ''Let it go. We''ve seen enough.''

    On the rooftop, Eratz stood with arms crossed, a faint smirk on his face as he looked out over

    the horizon.

    ''Now we know we can have fun here, I don''t want to see his abilities now. Let''s give them this victory.'' Eratz communicated telepathically to the Thunder Lycaon.

    The Lycaon gave one last, defiant growl, but the malice in its gaze faded, replaced by a cold S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    resolve.

    It took a final, step back, lowering its head, its body tensing as if ready to pounce but stopping

    short.

    With a piercing glare, it leapt back onto a branch, its body melting into the darkness.

    It gave a final, bone-chilling howl that echoed through the forest before disappearing in a burst of lightning, leaving the area shrouded in an eerie silence.

    The students released their held breaths, gasping in relief as they realized the threat had

    passed.

    Gabriel remained where he was, watching the forest with a pensive expression. "I''ve never encountered a creature like that," he murmured to himself, shaken by the

    encounter. "A beast that strong, so close to the city... it''s dangerous. I might need to..." Before he could finish, he felt a soft hand gripping his wrist. He turned, surprised to find

    Crystal standing there, her face pale and her body trembling.

    She looked up at him, her expression filled with fear. "Please... stay with me," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Gabriel blinked, taken aback by the unexpected plea. Slowly, he returned to his normal form,

    the glow fading from his skin.

    Gently, he placed his hand over hers, offering a reassuring smile.

    "You''re safe now," he said softly. "But I need to make sure that creature doesn''t come back.

    It''s too dangerous."

    But Crystal tightened her grip, her eyes pleading as she leaned into him, wrapping her arms

    around him in a trembling hug.

    Gabriel hesitated, feeling her fear, and with a sigh, he gave in, patting her back gently.

    "Alright," he murmured, his voice a quiet promise. "I''ll stay."

    Around them, the other students watched in awe, whispers passing through the group as they

    processed everything that had happened.

    The night slowly passed by, the group making their way back to the city with wary glances

    over their shoulders.

    The fear and tension of the encounter remained, but Gabriel''s calm, heroic presence left them

    with a small measure of hope.

    Tomorrow, the Round of 16 would begin.

 Chapter 113: Mauling

    Chapter 113: MaulingThe second day of the Greenridge Finals began with a hum of excitement, but everyone knew the real tension would hit in the third match.

    The favorites were matched against the less explosive challengers, and the first two matches went almost as expected.

    Sia swept through her fight relying on her beasts alone. She made short work of Ren, claiming victory without even using her field spell.

    The second match saw Bastian take on Viktor, each fighter giving their all, but Bastian''s skills shone through. After a tense start, he pulled ahead, securing his place in the quarter-finals.

    Then came the third battle: Mercury versus Jaden.

    As the announcer called their names, the crowd''s energy shifted. Many of them cheered, expecting finally a good show, but for those knowing the personal story of these two, it was a different matter.

    Ryder, Zara, and Victoria sat in the stands, while Eratz watched from the locker room. Their focus was on the reason behind Milo''s absence from the agency, a fighter who had mercilessly insulted the boy. Now, that same fighter stepped into the arena with a smug expression, unaware that his opponent was Milo''s fiercely protective sister, who was all too eager for this match.

    The announcer''s voice rang out with excitement.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, it''s time for the battle you''ve been waiting for, the Raging Wave, Mercury Banks, and facing her, the Mage, Jaden!"

    The crowd''s energy surged.

    Mercury walked out with calm steps. Her expression was calm, but her eyes were cold, sharper than ever, and they stayed locked on what faced her.

    A few in the audience looking at a close image from the big screen noticed that something seemed different than the previous day.

    Jaden walked in from the other side, his steps confident, a smug grin on his face as he took in the crowd''s cheers.

    His gaze was sharp, sizing up the arena and settling on Mercury with an expression that was both challenging and mocking.

    The two met in the middle of the arena, the crowd watching every step. The audience hushed, and a charged silence fell over the stadium. Jaden leaned in, his tone cocky and casual.

    "So? I made it to the next round like you wished, ''Raging Wave"" he taunted, his grin widening. "Now, why were you so eager to meet me? Are you going to ask me out or beg me for my autograph?"

    Mercury didn''t even blink. She held his gaze, her expression unreadable.

    If the gaze could murder, one could think that Jaden would be a memory by now, but another would realize that she would close her eyes to not give him this chance.

    Zara, watching from the stands, gulped slightly. She knew Mercury well enough to understand that her silence and that rare face were a danger for everyone.

    "She''s... Not going to kill him, right?" she murmured.

    The arena fell into a tense silence as the announcer''s voice boomed through the stadium. "Let the battle... BEGIN!"

    The crowd erupted in cheers, but Mercury and Jaden remained perfectly still, each one sizing up the other with a piercing gaze.

    The spectators watched, leaning forward in their seats, waiting for one of them to make the first move.

    Jaden rolled his shoulders, an arrogant smirk on his face as he addressed her.

    "So, what''s your deal, Raging Wave? What are you planning? What''s up with..."

    Before he could finish, Mercury murmured under her breath.

    "The murder of one''s purpose or dreams."

    The smirk on Jaden''s face faltered, and he frowned.

    With a quick motion, he raised his hand and unleashed his field spell.

    A dense pink mist spread out across the arena, coating the ground and veiling everything in a thick fog.

    Gasps rippled through the audience as the arena was swallowed by the strange, ominous mist.

    From the stands, Zara''s face tightened with concern.

    "This is his go-to move... he''s pulling it out this early?"

    Victoria, watching closely, nodded.

    "It''s his style, very effective in early battle, but it should be problematic here. The way to counter it is Mercury''s specialty."

    A surge of blue aura erupted from Mercury, sweeping through the arena like a wave.

    The mist was washed away, replaced by a shimmering, aquatic field spell that gave the entire arena a watery, flowing quality.

    The pink mist dissolved into nothing, revealing the battlefield beneath.

    Jaden''s eyes went wide, surprise flashing on his face.

    "How...?"

    "You know why they call me the Raging Wave?" Mercury murmured with wide deadly eyes.

    Jaden frowned, instinctively leaping back, his shadow stretching beneath him as he

    summoned his beasts.

    The first to appear was a ghostly figure with translucent wings that seemed to shimmer and ripple with eerie light.

    A second figure followed, this one resembling an elven creature with an angel beauty, its body surrounded by a faint, glowing aura.

    The crowd murmured in awe, it was the first time anyone had seen Jaden''s creatures up close.

    The elven creature raised its hands, beginning a low, chanting prayer. An orb of light formed around Jaden, wrapping him in a protective glow, while energy radiated outward, weaving around the arena.

    Jaden smirked, hands in his pockets, his gaze taunting.

    "This should solve the problem of your field control, don''t you think?" He gestured to the elven beast. "Go ahead, let''s give her a real show."

    In the locker room, Eratz''s eyes narrowed as he watched.

    "So that''s his strategy... long-range attacks from the plant monster while the elf shields

    him."

    Kaida and Catarina exchanged glances, a mixture of curiosity and surprise on their faces. "That''s... not a bad approach," Kaida admitted. "But what''s that energy the elf is spreading?" Victoria, observing from the stands, crossed her arms thoughtfully.

    "It''s like a makeshift field spell, he spread his energy to slowly drain Mercury''s influence over her own field and make it unusable."

    On the battlefield, Jaden pointed his fingers at Mercury, a cocky grin playing on his lips.

    "Take your time, Raging Wave. I''ll let you enjoy this... before it ends." Light gathered at his

    fingertips.

    Mercury exhaled, her body tensing. A sudden ripple in the air signaled her shift in focus.

    In an instant, a shockwave of aura swept across the field, erasing Jaden''s ghostly beast in a

    single stroke.

    Jaden staggered back, eyes widening in shock. Mercury met his gaze, her voice calm and cold.

    "Oh, I''m all for a slow, painful fight."

    With a sharp, clenched fist in front of her, the water surrounding Jaden compressed, forming a dense barrier that crushed his protective orb and beasts.

    The fairy and elven beasts shattered into streams of energy, leaving Jaden unguarded, looking around in stunned confusion.

    Blue marks began to glow on Mercury''s body, her aura merging seamlessly with the field.

    She stepped forward, each footfall sending ripples through the ground. Her voice cut through

    the silence like a blade.

    "I want to deal with the horse''s head, not his ass."

    Victoria''s eyes widened, a hint of surprise in her gaze.

    "What... Monster did she use for that Beastification... Hm? Wait... She is..."

    Zara leaned forward, her face tense with amazement.

    "It''s different than anything she did before..."

    On the battlefield, Jaden scowled, scrambling to summon another line of beasts.

    His shadow stretched, producing creatures of ghostly and fairy appearance, a winged specter,

    a plant-like creature with vines, and more, all attempting to swarm Mercury. But Mercury moved with effortless grace. She spread her arms, conjuring a stream of water

    that struck Jaden''s shield with tremendous force, cracking its surface and making him

    defenseless.

    Each attempt he made to summon beasts was met with a wave or a crushing spiral of water

    that disintegrated them on contact.

    She didn''t touch him directly, giving him just enough time to form a strategy before tearing it

    apart, systematically dismantling every move he made.

    Watching from the locker room, Kaida frowned, an uneasy feeling settling over her.

    "Wow... What''s going on here? That''s look like a demonstration."

    Catarina tilted her head, a thoughtful look on her face.

    "Yeah... This is very personal."

    Jaden, realizing the danger he was in, darted forward, attempting to summon a beast right

    beside her, hoping for a surprise attack.

    But Mercury moved smoothly, her body flowing with the water, her fist glowing with blue

    energy as she delivered a powerful punch to his stomach.

    The impact sent a ripple through the entire field spell, shattering his beast in a burst of water.

    She leaned close to his ear, her tone ice-cold.

    "I''m not hitting you directly because trash like you folds too easily."

    With a quick twist, she flung him across the arena, sending him crashing against a dense wall

    of water.

    He collapsed onto the ground, groaning as he clutched his stomach.

    Mercury stepped closer, her fist still radiating blue energy. She stomped hard next to his head,

    the ground trembling with the impact.

    Jaden looked up at her, fear finally creeping into his eyes as he saw the fury in her gaze.

    "Get up," she ordered, her voice sharp.

    In the stands, some of the Genova students watched with a mix of shock and anxiety, the

    brutality of the match bringing back memories of Eratz''s ruthless duel with Melcin. Even Cassie hesitated, placing a hand over Milo''s eyes, but he pushed her hand away.

    "Let me see, aunt Cassie! I want her to turn him into porridge! Go Mercury! Go!" he shouted.

    Mercury''s gaze remained fixed on Jaden, her expression hard as she watched him struggle to

    his feet.

    "Stop licking the grass. Get your ass up."

    Jaden staggered, his face twisted with anger and pain.

    "Why... why are you so angry, you damn..."

    Before he could finish, his shadow expanded beneath her, a pink and white light engulfing

    her.

    "Ha! Got you, you imbecile! Thought you could keep up with me, huh? Fucking bitch!"

    But his victory was short-lived. A hand reached out from the energy, grabbing his head, and

    she yanked him close, before another fist emerged to deliver a powerful punch to his face, sending him flying backward across the arena.

    Mercury emerged from the light, her clothes singed, a few bruises visible, but her gaze was

    cold as ice.

    "Bitch move," she muttered. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    With a casual flick of her fingers, she sent a wave crashing into him, bringing him back toward

    her.

    She stopped him mid-air with a brutal knee to the stomach.

    The crowd watched, stunned by her complete domination.

    In the locker room,

    Eratz leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing his face as he watched Mercury''s relentless

    assault.

    "Strange," he murmured. "I feel something watching this... a mix of pride and satisfaction...

    sadly soured by this overwhelming jealousy."

    Kaida shot him a curious glance.

    "Do you... have something against Jaden too?"

    Eratz shrugged, eyes still on the battle. "Right now just a bit of envy, I guess."

    Kaida nodded, looking back at the screen, then jumped and stared back at Eratz.

    "Wait, what?"

    "What?"

    Out in the arena, Jaden coughed, his breaths coming in ragged gasps. Despite the obvious

    damage he''d dealt her, Mercury seemed unaffected, pushing through every attacks.

    Zara shook her head, astonished.

    "It''s like she doesn''t even feel pain."

    Ryder, his eyes locked on Mercury, murmured,

    "She''s in complete control. She''ll pass, no doubt about it."

    Victoria smiled, crossing her arms.

    "Now I''m curious to see who''s the strongest of our agency."

    On the battlefield, Jaden, desperate, summoned a final wave of creatures, each one flickering

    with ghostly energy.

    But Mercury didn''t let them last for more than a heartbeat. She raised her hand, shattering

    them one by one, her gaze never leaving his face.

    Jaden trembled, his voice finally betraying his frustration.

    "What... what''s your deal with me?!"

    She stepped forward, her gaze icy.

    "I''m trying to make you vomit,"

    She replied, before delivering a crushing punch to his stomach that left him crumpled on the

    ground, gasping for breath.

    "Stand up," she ordered.

 Chapter 114: Rising Stakes

    Chapter 114: Rising StakesThe crowd''s initial cheers gradually turned to murmurs of discomfort, with some spectators beginning to demand that the officials stop the fight.

    "Enough!" one shouted. "This isn''t a fight; it''s a massacre!"

    Back in the locker room, the other challengers watched the scene with worry in their eyes, a mix of fascination and discomfort on their faces. Even Gabriel swallowed hard, unable to look away.

    Sia, however, was unmoved. She kept her arms crossed, her gaze steady as she observed the brutal display.

    "You reap what you sow," she said, her voice cold and matter-of-fact.

    Mercury was still in the center of the arena, and with her foot planted firmly on Jaden''s stomach, she tilted her head slightly, as if pondering why her finishing touch wasn''t working the same way she''d seen before with Eratz on Melcin.

    "Did you eat something this morning?" she asked flatly, almost as if she were sincerely curious. But Jaden could only manage a pained groan in response, his body wracked with agony.

    The announcer, sensing the growing unrest among the crowd, quickly intervened. His voice echoed over the arena, almost trembling.

    "And the victory goes to... the Raging Wave, Mercury Banks!"

    Mercury looked up, momentarily surprised. Then she rolled her eyes with mild annoyance. "Barely started tearing the wings off this fairy," she muttered under her breath.

    Still, she let her shoulders relax and, with an almost dismissive wave, deactivated her field spell.

    She turned to leave, walking slowly under a mix of hesitant applause and uneasy murmurs from the audience.

    But then, a faint voice croaked from behind her.

    "C-come back..."

    She paused, hearing Jaden''s strained attempt to call her back. His voice was barely audible, a weak, pained whisper that wavered between desperation and anger.

    "Y-you... come back...," he managed, tears glistening in his eyes as he struggled to rise, his whole body trembling from the pain.

    His face was etched with frustration and humiliation as he lay on the ground, unable to pull himself up.

    Mercury turned, her expression calm almost mocking. She took a step closer and looked down at him, her voice cold as ice.

    "You messed with my brother," she said, her voice low and steady. "So that gets you a life sentence. Anytime you want to fight, I''ll be there to give you a correction. But right now? It''s over. Because You''re not even worth it."

    Jaden''s fists clenched weakly, his eyes narrowing, but his body was too broken to respond. She gave him one last, look, then paused.

    "You need more time?" she asked, her voice carrying an eerie calm. "There''s no ''getting better'' for people like you. You don''t belong here. You''ll always be a loser, no matter how hard you try. Quit now, before you make even more of a fool of yourself."

    The words struck him like a physical blow. Only he could hear her, but the impact of her words was as devastating as any attack.

    Jaden''s eyes widened in a mix of rage and despair, his breath hitching as her words echoed the exact insults he had thrown at Milo.

    Mercury turned away without another glance, striding out of the arena, her place in the quarter-finals secure.

    In the locker room, the moment she walked in, every gaze turned her way, a mix of respect and concern in their expressions.

    She gave them a curt nod and made her way over to her friends. Catarina, sweating bullets, greeted her with exaggerated enthusiasm.

    "Nyyaa, here she is, our queen of destruction!" Catarina cooed, her voice tinged with a little panic. "Water bottle? Massage? Or maybe a back rub in the bath, nya?"

    Mercury rolled her eyes, but a faint smile tugged at her lips. Kaida joined her, hands on the hips with a wide grin.

    "That was impressive, Mercury. I respected you before, but now?" She shook her head, grinning. "You''re my favorite."

    Mercury chuckled softly, shrugging.

    "If you''re looking for a monster to look up to, you''d better stick with Eratz."

    Eratz, who had been watching her with an unreadable expression, gave her a slightly sad look.

    She noticed, her eyebrows knitting with worry. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "What''s up, Eratz?" she asked, half-expecting him to comment on her cruelty.

    He tilted his head with a teasing grin.

    "Oh, just realizing you''ve had your mind full of another man all this time."

    She blinked in surprise, then laughed, giving him a playful punch on the shoulder.

    "Idiot."

    The remaining matches passed without much fanfare, each favorite quickly dispatching their

    opponent.

    The crowd barely had time to settle in before the fights ended. The favorites advanced one after another, each in their unique styles.

    In his match, Eratz relied on pure physical strength, delivering a single explosive punch that sent his opponent sprawling, the fight over before it truly began.

    His decisive, almost effortless victory earned him a roar of cheers.

    At sunset, the day''s events came to a close, and the ceremony to mark the end of the round of

    16 began.

    The eliminated fighters lined up with stoic expressions, though the mix of frustration, disappointment, and anger was evident in some of their eyes.

    Jaden, with bandages wrapped around his head, face, and torso, refused to leave the infirmary, avoiding the humiliation of facing the crowd in his state.

    Among the spectators, murmurs spread as the realization hit that the upcoming quarter- finals would consist only of the strongest competitors.

    Some began to speculate that the draw had been rigged, purposely designed to create a final showdown between the best of the best.

    The crowd erupted into cheers as the defeated fighters exited the arena, acknowledging their efforts with an ovation.

    Then, as the excitement settled, the chairman took to the stage, his voice booming through

    the stadium.

    "And now, it''s time to announce the quarter-final pairings!"

    The big screen flickered, the names shuffling rapidly. One by one, the quarter-final matchups

    were revealed:

    1. Sia Verizion vs. Mercury Banks

    2. Eratz Pandora vs. Gabriel

    3. Kaida vs. Raya Kobayashi

    4. Bastian vs. Catarina

    The quarter-final matchups flashed across the screen, and excitement rippled through the

    arena as fans absorbed the intense lineup.

    Each pairing promised explosive clashes, heightening the thrill and anticipation.

    On the field, the fighters faced their assignments in silence, processing the battles awaiting

    them.

    Sia''s composed expression briefly faltered, showing a hint of surprise as her name appeared beside Mercury''s. Gabriel muttered to himself in disbelief,

    "... The Apex Predator?" His eyes landed on Eratz, who looked at the screen with a dangerous

    smirk.

    Mercury raised her eyebrows, glancing skyward with a quiet sigh.

    "Really?" she muttered. "Someone''s definitely doing dark magic on me this week."

    Kaida gave her a sympathetic look.

    "Hey, at least you get to warm up against one of the best. I''ve got Raya straight off the bat."

    She exhaled, shaking her head. "What luck..."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "It''s perfect. Think about it, now you can show everyone you''re the strongest, if you win."

    "Yeah, I''ll do my best too, let''s show them who we are!" a cheerful voice broke in.

    Everyone froze, looking around until their eyes landed on Catarina, who blinked back at them,

    smiling innocently.

    They exchanged a quick nod with her, almost dismissively, before something clicked.

    Suddenly, their heads whipped back toward her, then to the screen, then to her opponent''s

    name again.

    Finally, their eyes darted to Bastian, her opponent, who looked like a nobody genuinely

    worried.

    "How in the what?" Eratz murmured, in shock.

    "Wait... how did you even make it this far?" Mercury asked, incredulous.

    "Seriously, you''re about to reach the semi-final Kaida added, genuinely baffled.

    Catarina frowned heavily, her tail flicking.

    "You wanna know? It''s easy... I ate Mercury''s luck, nyahaha!"

    They rolled their eyes.

    Up in the stands, Ryder leaned forward, wide-eyed.

    "Did you see those matchups, Zara? It''s going to be insane... All the top favorites are going

    head-to-head."

    Zara folded her arms, her gaze intense.

    "This is the kind of lineup that makes tournaments legendary, Ryder. Tomorrow''s going to be

    a real showdown."

    Victoria, seated beside them, watched her fighters with a gleam in her eye.

    "Perfect," she murmured. "Nothing better than a challenge to see what everyone''s really

    made of. This will be so intense."

    In the stands, Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo observed the board with mixed emotions. Cassie

    bit her lip, her hand protectively on Milo''s shoulder.

    "They''ve got tough opponents... each one," she murmured. "I hope they''re ready."

    Roger placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

    "They''re strong. They''ll handle it."

    Colin nodded quietly, Milo, however, was practically bouncing with excitement.

    "They''ll make it through, I know they will!" he said, clenching his fists with determination.

    As the arena emptied and the fighters headed back to prepare, Eratz slipped out alone, making his way to the tall building where he''d waited the previous night.

    The city was quiet below him as he climbed to the top, the cold night air biting as he waited, hoping to see that familiar figure in the shadows.

    But this time, the rooftop remained empty. He sighed, settling into the silence, waiting for

    his meeting. Elsewhere, in a dimly lit park, Raya wandered, asking for directions.

    She was talking to a man who was engrossed in his phone, his expression annoyed.

    "It''s a little hard to describe, it''s not my hotel room," she said calmly. "I''m trying to find a

    tall building... the one I was on top of yesterday."

    The man gave her a puzzled look, glancing around.

    "You''re gonna have to be more specific," he said, sounding a bit impatient.

    "There are a lot of tall buildings around here. What''s it called?"

    Raya tilted her head, her expression unreadable.

    "Hm... I can''t say."

    The man raised an eyebrow, clearly frustrated. "What, are you blind or something? Can''t you read the signs?"

    Raya opened her eyes, her uneven gaze catching the light in an eerie way. The man''s annoyance instantly faded as he took in her gaze, stumbling back in surprise.

    "Oh... ohhhh," he stammered.

    Meanwhile in a quiet restaurant across town, Gabriel arrived slightly out of breath. He

    scanned the room before spotting his companion at a corner table.

    "Sorry I''m late," he said with an apologetic smile. "Things got a bit hectic with tomorrow''s

    prep."

    The person across from him smiled softly.

    "Not a problem, Gabriel. I know you''re a busy man these days."

    Gabriel took his seat, letting out a small sigh as he adjusted his collar.

    "Yeah... tomorrow''s going to be intense. Not sure I can stay very long... so, what did you want

    to talk about... uh..."

    The person leaned forward.

    "Crystal," she replied with a teasing smile. "It''s Crystal."

 Chapter 115: Elemental Titans: The Raging Wave vs. The Frost Empress (1)

    Chapter 115: Elemental Titans: The Raging Wave vs. The Frost Empress (1)Sitting in front of Crystal, Gabriel clenched his fists, his expression hardening as he looked down at the table.

    Crystal''s words hung in the air, her words echoing in his mind and building an implosion of emotions.

    Then, suddenly, he shot up, nearly knocking his chair over as he shouted,

    "That''s... that''s unforgivable!"

    The room around them went silent. Heads turned, a few customers openly staring, and a waiter paused mid-step, raising an eyebrow.

    Gabriel''s face reddened as he realized the scene he''d just caused.

    Clearing his throat awkwardly, he lowered himself back into his seat, glancing apologetically at the people around him.

    Crystal''s surprised expression softened, and she chuckled quietly.

    "Well... I can''t say I expected that reaction. But... somehow, I''m glad. It feels... nice to have someone care enough to get angry for me." Her smile was faint but genuine. "Makes me feel supported."

    Gabriel shook his head, letting out a frustrated groan.

    "It''s not just about support, Crystal. It''s about doing what''s right. I can''t believe he did something like that, and that you had to live with it for so long."

    Crystal looked down at her cup, her fingers lightly tracing the rim.

    "I had to, Gabriel. By then, people had already decided he was important, and I was just... a voice no one wanted to hear."

    "It doesn''t matter who he''s become," Gabriel said firmly, his gaze intense. "Tomorrow, I''ll knock some sense into this guy. I''ll make sure he understands exactly what he''s doing."

    She looked up, surprised by the fire in his eyes. For the first time in a long while, she felt a glimmer of hope.

    The following day at noon, the sun lit up the arena, and the crowd was louder than ever, ready for the quarter-finals.

    Thousands of fans filled the stands, buzzing with excitement and eager to see who would make it to the semifinals.

    In one section, Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo watched the arena closely. Milo was on the edge of his seat, fists clenched, unable to contain his excitement.

    Across the way, the Genova Academy students chatted, their eyes on the field where the fighters would soon enter.

    And in another area, Victoria, Zara, and Ryder sat quietly, each of them waiting impatiently for the battles ahead.

    Inside the locker room, the atmosphere was tense but focused. Sia leaned against her locker, arms crossed, looking calm but intense.

    Gabriel sat across from Eratz, who was already warming up with some weights, lifting them with steady focus, his movements precise as he readied himself.

    Kaida sat nearby, her eyes on the ground, lost in thought, preparing herself mentally. Mercury sat cross-legged with her eyes closed, breathing slowly and calmly in deep meditation.

    Nearby, Catarina toyed with a ball, tossing it from hand to hand, her lightheartedness bringing a touch of relief to the room, while Raya was immobile for an hour, blending with the decorations of the room.

    Suddenly, the sound of fireworks boomed from outside, followed by loud cheers from the crowd. It was the signal: the celebration was over, and the real battles were about to begin. A staff member stepped into the room, his voice clear and direct.

    "Mercury Banks. Sia Verizion."

    Mercury''s eyes opened, Sia straightened up.

    The time had come.

    The arena roared as the crowd shifted their attention to the grand entrances as the gates opened.

    Mercury and Sia stepped onto the field, each with a look of deep focus.

    Mercury''s eyes were sharp, her stance relaxed, every step paced. In front of her, Sia moved with the same poise, her face icy calm.

    They stopped at the center, both renowned for their command over their respective elements, standing face to face in the center of the battlefield.

    In the stands, fans were split, each side cheering fiercely for their favorite. Mercury''s

    supporters yelled her name, calling for the Raging Wave.

    On the other side, Sia''s fans shouted for the Frost Empress.

    Then, the arena quieted, a hush falling over the stands as the two fighters took their stances, waiting for the signal.

    A beat passed, then another. The announcer''s voice echoed.

    "Ladies and gentlemen! It''s time for an elemental clash of titans! The Frost Empress, Sia Verizion, against The Raging Wave, Mercury Banks! Let the battle... begin!"

    Without hesitation, Mercury''s aura exploded, a vibrant blue shimmering around her as she conjured her field spell.

    Water burst from the ground and coiled around her, forming a vast and shimmering barrier that hummed with an almost otherworldly power.

    The water sparkled, catching the light as it enveloped the entire battlefield in an oceanic mist, its currents swirling with palpable energy.

    Sia responded with equal force, a chill spreading from her feet and cascading outward in waves of pure ice.

    Her own field spell manifested, and the ground froze beneath her, cracking as towering shards of crystalline ice erupted from the earth.

    The air turned frigid, visible breaths escaping the spectators'' lips. The arena''s temperature plummeted as frost crawled over Mercury''s field, the two elements colliding with an ominous crackling sound.

    The crowd gasped as frost and water clashed in mid-air, splintering and reforming in a fierce tug-of-war. Spectators murmured about the sheer scale of power on display.

    "I''ve never seen anything like this," one whispered. "Their field spells are cancelling each other, but they''re both holding on!"

    At the center of the icy mist, Sia''s cold, focused gaze met Mercury''s steely eyes. Mercury could feel the chill creeping over her water, threatening to solidify it and snuff out her momentum. But she smirked, defiant.

    With a flick of her wrist, Mercury summoned a school of water serpents that danced through the mist, each glinting with a lethal shimmer.

    Sia''s response was swift, she raised her hand, and a pack of icy wolves burst forth, their frosty breath visible as they charged.

    The two forces collided, beasts of water and ice snapping, clashing, and tearing through each other with a ferocity that matched their creators.

    Mercury lunged, her arms commanding the serpents to twist and wrap around the wolves, binding them in a deadly embrace.

    Water and ice crackled as they merged and shattered, droplets and shards scattering across

    the battlefield.

    The wolves snarled and shattered in explosions of frost, but the serpents dissipated into mist with every blow. Mercury narrowed her eyes, her heart pounding with excitement.

    Sia raised her head, her calm demeanor unbroken. She lifted her hands and brought them down in a sharp motion, summoning a wall of ice spikes that rose like a fortress, obstructing Mercury''s line of sight.

    "If you want hide yourself, just build a cage," Mercury taunted, her voice echoing across the

    frozen arena.

    Sia''s gaze flickered.

    "I''ll keep that in mind for your coffin."

    Mercury clenched her fists, her fingers trailing trails of water. With a deep breath, she raised

    her arms, the surrounding water swirling in response, thickening and spreading into a dense

    fog.

    Sia''s ice wall was obscured, shrouded in mist. Mercury moved forward, her steps silent, feeling the cool water shift around her as she prepared her next move.

    A sudden crack split the air as Sia shattered her own wall, sending jagged shards of ice flying through the mist like deadly spears.

    Mercury ducked, weaving between the shards, her body moving with the grace and fluidity of

    water.

    She could feel the cold slice through the air just inches from her skin, every movement sending a thrill through her veins.

    Sia''s gaze was fixed, calculating. She stepped forward, her breath even and calm, despite the

    escalating intensity of the battle.

    She could feel her power building, an icy storm waiting to be unleashed. She raised both hands, and the temperature around her dropped to an unbearable cold.

    Frost spread faster, coating the ground in a thick layer of ice that spread over Mercury''s water,

    threatening to freeze it solid.

    In response, Mercury let out a deep exhale, her breath misting in the cold air. She concentrated, calling forth the power of her strongest beast.

    With a motion of her hand, she summoned a whirlwind within her field spell, currents of

    water spiraling around her, churning with the force of a brewing storm.

    The mist thickened, mixing with the ice in the air, creating a swirling tempest around her. The water began to sparkle, glints of light reflecting from the icy fragments caught within the

    vortex.

    The two women locked eyes, both knowing that this was only the beginning. Sia took a steadying breath, feeling the cold settle deep within her bones.

    Her heart beat slow and steady, each pulse syncing with the rhythmic hum of her ice field

    spell.

    "Freezing already, Raging Wave?" Sia''s voice echoed.

    Mercury shot her a glare, water pulsing around her in response.

    "I''d worry about that smug attitude, Sia."

    Then, with an unsettling calm, Sia extended her hand once more, and the air turned deathly

    still. The crowd''s murmurs turned to gasps as an enormous creature materialized behind her, a saber-toothed beast, every inch of its white body glistening with frost as its fangs caught the

    light.

    It growled, a low, rumbling sound that sent chills down spines. "Behold, the Frost Calamity, Nivalys," Sia announced, her voice steady and commanding.

    Mercury''s eyes widened as she took in the beast before her, feeling its cold, formidable energy crackling through the air.

    This wasn''t just any creature, the energy, the feeling, and that death sentence of a name Sia

    used.

    Nivalys was a calamity beast, a walking disaster, a powerful monster, on par with

    Zephyraquiel.

    Mercury''s alarms rang altogether.

    "Fine," Mercury murmured, lifting her arm. "If that''s how you want to play it."

    She summoned Zephyraquiel.

    The massive water-wind beast appeared beside her, its feathers shimmering, wings

    spreading with grace that sent waves rippling through the air.

    The crowd erupted into an incredulous roar,

    Witnessing the two calamity beasts facing off for the first time, the public fell silent, a

    collective gasp rippling through the stadium.

    "What... what kind of beasts are those?" "I''ve never seen something like that... They''re massive!"

    In the Genova section, the students stared wide-eyed, barely believing their own eyes.

    Kenny looked as if he''d seen a ghost, his will was already crushed, but this was the final

    hammer on his coffin. Crystal''s jaw dropped, and even Lisa looked stunned. "What... what did she even summon?" one student stammered.

    "... Frost... Calamity?" a teacher whispered, barely able to contain his shock.

    Victoria, watching from her seat, broke into an excited smile, her eyes alight with

    amazement.

    "Incredible... absolutely incredible," she murmured, pleased beyond words. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    This level of power was exactly what she''d hoped to see, and she watched every move with

    eager fascination.

    Beside her, Zara leaned forward, her eyes gleaming as she took in the beasts with a mix of awe

    and intrigue.

    "I knew they were strong, but this... this is beyond anything I imagined," she muttered,

    almost to herself.

    Ryder could hardly sit still, practically vibrating with excitement. "Those things... they''re absolute monsters! Since when did she have that?!"

    In the locker room, everyone was glued to the screen. Kaida''s eyes went wide, a mixture of

    amazement and disbelief. "Mercury... what kind of monster is that?" she murmured, her voice barely audible. Catarina blinked, her usual playful attitude replaced by stunned silence. "She... She wasn''t

    going all out then that''s her real ace?"

    Even Eratz''s expression shifted as he watched. He had known calamity beasts existed, but to see Sia wielding one, and an ice variant of all thing was stunning.

    "So, Sia has one too," he murmured, his usual confidence replaced with a flicker of surprise.

    Each of them was left in awe, unable to tear their eyes away from the colossal beasts on the field, wondering what kind of battle they were about to witness. "Zephyraquiel," Mercury whispered. "Let''s show them what we can do."

 Chapter 116: Elemental Titans: The Raging Wave vs. The Frost Empress (2)

    Chapter 116: Elemental Titans: The Raging Wave vs. The Frost Empress (2)Nivalys roared, its icy fangs bared, its gaze locked on Zephyraquiel with a feral intensity.

    The two beasts launching themselves at each other. Zephyraquiel summoned a tidal wave, its wings beating to intensify the wind, creating a fierce, swirling storm.

    Nivalys countered with a bone-chilling blast of frost, the air freezing solid in its wake.

    Zephyraquiel unleashed a tidal wave, a surge of water that swept across the arena, crashing into the icy field spell.

    The wave hit the ice with a force that sent shards flying, the collision creating a mist of water and frost that hung in the air.

    Sia held her ground, her gaze fierce as she raised her hand, commanding her field spell to react.

    A massive glacier burst from the ground, splitting the wave in half, its icy mass towering over the arena.

    The cold radiated from it in waves, and Mercury felt it biting into her skin.

    Mercury''s heart pounded, her eyes narrowing. She drew on Zephyraquiel''s energy, feeling the wind gather around her, and with a powerful motion, she directed the storm forward.

    Zephyraquiel soared into the air, gathering the moisture from the air and forming a massive waterspout that spiraled toward Sia''s glacier, crashing into it with a force that shook the ground.

    The crowd was silent, captivated by the clash of ice and water, two elements fighting for dominance.

    Zephyraquiel''s waves crashed over Nivalys, but the frost creature responded by freezing the water instantly, creating jagged icicles that it launched back at Zephyraquiel.

    Mercury watched with awe and urgency, she could feel the sting of cold creeping through her water, slowing Zephyraquiel''s movements.

    Every time she melted the ice, sia froze it again.

    Each breath Mercury took was cold and sharp, her skin tingling from the chill. But she felt alive, every nerve heightened, her heart racing as she pushed her limits.

    As Nivalys leapt forward, fangs gleaming, Zephyraquiel dodged, its wings sending powerful gusts of wind toward Sia, disrupting her focus just long enough for Mercury to regain control. But Sia''s focus remained unbreakable. She summoned another layer of frost, encasing the ground, and sent Nivalys charging forward, its claws digging into the ice and propelling it forward with incredible speed.

    But Mercury wasn''t finished. She could feel the essence of water within her, the power of Zephyraquiel pulsing in her veins.

    Closing her eyes, she let Zephyraquiel''s energy merging with her own, and her field spell began to shift.

    The water around her became less dense, transforming into a swirling mist that filled the arena, blurring Nivalys''s movements.

    The mist cooled, forming into droplets that danced around Mercury, blending water and wind seamlessly into one.

    When she opened her eyes, they glowed a vibrant blue, the water swirling with her heartbeat. She had fused with water itself, her beastification reaching it''s purest form.

    Sia frowned, sensing the change. She called Nivalys back to her side, assessing Mercury''s transformed field spell.

    "Interesting," she murmured.

    Mercury gazed at her.

    "Let''s go."

    With a single motion, Mercury directed the mist toward Nivalys, the droplets converging with the ferocity of a hurricane.

    Sia countered with a command, and Nivalys unleashed a freezing gust that solidified the mist into snowflakes, which rained down around Mercury, cutting her with tiny shards of ice.

    With a swift motion, she raised both hands, and her ice field expanded, enveloping Mercury''s water in a prison of frost.

    The air was so cold it felt like needles against the skin, and Mercury could feel her water slowing, freezing under Sia''s influence.

    With a deep breath, Mercury commanded Zephyraquiel forward, the beast unleashing a cyclone of water and wind that tore across the battlefield.

    Nivalys braced itself, digging its claws into the ice, countering with a blizzard that collided with Zephyraquiel''s attack.

    For a moment, the entire arena was obscured in a swirl of water and frost, the air crackling with elemental energy.

    Then, in a final, decisive move, Mercury pulled every drop of water within her field spell and compressed it into a single, massive water beam.

    The weight of the water surged forward, crashing toward Sia and Nivalys with unstoppable force.

    Sia stood firm, her icy blue eyes unwavering. She raised both hands, summoning a beam of pure frost, the air around it dropping to a sub-zero chill that even those in the stands could

    feel.

    The icy beam met Mercury''s water beam head-on, forming a clash so intense it sent shockwaves through the arena.

    The crowd gasped, screams of amazement and terror filling the stadium as they watched, mesmerized by the spectacle of water against ice.

    For a brief moment, everyone seemed stunned, caught in the suspense of the struggle between these elemental forces.

    The air felt electric with tension, and every spectator leaned forward, holding their breath.

    The pressure of the beams sent bursts of mist and shards of ice across the battlefield, a storm of frozen chaos enveloping the two fighters.

    Sia gritted her teeth, her focus razor-sharp as she poured every ounce of her energy into her

    frost beam.

    Gradually, she began to push it forward, forcing the clash of energy closer to Mercury.

    Inch by inch, the beam encroached on Mercury''s space, her power beginning to falter against the relentless frost.

    Mercury''s eyes narrowed, and she summoned strength beyond anything imaginable, her aura flaring as she pushed back with everything she had.

    Her beastification deepened, dark feathers from Zephyraquiel beginning to merge into her form, a flicker of wind energy intertwining with her water.

    But the overwhelming frost beam was too close.

    Her strength wavered as Sia''s attack broke through, a split second before she could fully

    transform.

    With a final surge, Sia drove the beam forward, and it connected, detonating in an ice explosion of cataclysmic proportions.

    Shards of ice erupted in every direction, a blinding flash of white-blue light consuming

    Mercury''s body.

    The ground itself trembled, and a numbing chill washed over the entire arena.

    Massive chunks of frozen earth flew outward, hammering against the protective barrier with such force that cracks began to spread, the shield barely able to hold. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The explosion''s aftermath left a frigid stillness, the air thick with frost and silence as the last shards settled.

    The entire battlefield was encased in ice, a solid sheet of white reaching as far as the eye could

    see.

    Even with the protective barrier, the audience could feel the piercing chill radiating from the arena, many in the stands rubbing their arms to shake off the cold.

    A hush fell over the stadium. The crowd looked on, their expressions frozen in awe and anxiety, their breaths visible in the air.

    In the Crescent Moon side, Zara''s arms dropped limply to her sides, her expression filled with shock and disbelief.

    Ryder''s jaw hung open, words failing him as he took in the scene. Beside them, Victoria closed her eyes, lowering her head as the reality of the battle''s end set in.

    In the locker room, the other challengers watched the screen in stunned silence. Kaida was now petrified, her mouth slightly open in shock.

    Eratz, his usual confidence shaken, stared without blinking, while Catarina, typically full of energy, stood completely still, her eyes wide as she processed what had just happened.

    All eyes were fixed on the battlefield, the crowd collectively waiting, clinging to a sliver of

    hope. But then, the truth became undeniable.

    Mercury lay on the ground, her body encased in ice, entirely still.

    Zephyraquiel had dissipated, its magnificent body fading into particles of light that scattered

    like dust.

    The announcer, struggling to regain his composure, finally spoke, his voice carrying a solemn

    weight.

    "And the winner... the Frost Empress, Sia Verizion!"

 Chapter 117: Frozen Waves

    Chapter 117: Frozen WavesThe aftermath of Mercury''s defeat settled heavily over the arena. Cassie and Roger were frozen in their seats, their expressions a mixture of surprise and sadness.

    Roger placed a comforting hand on Cassie''s shoulder as her eyes misted.

    Between them, Colin sat wide-eyed, murmuring Mercury''s name in shock, barely able to process what had happened.

    Milo shook his head slowly, a look of utter disbelief, his small fists clenching as he struggled to hold back tears.

    Around the arena, the crowd seemed to share the same stunned silence, no one quite sure how to react.

    But then, almost as one, they started to clap, softly at first, then louder, until the arena erupted into a standing ovation.

    Sia put one knee on the ground to catch her breath, looking out over the cheering crowd. The public roared for her victory, but many wore expressions of sadness for Mercury''s defeat. In the Genova section, a few students looked around uncertainly, caught between their past fear of Mercury and an unexpected sense of admiration.

    She had fought as fiercely as any of them could have hoped, perhaps even more.

    Crystal let out a quiet sigh of relief, a smirk forming as she watched Mercury''s defeated form. "Finally..." she muttered.

    But her short satisfaction was interrupted by the sound of one student standing up and cheering for Mercury.

    Crystal shot them an annoyed look, but then another person joined in, followed by a few more, until a large part of the crowd was chanting Mercury''s name.

    Crystal gritted her teeth, annoyed, her fists clenched as she glanced around, watching the admiration Mercury received even in defeat.

    In the locker room, Catarina, Kaida, and Eratz watched in silence. After a beat, Catarina nodded, clapping her hands softly, her eyes soft with respect.

    Kaida joined in, her gaze focused and proud. Eratz, watching the screen, nodded slowly, a small, approving smile breaking through as he, too, clapped softly.

    On the battlefield, Mercury was freed from her ice prison. She lay on the ground, her body battered and cold, but her eyes were open, still conscious, though dazed.

    For a moment, she seemed lost, her gaze distant as she processed the weight of the battle.

    But then, she noticed Sia sitting beside her, and it all clicked.

    With a slight, almost amused smirk, Mercury murmured.

    "So... I lost, huh?"

    Sia nodded.

    "Yes, you did."

    Mercury sighed, a wry smile tugging at her lips as she closed her eyes.

    "Guess I should start getting used to it."

    Sia tilted her head, a rare hint of warmth in her stoic demeanor.

    "You won''t," she replied softly. "With the power you have, you''ll go far. You fought incredibly well, Mercury."

    Mercury chuckled weakly, rolling her eyes.

    "That''s the worst thing to say after beating someone, but it''s my bad. I''ll take it."

    Sia''s expression softened, and she gave Mercury a small, thoughtful nod.

    "A fighter''s strength isn''t just in winning. It''s in how they carry themselves, how they respect the battle and their opponent. And you did all of that and more." Her voice was calm, almost gentle. "I''ve won today, but I wanted you in the finals. It would''ve been an honor to face you again there." S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury stared at her, taken aback by the sincerity in Sia''s words. She felt a rush of unexpected gratitude, her chest tight with a mixture of pride and humility.

    "Thank you... Sia. I didn''t expect a compliment to come from you."

    Sia stood slowly, extending a hand toward her.

    "Come on. This isn''t over yet."

    Mercury looked at the offered hand, raising an eyebrow.

    "You''re serious? If I could stand up, it''ll look like I could have keep fighting."

    Sia gave a small nod.

    "Consider it your last stand for this tournament. The standing ovation... it''s for you, and I think you should take it on your feet."

    With a quiet nod, Mercury took Sia''s hand. The two fighters rose slowly, supporting each other as they stood side by side.

    Sia lifted Mercury''s hand high, and the crowd erupted, their cheers thunderous as they celebrated the two remarkable warriors.

    The stadium pulsed with energy as the crowd chanted both of their names.

    In the stands, Crystal bit her lip in anger, her eyes narrowing as she watched Mercury bask in the admiration of the crowd, even in defeat.

    Later, Mercury and Sia walked slowly down the corridor leading out of the arena, the adrenaline fading as they settled into silence.

    Sia broke the quiet, her tone reflective.

    "Your control over water is remarkable. I don''t think I''ve ever faced someone who could manipulate it so precisely. You''re really a genius in your style."

    Mercury chuckled, the sound a bit rough from fatigue.

    "Coming from my assassin herself? I''m flattered." She paused, glancing at Sia with a hint of curiosity. "So... why the sudden compliments?"

    Sia''s gaze grew thoughtful, her steps slowing.

    "I meant what I said earlier. I think your style is unique... powerful. And I don''t say this often, but..." She took a deep breath. "I''d like to make you an offer. To join my agency."

    Mercury blinked, momentarily stunned by the proposition. Sia''s agency was renowned, one of the top organizations on the continent, a place only the elite could dream of joining.

    "Sia... your agency... I mean, it''s... it''s a huge honor," Mercury stammered, a mix of excitement and uncertainty in her voice.

    Sia nodded, her tone serious.

    "And so are you. I see potential in you that goes beyond this fight. You''re skilled, disciplined, and your spirit... it''s rare. I''d like to work alongside you, to see what we could achieve together. Think about it. With the resources, training, and support my agency offers, there''s no telling how far you could go."

    Mercury looked down, processing Sia''s words. After a moment, she took a deep breath and

    met Sia''s gaze.

    "Thank you, really. That means more than you know. And your offer... it''s incredible."

    Sia waited, sensing there was more.

    "But... I already have a team, and they''re more than that. They''re my family, and I wouldn''t leave them for anything. If I have to be in a top agency, I would rather make mine one."

    As if on cue, Kaida, Catarina, and Eratz appeared at the end of the corridor. They paused as

    they saw them.

    Sia looked at them, then closed her eyes in understanding.

    "It''s a shame," Sia said softly, "but that''s also a good answer."

    With a gentle nod, she handed Mercury over to Eratz, their eyes meeting in a brief but

    respectful exchange.

    Kaida and Catarina moved closer, concern visible across their faces as they assessed Mercury''s

    condition.

    Sia turned to walk away, her voice echoing behind her.

    "I''ll be waiting for you, Pandora."

    The group watched her disappear down the corridor, then turned their attention back to

    Mercury. Kaida''s hand rested lightly on her shoulder.

    "Sis... You alright?" she asked.

    Mercury smiled reassuringly, leaning against Eratz as he supported her weight.

    "I''ll live," she murmured, then glanced up at him.

    For once, Eratz''s usual teasing grin was nowhere to be seen. Instead, he looked at her with an expression of sadness, his gaze somber and sincere.

    "Looks like I couldn''t make it, sorry," she murmured, trying to lighten the mood. "If I had to

    lose, I''d have wanted it to be to you."

    Eratz shook his head, a faint smile playing at the corners of his mouth as he muttered.

    "You''re insane. Who goes into a fight planning to lose?" Leaning closer, he adjusted his grip

    to support her better. "And now I have to take revenge for you."

    Mercury chuckled softly, allowing herself to relax against his shoulder.

    "You''d better... it''s hard to lose, but it''s harder to watch someone you love lose."

    They walked together down the corridor, Mercury leaning her head against his shoulder, surrounded by the warmth of her friends and the quiet strength they shared.

 Chapter 118: Done For

    Chapter 118: Done ForEratz, Kaida, and Catarina carefully led Mercury down the hallway to the infirmary, supporting her weight between them.

    When they reached the infirmary, the staff took over, guiding Mercury to a bed. Kaida lingered by her side for a moment, gently running her fingers through Mercury''s hair in a quiet gesture of comfort.

    Eratz gave Mercury a brief nod, a small smile passing between them before he turned to leave, Kaida and Catarina following close behind.

    Back in the locker room, Kaida dropped onto a bench, her foot tapping restlessly, frustration simmering beneath the surface.

    Eratz sat nearby, arms crossed, his expression unreadable yet clearly simmering with irritation.

    Catarina settled between them, her gaze darting from one to the other, sensing the storm brewing.

    The silence between them was thick, both Eratz and Kaida wearing expressions of restrained anger.

    Their eyes were clouded, their jaws clenched, each step heavy with unspoken frustration.

    Against a locker, Gabriel observed Eratz, his expression a mixture of anger and disbelief. He hesitated, eyes narrowing before he spoke, voice edged with a barely restrained accusation. "Really? Concerned for her?" Gabriel''s tone was cold, his gaze fixed on Eratz.

    Eratz didn''t bother looking his way, his disinterest evident. Gabriel''s brow furrowed, taking his silence as an invitation to press on.

    "Funny," he continued, voice low, "all this fuss over Mercury. Meanwhile, you couldn''t care less about your own friend, could you? I''ve seen the way you act, like none of it mattered."

    Eratz''s eyes finally locked on him, his gaze narrowing slightly as he replied with cold indifference.

    "Do I know you?"

    "You may not know me," Gabriel shot back, voice sharper, "but I know exactly what kind of person you are."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, dismissive.

    "As you say, child."

    Gabriel crossed his arms, his frustration growing.

    "I know everything. About what happened... how you ignored your friend, all because of your obsession with Mercury. You didn''t even consider the damage she went through."

    Eratz''s gaze grew sharper, a chilling edge to his voice as he spoke.

    "I consider minding my own business, and I suggest you do the same." He yawned, adding, "I already have enough children to care for, I don''t need another."

    Gabriel''s jaw tightened.

    "All I''m saying is it''s pathetic to pretend to care now, when you''re so quick to ignore real issues."

    Eratz scoffed, clearly done with the conversation.

    "Listen, child. I didn''t even know who you were five days ago, and I couldn''t care less now. Your only use here is to give me a real challenge, so stay quiet until I crush you, centimeter by centimeter."

    Gabriel''s fists clenched, but Eratz didn''t give him a chance to respond, his voice dropping to a chilling tone.

    "I''m in the mood for a massacre, so let me give you some adult advice: don''t put yourself in danger."

    A heavy silence fell between them, Gabriel stunned by the brutal dismissal in Eratz''s words.

    He opened his mouth, ready to retort, but just then, a staff member appeared at the doorway, breaking the tension.

    "Eratz Pandora, Gabriel Ward, it''s time."

    Both fighters turned, their expressions cold and resolute as they moved toward the arena, their steps echoing in the tense quiet of the locker room. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The arena buzzed with anticipation as the announcer''s voice boomed over the roaring crowd.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, prepare yourselves for an unforgettable clash! In one side, the undefeated monster, the Apex Predator of the arena, Eratz Pandora!"

    The crowd roared, some chanting his name with fervor, others whispering in awe of his notorious power.

    "And on the other side, the youngest prodigy of this league, the Beast Whisperer, Gabriel Ward!"

    The two fighters stepped onto the battlefield, locking eyes, both emanating fierce determination as they closed the distance until they stood face to face at the arena''s center.

    The crowd''s energy intensified, an electric charge hanging in the air.

    In the stands, Colin wiped her tears and leaned toward Milo, who was still struggling to hold back sobs. She held his hand gently, her voice soft yet steady.

    "Milo," she whispered. "I know you''re sad for Mercury. But Eratz... he needs us too. Let''s cheer for him, please? He''ll need all the strength we can give him now."

    Milo sniffled, his small hands gripping Colin''s tightly as he nodded. With trembling breaths,

    he raised his head, his gaze fixed on his father in heart.

    Down in the arena, the two fighters stood in a tense silence, neither breaking eye contact, each silently sizing up the other.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the stadium once more.

    "Today, we witness a battle not only of strength but of philosophy! Gabriel, the man who speaks with beasts, seeking harmony and unity, will have his hand full with the task of putting a end to the incredulous winning streak of his opponent, a master of dominance, the predator who reigns above them all."

    The crowd murmured with intrigue, leaning forward in their seats as they waited for the clash to begin. Even in the stands, the intensity of the atmosphere was palpable.

    "And now... let the battle... begin!"

    The crowd erupted as the announcer''s words faded, the roar like a wave crashing over the

    stadium.

    The tension in the arena was thick as Eratz and Gabriel stared each other down, neither making a move. The crowd began to murmur in confusion, wondering what was happening. Gabriel sighed heavily, breaking the silence with a defiant shake of his head.

    "Screw it," he muttered, raising his voice so it echoed across the arena. "I was told not to mention it... but I can''t just stand here and let this injustice go on any longer."

    A few heads in the crowd turned, curiosity piqued, while a smirk spread across someone''s

    face.

    Gabriel''s eyes remained locked on Eratz, his voice carrying a weight that seemed to hang in

    the air.

    "Tell me, Eratz," he called, his tone sharp. "How could you abandon Crystal when she sacrificed everything for you?"

    Eratz''s eyes went wide, his mouth slightly open, eyebrows high. He said nothing, simply staring at Gabriel, caught off guard.

    The public fell silent, an uneasy stillness sweeping over the crowd.

    Gabriel took a steadying breath, his gaze unwavering.

    "Let''s talk about the truth," he began, his voice rising. "About what happened back when you were at Genova Academy. How you were accused, betrayed... abandoned by your childhood friend." He paused, letting his words sink in, his eyes never leaving Eratz. "But through all that, there was one person who stood by you, who fought for you... and that person was

    Crystal."

    Eratz remained frozen, the surprise on his face unmasked, stunned into silence as Gabriel continued.

    "You don''t even know half of it, do you?" Gabriel continued, his voice thick with emotion. "While everyone else was quick to turn their backs, Crystal... she defended you. She stopped the students from bullying you. She was the one who''d sit with you in the library, just to make sure no one dared to attack you when you were most vulnerable."

    In the Genova section, students exchanged uneasy glances, whispering among themselves. Some of the girls looked at their teachers in panic, muttering defensively.

    "It wasn''t us... it was just a few of the second-years, but... yeah, Crystal stopped them."

    Rowan, sitting among them, stared ahead in shock, processing what he was hearing, as though the reality of it had just hit him.

    All eyes gradually turned to Crystal, who sat with her head lowered, her expression subdued. There was no denial. It was the truth.

    "Yes," Gabriel continued, his voice resolute. "Crystal did everything she could to keep you at

    that academy. She defended you... kept you company... begged the teachers for leniency,

    asking them to give you a second chance, to not expel you."

    Eratz said nothing, watching with investment a peak drama he hadn''t asked for.

    Gabriel looked down briefly, taking a breath, his voice softer.

    "But when she needed you the most, you couldn''t be there for her." He paused, letting the words sink in before he went on. "One day, someone made up their mind to destroy you completely, to ruin you for good. They planned to manipulate Lisa to convince everyone that

    you... that you''d raped her."

    Gasps rippled through the crowd.

    Lisa''s face had turned pale with shock. Beside her, Clara sat stunned, covering her mouth with

    one hand.

    Gabriel continued, his voice steady. "Crystal overheard this plan. She knew what was going to happen, and she did the only thing she could to lessen the damage. She claimed you''d assaulted her, not raped, just a failed attempt. So you wouldn''t end up in jail, only expelled. She even hoped you''d be expelled in the end because the academy atmosphere had become so toxic for you. She wanted you to escape... to be saved from what that place had turned into."

    The entire stadium was frozen in silence as Gabriel''s words washed over them. In the stands, Cassie and Roger exchanged stunned glances.

    "And then," Gabriel added, his voice growing softer, "Crystal went so far as to pretend to date

    the person who tried to ruin you, just to keep tabs on him... to make sure he thought he''d won.

    To give him the satisfaction, so he would leave you in peace."

    The weight of his words settled over the crowd, eyes shifting across the stands as the

    revelation sank in.

    Gradually, the attention from Genova''s people turned to the one person who had stayed eerily

    silent, the one sitting, stunned and pale, with his gaze fixed on Crystal.

    Kenny.

 Chapter 119: Its Going to Hurt

    Chapter 119: It''s Going to HurtAs the silence in the arena stretched on, everyone from Genova Academy turned their gaze to Kenny, their faces a mixture of shock, confusion, and disbelief.

    The murmurs of his name grew louder, a wave of voices rippling through the stands, each one incredulous at what they''d just learned.

    "Crystal..." Kenny murmured, voice shaky, barely audible.

    He glanced toward her, seated several rows away, but she didn''t respond.

    She kept her head lowered, refusing to meet his gaze, her posture withdrawn and distant.

    Kenny''s face contorted, a raw, unfiltered reaction that reflected the immense weight of the accusations crashing down on him.

    His usually composed demeanor fell apart, replaced by a desperate, almost haunted look. His jaw tightened, his eyes darting, and his skin grew pale.

    The muscles in his face twisted under the pressure, almost as though they were physically unable to maintain his usual calm facade. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His whisper turned to a shout.

    "Crystal!" He stood, his face contorting further, his expression ugly and wild, the desperation in his voice unmistakable.

    "What the hell is this?" he screamed, his voice cracking. "This is a lie! I never did any of that!"

    People in the crowd around him leaned away, startled by the raw intensity in his voice, the desperation painting every word.

    He shouted again, his face twisted in an expression almost unrecognizable to anyone who''d known him before.

    "This isn''t true! Crystal, tell them! Tell them he''s lying!" His voice grew hoarse, each plea sounding more broken than the last.

    Around him, the crowd stared, a sea of judgmental eyes now fixed on him. Whispers and pointed fingers surrounded him, a circle of spectators closing in with their disbelief and disgust.

    A camera focused on him, broadcasting his frantic, twisted expression on the giant screen overhead.

    His face filled the display, a close-up of someone spiraling out of control, his features distorted by fear and shame.

    "Stop looking at me!" he shouted, shielding his face with his hands as though trying to hide from the crowd''s scrutiny. "I didn''t do anything! I swear it''s all a lie!" His voice cracked as he looked back to Crystal, the desperation climbing. "Please... Crystal, tell them!"

    But Crystal didn''t move. She sat silently, her head bowed, the weight of the accusations hanging heavily in the air between them.

    "Crystal!" he begged, his voice breaking into a plea. "Please, say something! Don''t just sit there! You know I''m telling the truth!"

    The realization hit Genova''s students hard, their faces shifting from shock to disgust as murmurs filled the air, each voice carrying the weight of their collective outrage.

    Among them, Julian spoke up first, his expression twisted with anger and a hint of satisfaction.

    "I always knew there was something off about him," he muttered, his gaze fixed on Kenny with pure disdain.

    Clara, standing nearby, looked visibly repulsed, her expression a mixture of betrayal and horror.

    She turned to Lisa, who had been sitting in stunned silence. Slowly, as if waking from a trance, Lisa shook her head, her face going pale.

    "No... no, I didn''t know. I would never have gone along with it," she said, her voice trembling as tears filled her eyes.

    She seemed paralyzed, her body rigid with shame and disgust.

    Realization struck, and she began to cry in despair, the horror of what she had unknowingly participated in overwhelming her.

    The teachers exchanged puzzled, disturbed glances, trying to comprehend the full weight of what had been revealed.

    Rowan, however, was consumed by growing fury. His voice cut through the whispers, sharp and angry.

    "Kenny..." he called, his tone seething.

    Kenny, tears streaking his face, whirled around, his expression wild and desperate.

    "I''m being framed! Why are you all listening to him?" His voice was hoarse, breaking under the strain.

    Desperately, he shouted Crystal''s name once more, but she remained silent, keeping her head bowed, offering him nothing.

    In a frantic move, Kenny rushed toward her, his desperation tangible as he reached out.

    Before he could get close, Julian stepped in, blocking his path. His gaze was steely, a warning evident in his posture.

    "Back off, Kenny," he said coldly, casting a glance around at the crowd. "If you lay a hand on her, I''ll punch you. You monster."

    Kenny''s eyes flickered with anger and humiliation. He saw the way Julian glanced at the people, the way he seemed to be enjoying the moment.

    "You''re just trying to look cool in front of everyone," he spat, seething. "You''re all..."

    But before he could finish, a handful of other students closed in, grabbing him to stop him from reaching Crystal. Kenny''s voice broke into pleas.

    "Listen to me! I''m telling the truth! I didn''t do any of this!" he shouted, his voice becoming a

    wail.

    But Julian, opportunistic, delivered a sharp punch to Kenny''s face, silencing him

    momentarily.

    The director, watching from her seat, muttered under her breath.

    "Get him out of here. Now."

    One of the teachers stood, stepping forward to take Kenny by force. Still, Kenny screamed, struggling against their grip, his eyes darting to Crystal with a venomous glare.

    "She was the one who planned this all along! She wanted him expelled! I didn''t want anything

    to do with Eratz anymore! She''s the one..."

    Julian cut him off with another punch.

    On the battlefield, Eratz watched the scene unfold, one eyebrow raised.

    Beside him, Gabriel observed Eratz''s reaction before speaking, his voice dripping with

    bitterness.

    "Does this satisfy you?" Gabriel asked, his tone mocking. "This is the guy who cost you everything, Eratz. He wanted to make your life hell, but Crystal stopped him."

    Eratz''s expression didn''t waver, his gaze calm and impressed as he observed Gabriel.

    Gabriel''s face hardened, anger flaring in his eyes.

    "You think that''s all? He''s such a piece of trash he even fantasized about Mercury. Right in front of Crystal, he used her pictures to... to pleasure himself. Obsessed over her."

    His voice grew more furious with each word.

    The crowd gasped, a ripple of horror spreading through the spectators. Cassie quickly covered Milo''s ears, her face a mask of fury and disgust, while Roger did the same for Colin, his own

    expression dark with anger.

    Kenny screamed, twisting in the grip of the students who held him. Some of the girls who had been restraining him let go, backing away in disgust.

    "Liar!" he shrieked, his voice desperate and unhinged. "You''re all liars!"

    He glared wildly around, seeing the looks of revulsion from everyone who once knew him.

    Insults and jeers filled the air, voices of former friends and classmates who now condemned

    him.

    Kenny''s face contorted as he looked to the sky, eyes wide and panicked, pleading with a desperation that bordered on hysteria.

    "Please! Someone... anyone... help me! God, please, don''t let this happen! Save me!!!"

    Julian punched him once more, hard enough to break his nose, and with a final push, a group

    of students began forcing Kenny out of the arena.

    He continued to struggle, his screams fading as he was dragged further away, but no one moved to help him, their faces etched with disdain and contempt.

    Gabriel lowered his arms, taking a shaky breath. His gaze softened as he looked at the ground.

    "Crystal... I''m sorry. I know I promised not to bring this up, to keep what you did quiet, but I couldn''t stand by and let you suffer in silence any longer. You deserved better than to carry this burden alone, especially when you did so much to protect him."

    He glanced over at Eratz, the anger flaring up in his eyes. "Eratz, this is the person you should be furious at," he continued, his voice thick with emotion. "That disgusting excuse for a person, him, not her. She did everything she could for you, while he tried to ruin your life. And yet, you keep giving her the cold shoulder, the resentment."

    Gabriel''s fists clenched, his hands trembling.

    "She''s suffered so much, more than anyone should. She kept everyone from attacking you, stood by you in ways you don''t even know. And now? Now she''s the one carrying all this pain...

    for you. You should be begging for her forgiveness, not the opposite."

    He shook his head, his voice breaking.

    "It''s unfair, all of it. The things she went through, the sacrifices she made... she doesn''t

    deserve this. She deserves kindness, understanding, and recognition for everything she did. Open your eyes, Eratz!" His voice raised in a plea, eyes wide, as if hoping his words would finally reach him. "This woman saved you, protected you, gave up everything to keep you

    safe, and yet..."

    Before Gabriel could finish, Eratz''s fist met his jaw with a brutal force, sending him sprawling

    across the arena floor in an instant.

    Gabriel crashed to the ground, stunned, his jaw in pain as he struggled to process what had

    just happened.

    The arena fell into a stunned silence as the crowd collectively held their breath, wide-eyed

    and speechless.

    Eratz casually shook his hand, massaging his knuckles. "Child, when you''re in a fight, you don''t tell your life story."

 Chapter 120: The Beauty and the Beast: The Beast Whisperer vs. The Apex Predator

    Chapter 120: The Beauty and the Beast: The Beast Whisperer vs. The Apex PredatorGabriel massaged his jaw, stunned, still processing the brutal impact. He looked up slowly, catching sight of Eratz stepping toward him with an eerie calm, each step deliberate.

    Eratz''s voice broke the silence, low and chilling, carrying a dangerous edge.

    "You hurt?" Eratz asked, his tone almost amused. "Thought I didn''t hit you too hard. Could''ve ended this battle right there..." His gaze narrowed, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "But what''s the point of coming this far just to get bored?" He tilted his head, his eyes sharp. "Get up."

    Gabriel scowled, pushing through his shock. "You really don''t care, do you? About Crystal? You''re worse than that guy."

    Eratz''s expression barely changed, his eyes growing darker, colder.

    "Care?" he echoed, a soft laugh slipping out, hollow and emotionless. "My care for them disappeared the same day my life changed. Regret? For them? Never felt it, never will." He let the words hang in the heavy air, his voice soft but biting. "Not then, not now."

    Everyone from Genova watched in stunned silence, unable to process his words. Eratz''s gaze swept across them, indifferent, as if dismissing the weight of their shock.

    Softly, almost conversationally, he continued, his tone laced with an ominous calm.

    "What I care about," he continued, his tone cutting like a knife, "Is what I have now. And that''s none of your business. I live day by day, adapting to what''s in front of me. A house calls for family. Training calls for effort. The forest calls for the hunt."

    He took another slow step forward, his aura beginning to pulse, dark and heavy, saturating the air with an overwhelming sense of menace.

    "And an arena..."

    He paused, his voice dropping to a whisper.

    "...calls for massacre."

    A dark aura began seeping from him, like smoke curling out and blanketing the air around them. Gabriel''s eyes widened, his connection with beasts allowing him to feel energy, but what he sensed from Eratz was different. Raw, primal. This wasn''t human; it was something darker, a true beast.

    "Stand up," Eratz commanded, his voice low and chilling, a final warning. "This will be the last time I offer you this privilege."

    Gabriel swallowed, barely holding himself together as he jumped back, feeling the air shift with something dangerous.

    "I expect a lot from you," he said softly, his voice reverberating through the arena.

    Then, in the darkness surrounding him, six eyes gleamed, watching Gabriel with predatory intensity.

    A wave of energy exploded out, filling the arena with pressure, powerful enough to shock the crowd into silence.

    In the locker room, Sia, Kaida, and Raya instinctively flinched, feeling the weight of the aura seep through the walls. Catarina''s hands shook as she stared at the screen.

    Even Raya could sense the shift, the raw force filling the space.

    Three spectacular beasts materialized beside Eratz, each one radiating deadly energy.

    The evolved Thunder Lycaon stood fierce and crackling with electric power.

    The Aetheri''s emanated an eerie, silent calm.

    And the monstrous Terrakrus loomed larger than ever, exuding raw, destructive force.

    Together, their combined aura felt like it could consume the entire arena and annihilate the poor boy facing them.

    Gabriel trembled, his mind struggling to process the beasts before him. His eyes fell on the Thunder Lycaon, a flicker of recognition sparking, but the shock overtook his thoughts, keeping him from realizing this was the same monster he had faced before, in that forest. The smoke dissipated, revealing Eratz standing amidst his beasts, his eyes a pure, glowing white, his smile a terrifying slash across his face.

    His voice echoed through the arena, snapping him back to reality.

    "Beast Whisperer," he drawled. "I heard you''re an expert in beast battles. So..." He stretched out his arm, his hand drawing a trail of light in the air as his pack of monsters growled, their eyes fixed on Gabriel.

    ...let''s have a showdown. My pack... against your pack. A real duel of alphas."

    The crowd fell into an uneasy hush. Gabriel was loved, respected for his empathy and bond with his beasts, his gentle strength in stark contrast to Eratz''s ruthless power.

    But now, with Eratz''s words hanging in the air, they could feel just how dangerous this clash was going to be, and for those knowing both of them, they knew a battle against Eratz always ended with one unable to stand.

    "Oh no..." someone whispered from the stands, the tension palpable.

    "Poor Gabriel..." another murmured, watching him with sympathy and concern.

    In this ocean of pleas for Gabriel, Eratz''s family alone stood undeterred, cheering his name with voices full of pride and encouragement.

    The director of Genova watched in silence, the finality of Eratz''s estrangement settling within her. She could see it now, clear as day, everything was pointless, there would be no alliance,

    no reconciliation.

    He was lost to them, and they to him.

    Rowan''s face tightened, realizing with a pang of guilt and despair how deeply Eratz must resent him, how irreparably he''d changed over the year.

    Yet, facing a monster, Gabriel remained determined. Gritting his teeth, he raised his arm, his voice strong and commanding as he summoned his main team.

    They appeared with a flash of light, each beast a testament to his mastery, a blend of power and elegance that left the crowd gasping in awe.

    Leading his team was Solarius, a magnificent winged lion with a mane of shimmering gold and massive, feathered wings that cast a radiant light across the battlefield.

    Beside him stood Sylphara, an azure, serpentine dragon with scales like gemstones and wings that rippled like water.

    The air around her glowed with a mystical energy, her gaze sharp and piercing. At her side, Verdara, a towering, stag-like creature, stood firm.

    Its antlers were a cascade of branching vines and blossoms, emanating a calming aura that seemed to breathe life into the ground it walked on.

    The final member of Gabriel''s squad was Ignarix, a fierce, agile phoenix with fiery plumage that flickered in shades of crimson and blue, flames licking off its wings as it hovered.

    The crowd erupted in cheers for Gabriel''s dazzling lineup, the elegance of his creatures starkly contrasting the brutal ferocity radiating from Eratz''s beasts. The announcer''s voice cut through the roar of the spectators.

    "What a display! Gabriel has called forth an extraordinary team, beauty and strength in perfect harmony. But can they stand against Eratz and his fearsome monsters?"

    Eratz raised his eyebrows, he was expecting a strong lineup, but a phoenix and a dragon were

    the last of his guesses.

    With a commanding gesture, Gabriel launched the first attack.

    "Solarius, Sylphara, Ignarix, go!"

    Solarius roared, his golden mane flaring like a sunburst as he soared forward, claws extended

    to strike the Thunder Lycaon.

    The Lycaon''s body flickered in and out of shadow, evading the winged lion''s blows with an unnatural speed.

    But the Solarius, undeterred, circled, using his radiant wings to blind the Lycaon momentarily before slashing with claws that glinted like silver.

    The Sylphara took to the skies, her azure scales glimmering as she twisted in midair, directing

    a powerful jet of water toward the Aetheri.

    The Aetheri countered with a wall of psychic energy, the water splitting around it, but the Sylphara pressed on, darting in and out, her serpent-like body flashing as she dodged the Aetheri''s psychic blasts, her elegance matching the precision of her attacks.

    Below, Verdara faced off against the Terrakrus. The stag''s antlers glowed with green energy as he summoned vines from the earth, wrapping them around Terrakrus''s legs.

    But with a thunderous roar, Terrakrus shattered the vines, charging forward with the force of

    an avalanche.

    Each hit it received only fueled its power through Rockbound Fury, the earth around it trembling as it grew stronger with each blow.

    The Verdara responded with a shield of thick roots, but the Terrakrus broke through, its massive claws tearing through Verdara''s defenses, shaking the ground with each impact.

    Ignarix swooped in from above, diving with a trail of fire aimed at the Aetheri. Flames engulfed the arena, casting a warm, crimson light as Ignarix weaved through the battlefield, releasing torrents of fire that Aetheri deflected with calculated precision.

    But as Ignarix soared higher to avoid a counterattack, Aetheri unleashed a beam of electric energy, narrowly missing the phoenix but singeing the edges of its wings.

    Ignarix retaliated with a burst of flames, circling and diving as he tried to outmaneuver

    Aetheri''s attacks.

    In the midst of the chaos, the Thunder Lycaon lunged forward, shadowed and swift, launching a series of powerful electric strikes that crackled through the air.

    The Solarius met each strike with a roar, his golden mane absorbing the shocks, pushing back

    with ferocity.

    But the Lycaon''s attacks grew more relentless, its shadow form twisting and evading, striking

    from every angle.

    "Beautiful and powerful creatures, but they''re up against something else entirely!" the announcer called, his voice filled with awe.

    In the locker room, Catarina, watching the intense battle on screen, murmured, "He''s better than I thought... I didn''t think anyone could stand up to Eratz like this."

    Raya, calm and sitting nearby, replied, "Underestimating someone is easy. Seeing the wall he''s climbing is a better option." Catarina frowned, not entirely understanding, but Sia, watching with a keen eye, nodded

    slowly.

    "The real monster isn''t the one fighting, but the one watching."

    Back in the arena, the battle raged on. Gabriel''s beasts fought valiantly, their strategy precise,

    their moves coordinated under his guidance.

    Ignarix struck from above, raining fire on the Terrakrus, who responded with an earthen S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    shield.

    Sylphara circled, launching water blasts at Aetheri, who countered with beams of electricity

    that sent arcs of light across the field.

    The crowd was captivated, cheering Gabriel''s skill and resilience. Even as Eratz''s beasts gained the upper hand, Gabriel''s pack adapted, each move calculated, each strike a response

    to Eratz''s unyielding onslaught.

    But suddenly, the crowd hushed, a murmur of concern rippling through the audience.

    "Oh no... Oh my God, Gabriel..."

    In the stands, Zara leaned forward, a faint smirk on her face.

    "Here we go..."

    On the battlefield, Gabriel, still commanding his beasts with unwavering determination,

    noticed a subtle shift.

    His creatures instinctively drew back, forming a line of defense in front of their master, their

    eyes fixed on the cataclysm.

    Eratz had started walking.

 Chapter 121: The Beauty and the Beast: The Beast Whisperer vs. The Apex Predator(2)

    Chapter 121: The Beauty and the Beast: The Beast Whisperer vs. The Apex Predator(2)Eratz moved forward, each step heavy and deliberate, his aura seeping from him in thick, dark waves that spiraled out across the arena.

    The ground seemed to tremble beneath him, and the stands erupted in gasps and murmurs as the energy rippled through the air.

    Gabriel stood his ground, fists clenched, his eyes narrowing as he took in the ominous approach.

    "So, you''re finally going all out?" he called, his voice steady but tense.

    Eratz''s grin widened, a glint of pure intensity in his eyes.

    "That''s all I''m asking for," he replied, his voice a low, resonant growl.

    He raised his hand, and unleashed a wave of energy that swept over the arena like a storm, shaking the very foundation.

    People in the stands rose from their seats, some clutching each other, caught between awe and terror.

    Victoria, watching from her vantage point, felt a rare shock settle over her face, unable to look away from the display of sheer power.

    Eratz''s gaze fixed on Gabriel, his irises an unearthly, piercing white, mirroring the eyes of his beasts behind him.

    The Terrakrus let out a thunderous roar that reverberated through the stadium, the Thunder Lycaon''s howl crackling with electric fury, while the Aetheri pulsed with an eerie glow, their combined auras merging with Eratz''s own.

    "I have great expectations for you," Eratz intoned, his voice carrying a weight that seemed to press down on Gabriel. "And I''m sure you can live up to them."

    He pointed two fingers together, his eyes narrowing as energy gathered at their tips. In a flash, he unleashed a beam of pure light, the energy tearing through the air.

    Gabriel barely had time to react, sidestepping at the last second as the beam grazed past him, leaving a trail of searing heat in its wake.

    Not wasting a moment, Gabriel summoned his Phoenix''s power, the beast flying above him in a blaze of crimson and blue flames, its feathers ignited in a fiery glow.

    Gabriel clenched his fists, channeling the Phoenix''s essence into himself, his own body emanating a fiery aura as he fused with its energy.

    The beastification completed, flaming wings on his back and his eyes gleamed with the same fierce, burning intensity as his Phoenix.

    With a fierce shout, Gabriel launched himself forward, his entire body covered in flames as he closed the distance, his fist aimed directly at Eratz.

    But Eratz''s grin only widened as he raised his hand to meet Gabriel''s attack, his arm snapping sideway like a whip.

    Their fists collided, sending shockwaves through the arena.

    The impact pushed Gabriel to the side, his body hurtling through the air before he righted himself, skidding to a halt.

    The two locked eyes, Gabriel''s jaw clenched in determination, his entire body tense and ready.

    In front of him, Eratz stood relaxed, his grin cold and dangerous, an almost feral look in his white-glowing gaze.

    In a heartbeat, they roared and charged at each other, the raw power radiating off them a spectacle for the audience.

    At the same moment, their beasts mirrored their masters'' intent, the Terrakrus thundering forward, shaking the ground with each step, the Thunder Lycaon flickering in and out of shadow as it closed in on Ignarix, and the Aetheri hovering above, its gaze locked on the Sylphara.

    Gabriel''s flame-covered fists collided with Eratz''s, the fiery light meeting the shadows and light swirling around Eratz''s fist, their blows filling the air with shockwaves.

    The clash between Gabriel and Eratz escalated into a storm of raw energy and relentless power, each strike reverberating throughout the arena.

    Flames and shadows and light, twisted together as Gabriel fought with the fierce, fiery strength of his Phoenix, Ignarix, his fists blazing with searing heat.

    Every punch he threw left streaks of flame in the air, creating waves of intense heat that washed over the battlefield.

    But Eratz was an unstoppable force. Each of Gabriel''s fiery strikes was met with an unyielding counter, as Eratz drew upon his arsenal of elemental and physical attacks.

    With a brutal swipe of his hand, he summoned a crackling bolt of lightning, sending it shooting toward Gabriel.

    Gabriel barely dodged, his flames flickering in the electric glow, but Eratz closed in, raising his arm in a sweeping motion that called forth the ability of creating earthquake.

    Stones and debris rose at his command, the ground beneath Gabriel trembling before exploding upward in a cascade of rock.

    Gabriel pushed through, igniting his entire body in flames, blasting through the earthen barrier in a burst of fiery light.

    His fists crackled with heat as he launched another attack at Eratz, his movements swift, weaving through the rock and lightning.

    Yet Eratz barely flinched. With a fierce grin, he dodged each punch and kick with effortless precision, his eyes glowing with an unearthly light.

    When Gabriel managed to land a hit, Eratz countered instantly, unleashing a spirit beam engulfing Gabriel''s body.

    Meanwhile, the battle between their beasts raged just as fiercely, each creature fighting with unwavering loyalty to its master.

    Ignarix, Gabriel''s fiery phoenix, flared in the sky, unleashing torrents of flame upon the Thunder Lycaon.

    But the Lycaon, agile as a shadow, disappeared into darkness, avoiding each fiery blast, then reappeared in an instant to strike with bolts of electricity, forcing Ignarix to swerve and dodge, flames flickering with each electric blow.

    Below, the Terrakrus, bore down on the Verdara, the Verdara''s antlers glowed with green energy as it tried to ensnare the black dragon with roots and vines, but the Terrakrus roared, smashing through the plant life with his sheer weight and power.

    Each time the Verdara struck, Terrakrus''s Rockbound Fury grew, amplifying his strength, his attacks becoming more lethal with every blow he received.

    The Verdara was pushed back, its energy dimming under the onslaught of the Terrakrus''s unstoppable force.

    Sylphara swooped down in a fluid dance, spraying water to counter the Aetheri''s psychic and elemental attacks.

    But the Aetheri''s mastery over elements was unparalleled, and it shifted effortlessly from beams of electricity to blasts of fire and earth, keeping the Sylphara at bay.

    The dragon struggled against Aetheri''s overwhelming versatility, its shimmering scales bearing the brunt of each attack as it tried to hold its ground, but the onslaught from Eratz''s creatures was relentless.

    Despite being outmatched, Gabriel''s beasts held their positions, each one fighting with all its might under Gabriel''s command.

    Gabriel himself, though visibly struggling, remained unyielding. With gritted teeth, he

    pushed his limits, combining his fiery strength with agile dodges, trying to find a way

    through Eratz''s relentless defenses.

    His determination was clear, and the crowd, though awestruck by Eratz''s power, found themselves rooting for Gabriel''s resilience.

    But Eratz had no intention of slowing down. He drew in his energy, focusing it into his fists, his aura darkening as he prepared for a devastating blow.

    Gabriel saw it coming and surged forward, his body igniting in a blazing inferno, ready to counter with everything he had.

    They collided in an earth-shaking impact, the energy crackling between them, but Eratz''s strength overwhelmed Gabriel''s flames, the located blast engulfed Gabriel and sent him crashing in a destructive explosion.

    The impact echoed through the stadium, a blinding flash of energy engulfing the area where

    Gabriel had landed.

    Dust and debris clouded the air as silence fell over the crowd, everyone staring in shock, holding their breath as the smoke began to clear.

    For a moment, the audience watched in stunned silence, and murmurs began to ripple

    through the stands.

    "Is it... over?"

    "He couldn''t have endured that..."

    In the stands, Victoria''s eyes were wide, her hands clenched in anticipation. Cassie, Roger,

    Colin, and Milo watched with bated breath, unable to look away.

    In the crater formed by the last attack, Gabriel lay motionless for a moment before the flames

    around him reignited, swirling up in a fierce blaze.

    Slowly, he pushed himself to his feet, his body still fuming with an unbreakable resolve.

    The crowd erupted, their voices rising in a wave of admiration and support, cheering Gabriel''s

    name.

    Eratz observed with curiosity, his gaze lifting to the phoenix soaring above them.

    The fiery beast let out a deafening screech, its call resonating with its peers, and in response, flames washed over Gabriel''s beasts, rekindling their strength and igniting their forms anew. Solarius rejoined the battle with a fierce growl, making it four against three once more. Gabriel clenched his fists, his voice rising above the noise of the crowd.

    "I''ll never bow to someone who ignores the cries of the girl who saved him," he declared, his tone thick with emotion. "You might have abandoned her, but I won''t. I fight for those who stand up for others, who put themselves on the line. Crystal deserves justice, and I''ll give her that, even if it''s with a single punch."

    The crowd roared, caught in the fervor of his words, moved by his courage. Faces filled with emotion, cheering him on.

    Unphased, Eratz raised a single finger, his gaze fixed on Gabriel.

    "Raijinara," Eratz said softly.

    In an instant, the sky split open, bolts of lightning descending like a furious storm.

    Jagged strikes of thunder rained down in disorder, striking each of Gabriel''s beasts. Ignarix, Solarius, Verdara, and Sylphara were each struck, their fiery bodies flickering out in violent blasts, one by one succumbing to the unrelenting assault of Raijinara''s storm. Gabriel dodged and weaved, desperately trying to evade the cascading lightning, but one bolt struck him squarely, throwing him back into the ground, his body crackling with residual energy.

    Before Gabriel could gather himself, Eratz pointed two fingers at the phoenix falling, firing a piercing beam of light that shot straight through its fiery body.

    The bird screeched, flames dimming as a shimmering bubble enveloped it, containing its

    power.

    Eratz''s voice echoed with finality, his gaze fixed on Gabriel.

    "Now it won''t interfere again," he said, his tone as calm. "Show me how you plan to land that

    punch."

    Gabriel struggled to his feet, groaning as he looked around, realizing that all his beasts lay

    defeated.

    He cast a helpless glance at his phoenix, trapped in the bubble, its fire struggling against the

    confinement.

    As his hope wavered, Eratz summoned his three beasts once more, their imposing forms surrounding him like guardians of destruction.

    Gabriel clenched his fists, forcing himself to think, to come up with a plan. But as he tried to focus, to decipher Eratz''s next move, his opponent closed the distance in an instant. Eratz became a bolt of lightning and crashed into Gabriel, striking him with the force of

    thunder.

    Gabriel''s body slammed into the ground with crushing intensity, the impact sending shockwaves through the arena.

    Eratz placed his foot heavily on Gabriel''s head, pinning him to the ground with an air of

    effortless dominance.

    Gabriel gritted his teeth, struggling to push himself up, but Eratz only sighed, looking almost

    disappointed.

    "You''re strong, child, but there''s a problem," Eratz began, his tone almost casual. "First, you''re just a child. You''ve got skill, but your style is all over the place, it''s too complicated. You''re giving too many commands, trying to control every move. It''s making your beasts dependent on you instead of letting them fight in sync, and in opposite, it''s making you more vulnerable and way too easy to read."

    His foot pulsed with electricity, sending shocks through Gabriel''s body. Gabriel clenched his jaw, a pained scream ripping from his throat.

    "And second," Eratz continued, his tone hardening, "you''re too naive. You came in thinking

    you were on a mission, that you could play the hero against the big bad villain." He shook his head, looking down at Gabriel almost pitifully. "I would have liked facing you on neutral ground. I could try to explain the whole story, but you''ve already chosen your enemy, haven''t

    you?"

    He raised a finger to the sky, and in an instant, lightning crashed down, pooling around his

    hand as it mixed with his own spirit energy, forming a crackling sphere of power growing in

    size.

    The crowd''s fear spilled over, with panicked screams filling the stands.

    "Gabriel, get up!" someone yelled, their voice shaking.

    "Gabriel!" others cried, their desperate voices joining together.

    Eratz''s gaze didn''t waver as he spoke to Gabriel.

    "Come back when I''m in my citizen mode. Maybe then we could..." He trailed off as Gabriel''s

    eyes opened, blazing with renewed defiance.

    In a flash, Gabriel activated his dragon''s beastification, with a body with serpentine features, S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    he was able to slip free from under Eratz''s foot.

    He rolled away, catching his breath.

    But just as he thought he''d found an opening, he heard Eratz''s cold voice, dripping with

    satisfaction.

    "See? That''s exactly what I told you."

    Eratz vanished, appearing in a streak of lightning directly above Gabriel, his charged hand

    aimed down.

    Gabriel looked up, his eyes widening in horror as Eratz''s hand fell on his face, releasing the charged energy in a blinding explosion.

    A sphere of raw power erupted from the contact point, the shockwave tearing through the arena, shaking the ground beneath the spectators'' feet.

 Chapter 122: Conqueror

    Chapter 122: ConquerorThe crowd fell into an uneasy silence, the air thick with the tension and awe left behind by the final, devastating blow.

    Dust and debris filled the arena, a dense cloud obscuring the battleground as everyone leaned forward, breath held, eyes fixed on the settling haze.

    As the smoke lifted, the crowd''s anticipation turned to stunned devastation.

    Eratz stood alone in a massive crater, his figure steady and composed, while Gabriel lay unconscious at his feet, back in his normal form, motionless on the ground.

    The announcer''s voice broke the silence, carrying the finality of the outcome.

    "The victor... Eratz Pandora!"

    In the stands, Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo leapt to their feet, cheering with voices full of pride. Kaida and Catarina laughed, throwing their arms around each other in a burst of relief and excitement, while Zara and Ryder exchanged smiles, clapping for Eratz''s victory.

    Victoria, watching from her seat, let out a small sigh, murmuring to herself.

    "That''s... a problem. He''s even better than I expected. We''ll need to be ready for phase six."

    Around them, however, the crowd remained largely quiet, faces drawn with sadness for Gabriel.

    His courage and resilience had won their hearts, and seeing him defeated stirred a sense of sympathy.

    In the Genova section, Crystal rolled her eyes, annoyed, as her peers exchanged looks of discomfort.

    Then, to everyone''s surprise, Eratz knelt down and grabbed Gabriel by the arm, hoisting him up as if he were nothing more than a bag.

    Without a word, he turned and began walking off the battlefield, carrying Gabriel toward the infirmary.

    A murmur spread through the crowd as they watched Eratz''s unexpected gesture. Faces softened, expressions shifting from shock to appreciation as Eratz showed, in his own quiet way, a glimmer of respect.

    The murmurs grew into applause, a ripple spreading across the stands until the arena erupted into an ovation.

    Eratz, calm and unbothered, continued toward the infirmary, Gabriel over his shoulder, as the roar of admiration filled the stadium.

    Eratz had qualified.

    After ensuring Gabriel was handed over to the infirmary staff and spending a quick five minutes celebrating with Mercury, Eratz made his way back to the locker room. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As he stepped in, Catarina and Kaida greeted him with wide grins.

    "You crushed it out there!" Catarina said, clapping him on the shoulder.

    Kaida crossed her arms, smirking.

    "Seriously, you made it look way too easy."

    Eratz chuckled, settling onto the bench.

    "It wasn''t as easy as it looked. That child was good, really good. But he made a major rookie mistake." He leaned forward, his tone thoughtful. "He had that Phoenix form going, which could''ve kept him in the game longer with its healing. But he swapped out too early and lost his only real advantage."

    Raya, who had been quietly listening nearby, stepped forward.

    "Quite the strategic insight," she said with a smile, reaching forward to place her hand on a bench.

    Her foot caught on a stray gym bag, causing her to stumble, but she regained her balance with a quick dip and a faint smile.

    Kaida chuckled, shaking her head.

    "You alright there?"

    Raya shrugged, brushing it off.

    "Guess my talents only kick in when the fight''s on." She turned to Eratz. "But really, that aura you unleashed out there, it was impressive."

    Eratz gave a small smile.

    "Thanks. Took a lot of work to get it to that level."

    As they continued talking, Eratz''s gaze shifted across the room, landing on Sia standing quietly against the wall, arms folded, her eyes fixed on him with an unreadable intensity.

    Her gaze held his, and there was something in her expression.

    Sia''s lips quirked into a small smile.

    "Interesting fight," she finally said, her tone low and steady. "You handled that better than I expected."

    Kaida, noticing the silent exchange, glanced between Sia and Eratz, her brow furrowing as something clicked.

    "Wait... if you''ve both won..." Her eyes widened. "That means..."

    Catarina''s eyes lit up, realization dawning on her face.

    "Oh, it''s you two. The first semifinals... it''s Eratz versus Sia."

    The room fell silent, the weight of the impending battle settling over them. Eratz''s usual grin sharpened, his gaze meeting Sia''s.

    Sia''s smile widened, a glint of excitement sparking in her eyes.

    "Looks like I''ve drawn the big challenge."

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yeah, looks like you''re in for a tough time."

    Sia waited a few seconds, but seeing that no other word came from his mouth, she frowned.

    The others exchanged glances, a mix of excitement and tension filling the room.

    The silence was finally broken by the voice of a staff member calling from the hallway.

    "Raya and Kaida, you''re up! Head to the arena!"

    Catarina gave Kaida an encouraging nudge.

    "Go show them what you''re made of!"

    Eratz nodded with a smile.

    "Do your best, both of you."

    Already heading toward the exit, Raya walked straight into a chair, barely managing to catch herself. She muttered a few words under her breath with a sheepish grin.

    Kaida laughed, reaching out to guide her.

    "Come on, let''s go. Time to put on a show."

    Kaida and Raya walked side by side down the hallway, a shared yet silent intensity building

    between them.

    Each step brought them closer to the roaring sounds of the crowd, the cheers growing louder, vibrating through the walls as they neared the arena entrance.

    As they emerged into the open stadium, the crowd''s energy surged, filling the air with a

    palpable buzz.

    The arena felt alive, humming with the thrill of the impending clash. Kaida and Raya took their positions, each grounding herself for what was about to unfold.

    Kaida rolled her shoulders, her gaze narrowing as she sized up her opponent. Her hands

    ignited with a flickering heat, flames dancing along her fingers.

    Beside her, Raya tilted her head slightly, almost as if listening to the subtle shifts in Kaida''s energy. Alert, she exhaled deeply, her posture growing still, composed.

    The faintest hint of a smile crossed her lips, and she nodded, as if saying she was ready.

    The announcer''s voice boomed across the arena, heightening the crowd''s anticipation.

    "And now, the third match of the quarterfinals! The Blazing Tempest, Kaida, versus Raya Kobayashi, the Phantom Blade!"

    The crowd erupted, their cheers rising to a fever pitch, the energy in the air thickening with

    excitement.

    Kaida''s smirk grew, the flames around her hands sparking brighter as if feeding off the

    crowd''s enthusiasm.

    She turned to Raya with a look that was both fierce and teasing.

    "Ready to get serious?" Kaida called out, her voice carrying across the field.

    Raya gave the slightest nod, her expression calm but unwavering.

    "I would be honored."

    The two fighters stood frozen, the arena seeming to hold its breath with them, sensing the

    calm before the storm.

    The air between them grew heavier, both of them sinking deeper into their focus, their surroundings fading as they honed in on each other alone.

    Kaida''s flames surged on her fingers, across from her, Raya lifted her chin slightly, taking in

    the atmosphere, the sounds, the feel of the crowd.

    The crowd quieted, a momentary stillness falling over the arena, both fighters frozen in

    perfect concentration.

    And then, with a surge of energy, Kaida''s flames exploded forward, and Raya''s aura emerged,

    the battle igniting in an instant as the Blazing Tempest clashed against the The Phantom

    Blade.

 Chapter 123: Dance of Fire and Steel: Kaida vs. Raya

    Chapter 123: Dance of Fire and Steel: Kaida vs. RayaKaida charged forward, her body igniting in flames, twin hammers in her hands blazing with fiery power. She lunged at Raya, her movements fierce and unrestrained.

    But Raya, with calm precision, sidestepped the oncoming assault.

    As Kaida''s hammers struck the ground, a burst of fire and debris exploded upward, yet Raya was already repositioning herself, unharmed.

    She took a steadying breath, her aura flickering with a soft glow, and her katana began to take shape, materializing in her hand as if drawn from the very air.

    She exhaled softly, and a white aura began to gather around her, swirling with focused energy.

    In one graceful motion, her hand reached out, and her katana began to materialize, forming from the mystic glow into solid white steel.

    Kaida smirked, flames intensifying around her as she charged again. Her hammers swung with brutal force, each strike aimed to break through Raya''s defense.

    The crowd roared as the two clashed, steel meeting flame, the sheer intensity of their battle resonating through the arena.

    Raya''s movements remained fluid, her katana meeting each of Kaida''s strikes with delicate, controlled precision.

    She redirected rather than blocked, her blade moving as if it were an extension of her spirit. Each time Kaida swung with force, Raya countered with grace, letting the hammer''s force disperse without challenging it directly.

    Kaida leapt back, her eyes gleaming with determination as she activated her field spell and brought hell over the battlefield.

    Flames erupted across the battlefield, turning the ground into a searing inferno. Raya darted through the flames, her steps light and quick, evading each fiery burst that Kaida threw her way.

    Her aura intensified, wrapping around her as if shielding her from the heat.

    Kaida smirked as she swung her hammers down, the force of her attack sending shockwaves through the arena, but Raya''s movements remained fluid and controlled.

    For every wild, intense strike Kaida threw, Raya countered with a precise, subtle parrying, deflecting the attack.

    The two fought fiercely, trading blow for blow. Kaida fought back with relentless determination, pushing Raya to her limits.

    The crowd roared as they clashed in the center of the arena, flames and swift blade movements dancing in the space between them, each blow even, their strength and speed matched, creating a wonderful balance that held the audience on the edge of their seats

    From the stands, Victoria observed with a measured gaze.

    "They''re both exceptional," she murmured, half to herself, half to Zara beside her.

    Zara nodded, her eyes wide with admiration.

    "I didn''t think it''d be this close. Kaida''s intensity is incredible... but Raya''s control is something else."

    Beside her, Ryder grinned, fists clenched in excitement.

    "Kaida''s got her! She''s pushing her back."

    In the locker room, Catarina leaned forward, her eyes glued to the screen, her tail flicking anxiously.

    "Come on, Kaida, show her who''s the boss."

    Eratz watched, his expression sharp.

    Kaida gave a shout and summoned her wyvern, the massive creature filling the air above them, flames trailing from its wings. She let its power flow into her, entering beastification. With blazing wings and hammers, she looked like a devil in the flesh rather than a fire master, a sight that sent the crowd into a frenzy, chanting her name in unison.

    Raya stood firm, her katana held in a ready stance, her expression composed. She offered the faintest of smiles, an acknowledgment of Kaida''s prowess.

    Kaida attacked with renewed ferocity, her fire-infused hammers crashing down like meteor strikes, each swing spreading waves of heat across the arena.

    Raya was forced back, her calm steps turning into a measured retreat as she deflected blow after blow.

    With a powerful swing, Kaida''s hammer narrowly missed her, scorching the ground beside her. Raya exhaled, steadying herself, meeting Kaida''s fiery gaze.

    Raya stumbled back, her breathing heavy, her expression thoughtful. She steadied herself, raising her katana and facing Kaida''s blazing gaze.

    "I don''t think I''ll win this," Raya said softly, her voice calm. "Your strength... it''s astounding. Thank you for going all out and pushing me to this edge."

    Kaida rolled her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh.

    "Ugh, of course, the ''it''s not even my final form'' speech. Just get on with it already."

    Raya smiled faintly, bowing her head in gratitude.

    "I will honor your power..."

    Her aura began to intensify, red energy swirling around her like a storm. Her katana took on a darker hue, transforming into a blade of red and black.

    Slowly, she opened her eyes, her irises now a blazing red, perfectly aligned as if she could

    truly see her opponent.

    "... by going all out myself," Raya''s voice echoed through the arena

    Kaida braced herself, flames surging around her as she readied her stance.

    "Bring it on."

    In a flash, Raya vanished, reappearing beside Kaida with a swift slice of her katana.

    A red trail of light followed the blade, carving a searing line across Kaida''s side.

    Kaida grunted, swinging her hammer in retaliation, flames erupting as she aimed to catch Raya off guard.

    But Raya was everywhere and nowhere, moving with an almost supernatural speed.

    Her katana struck again and again, each cut precise and leaving a glowing red mark that pulsed painfully on Kaida''s skin.

    Kaida let out a roar, commanding her wyvern, and it dived toward Raya, a whirlwind of fire descending upon her. Raya''s aura surged, her stance low and focused as she whispered.

    "Shinku no Kaze."

    In one sweeping motion, she swung her katana, a crimson arc of energy slicing through the flames, halting the wyvern''s attack momentarily. The creature let out a frustrated roar, but Raya advanced, her strikes relentless.

    The crowd sat in stunned silence, captivated by the sheer elegance and ruthlessness of Raya''s movements. Each of her attacks held purpose, each strike calculated to weaken her opponent

    without wasting energy.

    "Tsukikage," her katana tracing a wide arc that left a burning line across Kaida''s chest,

    forcing her to stagger.

    Kaida gritted her teeth, summoning every ounce of her strength.

    She launched herself into the air, wings blazing, her hammers raised high. She swung down with all her might, her determination burning as fiercely as her flames.

    Raya''s eyes narrowed, her katana raised.

    "Akatsuki."

    In a flash, her blade danced through the air, a series of rapid, almost invisible strikes that carved across Kaida''s body with unmatched precision.

    Each slash left a glowing trail, the red marks searing with an intensity that brought Kaida to her knees, her wyvern''s flames faltering.

    Kaida roared, her vision reddening, she refused to give in, her hammers swinging with fever.

    Her wyvern joined the assault, a last desperate attempt to overpower Raya with sheer force. But Raya remained untouchable, slipping through each strike like a ghost.

    Her aura absorbed the flames as she advanced, her katana moving with an artistry that left the

    crowd in awe.

    In the stands, Victoria watched with wide eyes.

    Back in the locker room, Catarina''s fists clenched, her face a mixture of frustration and awe.

    "Kaida... don''t give up."

    Eratz watched in silence, biting his lips.

    In the arena, Kaida swung her hammer in a desperate arc, but Raya evaded with ease, her

    katana flashing as it delivered another searing cut along Kaida''s side. The pain from each red

    mark intensified, sapping Kaida''s strength.

    Raya took a step back, her katana poised, she exhaled.

    "You''ve fought well. But this ends now."

    Kaida gritted her teeth, summoning her final reserves, her flames surging one last time, her hammers glowing white-hot as she prepared for a final attack.

    She charged, her wings flaring, bringing both hammers down with everything she had left.

    Raya''s body froze, her katana raised, her stance unwavering. She opened her mouth and her

    words echoed in everyone''s mind.

    "Yamiyo no Ichirin."

    In an instant, Raya moved, her katana a whirlwind of red light, slicing through the air with

    blinding speed.

    Her blade struck multiple times in a heartbeat, each cut leaving a crimson mark.

    The slashes seemed to float in the air, glowing with an eerie beauty.

    Raya reappeared behind Kaida, holding her pose, her katana pointed downward as she

    murmured softly, S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Rest well, Blazing Tempest."

    the red marks across Kaida''s body ignited, a wave of energy rippling outward. Kaida''s

    hammers slipped from her grasp, her field spell dissolving, her wings flickering as she fell to her knees. She struggled, determination blazing in her eyes, but her body could take no more. With a final exhale, Kaida collapsed, her flames extinguished, lying unconscious upon the

    battlefield.

    For a moment, the arena was silent, the beauty and ferocity of the fight leaving everyone

    breathless.

    Then, slowly, the crowd erupted into applause, a thunderous roar of admiration for both

    warriors.

    Raya''s katana dissolved, her aura fading as she bowed deeply to Kaida''s fallen form, her respect evident.

    "The winner... Raya Kobayashi!" the announcer''s voice echoed,

 Chapter 124: The Paths We Walk

    Chapter 124: The Paths We WalkThe crowd''s excitement was electric, echoing through the arena. Cheers and applause roared for Raya, the victor, and the graceful warrior who had just bested Kaida in an intense,

    unforgettable duel.

    In the locker room, Eratz crossed his arms and gave a sigh, though there was a glint of admiration in his eyes.

    "She really is something else," he muttered, impressed by the skill and danger Raya had shown.

    Beside him, Ryder let out a deep breath, shaking his head.

    "That girl is way too strong. How do you even fight something like that?"

    Zara''s face was pale, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to mask her growing concern.

    "There''s only Eratz left," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Victoria''s steady hand rested on Zara''s shoulder.

    "Don''t forget Catarina''s still here," she reminded her.

    Zara managed a weak smile but soon frowned.

    "You think this is funny? Catarina won''t stand a chance against someone who could take down Kaida like that."

    As the crowd''s cheers continued to resonate through the stadium, a heavy silence fell among Kaida''s friends, each of them feeling the weight of her defeat.

    In the dim silence of the infirmary, Kaida lay unconscious, her brow furrowed as if caught in a struggle.

    Her mind was restless, caught in a swirling nightmare where she relived the fight, her hammers swinging only to meet air.

    Raya''s body flickered like a phantom, untouchable, as Kaida''s every strike fell short.

    In her dream, the shadows closed in, pressing on her, slashing her relentlessly. She fought back, her fiery spirit refusing to submit, but the darkness only grew thicker, swallowing her whole.

    With a gasp, Kaida jolted awake, her body heavy with pain.

    She was in the infirmary, covered in bandaids, the pale light filtering through the window casting a faint glow across her bed.

    As her senses returned, she noticed familiar faces around her: Eratz, Mercury, and Catarina, who sat by her side, Catarina''s eyes red and puffy.

    Mercury gave her a small nod, finally able to leave her own bed.

    Kaida groaned, the memory of her defeat hitting her hard.

    "Ugh, don''t tell me I lost... dammit! She completely bodied me..." she muttered, voice thick with frustration.

    Catarina''s expression crumpled, tears filling her eyes as she clutched Kaida''s hand.

    "Kaida, you did so well, I swear... it was amazing," she began, her voice shaking. "I''m so sorry... I couldn''t do anything to help you out there."

    Seeing Catarina cry so openly pulled Kaida from her frustration. She grunted and shook her head, reaching out to gently bump her forehead against Catarina''s.

    "What do you want to do? It was my battle. You know, I want to be mad, but you''re too ridiculous right now. Sometimes you lose, Rina. I''ve lost plenty before, and this defeat isn''t going to change me."

    "But I''m just so sad..." Catarina whimpered, still clinging to her hand. "Mercury was out, and Ryder, and now you... and I''m just sitting here doing nothing, all alone." She sniffled. Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Nya."

    Catarina let out a small, tearful cry clinged at Kaida''s arm.

    "Nyaa, don''t leave me alone with him!"

    Kaida couldn''t help but chuckle, though every movement made her ache.

    "All right, all right. Stop with the drama. I''ll be fine. You''ve got a battle to win, right?"

    As Catarina nodded, wiping her tears, a presence filled the doorway. Raya stood there, looking both relieved and cautious.

    "Kaida, I''m so glad you''re taking this with such philosophy. I was worried you might... resent me."

    Kaida''s expression hardened, and her eyes narrowed.

    "Raya. Get over here."

    Raya''s cautious expression faltered, and she hesitated, feeling something strange in Kaida''s tone.

    "I... Are you sure you''re feeling okay?"

    "Come here," Kaida insisted, starting to descend from her bed, her gaze darkening.

    The murderous aura emerging from Kaida was all the answer she needed.

    "A-Alright! No need to rush!" Raya stammered, rushing back and crashing into the wall behind with a loud thud

    Catarina whined, wiping her tears as she watched Kaida get riled up again.

    "Kaida, please, you''ve got to stop getting mad every time someone wins against you!"

    Kaida finally relaxed, rolling her eyes.

    "Fine, fine. Now tell me about your fight, Rina. You look fine, you won?"

    Eratz and Mercury exchanged knowing looks. Mercury shrugged, chuckling.

    "She absolutely packed her opponent," Eratz said with a grin, a hint of pride in his voice.

    "Yeah," Mercury agreed. "Didn''t even have to break a sweat, look how clean she looks." Catarina''s face, however, fell into silence. She stared at the floor, her expression unreadable, and then without a word, she rose and quickly left the room.

    Kaida raised an eyebrow.

    "What''s with her?"

    Before anyone could answer, a loud roar of excitement erupted from outside. Staff members suddenly rushed past the infirmary door, their voices frantic.

    "She''s here! They''ve found her!"

    The group inside froze, looking at the door as the noise grew louder.

    The quarterfinals drew to a close with a less-than-memorable win from Catarina. Her opponent barely put up a fight, and though the crowd clapped politely, their energy was

    already on the upcoming semifinal matchups.

    As the ceremony began, the eight remaining fighters lined up in the center of the arena, each receiving a standing ovation from the audience.

    The cheers rolled through the stands like waves, growing louder with every second.

    The chairman stood at the front.

    "We have seen truly phenomenal battles today," he began, his voice echoing across the arena

    as he gestured toward the fighters. "These warriors gave their all, pushing themselves to the

    very limit."

    The crowd erupted into another round of applause. Mercury, standing beside Eratz, subtly reached for his hand, their fingers brushing together.

    Leaning in close, she rested the side of her head against his, getting silently comforted.

    Across the arena, Lisa''s gaze dropped, her expression shadowed, while Crystal glared at them, her eyes dark and full of resentment.

    At the chairman''s gesture, the fallen warriors, Mercury, Kaida, Gabriel, and Bastian, stepped forward as the applause swelled to honor their efforts.

    The crowd''s cheers followed them as they left the arena floor, their performances and determination celebrated.

    The chairman turned back to the remaining competitors, his voice booming as he introduced the matchups for the next stage.

    "And now, we look to the semifinals, where the very best will clash! For the first match, Eratz Pandora vs. Sia Verizion!"

    The names appeared in bold letters on the screens around the stadium, sending a ripple of

    excitement through the audience.

    Then, he continued.

    "And for the second, Kobayashi Raya vs. Catarina!"

    The crowd''s roar reached a fever pitch, with people cheering and buzzing over the thrilling line-up.

    Catarina stared at her name on the screen, a half-disbelieving laugh escaping her lips as she shook her head in astonishment.

    "I really made it this far... but it''s over now," she said, her voice a mix of joy and resignation. Beside her, Raya placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, her smile warm. "Don''t say that. I''m certain you have something amazing in store. I look forward to it."

    "My lady, my strongest beast is a growling cat. I''m dead as hell"

    On the other end of the line, Sia stood with her usual calm, her gaze set forward.

    "The path is set," she murmured, almost to herself. "My road will be filled with the

    strongests and thus I''ll truly become the best." She stepped forward and spoke without

    turning her back.

    "Rest well tonight. I expect my biggest challenge tomorrow."

    Eratz looked at her back for a brief moment before glancing back at the crowd, his expression

    unreadable.

    The ceremony concluded, the crowd''s applause filling the arena as the fighters turned to exit.

    Later that night, outside the hotel, Mercury and Kaida were preparing to leave. Victoria, Zara, and Ryder were there to send them off.

    Just as they were about to step away, Victoria''s eyes twinkled as she nodded behind them.

    Turning, Mercury and Kaida spotted Eratz and Catarina approaching. Catarina''s eyes were red

    from tears with an exaggerated pout.

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, barely hiding a grin.

    "What are you two doing here?"

    Eratz shrugged with a lopsided smile.

    "It''s a little lonely back there. We thought we''d spend some time with you."

    A soft warmth spread among them as they exchanged smiles, the tension of the day giving

    way to a rare, shared moment of ease.

    Victoria checked her watch.

    "Looks like we have a bit of time left."

    Kaida let out a sarcastic laugh.

    "You two know you''ve got big matches tomorrow against actual monsters, right?"

    Mercury nodded, but her expression softened.

    "We can spare a little time. We''ve never done this before, a real celebration with everyone in

    the agency."

    Zara chuckled, pushing back a strand of hair.

    "I''d love that. I got too stressed lately... It sounds... perfect."

    Kaida groaned, casting a wary glance at the group.

    "We might all be wiped out tomorrow, you know. Sia''s a beast, and then there''s Raya. You

    know it, they''re no joke."

    Silence settled over the group, each of them absorbing Kaida''s words. But then Eratz raised a

    finger.

    "Technically, the final is tomorrow. If I can win against Sia, and Raya doesn''t change her

    style, I should win the tournament."

    The group looked at him, momentarily troubled by the audacity of his confidence, but what

    was more troubling was that he seemed genuinely serious.

    As night blanketed the city, a vibrant atmosphere came to life.

    The streets were alive with laughter and celebration, people spilling from restaurants and

    bars, toasting to victories and consoling over losses.

    Lights hung like stars against the night sky, illuminating the city''s skyline in a brilliant

    display. In a cheap restaurant, Eratz, Mercury, Catarina, Ryder, Zara, and Victoria were sharing stories and laughter. Ryder was playfully reenacting some moves he''d seen in the matches.

    His friends laughed with him, the bonds between them deepening in this shared moment of

    joy.

    In other parts of the city, anticipation was building. In her hotel room, Sia stood in her bathroom, her gaze intense as she stared at her reflection in the mirror.

    At a high-end restaurant, Crystal sat across from Gabriel. Her smile was warm, her words soft,

    while Gabriel looked down, awkward and embarrassed to be cheered up by her after failing defending her.

    But not everyone was basking in the revelry.

    Kenny, disheveled and forlorn, sat slumped in the back of a taxi, tears streaking down his face

    as he looked out the window.

    A teacher sat beside him, escorting him back to the academy, his expression a mix of pity and

    disappointment.

    The vibrant lights outside seemed to mock him, a reminder of all he''d lost.

    Elsewhere, Lisa stood on a lonely balcony, gazing up at the stars with a contemplative

    expression. Meanwhile, Rowan sat in his dimly lit hotel room, a glass in hand as he pondered his own path. The amber liquid swirled in the glass, his reflection wavering in its depths. The city held its breath, each person caught in the tide of the tournament''s events.

    Some were filled with the joy of victory, others crushed by defeat, and a few were caught between two paths, uncertain of where they would lead.

    The next day at the afternoon''s fall, the city transformed. Fireworks burst into the sky, Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    painting the night with colors that rivaled the stars.

    The arena pulsed with energy, the stands packed with fans who had traveled far to witness

    these epic clashes.

    And with a final, thunderous roar from the crowd, the stage was set. The semifinals were about to begin.

 Chapter 125: The Queen of Ice and the King of Beasts: Frost Empress vs. Apex Predator

    Chapter 125: The Queen of Ice and the King of Beasts: Frost Empress vs. Apex PredatorThe opening ceremony was breathtaking.

    The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the arena, and projector lights beamed across the stands in bright, shifting colors.

    Fireworks burst into the sky, one after another, each explosion leaving streaks of glittering light against the horizon.

    The crowd roared as fireworks lit up the stands, and each cheer added to the electricity in the air.

    The floor glimmering under the intense lights, golden banners with intricate patterns draped around the stadium, catching the light with every gust of wind. Fans from every corner of the region packed the seats, their excitement palpable as they waited for the battles to begin.

    In the stands, Crescent Moon''s people sat together.

    Victoria watched the arena with a calm expression, beside her, Zara seemed tense, her fingers gripping her seat tightly. Kaida sat in stoic silence, her gaze steady, while Ryder watched with a growing anxiety.

    Nearby, Cassie and Roger sat with Colin, Milo, and Mercury. Cassie''s face glowed with pride, occasionally exchanging amazed gazes with Mercury.

    In another row, Genova Academy people sat together, although the director was noticeably absent.

    Rowan gazed at the arena with a distant expression, lost in thought, while Lisa, seated nearby, staring ahead with no sign of emotion.

    She was there in body, but her mind seemed far from the noise and lights.

    Finally, the announcer''s voice resonated on every corner of the stadium.

    "Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to the grand semifinals! Today, we witness the culmination of strength, skill, and unbreakable spirit. These fighters have given everything in each round, and today, only four remain!"

    The crowd erupted, their cheers echoing through the stands, their excitement spilling over as the announcer paused.

    "Today is not just a battle, it is a legacy! A chance to prove to oneself, and to the world, that they are unstoppable! Today, two will advance for the greatest stage of Greenridge!"

    Fireworks burst once more, painting the sky in vibrant colors as fans waved banners, cheered for their champions, and filled the arena with their voices.

    "Let us honor the strength and spirit of these warriors! Today, we celebrate their resilience and their power!"

    The crowd responded with a thunderous cheer, admiration filling the stadium as the fighters waited to step into the spotlight.

    In the locker room, the atmosphere was entirely different.

    The roars and cheers felt distant, like a world away. Eratz watched the screen as the fireworks burst outside, and though the ceremony was thrilling, he felt the weight of solitude within these walls.

    There was something about the energy outside that couldn''t be captured from the screen here.

    Beside him, Raya nodded. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I can understand the clouds in your heart. The best world is out there," she murmured. "You share it with everyone. Being strong has a downside, everyone''s outside together, and we''re so far away."

    Catarina, nearby, overheard and gave a soft sigh.

    "She''s right. It''s different outside." She managed a small smile, her voice wistful as she added, "Is it even worth it? Maybe we are mistaken? Maybe you should all just forfeit. Go enjoy the day outside."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Do you even believe in that miracle?"

    Catarina let out a soft, resigned laugh.

    "Nyaha... it wasn''t wrong to try."

    Just then, a staff member entered, his expression serious.

    "Eratz, Sia, it''s time."

    Eratz and Sia looked up.

    The crowd''s cheers surged louder as the announcer began listing the challengers'' merits, building the tension even further.

    "Our first semifinalist," he proclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement, "With an undefeated streak! His run has been like none we''ve seen before, each opponent facing not only his skill but the near-impossible task of ending his reign. Every match, he''s given us pure, unstoppable force and no opponent stood on their feet after losing!"

    The crowd''s applause was deafening, fans cheered Eratz''s name.

    "And his opponent, a master of ice! The Frost Empress herself, known for her unparalleled control of the field. Some say she''s the best in the region, and many argue, in the entire country!"

    The energy in the arena soared as the announcer continued, detailing how even the arena''s shield had been reinforced especially for this semifinal to handle the power about to be unleashed.

    Fans cheered, their voices blending into a rising wave of anticipation.

    Mercury, seated beside Cassie, nudged Milo and Colin with a smile.

    "Look, he''s coming!"

    The gates opened with a burst of pyrotechnics, flames shooting up from the ground like an alley of fire, framing Eratz''s entrance. He stepped into the arena, the cheers intensifying. Dressed in a long white coat adorned with black and silver designs, he radiated an aura of calm power as he strode forward, his gaze fixed on the battlefield.

    On the opposite side, Sia entered with equal grace, her calm demeanor unfazed by the roaring

    crowd.

    The announcer''s voice took on an emotional tone, his words filled with a mix of pride and

    reverence.

    "Today, we witness two legends in the making, two figures who represent the pinnacle of their generation. And yet, one of them will fall today."

    Eratz and Sia met in the center of the arena, the projectors illuminating them.

    Fireworks burst again, lighting up their faces as the announcer called out their titles.

    "The Apex Predator versus the Frost Empress!"

    The crowd roared, the anticipation reaching its peak.

    The noise gradually faded, silence thickening in the air. All eyes were on them as a single, piercing tone sounded, marking the start of the battle.

    Sia wasted no time.

    With a swift motion, she raised her hand, activating her field spell.

    Instantly, a wave of frost surged across the arena floor, spreading like a tidal wave of ice.

    The ground shimmered with icy crystals, a pale mist rising and thickening as the frost advanced, overtaking everything in its path.

    Eratz''s gaze flickered as he leapt into the air, dodging the freezing wave, his body cutting through the cold mist as he soared above the encroaching frost.

    Without missing a beat, Sia unleashed sharp beams of ice, her eyes narrowing.

    Each beam shot through the air with deadly precision, slicing toward Eratz. He twisted mid-

    air, each movement as he avoided the crystalline attacks, his gaze never leaving her even as he evaded each blow.

    Then, from the frost-covered ground, her summoned creatures emerged, arctic beasts crafted

    from ice, beautiful yet deadly.

    Their forms glistened under the arena lights, their bodies shifting with a predatory grace as

    they rushed to Eratz, their piercing eyes fixed on him.

    Sia''s expression remained calm, observing his every move.

    Eratz''s expression hardened. With a powerful surge of energy, he entered his beastification with his three aces, his aura unfurling around him like a storm cloud.

    His gaze sharpened, he dove forward with destructive force, his strikes landing with explosive impact as he tore through Sia''s ice beasts one by one.

    Sia''s calm expression didn''t falter, but her eyes narrowed slightly, watching with meticulous precision as Eratz tore through her creatures.

    She took note of his moves, observing his powerful physicality, she also noticed how, each

    time he struck, a faint layer of frost clung to him.

    The chill crept over his body, slowing him down, even if only for a fraction of a second.

    But despite the disorder of his attacks he kept his eyes on her, widely open, on every angle

    there was a red on her.

    Her lips pressed together slightly in a thoughtful line.

    A single, precise thought crossed her mind: ''If I drop my guard once, it''s over for me.''

    Eratz stepped back momentarily, his breath steadying as he surveyed the ice clinging to his

    limbs, its biting chill slowing his movements.

    He clenched his jaw, his eyes focused as he quickly analyzed the situation.

    His brute force was effective, but the frost threatened to sap his strength if he relied on it too

    heavily.

    Understanding the need for a new approach, he inhaled deeply, his aura intensifying as he created a dome of energy around him.

    It swept through the air in a powerful gust, clearing the chill slightly and warming his form.

    Sia remained poised, her gaze flicking across the field as she sensed the shift in his tactics.

    Her calm demeanor didn''t waver, but her stance grew subtly more defensive as she prepared

    for what was to come.

    Her creatures dissolved back into mist as she glided back, her eyes following the arcs of energy now surging toward her as Eratz launched a series of long-range attacks. Beams and sweeping arcs of energy shot through the air, and Sia moved with grace, her body

    gliding across the frosted ground as she evaded his strikes. Each time she dodged, her movements were fluid, her body barely disturbing the mist that surrounded her. Eratz watched her closely, his gaze intense and unwavering, each attack aimed with precision.

    He noted the way she moved, calculated and without a single wasted step. Her focus was

    relentless, and he understood the caution in her movements, she wouldn''t risk a single mistake, he had to force his way.

    In a flash, he closed the distance, appearing directly in front of her.

    His hand was open, aura concentrated within it, and he released a powerful beam of energy

    point-blank toward her face.

    The force of the blast shook the arena, the ground trembling as dust and debris filled the air in

    a thick cloud.

    The crowd held their breath, their eyes wide as they watched the smoke, waiting for a sign of

    what had happened.

    As the dust settled, Sia emerged from the haze, her form disheveled.

    Her pristine clothes were torn, her hair loose and wild, yet her face was calm as ever, her icy

    blue eyes meeting his gaze.

    She lifted a hand, brushing a strand of hair away from her face, and for the first time, the faintest hint of a smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.

    "Did you think it would be that simple?" Her voice was low and quiet,

    Eratz''s gaze sharpened, his expression unreadable, though a slight narrowing of his eyes betrayed his surprise. He hadn''t expected her to withstand such a direct hit.

    Sia''s calm expression returned, but the faint, glint in her eyes hinted at the depths of her

    confidence.

    With a single motion, she raised her hands once more, and the frost that covered the arena

    grew thicker, spreading farther and rising like a dense mist, wrapping the battlefield in a bone-chilling fog.

    The temperature dropped further, a biting cold settling over the arena as the ice intensified.

    A low, resonant growl echoed from within the mist, deep and powerful, vibrating through the

    air with a primal intensity.

    In the stands, Mercury leaned forward, her expression hardening.

    "Here it comes..."

    Sia''s eyes gleamed, her stance solid and unwavering as she looked at Eratz.

    The determination in her gaze seemed to intensify, and her voice was steady.

    "It''s time to end this."

    From within the mist, a massive creature began to materialize, its shape emerging slowly

    through the freezing fog.

    The creature''s icy white form seemed to radiate power, its body covered in thick, crystalline

    fur that glistened under the arena lights.

    As it stepped forward, its massive paws left frost on the ground, each movement heavy with

    controlled power.

    Its fangs, sharp and glistening, were bared, and its eyes shone with an unnatural, piercing

    coldness that sent a chill through everyone watching.

    Nivalys let out a roar that echoed through the stadium, frost crystals forming in the air with each breath, the temperature plummeting further.

 Chapter 126: The Queen of Ice and the King of Beasts: Frost Empress vs. Apex Predator(2)

    Chapter 126: The Queen of Ice and the King of Beasts: Frost Empress vs. Apex Predator(2)Nivalys, the sabertooth ice calamity, let out a feral growl, its icy breath frosting the air in front of it.

    The creature''s presence made the temperature drop sharply, ice spreading further across the battlefield. Sia stood behind her beast, her eyes calm yet intense as she observed Eratz.

    Eratz took a moment, his eyes scanning Nivalys, taking in its stats and understanding the power it brought to Sia''s arsenal.

    [Name: Nivalys, The Polar Tempest

    Affinity: Ice

    Rank: Calamity

    Abilities:

    Glacial Roar: Unleashes a chilling roar that spreads ice across the battlefield/ Frostbite Claws: Sharpens its claws with icy energy, allowing it to slice through defenses while inflicting severe frost damage/Blizzard Veil: Envelops itself in a blizzard-like aura, enhancing its speed and agility while creating a frost shield around its body.]

    He knew that from here on, Sia held the upper hand. Her field spell and her beast granted her the control, and his game of slowly building up his power was now a gamble.

    Sia''s voice broke the cold silence, steady and resolute.

    "You''ve fought well," She paused, her gaze sharp. "But now it''s time to end this."

    Strangely, Eratz nodded, not by sarcasm or teasing.

    He knew that the field spell would wear him down over time if he kept using his physical power alone.

    Even if he tried another beastification, her ice would continue to spread, relentless.

    Sia''s advantage was clear, but it was also a call for checking his own arsenal.

    Sia remained still, watching him, prepared but cautious.

    Despite her advantage, she didn''t dare underestimate the monster in front of her, and soon she realized why.

    Eratz took a slow breath and clenched his fist in front of his face, his gaze steady.

    A powerful aura began to burn from his hand, slowly enveloping his body completely, then erupting outward in a dome of energy.

    The surge was phenomenal, a wave of power rolling through the arena like an explosive gust. From Sia''s perspective, it looked like an unstoppable force, an energy dome crashing towards her, each layer of the dome swirling with a living, vibrant energy.

    She quickly summoned her ice shield, the frozen barrier rising around her as the dome passed through her.

    It didn''t harm her physically, yet she felt an unsettling shift in the air, as though something within the energy was hitting her defenses.

    She watched in surprise as the ice around her began to disintegrate in places, the energy having disrupted her field.

    The crowd was stunned, breaths held in astonishment.

    Mercury leaned forward, her eyes wide and bright. Victoria''s lips parted in awe, while Zara watched in silence, her face a mix of shock and disbelief.

    Kaida and Ryder were frozen, mouths slightly open, their disbelief mirroring the audience''s.

    It was an historical moment for many people who once asked what was the full power of the Apex Predator.

    On that day, Eratz used a field spell for the first time in public.

    On the ground, Eratz carefully observed his surroundings. The ice still lingered in certain spots, showing that Sia''s field spell hadn''t been entirely erased.

    But now, he had weakened her grip on the arena, giving himself space to breathe.

    He locked eyes with her, the young woman appearing momentarily taken aback, a rare break in her calm demeanor.

    He nodded at her.

    "I agree with you, now it''s time to end this."

    Raising his hand high, Eratz summoned an enormous bolt of lightning from above.

    It struck the arena floor behind him with a thunderous crack, spreading into wings of electricity before a piercing screech tore through the air.

    From within the light emerged Raijinara, its wings arcing with lightning and wind. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The crowd gasped, voices rising in a wave of stupefied excitement.

    This was the Eratz they had longed to see fully unleashed, this was it, finally he was doing something new.

    Zara nearly stood up, her mouth open as she watched. It was the first time Eratz had truly gone all out, and even those who had wished for this moment were stunned into silence.

    Sia gritted her teeth, her calm exterior cracking for just a moment. She refused to be intimidated.

    She could feel that her own field spell, while weakened, still had some hold. She wouldn''t let him take complete control.

    The two fighters locked eyes, each aware of the monumental clash that was about to begin.

    And then, they launched into a furious battle.

    A blinding exchange of beams, energy arcs, and ice blasts filled the arena. The air crackled with Eratz''s lightning, while sia unleashed waves of frost, her hands moving in graceful but deadly precision.

    The beams of energy clashed in mid-air, each blow sending ripples through the stadium.

    Eratz surged forward with incredible speed, his aura expanding as he channeled more energy, directing every attack with calculated force.

    Sia countered with icy resilience, her field spell reinforcing her frost attacks. She moved with swift, controlled precision, summoning her icy beasts to assist her.

    The creatures of frozen beauty fought back against Eratz''s lightning, but his destructive power tore through them one by one.

    Each time he struck, ice attempted to cling to his body, freezing over his skin, but with a surge of aura, he shattered the frost each time, refusing to let it slow him.

    The battlefield became a storm of opposing forces, his energy clashing against her ice, lightning and energy strike tearing through the mist while beams of frost pushed back.

    Eratz began to sense the boundaries of his field spell, slowly expanding it as he grew more accustomed to its reach.

    He started to control the energy within it, redirecting Sia''s attacks and amplifying his own

    speed.

    Even when she managed to freeze parts of his body, he would break free, his movements fast and seamless.

    Sia''s breathing grew labored, a hint of frustration in her usually calm eyes.

    She was giving it everything, but her attacks no longer seemed to freeze him as they once had, and his assaults were becoming dangerously difficult to block.

    She summoned more creatures, each one more resilient, yet Eratz''s relentless thunder attacks kept destroying them with ease.

    Around, the two calamity beasts clashed as well, Raijinara''s thunderous attacks battling

    Nivalys''s frost.

    The air thickened with clouds of mist as thunder and ice met. Raijinara had the upper hand, sending bolts of lightning toward the sabertooth ice beast below.

    Nivalys roared defiantly, its ice coating the air with deadly crystals, but Raijinara''s

    thunderous cries echoed louder.

    Sia''s calm eyes took in the scene, quickly calculating. Seeing her beast dominated against a flying opponent, she redirected Nivalys, commanding it to take on Eratz directly.

    The sabertooth charged toward him, ice claws glinting, while Eratz quickly adapted, directing

    his energy to meet it.

    He matched the beast''s ferocity, every challenge spurring him to grow even stronger, his movements becoming more fluid, almost instinctual.

    His eyes gleamed with excitation, and with a powerful leap, he soared above the arena,

    lightning crackling around him. He raised a hand and directed a massive blast toward Sia.

    She dodged with a swift roll, but the force of the wind swallowed her, pushing her back as she struggled to regain her stance.

    Despite Eratz''s overwhelming power, Sia didn''t yield.

    She summoned more ice around herself, fortifying her defenses, pushing her field spell to

    take control once again.

    A mist of frost enveloped her as her field spell regained its hold, and she returned each attack

    with equal force, refusing to let him gain ground.

    The battle became like a dance, each movement precise, each attack perfectly timed.

    Energy clashed with ice, lighting up the arena in brilliant colors, the spectacle breathtaking.

    The crowd sat in awe, mouths agape as the battlefield shifted with every strike. In the Genova section, former comrades of Eratz lowered their arms, faces blank with shock at the scene

    before them.

    Their eyes shone with admiration, while Lisa''s expression began to change.

    Slowly, as she watched Eratz move, memories came rushing back.

    His graceful steps, his resolve, all reminded her of times they''d shared, the way he once led

    her with the same calm strength.

    She saw him emerge from ice, shards flying off his body as he shook them away with ease, and

    she remembered the river they used to play in.

    Crystal''s words rang in her ears: "He never changed."

    She held her chest, a tear slipping from her eye as she murmured softly.

    "It''s true... you never changed. You''re more dazzling now, more powerful, but you''re still the

    same... I''m the one who lost myself."

    Meanwhile, Sia and Eratz''s battle raged on, each attack more intense than the last.

    Sia''s face finally showed signs of strain, her breaths uneven. She had taken more damage in this fight than ever before, her usual calm replaced with sheer resolve.

    Her sabertooth beast was growing weaker against Raijinara''s relentless lightning strikes,

    each clash pushing it back, weakening its ice.

    Raijinara''s thunderous presence filled the arena, lightning arcing from its body as it clashed

    with Nivalys.

    Eratz and Sia barely took their eyes off each other, even as their beasts tore through the battlefield and their attacks reached them with destructive force.

    Energy blasts and ice waves collided, shaking the ground beneath them as the tension reached

    its peak. Then, in a final, devastating surge, Eratz pushed forward, his aura exploding around him, bright and fierce. Sia''s expression tightened, a flash of resolve in her eyes.

    She summoned every last ounce of her power, a whirlwind of ice and snow enveloping her.

    Her sabertooth beast let out a defiant roar, charging straight at Eratz while she unleashed one last, desperate assault.

    Ice shards, razor-sharp and deadly, spiraled around her hands as she thrust them forward in a

    frigid beam.

    But Eratz''s strength was overwhelming, his energy surging outward with relentless force.

    With a powerful swing, he directed a thunderous blast directly at her. She dodged at the last

    possible second, the force of the energy rippling past her, but the shockwave threw her back, the force swallowing her whole.

    In that instant, everything slowed. The crowd held its breath as Sia''s body was engulfed in the raw energy, her body flickering behind the blaze of light.

    She seemed suspended within the blast, swallowed by Eratz''s power.

    Her icy shield shattered around her, pieces of it sparkling in the air like falling stars.

    But even as the frost began to disintegrate around her, Sia gritted her teeth, her eyes burning with determination as she dug her heels into the ground, refusing to back down.

    With a final surge of strength, she straightened, raising both hands, palms outstretched, gathering all of her remaining energy into a last, desperate attack.

    Frost coated her arms, her aura radiating a formidable blue glow as she pushed forward. Eratz watched her, his eyes narrowing as he charged energy into his own fist.

    He clenched it tightly, his aura flaring even brighter, and with an exhale of focus, he brought

    his hand forward, meeting her attack head-on.

    The two forces collided with an earth-shattering roar, beams of ice and energy intertwining

    and crackling with raw power.

    The impact was so intense that even the arena shield strained, visible cracks appearing along

    its surface.

    Energy whirled around them, their bodies silhouetted against the blinding clash as they poured everything into this final struggle.

    They stood in the eye of a relentless blast, their hands raised, beams of pure power colliding

    and merging into a furious whirlwind around them.

    The force tore at their bodies, the frost of Sia''s field spell battling against the unyielding heat

    and lightning of Eratz''s aura. Their faces were intense, their expressions unwavering as the power roared between them.

    In a single, intense moment, Eratz shifted his stance, bringing both hands forward in unison.

    With a determined roar, he unleashed a burst of energy even greater than before, his entire being pouring into the strike.

    Sia''s eyes widened as his power surged forward, overwhelming hers. She fought to hold her ground, her arms shaking under the strain.

    The energy sphere between them grew brighter, pulsing with raw, chaotic energy. The arena

    shook, the ground cracking beneath them as their combined power reached a tipping point. Then, with one final push, they both unleashed everything they had, and the sphere exploded.

    A cataclysmic blast erupted, the impact so intense it shattered the protective shield around the arena, sending a wave of energy spiraling upward into the sky, blazing across the heavens in a dazzling column of light that seemed to pierce the clouds themselves.

    The air was filled with the sound of crackling energy, the blast visible from miles away as it

    painted the sky with hues of electric yellow and icy white.

    The arena erupted in a wave of fear and awe. Victoria''s gaze was intense, while Zara watched with awe, Cassie and Roger instinctively raised their arms, shielding their faces, their eyes wide with shock. Kaida and Ryder crouched low, their hands coming up reflexively as the

    shockwave swept over them.

    Mercury quickly wrapped herself around Colin and Milo, pulling them close as they cowered against her, both screaming.

    Crystal covered her eyes, and Lisa shielded her face, turning to the side.

    As the blinding light slowly faded, the sky returned to its natural shade, and a silence fell over

    the arena.

    All eyes turned to the center, where the two warriors stood, battered and bruised. Their clothes hung in tatters, their hair disheveled, their bodies marked by the battle.

    Eratz and Sia faced each other, their hands outstretched and only inches apart, perfectly

    immobile.

    Their breaths came in calm gasps, and for the first time, their expressions softened, never leaving the other''s gaze.

    They stared at each other for a long moment, letting the silence linger, and then, a faint sigh

    escaped Sia''s lips.

    "I knew it wouldn''t be easy... but even I didn''t imagine this," she murmured, her voice barely audible as her strength faded.

    Her eyes closed, and her body gave out, sinking gracefully to the ground as her consciousness

    slipped away.

    Eratz remained standing, breathing heavily, his gaze fixed on her. For a heartbeat, there was a

    profound silence. Then, the announcer''s voice, trembling with excitement, echoed across the

    arena.

    "The... The winner... Eratz Pandora!"

 Chapter 128: At the Edge of Greatness

    Chapter 128: At the Edge of GreatnessThe evening sky was tinged with the soft glow of fireworks, colors blooming like flowers above the arena as the closing ceremony for the semifinals began.

    The stadium lights illuminated the four fighters standing at the center, Eratz, Raya, Sia, and Catarina, each one receiving cheers that swelled from the stands.

    Their faces were bathed in flickering lights from the fireworks above, the energy of the crowd a hum of admiration and awe.

    The chairman stepped forward, his voice carrying with pride and warmth as he addressed the fighters and the spectators.

    "Tonight," he began, "we stand before not only some of the finest warriors in Greenridge but perhaps the best in the entire country." His eyes swept over the four finalists, pausing briefly on each of them. "You have reached the very roof of Greenridge, the pinnacle that so few attain. For all of us, it is a moment of pride to witness such talent and dedication. Each of you stands on the podium of greatness."

    The crowd roared, their voices merging into a powerful ovation, and he raised a hand to quiet them before he continued.

    "And to those who have fallen here in the semifinals, Sia Verizion and Catarina, your journeys have proven your strength and resilience." His words lingered in the air as he turned his gaze on Sia, who stood with her usual calm and steady expression.

    The crowd''s applause swelled for them, a tribute to their relentless power and journey.

    Catarina, however, wore a completely different look. Her face twisted in annoyance, her gaze judging and filled with a thousand insults as it lingered on Raya, the victor who had just humiliated her.

    After the applause softened, Catarina and Sia turned away from the podium, heading toward the exit.

    After a few steps, Sia paused, still facing forward.

    "This is the last time I lose to you," she said even without turning back. "You better not lose before I get my chance to face you again."

    Eratz''s smiled as he called back.

    "I''m always ready. See you at the top."

    Sia gave a slight nod, resuming her walk without another glance back.

    The chairman then addressed the crowd with fervor.

    "We now stand on the precipice of the grand finale, the culmination of unparalleled skill and determination. Throughout this tournament, we''ve witnessed fighters rise, pushing beyond their limits to reach this zenith. The final match will crown the supreme champion of our region, the epitome of strength and prowess."

    He paused, allowing the anticipation to build.

    "Prepare yourselves for a clash of titans: the indomitable Apex Predator versus the enigmatic Phantom Blade. This is the moment we''ve all been waiting for, the ultimate test of might and mastery. The final battle of Greenridge league!"

    The crowd''s excitement exploded.

    As the night settled over the hotel, Catarina stood in her room, tossing clothes and items that clearly weren''t hers into her bag.

    They were all branded and expensive, courtesy of the tournament sponsors, and Catarina seemed determined to take as many as she could.

    She stuffed a sleek jacket into her bag, mumbling about Raya as she zipped it up.

    Eratz leaned in the doorway, his arms crossed, watching with raised eyebrows as she gathered her loot.

    She launched into a tirade, half to herself and half to him, her voice laced with bitterness. "I mean, can you believe that? She said Neko, that sound like a racial slur for cats!" Catarina groaned, yanking a branded water bottle off the dresser. "Just out of nowhere, bam! Doesn''t even give me a chance to fight. She gave Ryder nya a chance, she started fighting Kaida without that sword, so why did she do that against me?! Why going all out? With an attack specially designed with a cat name! I call that disrespect, an attempted honoricide! Just because she''s invincible she thinks she can defeat me..... In an humiliating way! Mew!!!"

    Eratz only grunted in acknowledgment, more amused by her scavenging than her complaints.

    She barely noticed his disinterest, too caught up in her rant as she grabbed a pair of sunglasses and added them to her stash.

    Soon, they were heading downstairs. Catarina continued her rant as they walked through the lobby, gesturing animatedly about how the fight had been unfair and Raya''s manner had been

    insulting.

    Once outside, a welcoming cheer cut through her complaints. The whole Crescent Moon team was waiting, grinning and eager.

    Ryder and Kaida rushed forward, Kaida wrapping her arms around Eratz in a tight hug while Ryder clapped him on the shoulder.

    Catarina, still salty but softened by their support, tried to play it cool, but her face crumpled. She rushed to Victoria, practically diving into her arms, her complaints dissolving into wails. "It was just...so... unfair!" she whined, burying her face in Victoria''s chest.

    Victoria patted her back, doing her best to hide a smirk.

    Mercury gave Eratz a light punch on the arm, her eyes filled with pride and something

    warmer.

    "You were incredible, Eratz. Really... I''ve never seen you like that before. You were amazing," she murmured, her gaze lingering on him.

    Eratz''s expression softened, he leaned in closer, their faces inches apart.

    "Well, if I earned it, maybe I should get a little reward, don''t you think?" he whispered.

    Mercury''s gaze softened, her eyes glinting with a playful but smoldering intensity as she leaned closer, her voice low and teasing.

    "Remember what I said about the tournament being the barrier? After tomorrow, I''ll rock your world so hard..."

    Eratz''s eyes widened slightly, catching the fire in her expression. He swallowed, forcing a casual smile as he tried to play it cool.

    "Uh... finally I think I''ll sleep early tonight," he replied, trying to keep his cool.

    Mercury chuckled softly, and just then, Ryder clapped Eratz on the back with a hearty laugh,

    snapping him out of the moment.

    "You made it, man! All the way to the final! I knew you would!"

    Kaida joined in, punching his shoulder playfully. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Good job, Apex Predator," she said with a broad grin. "I knew you''d get there."

    Eratz laughed, turned to them.

    "Please, don''t exaggerate, I just did what I had to do to save our honor. I''m on a mission to take down everyone kicking your asses... Hm? Wow, raya alone might actually take three of

    us."

    Then, Zara stepped forward, and the energy shifted. She looked up at him, her eyes slightly misty, a shaky smile breaking across her face. She exhaled deeply, trying to hold herself

    together.

    "Look at us, Eratz, talking about our agency with so much pride," Zara began, her voice wavering. "One year ago, this agency was barely hanging on. We were scraping by, holding it all together by a thread. And now? Five of our fighters made it to this tournament... and one of them is in the final." She sniffed, brushing away a stray tear. "I knew you''d get here. I always knew you were special, and that you had it in you. You should be the face of the agency, Eratz," she added, her voice breaking slightly. "I''m telling you, we''ll have to sign you to a lifetime contract."

    Eratz chuckled, glancing around at the others before responding with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    "I don''t know, Zara. With all the top agencies watching, maybe I''ll consider taking my talents somewhere a little more... prestigious," he teased.

    Victoria burst into laughter, quickly picking up on his playful tone, but Eratz realized too late

    that he had pushed the wrong button.

    Zara''s expression hardened.

    "Oh, you think you can just walk away?" she asked, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

    "Don''t test me, Eratz. I''ve got files, big ones, with things I could make public." She cast an exaggerated glare over the group, landing her gaze squarely on Kaida and Catarina. "You want to know how this guy recruited you two? I''ll spill it all!"

    Kaida and Catarina froze, their expressions shifting from excitement to confusion. Kaida

    tilted her head, frowning.

    "Wait...what?" she asked, glancing at Eratz, who looked horrified. Catarina, beside her, gave

    him a suspicious look.

    Eratz quickly leaned closer to Zara, whispering frantically.

    "Whoa, whoa, whoa! I was joking, okay? JOKING! What the hell is wrong with you?"

    Zara leaned even closer, her eyes narrowing as she bumped her forehead against his. Her voice dropped to a low, dangerous tone, dripping with mock intensity. "Ain''t nobody playin'' here, boy. No one here does jokes. We ain''t clowns, nor prankers." She paused, her eyes fixed on him, her face so close he could see his reflection in her widened pupils. "We''re talkin'' loyalty, and if you think you''re climbin'' that ladder alone, the one I set up for you, you''re dead wrong. If I go down, you''re comin'' down with me." Eratz swallowed, a nervous chuckle escaping him as he raised his hands in surrender.

    "You''d really do that? Sink the whole agency? Even Victoria?"

    Zara nodded solemnly, crossing her arms.

    "Absolutely. You think I''d be goin'' down alone? Victoria''s comin'' too, even the staff. This is

    business, and if you send us to hell, we all go to hell. I''ll take the whole ship down, even if it means takin'' everyone with us. We''ll drop pounds of soap together in the prison''s bath!"

    Victoria''s laughter cut through the tension, and she placed a hand on Eratz''s shoulder,

    smiling warmly.

    "All right, enough plotting, you two. Let''s give Eratz a break, he''s earned his rest for tomorrow. Tomorrow is the biggest day of his life."

    Her words carried the mood, and the group gradually dispersed, each of them casting Eratz a supportive look before heading their separate ways.

    Eratz made his way back to the hotel, the quiet night settling around him as he walked alone,

    letting the cool air clear his thoughts.

    Once inside his room, he sank onto the bed, his gaze drifting up to the ceiling. Alone in the stillness, memories began to resurface, moments from Genova, when his life had been filled with friends, or perhaps just acquaintances, and the confusing, bittersweet ties with people like Lisa, Kenny, Crystal, Rowan, and even his own family.

    He thought of all he had back then, all the friends he thought surrounded him, and the

    moment it all crumbled, they quickly enjoyed his downfall, leaving him with nothing. He raised his hands, looking at his palms, once so empty, now full with a new life.

    The present swelled up in his mind, Cassie, Roger, Colin, Mercury, Milo, the agency, Ryder, Kaida, Catarina, Zara, Victoria.

    Each face brought a warmth that he hadn''t expected, each person a thread in the life he had

    started to rebuild.

    A small smile crept onto his lips as he sat up, feeling a kind of freedom he''d never known

    before. This was it. Tomorrow was going to be the biggest day of his life, a turning point, but he knew

    it was only the beginning of something larger.

    Everything he''d endured, everything he''d fought for, had led him here. And more than ever, he felt completely in sync with the past and ready to embrace the future.

    The night passed peacefully, and as dawn broke, a quiet determination settled within him. Today, the day everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived.

 Chapter 129: When Legends Rise: The Greenridge League Final

    Chapter 129: When Legends Rise: The Greenridge League FinalThe night sky over the Arena lit up with brilliant fireworks. Colors burst and sparkled, filling the air with excitement and energy.

    This was the moment everyone had been waiting for: the Greenridge League final.

    Inside the arena, every seat was taken. People were packed together, buzzing with excitement.

    Outside, fans who couldn''t get in watched on giant screens, eager to see every moment.

    The entire arena glowed under bright stadium lights.

    Banners with the faces of the finalists waved in the stands, and the crowd''s cheers grew louder with each passing second.

    Cameras swept across the stands, capturing the excitement on people''s faces.

    Then, they turned to the grand stage at the center, where the two finalists would soon appear. High above, massive screens showed highlights from past matches, building up the tension.

    Commentators spoke in awe, describing each fighter''s journey to the final and sharing their thoughts on who might win.

    Throughout the cities, the match was on every screen. Shops, bars, and restaurants were all tuned in, and even people who weren''t normally fans had stopped what they were doing to watch. It was as if the whole region had paused, drawn in by the excitement.

    Far away from the arena, familiar faces watched the final.

    In a quiet living room, Eratz''s family sat together in silence.

    Marcus had a complicated look as he saw his son''s face flash across the screen. Liora sat quietly beside him, her eyes fixed but distant.

    Kian and Lila sat on either side of their parents. They exchanged uncertain glances and returned to the screen.

    At the Crescent Moon gym in Lugina, the whole agency was gathered around the largest

    screen.

    Cheers and laughter filled the room as they watched, their pride and excitement for Eratz showing in every face.

    Adrian, though, seemed annoyed. He stood up and left quietly, muttering to himself, but nobody paid much attention, too focused on the screen.

    Meanwhile, in Grushia, Kenny sat in the dimly lit room in Genova Academy, his fists clenched on his lap, nails digging into his palms as he struggled to keep his composure.

    Across the table, a teacher leaned forward, his gaze cold and unyielding as he spoke, his tone laced with disdain.

    "Do you see this, Kenny?" the teacher pointed to the small television screen in the corner of the room, where Eratz''s face flashed on the screen, the crowd''s roar faintly echoing from the speakers. "While you''re sitting here, he is out there, climbing to the top of the world. He''s proving himself, becoming everything that Genova lost because of... a perverted fool."

    Kenny''s jaw clenched, his face twisting with a mix of anger and despair, but he couldn''t tear his gaze away from the screen. The teacher''s words cut deep, and this light in which Eratz bathed contrasted sharply with the shadow he was trapped in.

    "You know," the teacher continued, his tone harsh, "we all saw potential in you once, but now I see that was misplaced. Genova didn''t lose Eratz because of chance. It lost him because of you. All the lies, the deceit, the jealousy... And I wonder, was it all worth it, Kenny? Was it you who framed Eratz?" His voice dropped to a low, accusing whisper. "Did you?"

    Kenny''s entire body shook, his face red with a mixture of humiliation and rage.

    He wanted to shout, to deny it, to push away the shame pressing down on him. But as he opened his mouth, no words came out.

    The screen''s glow reflected in his eyes, highlighting the fury and despair that swirled within him.

    "You don''t even have to answer, the academy wants an answer, and this answer is yes. I hope you hated him because you''re in for a world of pain. And now," the teacher said, leaning back with grim satisfaction, "Your punishment is to sit here and watch, to see the man you tried to bring down stand taller than you ever will. This final... this is the world you''ll never touch. Enjoy it before they all come back."

    The teacher turned his gaze to the screen, leaving Kenny trapped in silence, his body trembling as he fought the urge to scream.

    And so he sat, helpless, forced to watch Eratz rise, the bitter taste of defeat and regret growing stronger with each passing second.

    Back in the arena, the excitement reached its peak. The lights dimmed, plunging the stadium into darkness, and the crowd went silent.

    Then, with a sudden burst, columns of colored lights shot into the night sky, creating a dazzling display that drew gasps from the audience.

    Fireworks followed, bursting in time with the beat of the music that thumped through the stadium.

    Each explosion of color lit up the stands, casting a magical glow over the spectators.

    The stadium lights dimmed to a soft glow, leaving the entire arena in a serene twilight.

    Then, with a sudden burst, columns of colored lights shot into the night sky, creating a dazzling display that drew gasps from the audience.

    Fireworks followed, bursting in time with the beat of the music that thumped through the stadium.

    Each explosion of color lit up the stands, casting a magical glow over the spectators.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the arena. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice almost reverent, "tonight, you are about to witness the climax of the Greenridge League! These are the fighters who have clawed their way through the ranks, conquered every challenge, and proven themselves against the finest! And now, they stand on the brink of greatness."

    As his voice echoed, the massive screens high above switched to show clips of each finalist''s most intense moments in the tournament.

    The crowd roared louder with each highlight, the images of battles, powerful attacks, and moments of triumph sparking cheers and applause.

    The energy in the stadium reached its peak, the audience drawn in by the magic of the two strongest competitors.

    The past tournament participants, Sia, Nyx, Gabriel, and others, were scattered through the stands, each one testimony of the two who had risen above all.

    At the Crescent Moon section, Ryder was on the edge of his seat, grinning with excitement. Victoria, her eyes twinkling with pride, sat beside Zara, who appeared nervous, biting her

    nails.

    Kaida and Catarina, their expressions a mix of pride and envy, were both eager and breathless as they waited to see Eratz step into the arena.

    The announcer''s voice rose, thick with emotion, as he continued.

    "Tonight, we present two titans, the fighters who have risen above all others, with skill, strength, and a drive that defies limits. On one side, the undefeated Apex Predator, Eratz Pandora! And on the other, the deadly and unstoppable Phantom Blade, Raya Kobayashi!" The spotlight hit the entrance, and slowly, Eratz stepped forward, his walk calm and unhurried, his white coat flowing with each stride.

    The coat''s black and silver elegant designs glimmered under the lights, lending him a powerful yet serene presence. His gaze was calm and focused.

    On the opposite side, Raya emerged with a unique contrast to Eratz.

    She walked barefoot, her dusty clothes marking her as someone who hadn''t bothered with

    formality or presentation.

    Her eyes remained closed, a gentle smile on her face as she made her way forward with an

    easy grace.

    Applause and cheers erupted in a powerful wave, the energy in the stadium reaching its peak, the audience drawn in by the sheer presence of the two strongest competitors.

    They reached the center of the arena, and the lights intensified, illuminating them fully as

    they stood opposite each other.

    The announcer, his voice rich with admiration and excitement, continued.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, tonight, for the very first time, the Apex Predator, the Phantom

    Blade!"

    The crowd erupted, the moment carrying a weight that seemed almost tangible.

    This was the peak, the final battle that everyone had waited for.

    The final battle of the regional league.

 Chapter 130: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade

    Chapter 130: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom BladeThe arena was in an intense silence as Eratz and Raya stood facing each other in the center of the vast stadium.

    The audience held their breath, their collective energy charged with anticipation, every single person waiting for the clash of two of the strongest fighters the league had witnessed.

    Raya gave a slight smile, her expression serene. She bowed her head respectfully, her voice steady yet soft.

    "I''m glad it''s come to this," she said. "Nothing happens by accident, and I believe facing you here is no coincidence. I''m now sure that we share a bond beyond the concept of this life and today it has been acknowledged. I thank you, Eratz, for receiving me as a challenger." She raised her head. "I promise to give you a battle you''ll never forget." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz''s lips curved into a smile, his eyes narrowing as he tilted his head.

    "Honestly, I have no idea what you''re talking about," he replied. "But I know one thing: this

    is going to be a good fight. Let''s give a show worthy of a great final."

    Raya chuckled, nodding, a glint of excitement in her closed eyes.

    "Have faith in me to make it unforgettable."

    The two took a step back, settling into their stances. The air seemed to shift around them, growing thicker with every heartbeat.

    The crowd could feel the tension rising, a heavy, almost tangible force building between the two fighters.

    Even from the stands, it was as if the energy was making the air tremble, passing through the shield, brushing over everyone like the calm before a storm.

    A murmur of awe rippled through the audience as the two fighters remained motionless, their auras slowly building.

    And finally, in unison, Eratz and Raya unleashed their energy, their auras exploding outwards like waves crashing against each other.

    The sheer force of it sent a shockwave through the arena, leaving spectators in ecstasy as the energy washed over the shield.

    Eratz''s aura stabilized around him, opposite him, a subtle shift overtook Raya''s posture.

    Her katana appeared, forming from a swirl of energy as she raised her head toward him, her eyes closed.

    Eratz smiled, his gaze sharpening, and with a sudden flash of motion, he vanished.

    In the next instant, he appeared above Raya, his fist descending swiftly toward her head in a devastating strike.

    Raya''s katana met him in a flash, parrying with such precision that her feet slid back from the force, leaving trails in the arena floor.

    Without missing a beat, Eratz surged forward, launching another relentless assault.

    The two collided in a series of rapid, high-impact clashes that sent sparks flying in all directions.

    Each strike resonated like thunder, echoing through the arena as they moved in a mesmerizing rhythm.

    Eratz''s attacks were explosive, each blow powerful enough to shake the ground, while Raya''s movements were sharp and fluid, blocking each attack with an elegance that matched his raw power.

    The crowd gasped with every clash, their cheers growing louder with each parry and strike.

    In the stands, Zara''s eyes gleamed with hope, watching Eratz closely.

    "He''s gaining the upper hand," she murmured, a slight smile forming on her lips. "I knew he could do it."

    Ryder nodded, eyes locked on the fighters.

    "Yeah, he''s relentless. Raya''s keeping up, but it looks like she''s struggling. This is what he said, she''ll need to switch tactics, or she''s done." He frowned.

    Kaida shook her head slightly.

    "No," she replied, "neither of them has even started yet."

    Back in the arena, Eratz''s talon descended once more, and Raya parried, the impact driving her several feet backward.

    For the first time, Eratz halted his onslaught, watching her intently from a distance, his gaze unwavering.

    Raya''s smile was faint, but a glint shone on her face.

    "There''s hesitation in your movements," she observed.

    Eratz didn''t respond, his eyes remaining focused, waiting for something.

    She nodded, acknowledging his silence.

    "I don''t know if it''s pure assurance or just blind confidence," she continued, "but I''ll honor your strength."

    As her words settled in the air, her aura began to swirl around her, intensifying with a darker shade until it took on a deep, blood-red hue.

    The energy coiled and shifted, amassing into a shape behind her, the towering figure of her six-armed samurai.

    She opened her eyes, her irises glowed a vibrant, unsettling red, even and focused.

    Eratz grinned, a spark flickering in his amber eyes.

    He stepped forward, lowering his head as his own aura flared, black energy erupting around him and swirling like a tornado.

    His aura consumed him, shrouding him from view, and the ground beneath his feet cracked under the impact of his power.

    When he emerged, his body had transformed, black marks streaking across his skin, his muscles enhanced, and his eyes burning with a piercing amber glow.

    The Terrakrus roared behind him, a deep, guttural sound that reverberated through the arena, fueling the audience''s awe and fear alike.

    The crowd was in another world, their breaths held in a mixture of excitement and anxiety, watching the two fighters now ready to unleash their fury.

    And then, with simultaneous intensity, they launched at each other.

    Eratz''s fists crashed forward like battering rams, each punch igniting a dark aura that ripped through the air.

    He moved like a thunderstorm, his strikes leaving trails of energy that vibrated through the

    stadium.

    But Raya was already in motion, slipping past him with elegance and deadly precision. "Kurenai Shigure!" she called, her voice cutting through the clamor.

    Her blade flashed in a crimson arc, slicing across his chest and leaving a burning red line.

    Eratz flinched, the sting barely registered as he whipped around, delivering a devastating spinning kick that cracked the ground beneath them.

    Raya avoided it by a hair''s breadth, her katana dancing around his blows as if reading every

    move.

    In the stands, Victoria''s gaze was sharp, her brow creased with worry.

    "Something''s off with him," she murmured, barely audible over the crowd''s roars.

    Zara leaned forward, her eyes wide with concern.

    "He should be overpowering her by now. Why isn''t he fighting at full strength?"

    Kaida''s voice was filled with frustration.

    "Why hasn''t he used his field spell? This isn''t like him."

    Ryder''s voice rang out above the others, filled with desperate encouragement.

    "Come on, Eratz! Don''t hold back now!"

    In the arena, the Terrakrus stormed forward alongside Eratz, its claws gouging deep furrows

    in the ground as it charged Raya''s samurai spirit.

    The two titanic creatures collided in a fierce clash of power, each strike sending shockwaves through the stadium.

    The Terrakrus slammed its tail down with earth-shaking force, but Raya''s samurai spirit countered, its six blades moving like a whirlwind, parrying and striking back in perfect

    harmony.

    With each clash, the Terrakrus was pushed back, its dark aura clashing but faltering against the samurai''s relentless, precise assault.

    Eratz''s breath came in heavy bursts as he launched another series of attacks, the impact of

    each punch echoing through the stadium.

    But every time, Raya''s katana met him with surgical precision.

    "Fubuki no Yaiba!" she intoned, her katana slicing in a sweeping arc, leaving a red slash

    across his side.

    Eratz staggered, the red painting his torso as he pushed forward, his fists swinging wildly.

    He was relentless, yet each strike felt slower, each movement more labored.

    Gabriel leaned forward, his brow furrowed in confusion.

    "Why is he so slow? He''s never been this sluggish before..."

    Sia didn''t reply, her arms crossed, watching with a cold gaze. She could sense something

    wrong, but her expression remained impassive.

    Eratz gritted his teeth, throwing himself into another assault, his body greeting new colors.

    His strikes grew more ferocious, each punch and kick landing with phenomenal force to

    shatter stone, yet Raya evaded them with an eerie ease, her movements like water flowing

    around his rage.

    "Kage no Mai," she whispered, her blade weaving through his defenses like a serpent, slicing across his arm and leaving another vivid, red slash.

    Eratz barely felt the pain, his eyes fixed on her as he lunged, his fist swinging, but again, she

    twisted around him, her blade finding its mark.

    From the stands, Mercury watched with mounting unease, her mind racing.

    She remembered his words, the way he had shrugged.

    "It''s a bad matchup, but not for me."

    And yet, here he was, struggling, every blow he took making her chest tighten.

    Cassie''s face was pale, her hands clasped tightly, and beside her, Roger''s jaw was clenched, his gaze heavy with worry. They, too, could feel something was terribly wrong. Down in the arena, Eratz was almost entirely covered in crimson lines, his body a masterpiece

    of Raya''s brutal precision.

    Each slash was shallow but numerous, and with each one, he seemed to slow just a little more.

    His breaths were ragged now, his stance faltering as he prepared for another assault, his fists clenched, his gaze melting behind the red.

    The crowd''s murmurs grew louder, frustration and confusion spreading like wildfire.

    "Why isn''t he fighting back harder?" someone shouted.

    "Is he... is he trying to lose?"

    A ripple of disbelief ran through the stands, but Eratz didn''t seem to hear any of it.

    He pushed forward again, his muscles straining with each movement, his strikes landing with diminishing force. Raya met him with calm, her katana flashing as she called her next attack. "Yami no Tsubame!" she intoned, her blade moving in a flicker of red, slicing across his back.

    He stumbled, his fists still raised, and then, for the first time, he stopped.

    He stood still, his chest heaving, his gaze locked on the ground.

    His body was painted in a painful red, waiting to burst. Raya tilted her head, her expression a mix of curiosity and disappointment as she kept her

    blade raised, ready for anything, but nothing came from him. The crowd grew restless, voices

    rising in bewilderment.

    "What is he doing?" someone called out. "Why is he just standing there?"

    Victoria''s brow furrowed further, a worried shadow darkening her eyes.

    "This isn''t like him. There''s... something wrong."

    Zara swallowed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Eratz... what are you doing?" Eratz''s gaze never wavered, his stance firm despite the blood and exhaustion that covered

    him.

    The arena fell into a heavy silence, every eye locked on him, every heartbeat filled with the

    tension of the moment.

    "Eratz, is this truly all you have to offer?" Raya asked, her tone neither mocking nor cruel. She

    tilted her head, studying his lack of reaction.

    "I had hoped for more, You promised me a good fight. Why is your soul so passive?"

    Eratz stood there, his breaths coming hard and fast, his body screaming with pain.

    He clenched his fists, raising his gaze to meet hers.

    In that moment, for everyone, time seemed to freeze.

    Behind the red of his face, a smile emerged.

    "You''re right," he rasped, his voice low yet steady. "I did promise you a good fight... and I''m a

    man of my word. This battle... won''t be my place to improve... but yours."

    He took a deep breath, faint smile played on his red lips as he lowered his head and murmured

    words echoing in the whole arena. "Rockbound Fury."

 Chapter 131: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(2)

    Chapter 131: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(2)"Rockbound Fury."

    In an instant, the air around Eratz crackled and erupted. His aura surged like a tidal wave, slashing through the air with a visible, jagged edge.

    The red marks on his skin began to glow and slowly vanished, fueling a savage energy that radiated outward in a blinding flash.

    The entire stadium fell silent, stunned.

    The energy surrounding Eratz wasn''t like any aura they''d seen before, it wasn''t a beautiful manifestation of power, it was raw, ferocious explosion.

    Raya''s eyes narrowed, her serene expression faltering for the first time. She raised her katana in front of her face, her stance bracing as if she were defending against a storm.

    For a fleeting moment, her lips parted in realization.

    "What''s that?... I don''t feel a soul in this... this isn''t aura," she whispered, her voice filled with disbelief. "It''s... pure, physical strength."

    It was as if his body itself was materializing the sheer force of his strength into visible waves of energy, the air around him warping and cracking under the pressure.

    Eratz looked down at the palm of his hand, flexing his fingers experimentally. The jagged red lines across his skin flared, then faded, leaving behind a faint, pulsing glow. He smirked, a dangerous glint in his amber eyes.

    "Yep," he muttered, almost to himself. "That''s a huge amount of power."

    He turned his gaze back to Raya, his smile widening into a predatory grin.

    "Sorry for worrying you," he said, his tone casual. "I just needed a little insurance. Now... you''ll need more than parrying."

    He combined the Thunder Lycaon and the Aetheri and his aura detonated, swallowing the ground beneath him and sending a shockwave of destructive energy in every direction.

    The arena fell into a stunned silence, the air thick with disbelief. No one moved, no one spoke. Every pair of eyes was fixed on the swirling cloud of debris that had enveloped the entire battlefield, rising like a dark storm.

    Dust and shattered stone filled the air, the ground beneath cracked and splintered as if the earth had recoiled from the sheer force of the explosion.

    The cloud expanded, swallowing the light, casting a shadow over the arena. The stands trembled, and a wave of pressure swept through the shield, blinding the crowd.

    Tiny fragments of rock rained down like a hailstorm, the sound of the impact still echoing in the air, and within the haze, a faint silhouette began to move.

    Raya closed her eyes, her katana raised defensively. She instinctively deflected pieces of debris with swift, precise cuts, her movements sharp and focused.

    But her grip tightened on her blade, her heart pounding. She knew he was there, but she couldn''t pinpoint him. The energy was everywhere, like the rumble of a distant thunderstorm that had surrounded her entirely.

    A flash.

    Without warning, Eratz burst out of the debris cloud. He was on her before she could even notice it, his fist descending with the force of a landslide.

    Raya''s eyes widened, barely managing to raise her katana in time.

    The impact was explosive.

    Eratz''s punch collided with her blade, and the shockwave sent a ripple of force through her entire body.

    Her feet skidded back, digging deep grooves into the ground, cracking beneath her feet. The sheer power behind his strike felt like a battering ram slamming into her arms, the recoil shooting up her wrists, as if it could disarm her.

    Before she could recover, Eratz vanished again, moving faster than her sense could follow. He reappeared at her side, his knee driving upward like a sledgehammer.

    Raya twisted her body, blocking with the flat of her blade, but the impact lifted her off the ground, the shock reverberating through her bones.

    She gasped, feeling the wind knocked out of her as she was sent flying back, barely managing to land on her feet, her knees buckling under the strain.

    The haze of dust hadn''t even settled before Eratz was on her again, relentless, a whirlwind of raw power and speed. He attacked from every angle, fists, elbows, kicks, each blow faster and more devastating than the last.

    Raya''s katana moved in a blur, deflecting each strike, but every block sent shockwaves through her body, the force rebounding like a ricochet. Her muscles screamed, her joints straining to absorb the relentless assault.

    The ground cracked beneath her with every hit, the sheer weight of his attacks pushing her back. It felt like trying to hold back an avalanche with a single sword.

    Eratz stopped his assault, stepping back to observe Raya, noticing the subtle tremble in her hands, the aftershock of his relentless barrage.

    The entire arena was stunned by the raw, overwhelming display of power. Then, as if someone had flipped a switch, the silence broke, and the crowd erupted into a deafening roar.

    The spectators leaped to their feet, cheering wildly. The energy in the stadium was electric, the sound reverberating like a wave crashing against the shore.

    "The Apex Predator! I knew he could do it!"

    "He''s incredible! Did you see that power?"

    The members of Crescent Moon exchanged relieved looks, still trying to process what they had just witnessed.

    Victoria wiped a bead of sweat from her brow, her lips curving into a smile.

    "He really is something else," she murmured, a mixture of pride and disbelief in her voice.

    Catarina leaned back, letting out a deep breath she was holding.

    "Nyan... I thought Raya would be our pet peeve... but I don''t understand," she admitted, her eyes wide with amazement. "What the hell just happened?"

    Kaida''s gaze was intense, locked on Eratz.

    "He''s on a different level," she whispered. "But how? This is different than usually... Well, like, it happen a lot these days, but why the weak show earlier if he could pull that?"

    Eratz seemed satisfied with the result of his bet. He rolled his shoulders, feeling the immense, amplified power still coursing through him.

    He add the same control of his body as before, the same feeling as usually, but what Rockbound fury changed was his crushing physical strength. He glanced back at Raya, his

    smile widening.

    "I was right," he said, his tone casual but laced with a self-assured confidence. "It really is a bad matchup for you."

    Raya''s expression was calm, but there was a flicker of something in her closed eyes, a mix of realization and respect. She raised her katana slightly, catching her breath, her chest rising and falling rhythmically. The faintest of smiles tugged at her lips.

    "Following your movements... that was no small task," she admitted. Her voice was soft, and for a moment, the way she tilted her head made it clear she was managing to follow him in this mass of energy. "I don''t know what you did but I understand why you seemed to restrain

    your power."

    Eratz''s grin widened, a playful glint in his white eyes.

    "You''re right. You''ve dodged everything," he replied, inclining his head in an honest bow.

    "I''m impressed by your reflex, you''re faster than me even in this form."

    Raya forced a smile, pressing the tip of her katana into the ground for balance.

    "It''s not just any speed either and if I hadn''t done it I would be a thing of the past by now,"

    she said lightly. "One hit from you in this state would be the end of me."

    Raya''s smile faltered, and she took a slow, deep breath.

    "So, were you just acting earlier, is this power the reason you let me attack you?" she asked,

    her voice calm.

    Eratz smirked, cracking his knuckles.

    "I''ll tell you... if you can handle a single hit."

    She let out a soft, amused laugh, her lips curving up as she tilted her head slightly, her blind

    eyes closed yet expressive.

    "It looks like I''ll have to pass on that offer then."

    Straightening her posture, she lifted her katana again, her stance firm despite the strain she was feeling. Eratz''s smile grew more pronounced, a spark in his eyes as he took a slow, deliberate step forward, the movement smooth and predatory.

    "Oh, but you should accept," he said, his tone almost teasing. He looked at her with that same

    dangerous smile, like a predator toying with its prey. "Better get something, if you get

    touched anyway. You''ll need to understand how my technique works."

    Raya didn''t respond immediately, but her grip tightened on her katana. The tension between them was palpable, like a string pulled taut, ready to snap at any moment.

    Eratz began a slow, measured walk, cracking his neck as he spoke, his voice carrying through

    the arena.

    "The thing about enormous power," he said, flexing his fingers, "is that it''s useless if your opponent is fast enough to dodge every hit."

    He paused, observing her, his smirk drawing on his face.

    "But... what happens when that power is packed into a body that''s naturally very fast?"

    Raya''s brows furrowed slightly, a little bit of uncertainty crossing her face.

    "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice low. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz''s grin widened, stepping closer.

    "You''re fast, Raya, I''ll give you that. But... do you know what else is naturally fast?"

    He raised his hand in front of his face, cracking a finger with a sharp snap, and a spark of yellow lightning danced across his knuckles.

 Chapter 132: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(3)

    Chapter 132: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(3)Raya''s red eyes widened in shock, Eratz''s power exploded in a cataclysm of yellow lightning. The entire arena was engulfed in a blinding, electric flash, the sound like a thousand thunderclaps crashing at once. The ground trembled violently, a seismic wave rippling outward as lightning bolts erupted from Eratz, slashing through the air like wild, serpentine whips.

    The shockwave hit the shield with a phenomenal force. The protective barrier flickered and warped, the green-tinted energy straining like glass.

    People leapt to their feet, gasping, their faces illuminated by the bright, crackling light. Victoria instinctively raised her arms to shield herself, but then slowly lowered them, her eyes wide, her expression a mix of awe and disbelief.

    "What is this...?" she murmured, her voice lost in the chaos.

    Zara''s mouth hung open, completely stunned, her normally composed face slack with shock.

    Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina stood frozen, their eyes locked on Eratz, unable to process the phenomenal transformation before them. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury''s eyes were wide, her lips parted in shock as she took in his appearance. Her heart raced, but slowly, a smile spread across her face.

    "He''s done it..." she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Standing at the epicenter of the devastation, Eratz''s body had changed completely. His body was covered in arcs of yellow lightning, crackling and surging across his skin.

    Jagged, bright-yellow marks glowed like molten cracks, pulsing with raw energy. Wide, electric wings spread out behind him, each feather a bolt of lightning.

    His eyes blazed with an intense, radiant yellow, a glow that pierced through the haze of smoke and dust.

    It was a beastification with Raijinara, a beastification with a Calamity beast.

    Eratz took a slow step forward, the arcs of lightning around him flaring brighter. His eyes locked onto Raya, the fierce yellow glow giving him a predatory look.

    "Have you ever been hit by a wrecking ball at lightning speed?"

    Before the words could even sink in, he moved.

    The air around Eratz bended as he raised his fist, his moves causing a ripple, like waves of energy distorting the space around him. Then, in an instant, he was gone, a yellow streak of lightning tearing through the air, followed by the deafening crack of a thunderclap.

    From Raya''s perspective, it all happened too fast. One moment, he was standing across the arena, and in the blink of an eye, he was right beside her, a flash of blinding light at her side. Her senses barely managed to catch the movement of his fist, a comet of yellow energy descending toward her torso.

    It was as if time itself had skipped a beat, the movement too fast for her to avoid, her body too slow to react.

    Then, the impact.

    The force of the punch was catastrophic. It slammed into Raya''s side with the weight of a disaster and the sound of an explosion, louder than any roar the arena had ever heard.

    The ground beneath them fractured, a spiderweb of cracks spreading out from the point of impact, chunks of stone shooting into the air.

    A shockwave rippled outward, shaking the entire stadium, and the shield protecting the spectators flickered violently, the green-tinted energy warping and splintering like fractured glass.

    A brilliant burst of yellow lightning erupted, engulfing the arena in a blinding flash. Then the air sizzled as the raw electrical energy surged outward, leaving a scorched path in its wake.

    For a moment, the entire battlefield was obscured by a dense cloud of dust and debris, a swirling storm of shattered rock and electric sparks. Silence fell, the crowd collectively holding their breath, every eye glued to the center of the destruction.

    Then, through the haze, a figure emerged.

    Raya rolled out of the cloud on the cracked ground. Her katana was still gripped tightly in her hand.

    She stopped on her stomach, the blade lying flat against the stone beside her as she struggled to get up.

    The left side of her torso, where Eratz''s punch had landed, was bruised and scorched, her clothes torn and singed from the lightning blast. Her breaths were shallow and uneven, her chest heaving as she fought to stay conscious.

    The world around her felt distant, despite her blindness, she blinked, trying to stimulate her muscles.

    The crowd gasped, a wave of concern rippling through the stands, each spectator felling a chill run down their spines.

    "My... my God," someone whispered, his voice filled with disbelief.

    "Is she alive?" a woman murmured, her tone edged with fear.

    Raya lay there, immobile, the arena silent except for the faint crackle of residual lightning echoing across the ground.

    Then, Eratz stepped toward her, the crackling arcs of lightning around him casting his shadow over her body.

    The sight was almost unbearable for many in the crowd. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the stands, the spectators leaning forward, anxiety etched on their faces.

    "He''s going to finish her..." a man whispered, his voice trembling.

    "She can''t fight anymore, why is it still going?" another called out.

    Even Ryder felt a spike of fear pierce his heart. He gripped the edge of the railing, his knuckles turning white.

    "That''s enough, Eratz," he murmured, his voice barely audible. "She can''t take another hit like that."

    Beside him, Zara''s expression was uncharacteristically tense. Her eyes darted between Eratz and Raya, a flicker of genuine concern crossing her face, then with a sigh, she answered. "Eratz isn''t like you, Ryder," she muttered, shaking her head slightly. "He would never hold back against any kind of opponent. He doesn''t go easy on anyone, not even when they''re

    down."

    Victoria''s gaze was sharp and unyielding. She lowered her arms, sighing deeply.

    "It''s the rule of the arena," she concluded, her tone flat. "There''s no room for pity here. This

    is what it need to be at the top."

    Eratz stood over Raya, his fierce yellow eyes looking down at her. The electric wings on his back crackled, casting dancing shadows across the cracked ground. He tilted his head slightly, a look of mild curiosity on his face.

    "You handled the hit," he said genuinely impressed. "But you refused the deal."

    Raya let out a ragged breath, forcing a smile despite the pain stunning her body.

    "It... it seems pointless," she replied, her voice strained and uneven. Her blind eyes stared up at nothing. "If I adapt to your tactic now, it would only lower my chances."

    She paused, swallowing hard as she gathered her strength, the words coming slowly.

    "The wisest follow the stream, flowing with it," she whispered. "But the mightiest... they

    redirect it to their will... And You''ve done that perfectly."

    Eratz''s smile softened, and he closed his eyes for a brief moment.

    "I''m impatient to see what''s coming next, so let''s end this now."

    He raised his hand to the sky, and the air around him darkened, the light dimming as if pulled

    into the center of his palm.

    Lightning gathered, swirling and crackling, a vortex of raw, destructive power. The arcs of yellow energy spiraled together, coalescing into a gigantic ball of lightning.

    It grew larger and larger, expanding until it cast a blinding glow across the entire arena. The ground beneath him trembled, the cracks widening, as the raw energy pulsed with an overwhelming, chaotic force.

    The crowd erupted into screams, a wave of panic and anxiety washing over the stands. "Stop! Someone end this battle!" a voice cried out, filled with desperation.

    "This is too much! She''s finished!" another spectator yelled, their tone edged with fear.

    On Eratz''s family side, the mood was entirely different. Cassie''s eyes shone with pride, her hand clutched to her chest.

    "He''s done it!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. "He''s really going to win!"

    Roger had a wide grin on his face.

    "This is it, Eratz," he muttered. "Finish it."

    Mercury''s smile was radiant, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

    "You got it, you can do it..." she murmured in disbelief.

    Among the spectators from Genova Academy, faces were etched with disbelief. They had

    known Eratz before, seen his fall, his evolution, but this... this was something beyond

    anything they could have imagined.

    Raya lay on the cracked stone, the heat from the ball of lightning above her washing over her

    face. She closed her red eyes, feeling the searing warmth.

    "You truly are the Apex Predator," she said in a soft murmur. "So much that you didn''t even

    bother using your strongest power."

    She slowly opened her blind eyes again, her smile soft but genuine, but instead of the red

    light of blood, it was a soft, brilliant white light piercing through her irises.

    "Field spell."

 Chapter 133: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(4)

    Chapter 133: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(4)The cheers and noise from the crowd vanished as soon as Raya used her Field spell.

    A silent voice barely noticeable covered the whole battleground. The air became heavy and still, like the whole world had stopped moving.

    It felt like they were standing on air instead of solid ground. All the usual energy was gone, leaving only silence.

    Eratz noticed the change, but didn''t wait to understand it. With his massive ball of lightning crackling in hand, he didn''t waste any time.

    He aimed straight for her, ready to end the fight, but then, something strange happened.

    A wave of invisible, razor-sharp slashes came out of nowhere. They sliced through the air, fast and deadly.

    Eratz''s eyes widened as the first hit landed, followed by a storm of sharp slashes from every direction.

    He felt the pain, his body jerking back as the attack tore apart his lightning sphere, scattering sparks everywhere.

    He hit the ground hard, skidding backward. He looked at his hands, flexing his fingers.

    It felt like he''d been slashed open, but there were no marks, no blood, just the ghostly sting of the cuts.

    He glanced up.

    Raya was different now. Her hair shone with a bright white glow, soft like moonlight.

    Her katana was now pure white, matching the light in her eyes. Her irises, blood red before, now glowed with a soft white. She looked almost like a spirit instead of a person.

    The audience was stunned. Murmurs spread through the crowd, voices filled with shock and confusion.

    "Is this... A Field Spell?" someone whispered.

    "I''ve never seen her do this before," another said, sounding amazed.

    Victoria''s eyes widened, biting her lips.

    "So she had this hidden all along..." she said quietly. "I didn''t see this coming."

    Zara stood there, jaw dropped, looking completely stunned.

    "Damn... Oh no... oh no, no, no..." she whispered.

    Eratz frowned, feeling unsettled. He couldn''t sense any energy from the space around them.

    It was empty, like her Field Spell was absorbing everything instead of boosting it.

    Raya took a calm step forward, her glowing eyes locked on Eratz.

    "You''ve been my hardest challenge," she said softly. "We''re alike, you and I. Different paths, but the same goal, to control every blade. And that''s true power."

    Eratz''s frown deepened. He couldn''t figure out what her Field Spell was doing, but he knew Rockbound Fury was still active, so He had nothing to worry about from her attacks.

    He leaned forward, ready to strike. But then, a strange chill ran down his spine. He felt a strong, clear intent to attack, like she was right next to him, even though she hadn''t moved.

    He narrowed his eyes and vanished, moving like a streak of yellow lightning to get closer. Raya''s eyes widened in response.

    In a split second, he was beside her, a flash of light cutting through the void. But before he could land a punch, he felt multiple sharp strikes slashing him all at once. Sparks flew, and Eratz jumped back.

    "She''s faster now," he muttered, narrowing his eyes. "Or... wait, no, that''s not it. She didn''t move... I''m sure her katana is still in the same position... but she still hit me."

    He clenched his fists, ready to use Rockbound Fury again. He braced himself, expecting the familiar surge of power.

    But nothing happened.

    Eratz''s eyes widened, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. He looked down at his arms, intact, but Rockbound Fury wasn''t kicking in.

    He had felt the attacks, stronger than before, but there was no damage, like the slashes weren''t real.

    Raya stayed still, holding her katana loosely, her white eyes calm and steady.

    Eratz didn''t waste time thinking it through. If she returned the tables, it was because of her field spell, and if he wanted to counter it, he had to use the traditional way.

    He took a deep breath and unleashed his own Field Spell, like a wild storm sweeping over her silent void.

    For a moment, his energy covered hers, swirling violently. But then the phenomenon happened. His Field Spell felt weaker, losing it''s range at the same time as her void.

    The two spells coexisted, but their energy seemed to disappear on some spots where the other one remained supreme.

    "Really?" he murmured to himself. "It''s equal to mine?"

    Raya didn''t move, her pose relaxed and calm. Her white eyes shining softly.

    They stood still, watching each other, both ready to attack.

    Then, without warning, they moved.

    Eratz lunged forward, his fist sparking with yellow lightning, while Raya swung her katana, its blade gleaming with pure, sharp light.

    They clashed, meeting in the middle with a force that sent shockwaves rippling through the

    space.

    Raya''s katana slashed through the air, her movements smooth and precise. From every angle, her blade seemed to strike, invisible slashes appearing out of nowhere.

    It was as if her attacks filled the entire space, attacking him from every direction.

    But Eratz didn''t falter. He weaved through the slashes, his body moving like lightning, avoiding the strikes with almost impossible speed.

    His expression was calm, composed. He studied her, each strike, each slash, a puzzle he was slowly piecing together.

    Raya''s eyes glowed with a white light as she swung her katana again. Eratz dodged the slash, yet he felt a sharp sting across his arm, but when he looked, there were no marks, no cuts.

    He frowned slightly but remained calm, leaning back to dodge her next swing.

    Raya pressed her attack, a flurry of strikes from every angle, like she was slashing through the

    air.

    Eratz moved like a shadow, slipping through the gaps in her attacks, always one step ahead.

    His eyes were sharp, tracking every movement, every invisible cut that tore through the space around them.

    He sidestepped a strike that seemed to come from nowhere, then lunged forward, aiming a punch straight at her.

    But before his fist could land, a sudden, sharp force pushed him back. It was as if he had hit an invisible wall of slashes, cutting through his momentum and sending him sliding across the

    empty ground.

    Eratz landed gracefully, unfazed. He glanced at his fist, flexing it as if testing for damage, but he felt nothing except the lingering sting of the attacks. He narrowed his eyes, watching Raya

    intently. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "She''s not touching my body," he thought calmly. "But something keep cutting me... how does her field step works?"

    Raya moved again. She vanished, only to reappear on his left, her katana gleaming with white

    light.

    Eratz pivoted, countering the blade with a swift kick.

    But despite parrying it with his leg, he felt a slash cut across his chest, sending a shockwave of

    pain through his body.

    He staggered back, not from pain, but from the strange, hollow sensation left behind.

    His face remained calm. He wasn''t sure what the effect was yet, but he knew he couldn''t

    afford to take that much damage.

    He watched her carefully, taking in every detail, every subtle movement.

    They clashed again, faster this time. Their bodies became flashes of motion, lightning and

    white light flashing across the field.

    From the stands, the spectators could barely follow. It was a dance of speed and power

    beyond anything they had seen before.

    Victoria leaned forward, her eyes wide.

    "This... this is incredible," she muttered, unable to hide her amazement. "They''re fighting at

    a level far beyond regional standards."

    Zara was speechless.

    "I can''t believe it..." she whispered.

    Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina stood frozen, their eyes darting back and forth as they tried to keep

    up with the fight.

    "What''s... The hell?" Kaida murmured, her voice shaky.

    Nearby, Mercury, Cassie, and Roger watched in stunned silence. Cassie''s hand was clasped

    over her mouth, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and pride.

    "They''re... they''re incredible," Roger admitted, his voice filled with disbelief.

    Colin and Milo were almost spinning in place, trying to keep up with the lightning-fast movements.

    "Where are they?" Milo blurted out, his eyes darting around wildly. "I can''t see them!"

    Colin squinted, her head turning left and right.

    "I can''t either," she admitted, her voice filled with frustration.

    In another part of the stands, Lisa had risen to her feet, her eyes locked on the fight. Her

    mouth was slightly open.

    Rowan''s jaw hung open, even Crystal couldn''t hide her surprise. Her eyes were wide, for once

    showing genuine shock.

    "What kind of fight is this...?" she whispered.

    Back on the field, Raya continued her relentless assault, her slashes becoming faster, more

    precise. Eratz, however, didn''t waver.

    He started to adapt to the speed of her attacks and dodged the invisible slashes with more

    precision.

    He ducked under a high slash, then stepped forward.

    But before he could even reach her, he felt the strange sensation, like a blade slicing through

    his face.

    He pulled back, realizing that she hadn''t moved, yet he felt her strike, but this time, he wasn''t

    empty handed.

    "Now I''m sure... She isn''t using her katana," he narrowed his eyes. "She only use it when I''m too close, but these attacks come from something else."

    They clashed, again and again, moving at a speed that was almost invisible to the untrained eye. The sound of their strikes echoed like thunder.

    In the stands, the crowd was silent, holding their breath. They weren''t just watching a fight, they were witnessing a battle far beyond anything they had ever imagined.

    Eratz and Raya moved together, a storm of lightning and white light, a dance of pure power

    and precision.

    It was a battle of another league, a clash that pushed both fighters to their absolute limits. And neither of them showed any sign of stopping.

 Chapter 134: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(5)

    Chapter 134: Clash of Titans: The Apex Predator vs. The Phantom Blade(5)The arena trembled with every move and the crowd held their breath, eyes fixed on the two fighters at the center.

    Eratz lunged forward, his fist blazing with crackling energy. He swung with precision, aiming for Raya''s side.

    But just as he moved, an slash struck him from the side.

    He skidded back, catching himself before tumbling. Without a moment''s pause, he pushed forward again.

    His movements were lightning fast, but Raya was ready. She parried his punch with her katana, the blade gleaming white, then jumped back smoothly.

    Eratz felt another cut, this one sharper than before. He grunted, stepping back, his muscles tensing against the pain.

    He glanced down, no red slash, no visible bruise, but the sensation of being slashed was all too real.

    He darted to the side, trying to avoid the next strike, but Raya''s eyes flashed. Another invisible slash cut through him, pushing him back like a gust of wind.

    Eratz''s body jolted, and he leapt away, landing with a lightness that belied the force of the blow he''d just taken.

    For a third time, he charged at her, refusing to relent. He aimed a powerful kick, only for Raya''s katana to meet his leg, blocking it with ease.

    She spun, her movements fluid, and swung her sword in a wide arc. Eratz barely managed to twist away, but an invisible force struck him from behind, propelling him forward.

    He tumbled, rolling across the ground before springing back to his feet, his expression calm. "From the back...?" Eratz muttered, his thoughts racing.

    From his point of view, everything seemed slower, as if time itself had stretched out for him.

    He replayed every hit, every cut in his mind, analyzing them like a complex puzzle. He felt each strike, sharp, precise, but somehow intangible.

    "It''s not physical," he realized slowly. "Rockbound Fury hasn''t increased since her Field Spell activated. It''s like I''m not taking real damage. Or... maybe it''s reached the limit?"

    He clenched his fists, focusing inward. The moment her Field Spell had activated, the sensation had changed. It couldn''t be a coincidence.

    He took a deep breath, calming his aura, making it denser and more focused. He needed to change his approach.

    He moved again, but for him, time flew slower. He watched Raya''s every movement.

    Her eyes glowed with a soft, mystical light, her katana shimmering.

    He felt it before it happened, another slash, cutting through the air toward him. He didn''t dodge, letting it hit. But this time, he paid attention.

    The pain wasn''t in his skin or muscles. It was deeper, cutting into something hint and under his skin.

    He felt it like a vibration, right on the surface of his aura. It was precise, almost surgical, and moving a part of him always there, but always hidden: his spiritual pressure.

    Eratz''s eyes widened. He jumped back, landing lightly, and for the first time, he smiled. "That''s it," he said softly to himself. "These aren''t physical attacks... They''re spiritual. She''s not attacking with the katana, but with a spiritual power from her field spell."

    Eratz closed his eyes, using the Aetheri''s power flood his senses. The shift was subtle at first, he felt a wave of cool, sweet power washing through his veins as the Aetheri extended its influence, connecting deeply with his aura.

    Then, he focused inward. It was like looking into a mirror, but instead of seeing his reflection, he saw his own spiritual essence.

    His aura was frayed and torn, riddled with tiny, jagged cuts that crisscrossed like a spider''s web. It looked like shredded fabric, barely held together by thin threads of dense, powerful energy.

    Eratz''s eyes opened wide, his expression momentarily breaking its calm. He gulped, feeling anxious for the first time.

    He had taken far more damage than he thought. His aura was on the verge of collapsing completely.

    The only thing holding it together was its sheer density, the depth of his spiritual power preventing it from collapsing under the weight of the countless slashes.

    "That''s a lot of damage," he muttered to himself, the faintest hint of unease in his voice.

    But there was something else, understanding. He finally saw what Raya had been doing all along.

    Her attacks weren''t aimed at his body, they were targeting his spirit, weakening him from the inside out.

    If the battle kept going, he would eventually drop without realizing it.

    Eratz inhaled deeply, steadying himself. He couldn''t rely on brute force alone anymore.

    If she was attacking his spirit, he needed to respond in kind, so he decided to try something he had never done before.

    He would separate his spiritual energy from his physical aura, something he had just discovered but never practiced.

    He was already familiar with the use of spiritual power, but instead of a fusion of power, what he needed to reach was a dissociation.

    He relaxed his body, letting go of the tension he''d been holding. He felt the raw power of his aura starting to settle, its wild energy calming.

    His stance shifted, becoming looser, more fluid. He was no longer bracing himself for physical impact, instead, he opened himself up, feeling the energy flow freely through his

    body.

    Slowly, he pulled back the physical aspect of his aura, letting the spiritual energy come forward instead.

    It was like peeling away a layer of his power, revealing a deeper, purer essence beneath.

    He could feel the difference immediately, his energy felt lighter, more refined.

    The raw, aggressive force was gone, replaced by a serene, focused calm.

    The crowd watched in stunned silence, sensing the shift. Eratz''s aura was no longer a blazing storm of power; it was a thin veil that wrapped around him like a soft mist.

    His presence became smaller, quieter, vanishing from her senses.

    Raya''s eyes narrowed, the glow in her irises intensifying. She felt the change in his spirit. His soul had become still, almost like hers.

    Eratz took another deep breath, deeper than any before. He felt his emotions slipping away, replaced by a serene stillness.

    He could feel everything, the tiny cracks in the stone twenty meters on the left, the range of his breathing, even the soft thrum of Raya''s heartbeat.

    He opened his eyes, and they were different. The fibers in his irises held thin streaks of white and red, dancing around each other.

    His aura shifted again, spreading out like a thin, delicate mist that was almost invisible.

    He smiled, the calmness in his expression unlike anything he used to show.

    He finally understood, he had deciphered the secret of the spiritual power used at its

    maximum and separated his physical strength from his spiritual power, diving into a new S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    world of power.

    "I was right, You really have the best sight of anyone here," he said softly.

    Raya let out a soft sigh, a small smile tugging at her lips.

    "To evolve in the middle of a battle... it''s more of an anomaly than a skill," she replied.

    Eratz''s smile widened, a red glint in his eyes.

    "Are you ready?" he asked.

    Raya raised her katana, a white glint in hers.

    "Let our soul collide."

    Eratz and Raya stood still, facing each other, a fluttering auras flaring around each of them in

    perfect harmony with their opponent, red for Eratz, white for Raya.

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed, the red light flickering like embers in the wind, Raya''s eyes shone with

    a bright, mystical white.

    The entire arena seemed to hold its breath.

    And then, in a flash, they moved.

    Eratz dashed forward, his body emitting a thin veil of red light, like a flickering flame.

    Raya''s body moved in a white light, her movements fluid.

    He swung a low kick, aiming to break her stance, but Raya spun away, her feet barely touching

    the ground as she evaded.

    She countered with a swipe of her katana, a spiritual slash aimed at his shoulder, but this time, Eratz felt something prior: the intent of her attack.

    Before the attack even materialized, he dodged to the side, and launched a punch at her ribs.

    Raya landed the attack, slashing the void, but her mind was already two steps ahead, she twisted her body, leaning away from the strike, and swung her sword horizontally. Eratz ducked under the slash, feeling the spiritual pressure materializing another rain of slashes on his side.

    He jumped above and countered with a spinning kick, but Raya''s eyes flashed, sensing the

    move before it came.

    She side jumped, avoiding the kick, and sent another spiritual slash cutting through the air.

    They were a blur of red and white, moving with a speed and grace that left the audience

    breathless.

    The entire arena watched in stunned silence, unable to keep up with the pace of their fight.

    It was a dance of light and red, anticipation and counter, each move flowing seamlessly into

    the next. Eratz aimed a punch at her head, but Raya tilted back, the fist missing by inches.

    She swung her katana upward, but he saw the path of her strike and sidestepped, feeling the rush of air as the spiritual slash passed him from the ground.

    He lunged with an elbow strike, but Raya twisted away, her katana gleaming as she delivered

    a flurry of invisible slashes.

    He dodged and weaved through the attacks, his red aura flickering.

    For a moment, they were chest to chest, moving so fast they almost became a single, blurred

    silhouette.

    Time seemed to slow down. In that instant, they weren''t just fighters, they were two forces of silence, clashing in perfect harmony.

    The crowd was speechless. Gabriel, and Jaden watched with wide eyes, their jaws slack with

    disbelief.

    Even Sia, usually so composed, looked genuinely shocked.

    Eratz and Raya were a masterpiece of light, a blur of red and white weaving together, dodging

    and countering each other''s attacks with terrifying speed.

    It was unlike anything the audience had ever seen, a display far beyond what anyone expected

    from a regional final.

    But then, the beauty of the moment shattered.

    A flash of light, an eye wide open. Eratz took a direct slash from Raya''s katana, the blade

    slicing across his arm.

    His red light faltered, flickering as the spiritual pressure seeped into his aura. He gritted his

    teeth, his mind returning to his body, feeling the sharp pain in his h

    arm, but this time, there was a red slash.

    But at the same time...

    Raya''s breath hitched. She had landed a strike, but in that split second, her focus wavered.

    Eratz''s fingers brushed against her stomach, the raw power of his touch sending a shockwave through her body. Thanks to rockbound fury, the base strength of his body was overwhelming, even in that brief contact.

    She staggered back, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Eratz clenched his fist. He raised his

    arm, showing the red slash still glowing on his arm.

    - Rockbound Fury.

    His aura exploded outward, black and white aura bursting forward.

    Raya straightened, her expression tense. She couldn''t afford to take a direct hit.

    Eratz charged through the smoke, Raya''s jaw clenched as she felt him coming. She couldn''t

    afford to hesitate, she had to strike first.

    She slashed at him, her katana glowing with sharp, white light, but the blade met fur instead

    of flesh.

    It was the Thunder Lycaon she cut, its body dissipating into shadowy wisps. Her heart skipped a beat, realizing her mistake.

    Before she could recalibrate her focus, Eratz appeared above her, a ball of light crackling with energy in his hands.

    With a powerful thrust, he launched the ball toward her, the light streaking through the air

    like a comet.

    Raya moved swiftly, sidestepping the attack and preparing to counter, her katana poised. But as she turned, her eyes widened in shock.

    The ball of light behind her morphed into the Aetheri.

    The brief distraction, a mere instant where she focused on the Aetheri, was all Eratz needed.

    He lunged at her, his fist aiming for her side. Raya twisted her body, her katana slicing

    through the air, slashing his cheek with a thin, red line.

    At the same moment, Eratz''s knuckles brushed her ribs, the force of his raw power grazing her

    side like a hammer blow.

    The impact sent Raya flying back, her body skidding across the ground.

    She barely managed to catch herself, gasping for air as the pain traveled through her as she

    fought to stay conscious.

    But Eratz didn''t let her a second of resting.

    He grabbed her foot mid-air, yanking her toward him, her body snapping forward like a rag

    doll. Then, he drove his fist deep into her stomach, the blow landing with a catastrophic

    impact.

    The entire arena shook from the impact. The ground cracked and buckled beneath them, a shockwave rippling outward, sending dust and debris flying into the stands.

    Raya''s mouth fell open in a silent gasp, her eyes wide with. She felt herself falling, her body

    limp

    Everything seemed to slow down, the noise of the crowd fading into a distant hum.

    It was the first time she had ever pushed herself this far, the first time she had faced someone

    who could match her at this level.

    Her control was slipping, her energy waning.

    Eratz raised his fist for another punch, but before he could strike, Raya''s hand moved. She summoned a red katana, piercing the air mid-thrust.

    The blade drove into Eratz''s knuckles, the sharp edge digging into his fist.

    He grimaced, the pain shooting through his hand, but he didn''t stop. He gritted his teeth,

    pulling her closer and grabbing her arm.

    A low, rumbling growl filled the air as a cloud of lightning gathered above them.

    To his left, the Terrakrus opened its massive jaws, and to his right, the Aetheri began charging

    a bright, pulsing beam of energy. Simultaneously, Raijinara materialized and unleashed a bolt of lightning from above, the Terrakrus roared with a seismic shockwave, and the Aetheri fired its spirit beam. The three attacks converged at the center, hitting them both from all sides.

    A massive explosion of light erupted, illuminating the entire arena in a blinding flash.

    The ground beneath them shattered, a crater forming at the epicenter of the impact.

    The shockwave blasted through the air, rattling the shield protecting the audience, cracks spiderwebbing across its surface.

    The crowd watched in stunned silence, their faces lit by the brilliant light of the explosion.

    It was as if the entire arena had been caught in a storm, the air filled with the deafening roar

    of thunder, and for a moment, no one moved, no one breathed, the force of the display leaving them speechless.

    As the smoke began to clear, a figure emerged. Raya staggered forward, her body battered and

    trembling. She raised her hand, summoning a beast, a slime creature, with a serpentine body and the head of a lion. It charged toward the smoke, its roar echoing across the battlefield.

    But before it could reach its target, a lightning bolt struck it down, disintegrating it into sparks and ash. Raijinara flew overhead, its wings crackling with electric energy, the sky above darkened by

    the remnants of the storm it had conjured.

    Raya fell to one knee, her breath coming in ragged gasps. She raised her second hand, her white samurai spirit materializing at her side.

    It rushed into the cloud of smoke, only to be met head-on by the Terrakrus.

    The dragon beast collided with the samurai, its jaws clamping down as the spirit dissolved

    into mist.

    She tried once more, her second knee hitting the ground. Her red, six-armed samurai appeared, but from within the smoke, Eratz lowered a single finger.

    A massive beam of energy descended from above, the remnants of his field spell.

    The red samurai vanished in the blast, the force dispelling the smoke and revealing Eratz. He stood there, his body battered. The slashes on his cheek and knuckles still glowed red, a

    sign that Rockbound Fury could no longer absorb any more damage. His field spell dissolved around him, fading into nothingness.

    He couldn''t maintain it any longer after using the spiritual mode, but his expression

    remained calm.

    On either side of him, the Terrakrus and the Aetheri stood ready. Above him, Raijinara circled.

    Raya sank to her knees, her entire body trembling, her breath labored and shallow. The glow

    in her eyes had dimmed, her expression a mask of exhaustion.

    Her white hair lost their brightness. She could barely lift her head, her chin dipping to her

    chest.

    Her katana flickered weakly before dissolving into the air like smoke.

    She took a long, shaky breath, her chest heaving with the effort. Her hand pressed into the

    cracked stone beneath her, fingers trembling. Slowly, almost painfully, she raised her head, her eyes half-closed.

    "Can you still... summon another beast?" she asked, her words slow.

    Eratz took a deep breath, then smiled.

    "I don''t know," he admitted with a chuckle. "I''ve been improvising for a while now."

    Raya sighed, a small, tired smile appearing on her lips.

    "You look like you''re smiling," she said softly. "I can''t see it, not even feel it... I''ve really

    become a burden for my own beasts now. But even without seeing, I can tell that yours are

    still dazzling."

    Eratz''s smile softened, and he raised an eyebrow.

    "Are you being honest, or just trying to make me feel pity? Because you know how ridiculous

    that sounds coming from you." Raya chuckled, her laughter light and fleeting.

    "Maybe it''s just my way of being a little salty."

    They shared a smile, a moment of mutual respect and understanding passing between them.

    Her samurai spirit dissolved into the air, fading away like a wisp of smoke.

    A heavy silence fell over the arena as the realization set in. The announcer, who had been

    holding his breath, finally found his voice. He leaned into the microphone, his words barely more than a whisper.

    "She... she can''t continue," he murmured in disbelief.

    He took a deep breath, then shouted, his voice filled with emotion. "Ladies and gentlemen... The Phantom Blade is unable to keep going! The match is over! The winner of the final, the Greenridge League Champion... The Apex Predator, Eratz Pandora!"

 Chapter 135: Milestone of Champions

    Chapter 135: Milestone of ChampionsThe moment the announcer declared Eratz the winner, the arena seemed to hold its breath for a fraction of a second.

    Then, a deafening roar erupted from the stands. It was as if a dam had broken, releasing a wave of emotion.

    The noise was overwhelming, a mix of cheers, applause, and screams that shook the foundation of the stadium.

    "Eratz! Eratz! Eratz!"

    The chants blended together, each voice a part of the ecstatic roar filling the stadium.

    It was a victory that everyone felt in their bones, a moment of shared triumph.

    Zara couldn''t contain herself. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she lunged forward, throwing her arms around Victoria.

    She let out a half-laugh, half-sob, squeezing her partner tightly.

    "He did it! He actually did it!" she cried out, her voice breaking with emotion.

    Victoria laughed too. She hugged Zara back, holding her close. They pulled back, looking at each other and bursting into laughter again, the joy overwhelming them.

    Kaida jumped up, pumping her fist into the air.

    "Yes! Yes! Yes!" she shouted, her face flushed with excitement. She bounced on her feet, unable to stay still.

    Ryder, right beside her, was grinning from ear to ear. He jumped up too, his body feeling weightless from the sheer exhilaration.

    "He really pulled it off! Eratz has won!" he yelled, his voice almost hoarse from cheering. Before he could react, Catarina leapt onto his back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. She screamed into his ear, her laughter bubbling over. Ryder stumbled a bit but caught her, both of them laughing and screaming together.

    On the opposite side of the arena, Cassie and Mercury were locked in a tight embrace, clinging to each other as they cried and laughed at the same time. Cassie''s voice was choked with emotion. "He did it... He did it!" she sobbed, burying her face in Mercury''s shoulder.

    Mercury nodded, hugging her tightly.

    "He really did it, he''s the best..." she whispered.

    They clung to each other, swaying slightly as if trying to hold onto the reality of the moment.

    Roger, meanwhile, had scooped up both Colin and Milo, one in each arm. He held them up high, his booming laughter echoing across the stands.

    "He''s the champion! Our Eratz did it!" he shouted.

    Milo was laughing so hard he could barely breathe, while Colin was clapping her hands and shouting at the top of her lungs, her face lit up with pure joy.

    Across the cities, the celebration spread like wildfire. In Lugina, Crescent Moon headquarters exploded with cheers.

    Staff members hugged each other, chanting, laughing, the sound of their joy filling every corner of the building.

    Trainees high-fived and cheered, the pride of being part of Eratz''s journey lifting their spirits sky-high.

    On the big screens scattered throughout the city squares, people watched the broadcast, clapping and cheering as if they were right there in the arena.

    Strangers hugged each other, united by the shared thrill of witnessing such an incredible victory.

    But back in Grushia, at Genova Academy, the mood was starkly different. Kenny had watched the final with the teacher guarding him.

    The teacher''s expression was a mix of awe and disbelief as he watched the final moments of the battle replayed again and again.

    "That was... unbelievable," the teacher muttered, his eyes wide. He began clapping, slowly at first, then faster, the realization of what he''d just seen hitting him fully. "Incredible. Truly incredible. He''s become a champion... someone from the academy has become a champion in a year."

    But then, a sudden realization dawned on him, and his expressions darkened. He turned to look at Kenny, who was sitting hunched over, his hands clenched tightly into fists on his knees.

    His head hung low, his dark hair hiding his face from view. The cheers from the screen filled the room, a stark contrast to the darkness that surrounded him.

    The teacher''s face twisted into a frown.

    "We lost him," he said, almost to himself. "We had Eratz here, and we let him go." He sighed, the sound filled with regret. He looked at Kenny, his disappointment evident. "And whose fault was that? We trusted you, Kenny. Look at him now, bathing in the light and fame while we couldn''t even send a challenger."

    Kenny''s shoulders trembled, but he didn''t look up. His nails dug into his palms, drawing small, sharp pains, but he barely felt it.

    His body jerked as if he''d been struck. Slowly, he lifted his head, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. He stared at the screen, where Eratz stood in the center of the arena, bathed in light. The crowd''s chants of his name filled the room, a sound so loud it felt like it was pressing down on him.

    Kenny''s vision blurred as the tears finally spilled over.

    "Why? Why do you need to attack me like that?!"

    His path led him here, into the shadows, far away from the light of victory.

    A sob escaped him, raw and broken. He covered his face with his hands, his shoulders shaking as the tears came faster. He cried, the sound muffled but filled with a pain that had no words. On the screen, Eratz sat cross-legged face to Raya, the crowd''s roar reaching a fever pitch. He took a deep breath, savoring the moment. He glanced up, savoring everything, the faces, the lights, the sounds of victory that seemed to fill the air with electricity.

    It felt surreal, like he was floating above everything, watching a dream unfold before him. He let his gaze drift back down, meeting Raya. She was still kneeling, her breath calmer now. For a long moment, neither of them spoke. They simply existed in that shared space, two warriors who had given everything they had.

    "Can you stand?" Eratz asked, his voice low.

    Raya tilted her head slightly, considering the question. Her lips curled into a tired smile, and she let out a soft chuckle.

    "I can try," she said, but then added with a light shake of her head, "But I might just fall right

    away." He nodded, he stood up and slowly stepped toward her, taking her hand hand.

    He pulled her up, steadying her with an arm around her shoulders. Then, Eratz lifted her arm, raising her fist high into the air.

    The public broke into an explosion of applause and cheers, louder than anything they had heard before.

    It was a standing ovation, the entire arena rising to their feet as one. Fighters, spectators, everyone stood, clapping and shouting, their faces lit with admiration and awe.

    Sia and Gabriel were clapping, their expressions filling with deep respect. Fireworks burst into the sky above the stadium, painting the night with streaks of color and light. The booming sounds mixed with the cheers, creating a symphony of celebration.

    Raya had a small, serene smile on her lips. She opened her mouth slowly, her voice almost a

    whisper.

    "This... I can feel it," she said.

    They stood together, side by side, basking in the warmth of the crowd''s adoration.

    Minutes passed, the cheering finally beginning to die down. The officials stepped onto the

    stage, signaling the start of the final ceremony.

    Eratz and Raya stood side by side.

    The head official stepped forward, holding a polished silver plate. He approached Raya, bowing slightly as he handed it to her.

    The plate was wide and intricately designed, reflecting the stadium lights with a soft, silvery sheen. For a moment, Raya just held it, her expression blank, as if she wasn''t quite sure what

    to do.

    She turned the plate in her hands, feeling its weight. Her fingers traced the engraved edges, and then she gave a small, almost shy smile.

    She nodded her thanks to the official, then lifted the plate lightly, holding it out in front of

    her. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The audience responded with a wave of applause, respectful and heartfelt, honoring the warrior who had given everything she had.

    Then it was Eratz''s turn.

    The official turned to him, holding the gold trophy, a gleaming masterpiece, tall and with

    Greenridge sculpted on its surface.

    The gold surface caught the light, casting a brilliant reflection that seemed to illuminate

    Eratz''s face.

    The moment felt suspended in time as Eratz stared at it, his breath catching slightly.

    He stepped forward, reaching out with both hands. His fingers wrapped around the base, feeling the cold, smooth metal beneath his skin.

    For a heartbeat, he hesitated. The trophy was heavier than he''d imagined, not just physically but in the weight of everything it symbolized, the battles, the sacrifices, the endless hours of

    training.

    It was the first tangible proof of how far he''d come.

    The crowd held its collective breath, waiting.

    Eratz lifted the trophy, his movements slow. He brought it up, first to chest height, then over

    his head.

    He held it there, his arms outstretched, the golden trophy gleaming against the darkening

    sky.

    "Ladies and gentlemen!" the announcer called out. "The moment we have all been waiting for, the pinnacle of this incredible tournament! It''s official... Your Greenridge League

    Champion, the Apex Predator, Eratz Pandora!"

    And then the applause erupted.

    The noise was deafening, a wave of cheers and shouts that seemed to shake the ground

    beneath their feet.

    Fireworks exploded overhead, filling the sky with brilliant colors. The golden light bathed Eratz in a radiant glow, as if the world itself was celebrating his victory.

    He closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the vibration of the cheers through his entire body.

    His smile widened, genuine and full of wonder.

    He had done it. The trophy was real, and it was in his hands. He stood there, soaking in the adulation, holding the symbol of his victory high above his head as the fireworks continued to

    paint the sky.

 Chapter 136: Under the Fireworks

    Chapter 136: Under the FireworksThe sound of the crowd''s applause still reverberated through the walls of the arena, a symphony of cheers that seemed to pulse with life itself.

    The announcer''s voice had barely faded before the surge of interviewers and flashing cameras descended on Eratz like a wave of light.

    "Eratz! Eratz!" They called his name, microphones shoved in his face, voices overlapping in a chaotic swirl.

    "How does it feel to be the Greenridge champion?"

    "What was your strategy in those final moments?"

    "Some specialists stipulate that with your performance, you might directly pass test for the continental league, how do you feel about it?"

    The questions came faster than he could process. The flashes of light left spots in his vision, and he felt as if he were drowning in the noise, his heartbeat pounding in his ears.

    He raised a hand in a half-hearted wave, offering a tired, polite smile, but the intensity of the moment pressed down on him like a physical weight.

    An official stepped in, parting the crowd with a firm hand on Eratz''s shoulder.

    "This way, champion," he said, guiding him down a narrow hallway.

    Eratz gave a small nod, grateful to escape the whirlwind.

    As the door closed behind them, muffling the roar of the crowd, he took a deep breath, trying to settle the adrenaline still rushing through his veins.

    The second he stepped in, light came back and a loud pop echoed through the room as confetti burst into the air.

    The air was filled with the smell of gunpowder from the confetti cannons, and tiny paper pieces fluttered down like a colorful snowfall, sticking to Eratz''s hair and shoulders.

    The Crescent Moon team and his family erupted in cheers, a wild, joyous noise that filled the space, the sound echoing off the walls, almost deafening after the quiet hallway.

    "Eratz!" Zara''s voice cracked with emotion as she rushed toward him.

    Her eyes were red from crying, but her smile was wide and genuine.

    Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him, almost lifting him off the ground.

    "You did it! You really did it, you monster!" she sobbed, her voice a mix of laughter and tears.

    Eratz laughed softly.

    "Zara, I can barely stand," he managed, but the warmth in her hug was soothing, a balm to his exhaustion.

    Cassie pushed her way forward, gently but firmly prying Eratz away from Zara. She enveloped him in a warm embrace, her hands shaking as she held him close.

    "You got what you deserved," she whispered against his ear, her voice thick with pride and relief. "All those hours, all that struggle... It was all worth it. You''re amazing..."

    He buried his face against her shoulder for a moment, allowing himself the comfort of her embrace.

    "I did it, thanks to you, and everyone," he murmured back, almost as if he needed to hear it himself to believe it.

    Roger was next, sweeping in like a storm. He grabbed Eratz in a bear hug from behind, practically lifting him off his feet. He ruffled Eratz''s hair with a wide grin.

    "That''s our champion!" he boomed, his laughter filling the room. "You made us proud, Eratz. You made us all proud."

    "Ouch... W-wait... I''m vulnerable... Put me down, da... Roger," Eratz chuckled, feeling the heaviness of his exhaustion mixed with the lightness of their joy.

    Milo and Colin squeezed in, both of them jumping up and down in excitement.

    "You were amazing, Eratz!" Milo shouted, his eyes shining with admiration. Colin nodded vigorously, clapping her hands together.

    "You''re the strongest, and the coolest," Colin added with a huge smile.

    Eratz ruffled their hair, looking down at them with a fond expression.

    "Thanks, you two. See? This is what you get when you work hard."

    Mercury approached him last, her smile soft but her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

    Without a word, she stepped close and cupped his face in her hands, then leaned in and kissed him.

    It wasn''t a brief kiss, it was slow, deep, and filled with everything she couldn''t say in words. The room fell silent, everyone watching them with wide eyes.

    When Mercury pulled back, she smirked, her cheeks heartening.

    "You''re incredible," she whispered.

    Eratz blinked, then raised an eyebrow, grinning slightly.

    "Right in front of the kids?" he teased, gesturing to Milo and Colin, who were both staring in shock.

    Mercury''s eyes widened, and she flinched.

    "Oh, uh.... I-I... This is how you say good job in a foreign country!" she started, fumbling for

    an excuse.

    Colin gave her a skeptical side eye, folding her arms. Mercury groaned, hiding her face in her hands.

    "Maybe she''s really not a kid anymore..." she muttered.

    Victoria stepped forward, raising her hand to calm the room.

    "Alright, everyone," she called out, her voice strong yet filled with warmth. "We''ve shown everyone what we''re capable of in this tournament. Crescent Moon isn''t just another agency. We''ve proven our power, and it''s far beyond the regional level."

    The room buzzed with excitement, a ripple of agreement passing through the team. "But today isn''t about the future," Victoria continued, her gaze softening as she looked at Eratz. "Today is about celebrating our champion, Eratz. He''s earned this moment, and we''re here to celebrate him. Tonight, we''re going to the biggest restaurant in town! It''s my treat!" A loud cheer erupted, everyone raising their fists. Eratz smiled tiredly.

    "I really just feel like sleeping," he murmured.

    Outside, Gabriel slipped through the bustling crowd, his hat pulled low and sunglasses hiding his eyes.

    He moved quickly, trying to avoid recognition, but his expression was thoughtful, tinged

    with something deeper.

    He paused when he spotted a familiar figure standing by the exit. Crystal stood there, her eyes distant, scanning the crowd as if looking for something, or someone.

    "Crystal?" Gabriel approached, genuinely surprised to see her there. "What are you doing

    here?"

    Crystal turned to him slowly, blinking as if she''d been lost in her own world.

    "I had some free time," she said, her voice hollow, her eyes flicking back to the stream of

    people pouring out of the arena.

    Gabriel gave her a knowing smile, tilting his head.

    "You''re waiting for Eratz, aren''t you?"

    Her gaze snapped to his, a flash of anxiety crossing her eyes.

    "I just... wanted to see him," she admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "He never said what he thought after he found out the truth about how I tried to help him. I need to know."

    Gabriel''s smile softened, filled with sympathy.

    "Crystal... it sounds like you care about him more than you realize."

    Crystal''s eyes widened, and she looked away quickly, her hand tightening around the strap of

    her bag.

    "What are you saying?" she murmured. "It''s not... it''s not like that," but her voice wavered,

    betraying her.

    Her mind flashed back to the last time she''d seen Eratz''s face before he was expelled, the anger in his eyes, and the contrast with the last time they were together in the same place, after the calamity birds event, this time his face absolutely unphased.

    She felt a sharp twist of regret in her chest.

    "It''s not about that. We''re leaving for Grushia tomorrow. I just need to see him, to know his

    reaction, even if it''s just for a moment."

    Gabriel studied her for a moment, then nodded, his expression turning serious.

    "I understand. I''ll help you. I doubt he''ll have much free time after tonight, so I''ll make sure

    you get your moment with him before tomorrow." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Crystal looked up at him.

    "Thank you," she said quietly.

    Across the plaza, Sia made her way through the thinning crowd, her steps paced as she approached a sleek black car parked near the arena''s side entrance.

    She paused, glancing back at the towering stadium, the fireworks still bursting above it,

    painting the sky with streaks of color.

    Her eyes reflected the light for a moment, her expression distant and contemplative.

    A voice cut through the noise, casual and laced with amusement. "Well, at least now you''ve got a good excuse for losing. Those two were monsters."

    The speaker stepped into view, a young girl with black hair tied into pigtails and ice-blue

    eyes.

    She was the girl who had defeated Kenny in the Grushia tournament, the one who had literally

    ended his career.

    Sia didn''t turn to face her, her gaze still locked on the arena.

    "Excuses," she replied flatly. "The only response to losing is to get stronger. Those three are

    formidable. They''ll be a problem."

    The girl snorted, crossing her arms.

    "Come on, sis," she teased. "If more of us from the agency had shown up, this whole thing would''ve been a cakewalk. Crescent Moon''s got quality, sure, but we''ve got both quality and numbers. You''ll see soon, it''s about to begin." She tilted her head toward the car. "Don''t you

    agree, newcomer?"

    Inside the car, Nyx rolled her eyes, leaning back against the seat with an impatient sigh.

    "Can we leave already?" she drawled. "I''m done watching fireworks."

    Sia finally turned, her gaze cool as she faced the girl.

    "It''s easy to brag about numbers and teamwork," she said sharply. "But I''d rather lose with

    my team while being the strongest individual."

    The girl laughed, a carefree sound.

    "He''s an Ishtarian, sis. It''s no surprise he crushed everyone. Just like..."

    But her words didn''t reach out as she flopped into the back seat.

    Sia turned back to the arena, her eyes narrowing slightly, lost in thought.

    "This is only an excuse to not push harder."

    She opened the car door and got inside, the engine revving as they drove off into the night,

    leaving the roaring crowd and the brilliant light work behind.

 Chapter 137: Cheers

    Chapter 137: CheersThe restaurant was filled with lively chatter and laughter, the sound of clinking glasses and the sizzling of dishes.

    The Crescent Moon team and Eratz''s family occupied a large table in the center, surrounded by the warm glow of the chandeliers.

    Plates of steaming food, grilled meat, fresh bread, and decorated salads were spread across the table.

    Cassie and Roger sat at one end, surrounded by Milo and Colin, who were eagerly digging into their plates.

    The warm, golden light from the chandeliers above bathed everyone in a soft glow, adding to the cozy, celebratory atmosphere.

    Among the laughter and the cheerful chatter, Eratz was slumped back in his chair, eyes closed, completely exhausted.

    His head nodded forward, and he was on the verge of dozing off, the noise of the celebration fading into the background.

    Catarina''s eyes sparkled as she noticed him drifting off. She leaned closer, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

    This was her chance to get back at him for all those times he''d pulled the same annoying joke on her and the others when they woke up.

    But while Catarina prepared her prank, Eratz slipped deeper into sleep, tumbling into a light dream.

    He was back in the arena, standing alone in the center. The stands were empty now, the lights dimmed.

    From the shadows, a familiar figure stepped forward: Raya.

    Her katana was drawn, the blade gleaming with a soft light. She charged at him, a determined look in her eyes, just like the first time they fought.

    Eratz didn''t move. Instead of bracing for the attack or preparing to dodge, he simply placed his hands on his hips, tilting his head to the side, raising an eyebrow at her.

    Raya slid to a stop right in front of him, her katana lowered. She blinked, taken aback, then scratched the back of her neck with a sheepish smile.

    Before the dream could continue, he felt a danger looming on him.

    His eyes fluttered open, just in time to see Catarina leaning closer, her mouth open mid- sentence.

    "Ah, finally aw-""

    Without missing a beat, Eratz reached out and pinched her lips shut, gently but firmly. "Never," he said, smirking at her with a tired but amused glint in his eyes. Catarina''s muffled protest was met with a round of laughter from the others at the table. Ryder slapped the table, howling with laughter, while Kaida grinned, shaking her head. The conversation flowed freely after that, light and full of warmth. They talked about anything and everything, voices overlapping in the joyful chaos of celebration.

    At some point, Kaida, Ryder, and Colin leaned in closer to Mercury, their eyes gleaming with curiosity.

    "Alright, spill it," Kaida said, resting her chin on her hands. "When did it start with you two?" "Yeah, why didn''t you tell us a thing?" Ryder added, a playful grin on his face.

    Mercury nearly choked on her drink.

    "W-What? What is there to tell?" she stammered. "You all saw it, right? Now you know..."

    Colin giggled, leaning forward with a conspiratorial smile.

    "You kissed him right in front of everyone," she teased. "Right in front of Milo and dad and mom! Imagine what will happen when we''re alone tomorrow."

    Mercury groaned and let her forehead hit the table with a soft thud.

    "I want to disappear," she mumbled.

    Ryder leaned back, his grin widening.

    "I always knew Eratz was very capable," he said with a nod. "But bagging the hottest girl in town? That''s boss level."

    Catarina leaned forward, nodding in agreement, arms crossed.

    "Yeah, I have to admit, I didn''t see that coming," she said with a smirk. "Boss doesn''t slack off, he aims for the biggest fish!"

    Roger raised his glass with a booming laugh.

    "To the boss!" he shouted, clinking his glass with Ryder''s.

    "To the boss!" Catarina and Ryder echoed, raising their glasses high.

    Eratz, drifted back to the dream world while Mercury covered her face with her hands, half- laughing, half-mortified.

    "I can''t take you guys anywhere," she muttered, but the smile on her face showed that she was just as happy as the rest of them.

    The table erupted into more laughter, the sound filling the restaurant, a celebration of their victory and the bond they shared.

    And then, the door to the restaurant creaked open.

    The sound of clinking glasses and cheerful chatter quieted as everyone turned to look.

    A figure approached the table, moving with a purposeful stride.

    It was Gabriel.

    The lively atmosphere vanished as he stopped beside Eratz, who had slumped back in his chair once more, half-asleep.

    Gabriel cleared his throat, offering a polite nod to the group before looking directly at Eratz.

    "I''m sorry to interrupt your party," he began, his voice earnest. "But I need to speak with you, Eratz. It''s important, can we talk in private?" S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The room fell into a brief, tense silence. The group exchanged curious glances, and Eratz slowly opened his eyes, looking up at Gabriel with a tired but amused expression.

    He let out a small sigh.

    "No," he said simply.

    Gabriel blinked, clearly taken aback.

    "No? Why not? It''s urgent."

    Eratz straightened up slightly, his gaze sharp despite his exhaustion. "Because I''m not going

    to have a private conversation with a stranger when I''m this vulnerable. If it''s that important,

    you can wait until tomorrow when I''ve had some rest."

    Gabriel clenched his fists, frustration crossing his face.

    "But tomorrow is..." he started, but Eratz cut him off with a knowing smile.

    "I see," Eratz said softly, leaning back in his chair. "You''re not even free. You''re just

    someone''s puppet."

    Gabriel''s eyes widened. He looked away, his lips pressed into a thin line.

    "I could have given you the benefit of the doubt," Eratz continued, his tone gentle but firm. "But I think I know who''s behind this. And I have no interest in playing her game, especially

    not when I''m this tired."

    Gabriel''s frustration bubbled over. He spoke quickly, his voice tinged with desperation.

    "You don''t understand. She''s done a lot for you, more than you realize. You''ve never given her

    a chance to explain. Do you know how sad she is right now? Please, just..."

    He stopped abruptly when he noticed Eratz''s eyes were closed again. He had fallen asleep

    mid-speech.

    Gabriel''s mouth hung open, stunned. The rest of the table burst into quiet laughter, trying not to be too obvious about it.

    Eratz''s eyes fluttered open again, and he blinked up at Gabriel, momentarily disoriented.

    "Hm? Oh, right... No," he said.

    Gabriel''s face flushed with irritation, but before he could respond, Eratz held up a hand.

    "I don''t talk to the tail of the horse," Eratz said calmly. "If someone wants to speak to me, they''re welcome to do it directly. But I won''t change my plans for them." Gabriel''s shoulders slumped, and he looked down, clearly conflicted. He clenched his fists once more, but this time in resignation. Eratz gave him a sympathetic smile.

    "You''re young, boy," he said quietly. "But you need to learn when something doesn''t concern

    you. Go enjoy the night. You might need it."

    Gabriel looked at him for a long moment, then nodded slowly, turning to leave without

    another word.

    He was just about to step out of the restaurant, his shoulders slumped in resignation.

    But as he reached the entrance, he suddenly stopped, and let out a small, surprised.

    "Uh?"

    Everyone''s faces shifted from joy to curiosity, their eyes following the door.

    Eratz sensed the change in atmosphere. He blinked, rubbing his eyes as he quickly read the

    mood.

    He figured it out instantly, someone had entered. There could only be one person, and he wished to not have to face her in front of everyone, but it was too late.

    With a weary sigh, he slowly turned around, ready to face her. But when he looked up, his own

    eyes widened.

    Standing behind him wasn''t Crystal, but Professor Rowan.

 Chapter 138: And The Moment Arrived

    Chapter 138: And The Moment ArrivedThe restaurant''s mood died down in an instant.

    Standing just behind Eratz, was Professor Rowan.

    He looked almost the same as Eratz remembered, his hair white, flowing past his shoulders, and his beard long and silver, giving him the air of an old sage.

    His eyes, though softened by emotion, still held that sharp, penetrating gaze Eratz remembered all too well.

    For a moment, neither of them moved. It was as if the entire world had shrunk to just the two of them, locked in a silent exchange that spoke volumes more than any words could.

    The last time they''d seen each other was nearly a year ago, when Rowan had turned his back on him, after Eratz had been accused of cheating.

    Rowan''s lips parted, but the words seemed to fail him. He looked at Eratz as if he were seeing a ghost, the regret etched deeply into the lines of his face. He swallowed hard, his throat bobbing with the effort, but still, no words came.

    Eratz''s face showed no emotion, but this void told everything by itself. He was speechless.

    The professor who took him under his wing, the man who was his mentor and shared his experience with beast masters, and the one he had to disappoint to save his friend.

    That man was right here, looking like a weary old man, lost and afraid.

    Rowan took another shaky breath, his hands now visibly trembling. He tried again, his voice breaking.

    "I... I don''t know where to start. I thought I was ready for this, but seeing you now, I... I can''t..."

    He forced himself to look up, meeting Eratz''s gaze once more, but his eyes were brimming with fear and sorrow.

    Eratz let out a long, slow breath. He looked away briefly, as if collecting his thoughts.

    "Fine," he muttered. "I can spare a few minutes."

    He knew this moment was inevitable, but it didn''t make it any easier.

    Rowan''s shoulders sagged in relief, the tension draining from his face. He nodded quickly, like a man who had just been granted a reprieve from a death sentence, but with what could happen, maybe it looked more like a death sentence already.

    "Thank you," he whispered.

    Eratz glanced back at his friends, offering them a small, reassuring smile before gesturing for Rowan to follow.

    Gabriel, who had been lingering awkwardly by the entrance, stepped forward, and followed them.

    The three of them made their way to the exit, the door swinging shut behind them with a soft thud, leaving the buzz of the restaurant behind.

    The cool night air wrapped around Eratz as he stepped outside, the restaurant''s noise fading into the background.

    He walked slowly, hands buried deep in his pockets, his eyes fixed on the ground, lost in thought.

    Rowan led the way, his steps uneven, Gabriel trailed behind them, silent, the tension hanging between them like a heavy fog.

    They rounded the corner of the building, moving into the shadowed back alley of the restaurant.

    Eratz followed Rowan without a word, his gaze still downward. It was only when they stopped that he looked up, and his entire body froze.

    Standing before him were several teachers from Genova Academy, their faces filled with a mix of forced smiles and guarded expressions. At the center stood the director, a combo that Eratz remembered all too well.

    Minus Melcin, the people who were present during the reunion leading to Eratz''s expulsion were gathered.

    Eratz''s eyes widened, disbelief flooding his features. He took a step back, shaking his head slowly, his breath hitching in his throat.

    "You''ve gotta be kidding me," he whispered, the words barely escaping his lips.

    Rowan turned around, an apologetic look on his face, his hand half-raised as if to offer an explanation.

    "Eratz," Rowan began, his voice trembling. "I know this is unexpected, but there''s a good reason for this. Please, let me..."

    The moment Rowan met Eratz''s gaze, he froze. The fury in Eratz''s eyes was like nothing he had ever seen before, raw, unfiltered rage, simmering just beneath the surface.

    "What is the meaning of this?" Eratz''s voice was low, but it carried a venom that made Rowan flinch. "I thought you wanted to talk. I trusted you, Rowan. I came here because I believed in you."

    Rowan''s face crumpled, his hands shaking as he took a step back.

    "Please, Eratz," he pleaded, his voice breaking. "You have to understand, I had to do this. It''s not what you think. Just listen to me..."

    But Eratz''s patience had snapped. He stepped forward, his body trembling with anger, his voice rising with each word.

    "Understand? What is there to understand? You brought me here Rowan! You knew how I felt about these people, and you still brought them here? And you specifically picked those who where in that room when they expelled me! How could you abuse my trust like that?!"

    The teachers exchanged uneasy glances, the director''s frown deepening as she took a cautious step forward, but Eratz''s fury was like a storm, impossible to contain.

    "You think I don''t see what this is?" Eratz shouted, his voice echoing off the brick walls. "You want to ride on my success now, don''t you? Now that I''ve made it, now that I''ve proven myself without you, now you show up? Where were you when I needed you? Why didn''t you listen to me when I claimed my innocence? Why are you stalking me everywhere?! Now, now that I''m getting successful?!"

    Rowan''s lips trembled, his face pale. "Eratz, please... It''s not like that. I..."

    "It is like that!" Eratz''s voice cracked with the weight of his emotions. "It''s always like that with you people. Always scheming, always backstabbing. It''s like it''s in your blood. Why can''t you just be normal? Why is it so hard for you to just be decent human beings?"

    The silence that followed his words was thick, suffocating. Rowan looked as if he had been

    struck.

    He opened his mouth, but no sound came out. His eyes were wide, filling with tears as he realized the depth of the wound he had reopened.

    "I''m not trying to manipulate you," Rowan said, his voice a desperate whisper.

    He stumbled forward, hands outstretched as if to reach for Eratz, but Eratz stepped back, avoiding him.

    "I swear to you, that''s not what this is. I was terrified to face you, Eratz. Terrified of what you''d say, of the hate in your eyes. But I couldn''t live with myself anymore. I couldn''t sleep, knowing what I did to you."

    His voice cracked, tears spilling down his weathered cheeks.

    "I''ve carried this pain with me every day," Rowan continued, his words tumbling out in a rush, his breath hitching. "Every time I looked at myself, I saw your face, the betrayal I put there. I''ve been haunted by it, by you, by the student I abandoned when he needed me most."

    He fell to his knees with a sudden, sharp motion, the impact of his body hitting the hard pavement ringing out in the alleyway.

    He bowed his head, pressing his forehead against the cold stone of the street, his hands clutching at the ground as if it were the only thing keeping him from falling apart completely. "I''m sorry," he choked out, his voice muffled against the ground. "I''m so, so sorry, Eratz. I was a coward, and I made a terrible mistake. All I want is a chance to say it, to look you in the eyes and tell you how sorry I am."

    The alley was deathly quiet, the sound of Rowan''s ragged breathing the only thing breaking the silence. The teachers stood still, their faces pale, the director''s eyes wide with shock.

    Eratz looked down at Rowan, his own hands clenched into fists at his sides.

    He swallowed hard, fighting against the wave of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 139: Sacrifice

    Chapter 139: SacrificeEratz stared down at Rowan, his face hardening as the fury drained away, replaced by something colder, sharper, disappointment.

    He had wanted this reunion to mean something, had hoped for an honest conversation, but instead, he was facing a scene that felt like another setup, another trap.

    He clenched his jaw, the memories flooding back unbidden: the small, dimly lit room where they had all pointed fingers, the cold, accusatory stares, the voices telling him he had assaulted someone, that he didn''t belong.

    He could still feel the tightness in his chest, the crushing weight of betrayal.

    Taking a step back, he felt the urge to leave, to walk away and never look back.

    But before he could turn, one of the other teachers stepped forward. He was an older man, still his face lined with worry and regret. He raised a hand, his voice cracking as he called out.

    "Wait, Eratz... Please, just listen."

    Eratz paused, narrowing his eyes, but didn''t move closer.

    The teacher swallowed hard, lowering his head slightly.

    "We didn''t bring you here to trick you," he said slowly. "You have to understand... You were always a talent beyond anything we''d ever seen. But you were so good that sometimes, even we doubted it was real. When you were accused of cheating, we thought..." He faltered, guilt twisting his face. "We thought it was logical, that no one could be as perfect as you appeared."

    Eratz''s expression twisted with bitterness, but the teacher pressed on.

    "We weren''t against you," he insisted. "But there was nothing to prove your innocence either. We were left with nothing but suspicions, and when Crystal accused you... Well, it wasn''t just cheating anymore. It was something worse, something that left us no choice."

    He lowered himself to the ground, dropping to his knees beside Rowan. He bowed deeply, his forehead nearly touching the stone.

    "I''m sorry. We were wrong. We failed you."

    One by one, the other teachers stepped forward, their faces somber, and they each bowed low, murmuring their apologies.

    It was a stark, painful display, these people who once held his fate in their hands, now humbling themselves before him.

    Eratz shook his head slowly, his heart pounding in his chest, but the anger that had burned so brightly moments before was now dimming, leaving a hollow, aching emptiness. He opened his mouth, but no words came.

    Then, the director stepped forward with a dignified grace, even in this moment of contrition. Her eyes met Eratz''s.

    "You have every right to be angry," she said, her voice firm but filled with regret. "You were framed, and we didn''t realize it sooner. We wronged you in the worst possible way. We know that, and we accept that you may never forgive us. But you need to understand that we were all trapped in this game. We were led to believe a version of events that was carefully constructed to destroy you."

    Eratz''s gaze hardened.

    "Framed," he muttered. "You''re saying I was framed? Even though I took the blame?" The director nodded slowly.

    "Yes. And then, when you were accused of something far worse, something unforgivable, it was our mistake. It was deliberate. But believe it or not, Eratz, it was somehow for your good."

    He stared at her, the disbelief evident on his face.

    "For my good?" he echoed.

    Before the director could respond, another voice cut through the silence, sharp and confident. "Yes, it was what I had to do to protect you from the true culprit of everything. The one who is the real cause of your suffering, the one who betrayed you first. Kenny."

    Eratz''s head snapped up, and he turned to see Crystal stepping out from the shadows.

    Her eyes locked onto his, unwavering, as she continued.

    "I''m the one who accused you. But it wasn''t because I wanted to destroy you. It was because I knew the real threat was Kenny. I had to play the game to protect you from him."

    Crystal stepped forward, her face a mixture of sorrow and resolve. She inhaled deeply before speaking, her voice softer than it had been moments ago.

    "Eratz, I know this isn''t easy to hear," she began, her eyes pleading for understanding. "But I need you to know that I never wanted to hurt you. I cared about you, more than you could ever realize. But I was left with no other choice."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow in clear skepticism. He kept his hands buried in his pockets, his shoulders tense but his stance deceptively relaxed.

    "No other choice?" he echoed, his voice sharp.

    Crystal nodded, bringing her hands together in a gesture that seemed almost angelic.

    "Yes. Everyone here, we''re all culprits in this story," she said, looking around at the assembled teachers, her gaze resting on Rowan, then the director.

    "But so are you, Eratz," she added, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looked back at him. "It

    all started when you admitted to a crime you didn''t commit."

    Eratz''s expression faltered for a moment, a flicker of something deep and conflicted passing through his eyes.

    Crystal stepped closer, her tone shifting to something more intimate, almost pleading.

    "I knew you would never have cheated. I believed in you, Eratz. But you took the blame anyway. You stood there, silent, and accepted it. Why?" Her voice wavered, the frustration bubbling up. "That''s what led everyone to turn against you. That''s what made it so easy for them to point fingers."

    She paused, taking a breath as if to gather her strength before continuing.

    "I tried to get you back on track. I pushed you to apologize to Kenny because he was the only one who could convince the academy to let you come back. I believed that if you could just fight again, you''d rise to the top. You''d return to being the best beast master at the academy. But you were so passive, so resigned." She clenched her fists at her sides. "You wouldn''t have stood a chance if Kenny followed through with his plan. I had to take action for you."

    For a long moment, Eratz just stared at her. His gaze swept over the faces of the teachers, the director, and then back to Gabriel, who stood slightly behind him, looking lost in this world.

    He let out a long, slow breath, a thin smile curling on his lips. It wasn''t a smile of joy or relief, it was bitter, mixed with irony.

    He looked past Crystal, his eyes narrowing slightly as he caught sight of a shadow leaning casually against the wall, watching from the darkness.

    Lisa.

    She was there, her arms behind her back, her eyes on the ground, waiting for the long awaited execution with a smile.

    Eratz''s smile widened for a moment before he turned back to face the director.

    "So," he began slowly, his voice calm but carrying a dangerous edge, "you know I didn''t S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    assault anyone because Crystal admitted it was a lie. But why do you believe I didn''t cheat in

    the first place?"

    The director flinched at his words. Her hands twitched at her sides, and she looked slightly

    panicked.

    She hesitated, then nodded, forcing herself to meet his gaze.

    "We realized it through your power," she said, her voice softer now, almost deferential. "We saw what you''ve become. No one could fake that level of skill, that mastery. It had to be real

    from the beginning."

    Eratz watched her for a moment, his smile fading. He tilted his head slightly, studying her with an intensity that made her shift uncomfortably.

    "So," he repeated, his tone slightly mocking, "you want me to help you punish the real

    culprit?"

    Crystal stepped forward again, her hand pressed against her chest, her expression earnest.

    "Yes," she said, her voice almost breaking. "It''s time to stop this game once and for all. Please, Eratz, you have to help us. Let''s stop Kenny once and for all."

    A low, bitter chuckle escaped Eratz''s lips. He glanced around at the gathered teachers, at

    Rowan still on his knees, and then back at Crystal.

    "You''re damn right," he said quietly. "Let''s end this stupid game forever."

    Rowan''s head snapped up, his eyes wide with hope.

    "Eratz..."

    But Eratz ignored him, his own eyes opening wide.

    "The real culprit," he said slowly, his voice echoing in the empty alleyway, "is me."

 Chapter 140: Guilty Game

    Chapter 140: Guilty GameThe silence that followed Eratz''s declaration was deafening. It was as if the entire world had frozen, every sound swallowed by the weight of his words.

    In the shadows, Lisa''s smile vanished, replaced by a look of genuine shock. She appeared stunned, her eyes searching Eratz''s face as if she couldn''t quite believe what she was hearing.

    Gabriel, standing a few steps behind, raised an eyebrow, his expression a mixture of disbelief and curiosity.

    Crystal, who had been staring directly at Eratz, frowned deeply. She blinked several times, as if trying to make sense of a puzzle that had suddenly become unsolvable.

    "What..." Crystal finally managed, her voice tinged with disbelief. "What are you saying, Eratz?"

    Eratz didn''t flinch. He held her gaze, unyielding.

    "You heard me," he said, his voice calm. "There''s no need to look for a culprit, because it''s me."

    Crystal''s frown deepened, her eyes narrowing. She took a step closer, her expression now a genuine confusion.

    "What does that even mean?" she asked. "A culprit... like... you could have prevented it? That''s not..."

    Eratz cut her off, his tone icy.

    "No, not like I could have prevented it," he said sharply. "Culprit as in, I did this. I''m the one who cheated. I even admitted it back then. So why are we still looking for someone else to blame?"

    A murmur of disbelief swept through the gathered teachers. Rowan stood up slowly, his face pale, his eyes wide with shock.

    "Eratz," he began, his voice trembling. "What are you saying? We know it wasn''t you. We''ve come here because we believe in your innocence."

    Eratz tilted his head slightly, a bitter smile playing on his lips.

    "And why is that?" he asked, his tone mocking. "Why do you believe that now? I admitted it was me. And I''m not saying this out of anger, or as a joke. I took the Karinite-4, and I used it. I''m a cheater, and I deserved to be expelled. The one who doomed me wasn''t anyone else, it was me. So I should be the one to pay the price."

    Another silence fell over the group, heavier this time. Crystal''s eyes widened, her confident facade cracking for the first time.

    She hadn''t planned for this. This wasn''t part of the script she had written in her mind. Her voice came out shaky, almost pleading.

    "You''re talking nonsense," she stammered. "Why are you trying to protect him? We all know Kenny framed you. Everyone knows it."

    The director stepped forward, her expression severe.

    "We investigated the case thoroughly," she insisted, her voice strong. "We found evidence pointing directly to Kenny. Eratz, you did nothing wrong. Why are you trying so hard to take the blame?"

    Eratz''s smile softened, almost as if he were amused by the entire situation. His eyes flicked toward Crystal, and for the first time, she saw a familiar glint in them, one she didn''t realize she feared, the same look he had in the arena, the gaze of a predator playing with its prey.

    "What are you doing?" Crystal murmured, her voice barely audible.

    Eratz shrugged, still smiling.

    "Does your opinion matter the moment I''ve admitted my guilt?" he asked, his voice light, almost teasing.

    Rowan couldn''t stay silent any longer. He stepped forward, grabbing Eratz by the shoulders. His grip was firm, almost desperate.

    "You''re not the culprit!" Rowan said, his voice raw with emotion. "You''re the victim in this story, Eratz! Kenny framed you! I want to do what''s right this time! Don''t make the same mistake you made before, please! Don''t take the blame again. Help us punish Kenny and clear your name!"

    Eratz let out a soft chuckle, gently removing Rowan''s hands from his shoulders.

    He looked at them all, his gaze sweeping over the teachers, the director, Crystal, and finally back to Rowan. His smile didn''t falter, but there was a sadness behind it now.

    "That''s exactly why I can''t forgive any of you," he said quietly. "You''re all so eager to end the life of a student instead of guiding them."

    The words hit like a physical blow. Several teachers flinched, their faces paling. Even the director took a step back, her eyes widening in shock.

    "You keep talking about doing what''s right, about cleaning my name," Eratz continued, his smile never leaving his face. "But look at you. It''s all about ending Kenny. Punishing him, making him pay. Are you that obsessed with seeing your students crumble?"

    Rowan opened his mouth to object, his face contorted with anguish.

    "No, Eratz, it''s not like that," he began, but Eratz shook his head, silencing him.

    "Last time I checked, Kenny swore he didn''t do anything," Eratz said, his tone mocking. "And here I am, confessing that I cheated. So why are you all convinced that I was framed? Or let me guess, my opinion doesn''t matter? You''ve decided I was innocent because it''s more convenient for you now? You don''t need a confession, you just needed a narrative that fits." The teachers exchanged glances, their faces a mix of shock and realization. Even Crystal seemed taken aback, her mouth opening slightly as if she were about to speak, but no words

    came.

    "You know what this reminds me of?" Eratz asked, his voice dropping to a near-whisper. "The time I was accused and no one listened. Back then, you all decided I was guilty without proof. Just a word from a ''victim,"" he said, casting a pointed glance at Crystal. "And now you''re getting a confession from a culprit. It''s not as clean, but it should at least be more credible."

    The alleyway was plunged into silence once more. No one moved. The teachers looked at each other, their expressions filled with disbelief.

    Crystal''s face had gone pale, her eyes wide as if she were staring at a ghost. Lisa, from her place in the shadows, watched with an unreadable expression, a flicker of something like admiration or sadness crossing her face.

    She heard his opinion about his past once, so she knew better than anyone here about this kind of scenario.

    Eratz took a deep breath, the smile fading from his lips. He took a step back, hands slipping back into his pockets.

    "I cheated," he repeated, his voice soft but firm. "Kenny did nothing. So you have no reason to get my apology, and you can''t use me to get rid of a student."

    The silence stretched on, the streetlights flickered above them, casting long shadows on the ground. In the distance, the muffled sounds of the town could still be heard.

    Crystal''s entire body trembled as she took a shaky step forward, her eyes locked on Eratz. There was something wild and desperate in her gaze now, a frantic attempt to regain control

    of the situation.

    "This isn''t how it works!" she almost shouted, her voice cracking. "You lied! They were mistaken because you lied, Eratz. You can''t blame them for that!"

    Eratz let out a soft chuckle, shrugging his shoulders as if the entire thing were a minor inconvenience.

    "You''re right," he said, his tone almost light, like he was agreeing with an old friend. "That''s exactly my point. I''m the one who lied. I''m responsible, so I''m taking responsibility. I''m not blaming anyone but myself. They made the right decision getting rid of me."

    Crystal''s eyes widened in disbelief. She took a step back, her face pale.

    "You can''t mean that," she whispered, her voice trembling. "I did everything for you, Eratz. You can''t resent me for pushing you to be expelled... You''re the reason I had to do it!" Her

    words faltered, her voice thin and pleading.

    Eratz''s smile grew, but his eyes were narrowed, sharp.

    "That''s also true, the only framing I took was your accusation," he said smoothly. "If anyone

    deserves to be punished here, it''s you, Crystal. You''re the one who lied, deliberately and with

    intent. You confessed it yourself."

    Crystal flinched as if she''d been slapped. The color drained from her face, and she looked around, stunned. The teachers exchanged bewildered glances, the director''s frown deepening as she tried to piece together what was happening.

    Crystal''s lips parted, a strangled sound escaping her throat.

    "Eratz..." she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Eratz gave her a tired smile, but there was no warmth in it, only exhaustion and a hint of

    mockery.

    "You see?" he said, spreading his hands wide and shaking his head in a gesture of resignation. "You''re refusing my confession of a crime, you want to punish someone who''s claiming innocence, and you don''t want to sanction someone who deliberately lied and admitted it. Why on earth would I ever want to listen to you?"

    He turned away from her, slipping his hands into his pockets and tilting his head back to look up at the sky. The night was clear, the stars gleaming like tiny shards of glass in the darkness. He let out a slow breath, as if releasing the last of his tension into the cold air. "Don''t worry, people," he said, his voice softer now, almost wistful. "I won''t resent you. I

    have too many things in my life now to waste time teaching you how to be decent human beings. Do whatever you want with Kenny, but leave my name out of it."

    He took a step forward, ready to leave it all behind. But Crystal''s voice cut through the night, S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    loud and panicked.

    "Wait!" she called after him, her voice breaking.

    He stopped, his back still turned, but he didn''t look back.

    "You can''t just leave like this," Crystal said, her voice rising in pitch, laced with a frantic desperation. She stepped forward, almost stumbling. "You don''t understand, I did everything for you! I''ve always cared about you, Eratz. You''re the one who pushed yourself away! You

    refused to see what I was trying to do for you, and now you''re throwing it all away? You''re blaming me for everything when you''ve never taken responsibility for your own actions!"

    Eratz slowly turned his head, just enough to look at her from the corner of his eye. His gaze was calm, almost pitying.

    "Oh, I just realized," Eratz said softly, his voice laced with irony. "If he''s not guilty of anything, then there''s no reason to punish Kenny, right? He''ll be there, waiting for you back at Genova. Tell me, Crystal, are you scared of facing him after lying about him too?" Her breath caught in her throat, her entire body freezing in place. She stared at him, her expression crumbling into frustration and something close to fear.

    Eratz''s smile turned colder, almost cruel.

    "You could always lie again," he said, his tone deceptively gentle. "You''re good at that, you

    could convince a dead man he''s alive. Tell him you saved him. Tell him you did it all for his good, just like you did for me."

    Crystal''s eyes welled up with unshed tears, her hands clenching into fists at her sides.

    "You don''t understand..." she whispered, her voice shaking. "I did what I had to..." He interrupted her with a small, dismissive wave of his hand.

    "One piece of advice, though," he said, his voice lowering. "I believe in karma. The more crap

    you build, the more crap you''ll receive. Life''s fun when everything goes the way you want, but there comes a time when you need to know when to shoot yourself before karma shoots you."

    Her eyes widened, glistening with unshed tears as she struggled to maintain her composure. "Eratz..." she choked out, her voice cracking.

    He didn''t respond. He turned away, walking past Gabriel without a second glance. Gabriel,

    still standing there, looked at her, frozen in place.

    As Eratz passed by, he slowed his pace slightly.

    "Next time you want to talk to me," he murmured to Gabriel, "you''ll eat the ground first."

    Gabriel''s eyes widened, his mouth dropping open slightly in surprise. Before he could

    respond, Eratz had already moved on, disappearing into the shadows of the night. The silence that followed his departure was thick and suffocating. Crystal stood frozen in place, tears spilling down her cheeks, her entire body trembling as she watched him go. No one dared to move. The teachers, Rowan, the director, they all remained where they were.

 Chapter 141: In the Light of the Moon

    Chapter 141: In the Light of the MoonThe group remained frozen in the alley bathing in a pale, silver light from the distant streetlamp. It was as if the entire world had paused, leaving only the cold silence of the night biting against their skin.

    Gabriel stood apart from the others, his hands clenched at his sides. He stared at the spot where Eratz had disappeared, his expression troubled, a deep crease forming between his brows.

    He looked toward Crystal, standing a few steps away. She hadn''t moved since Eratz''s final words, her face pale. Her eyes were wide, void, staring blankly into the empty space.

    Finally, the silence was broken by a soft sigh. One of the younger teachers spoke up. "Well," the woman said quietly, her breath visible in the cold air, "at least now it''s settled." The words fell flat, met with a collective unease. There was no sense of resolution, only a heavy emptiness that hung between them.

    The director pressed her fingers to her temples, massaging away a tension that had taken root there. She closed her eyes, inhaling deeply before letting out a weary sigh.

    "Prepare to leave tomorrow morning," she ordered.

    Without waiting for a response, she turned on her heel, her steps echoing sharply against the cobblestones as she walked away, her silhouette fading into the mist.

    The remaining teachers exchanged uncertain glances, the discomfort palpable in the air. For a moment, the group remained silent, watching her go, but then, with a sudden burst of energy, Rowan dashed in the opposite direction, chasing after Eratz.

    The other teachers exchanged worried glances. One of them, a younger man, stepped forward, raising his hand as if to call Rowan back.

    "Rowan, wait..." he started, his hand reaching out.

    But another teacher, a tall man with a kind, weathered face, placed a hand on his shoulder, stopping him gently.

    "Let him go, he needs this." He said quietly.

    The group watched as Rowan broke into a hurried stride, the sound of his footsteps fading quickly as he disappeared around the corner in pursuit of Eratz.

    Rowan nearly stumbled into the alley, panting hard as he caught sight of Eratz''s back. He reached out, his voice strained, barely above a whisper.

    "Eratz, wait!"

    Eratz stopped but didn''t turn around. He stood there, hands in his pockets, the cold breeze tugging at his hair. He sighed, glancing up at the faint light of the moon.

    "You could have started with this, Rowan, but it doesn''t matter now. Whatever you say, it won''t reach me anymore."

    Rowan swallowed, fighting against the tightness in his throat, forcing himself to breathe. The sight of Eratz''s back made him ache with regret. He took a step closer, desperation clawing at his heart.

    "I know," he rasped, his voice trembling. "I don''t deserve your forgiveness. That''s not why I came."

    Tears welled up in Rowan''s eyes, blurring his vision as he took another step. He couldn''t see the path forward, only the shattered pieces of what he had once cherished.

    "I was wrong, Eratz. So wrong," he choked out. "I failed you when it mattered most. I should have believed in you. I watched you walk away, and I did nothing. I did nothing to stop it, and I''ve hated myself every day since."

    Eratz didn''t turn, though his head tilted just slightly, as if listening.

    "You were more than just a student to me," Rowan continued, his voice cracking with emotion. "You were like a son. I was so proud of you, of everything you were becoming. And then I... I destroyed it all. I let you down when you needed me the most. I didn''t believe in you, and I lost you because of it."

    He fell to his knees, the cold, rough stones digging into his skin.

    "I know you didn''t cheat, Eratz. I''ve known it in my heart all along. But that doesn''t matter anymore, does it? What matters is that I lost you. I lost you because of my own weakness, and it''s a pain that I can''t bear anymore."

    The silence that followed was agonizing. It seemed to stretch forever, the cold seeping through Rowan''s bones, pressing down on him until he could barely breathe.

    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Eratz moved. Slowly, he turned, his face impassive, his gaze steady and unreadable. It was a look Rowan had never seen before, an expression void of the warmth he remembered, yet, devoid of anger and resentment.

    "Stand up," he said quietly.

    Rowan hesitated, looking up with tear-streaked cheeks. He took a shuddering breath, then slowly rose to his feet, swaying slightly as if the weight of his guilt was pulling him back down.

    Eratz met his gaze, his eyes steady and cold.

    "Things have changed, Professor," he said, his voice softer now. "They''ll never be the same again. I don''t care about being right or wrong anymore. I don''t care about proving my innocence or seeking revenge. I''ve found new things to live for, new reasons to move forward."

    He paused, a faint, sad smile tugging at his lips.

    "It''s sad that it ended like this between us. But the Eratz you knew is gone. The person standing before you has different goals, different challenges, and I''ve made my peace with

    that."

    Rowan''s face crumpled, but he nodded slowly, his head bowing in acceptance.

    "I wanted to guide you," he whispered. "To see you reach the top, to be part of your journey. But I failed. I failed you in every way."

    "Let''s say we failed both of us," Eratz agreed. "But that doesn''t mean you have to keep failing. You still have a chance to guide others. Life goes on, Rowan. It always does. You can be in Hell one day, but leaving it or staying in it is on you."

    Rowan wiped his eyes, taking a deep, shuddering breath. He forced a smile, weak and filled

    with regret.

    "I''ll always watch your matches," he said softly. "I''ll follow your path to the top. And if you ever need someone to listen, I''ll be there. I''ll do anything for you."

    Eratz looked up at the stars, a quiet, reflective look on his face.

    "... Since you''re offering," he said after a pause, "there''s one thing you could do. Something

    in memory of the past."

    Rowan''s eyes brightened slightly, a flicker of hope returning.

    "Anything," he said quickly. "Just tell me."

    Eratz turned back to him, his gaze steady.

    "I want Genova Academy to enroll my younger siblings, Kian and Lila."

    Rowan blinked, clearly taken aback.

    "Kian and Lila? Your siblings? Those who live with the kind of parents you have?" he repeated. "But... I might be wrong, Eratz, but I think it''s pointless. They hate you. Your

    parents have..."

    Eratz raised a hand, cutting him off.

    "I didn''t ask what they think of me," he said, his voice firm. "See? This is exactly why we''ve

    drifted apart. You care too much about what people think, you judge people based on a public opinion. I don''t. I don''t need them to love or hate me, I''m their older brother, and that''s all that matters. With different name or skin."

    Rowan swallowed, a look of sadness mixed with admiration crossing his face.

    "You haven''t changed at all in that regard," he murmured, his voice thick. He let out a weak, wavering laugh. "I swear to you, Eratz. I''ll look after them, as I should have looked after you. I won''t fail you again."

    For the first time that night, a genuine warmth spread across Eratz''s face, a smile tinged with

    nostalgia.

    "Good," he said simply, his voice barely more than a whisper. He turned away, taking a step into the shadows. "And remember, we never had this conversation."

    Rowan chuckled, a bittersweet sound, as he wiped away the last of his tears.

    "Maybe that''s why people keep pushing you away, only to realize what they lost when you''re gone," he murmured, more to himself than to Eratz.

    Eratz raised a hand in a casual wave, already fading into the darkness.

    "I''ll see you around, old man," he called back, his voice echoing softly in the empty alley. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Rowan stood there, watching him disappear, feeling both the sting of loss and the faint warmth of reconciliation. He took a deep breath, his voice a quiet whisper to the night.

    "Take care, Eratz," he murmured, before turning and walking back toward the others, the weight on his shoulders somehow lighter.

    Back into the restaurant, the atmosphere had shifted. Everyone around the table, kept glancing between the door and each other.

    Mercury''s eyes lingered on the door, worry creasing her brow. After a moment, she pushed her

    chair back and stood.

    "I''m going to check on him."

    But before she could take a step, Victoria raised her hand to stop her.

    "No, we don''t know much about Eratz''s past. That''s his story, his history, and we have no

    right to interfere."

    Mercury looked at her, clearly torn.

    "But... he''s been gone for a while. What if..."

    Victoria shook her head, her voice gentle but resolute.

    "We need to trust him. Whatever happened out there, it''s for him to share or to keep to

    himself. When he comes back, we''ll greet him with a smile." She offered Mercury a reassuring

    look. "Today is his day, let''s do our best to make him feel enough warmth once he comes

    back."

    The group fell silent once more, exchanging glances, trying to ease the tension that hung in the air. They waited, eyes flicking to the door with each creak and murmur from the hall. After a few moments, the door swung open, and Eratz strolled in, hands tucked casually in his pockets, an easy smile on his face.

    "Sorry about that," he said, glancing around at the group, his voice light. "Took longer than

    expected."

    Everyone turned, their expressions a mixture of surprise and relief. Kaida stood up, carefully

    examining his face.

    "You okay?" she asked.

    Eratz grinned and nodded, letting his gaze pass over each of them.

    "Yeah, never better."

    He moved to sit down, and as he settled in, they all leaned forward, their curiosity finally

    spilling over into a flurry of questions.

    "How are you feeling?" Ryder asked.

    "Did everything go okay?" Mercury''s eyes searched his face.

    "Is it all... settled?" Catarina added cautiously, her brow furrowed.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, answering each question with a simple nod or shrug, as if it had all

    been nothing. "I''m fine," he repeated, his voice light and calm. "All''s good."

    For a moment, they all looked at each other, then back at him, unsure. Finally, Kaida relaxed,

    giving him a smile.

    "Well, it''s good to see you''re alright."

    Eratz nodded, a glimmer of warmth in his eyes.

    "Yeah. To be honest... I''m just impatient now. There''s so much I want to get to, so much to

    look forward to. You won''t believe what I..." He paused, then flinched slightly, as if he''d just remembered something important.

    "Oh, wait," he said, standing up suddenly. "I forgot..." He headed to the door, leaving

    everyone exchanging puzzled looks.

    He returned moments later, holding someone by the wrist. As they stepped into the light, everyone''s eyes widened in shock.

    Raya stood there, looking slightly nervous. She gave a small, awkward wave.

    "Uh... hi."

    Eratz smiled.

    "I found her wandering outside, so I picked her up on the way. She has a little history with us,

    but she looks like a friend. Oh, and, Ms. Victoria, she''s a free agent so I invited her to join

    Crescent Moon."

    Raya offered a slight nod, standing straighter.

    "I''d be honored to join you."

    For a moment, it felt as if the entire restaurant had collectively stopped breathing, every pair

    of eyes fixed on Eratz and the girl beside him.

    Then, they exploded.

    A chorus of shocked exclamations erupted, voices overlapping in a chaotic mix of disbelief.

    Zara''s jaw dropped, and she shot to her feet so quickly that her chair clattered to the ground behind her. "What the hell?!" she practically shouted, her wide eyes darting between Eratz and Raya. She threw her hands up, gesturing wildly.

    "Eratz, do you realize what you''re doing? If we keep poaching people like this, we might

    actually get sued or... or worse! What''s next, Raya? Are you secretly part of some Yakuza agency? Are we going to have to fight big guys? Pay a huge ransom, or... sacrifice Catarina?!"

    Catarina''s eyes went wide. "Mew?!" Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Calm down, Zara. She''s completely free, no contracts, no debts. We''re good. And besides

    we''ve got enough money to sign every contract now."

    Raya rised a finger.

    "Still, it''s not about the money," she said quietly. "My role is to be a blade for my lord. And

    that lord... is Eratz."

    "As you say, pal." Eratz nodded.

    "Zara..." Victoria''s voice cut in. "Get me a napkin and a pen."

    Zara blinked, momentarily thrown off her tirade.

    "... What?"

    "A napkin and a pen!" Victoria''s eyes were wide. "Now!"

    Zara, her face twisted in horror, frantically searched for a napkin and pen while Victoria, with

    a calm but forceful grip, guided Raya to her seat, her fingers pressing into her shoulders as if making sure she wouldn''t slip away.

    The entire table remained frozen, a collective gasp of realization hanging in the air. Every

    member of Crescent Moon exchanged wide-eyed looks, unable to process what had just happened.

    Kaida''s smirk faded into a look of astonishment, Ryder slumped back in his chair, speechless

    for once, Mercury''s eyes were wide open, and Catarina''s fork slipped from her fingers, clattering onto her plate.

    Even Cassie and Roger exchanged a rare, knowing smile, realizing the magnitude of this unexpected alliance.

    Raya, the runner-up of the finals, a beast master of incredible skill, had chosen to join them.

    It wasn''t just an addition to their roster, it was a seismic shift, a game-changing event that could alter the entire landscape of their agency''s future.

 Chapter 142: Crowning Glory

    Chapter 142: Crowning GloryIt had been weeks since the conclusion of the Greenridge Regional League, yet the buzz surrounding this event showed no signs of dying down.

    What had started as a local competition quickly escalated into a national sensation. Across the whole country of Aurelia, people were still talking about the explosive finals, rewatching matches, and analyzing every move.

    Even beyond Aurelia''s borders, clips of the Greenridge finals went viral, capturing the imagination of a global audience.

    The battles involving Eratz, Raya, and Sia had become the most discussed topics online. The intensity, skill, and raw power displayed by these challengers left an indelible mark on the viewers.

    Mercury''s mastery over water and her fluid, unpredictable combat style, Kaida''s

    overwhelming firepower, Raya''s mystic style, and Gabriel''s spectacular beast control quickly made them fan favorites, inspiring new nicknames that spread like wildfire across the continent.

    Mercury became known as Tethys, the Ocean Goddess, Kaida earned the title The Red Devil, and Raya was hailed as The Shinigami.

    It was clear to everyone watching that Greenridge''s competition level had far surpassed what was expected at a regional league.

    The sports world took notice. Conferences and analysis shows dissected every battle. One topic, in particular, sparked heated debates: the moment when the protective shield around the arena was shattered, exposing the spectators to the raw power emanating from the combatants.

    It was an unprecedented event, one that pushed the regulatory bodies to take swift action. As a result, new security measures were implemented, regional leagues would now utilize the same high-grade shielding used in continental-level tournaments.

    The aftermath of the Greenridge finals also fueled a new discussion: What was the true ranking of these rising stars?

    Though officially still ranked within their respective city leagues, the overwhelming power and mastery they demonstrated seemed far beyond those classifications.

    Rumors began to swirl about possible rank promotion challenges on the horizon, but for now, it was all speculation.

    In the far south of Aurelia, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the grand coliseum known as the Crown Arena.

    Tonight, the stands were filled to capacity. Thousands of spectators had gathered to witness another night of battles.

    They waved flags, their cheers building to a deafening roar as the arena''s lights dimmed, signaling the start of the main event.

    The commentator''s voice thundered across the packed Crown Arena, cutting through the roars of the crowd like a blade.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, what a night it''s been!" he shouted, his voice brimming with anticipation. "We''ve seen incredible battles, witnessed new legends being born, but now... now it''s time for the moment you''ve all been waiting for. The main event, the clash of titans!"

    The crowd went wild, the cheers reverberating like waves crashing against the walls of the coliseum as fans waved banners and flags, their eyes glued to the center of the arena.

    "You''ve seen warriors rise tonight," the commentator continued, his voice dropping to a dramatic hush. "But this isn''t just another challenger. This is the man whose name ignites excitement wherever it''s spoken. A journey that began with whispers of talent, a flicker of promise amidst the vast world of beast masters... has now become a roaring inferno!"

    The crowd''s volume swelled, a tidal wave of excitement as they realized who was about to enter the arena.

    He began as little talent on the cusp of greatness, yet unproven. They called him The Flash when his speed first dazzled the spectators.

    With every match, his power grew, and he transformed into something more, the Juggernaut, an unstoppable force whose sheer momentum crushed anyone in his path.

    As his dominance over the wild became undeniable, as he tamed and commanded the fiercest beasts with ease, the arena gifted him a new name: The Apex Predator.

    He was no longer merely a fighter; he was the ruler of the battlefield, standing alone at the peak, a master who had conquered the arena.

    But today he bore a new title, a legacy forged in countless battles.

    Having conquered every arena, after shattering expectations and defying all odds, and setting a record for consecutive victories.

    He was no longer just a challenger or a winner, he stood above the best talents, beyond his league, beyond the beast, beyond the human, a force of nature itself.

    Today, he was the culmination of strength, strategy and spirit, a figure who embodies the pinnacle of power.

    The crowd was on their feet now, chanting his name, the excitement reaching a fever pitch.

    "Behold! The champion of Greenridge, the one whose back has never touched the ground, not even once. The one who holds the strongest beasts, the strongest beastification, the strongest Field Spell. I give you... The Pharaoh! Eratz Pandora!"

    Eratz stepped into the light, leaving the shadows of the tunnel behind him. The fireworks painted the sky above in streaks of gold and blue, casting his silhouette across the vast field as he walked forward.

    He wore his iconic white battle outfit, simple yet elegant, woven with silver patterns shimmering under the lights.

    The ground beneath his feet felt alive, humming with the excitement of the crowd. The arena was a sea of faces, filled to the brim with spectators who had traveled from across the country, their collective voice rising in unison, chanting his title like a mantra:

    "Pharaoh! Pharaoh! Pharaoh!"

    Eratz paused for a moment, lifting his gaze to take in the roaring crowd. He felt the weight of their expectations, the raw, electric thrill of the moment surging through his veins. He gave a casual wave, the hint of a smirk playing at the corner of his lips.

    Across the arena, the opposing tunnel lit up, revealing the figure of his challenger, the reigning champion of the Ardentwood Region: Aric Thorne, known as The Iron Bastion.

    Aric was a tall man with narrowed eyes that gave him an air of quiet confidence.

    His green and black outfit blended seamlessly with the green of the stadium, reflecting his affinity for nature and his control over formidable, earth-based beasts.

    Aric''s expression was serene as he met Eratz''s gaze across the field. He tilted his head slightly, giving a respectful nod. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "It''s an honor to finally meet the almighty Pharaoh," Aric said, his tone polite but firm. "You''ve made quite the reputation for yourself, mister invincible, but every streak has its end. Tonight, that end is here."

    Eratz''s smile widened. He raised his hands, cracking his fingers. Sparks of yellow lightning danced across his fingertips.

    "Is that so?" Eratz replied. "Now that you''ve said that... you know what''s coming next,

    right?"

    The tension in the arena spiked, the crowd sensing the imminent clash. Aric''s eyes narrowed, his smile never wavering.

    The crowd erupted again, the chants of "Pharaoh!" echoing through the stadium as the two champions stood face to face, ready for a clash at a national level.

 Chapter 143: Rules Of Nature

    Chapter 143: Rules Of NatureThe events of the Greenridge finals rippled through the world, leaving a lasting impact. It wasn''t just the battles themselves that captured attention, it was the spectacle, the drama, and one specific moment that sparked a wave of controversy.

    The battle between Eratz and Gabriel became famous, not only for its intensity but for something else entirely: Gabriel''s confession about Kenny, spoken loud and clear in front of the roaring crowd. The camera captured every word, and within hours, the clip spread like wildfire across social media.

    Within hours, the clip of Gabriel''s statement was shared worldwide, a viral moment dissected by analysts, fans, and gossip channels alike.

    Kenny''s downfall became the subject of countless discussions, talk shows, and social media posts. People dug deeper, unearthing more details about his actions and his connections.

    It wasn''t long before the ties between Kenny and Genova Academy came to light.

    The backlash was swift and merciless. Genova Academy, a symbol of prestige in Grushia, became a laughingstock. The accusations and the public''s fury brought with them a tide of ridicule and scorn.

    Memes and parodies flooded the internet, and what was once a respected institution now found itself in the crosshairs of public outrage.

    Facing this storm, the director of Genova Academy, who had already issued warnings, decided it was time to act. Her threats weren''t empty, and she moved swiftly, cutting ties and severing the connections that had brought this shame upon the academy.

    True to her word, several heads rolled. High-ranking officials, especially those involved in beast tamer training and the disciplinary committee, were dismissed overnight.

    Among them was one particular individual who had been missing for too long, Eliza.

    In the director''s office, Rowan stood to the side, arms crossed, watching the door with an uneasy expression. The director sat behind her desk, fingers tapping in a slow, deliberate rhythm.

    The door creaked open, and Eliza stepped inside, looking like a blooming flower. She was dressed sharply, her dark hair pulled back, glasses perched neatly on her nose. Her indifferent expression only deepened the disdain on the director''s face.

    The director leaned back in her chair, eyes narrowing.

    "Eliza," she began, her voice cold. "I''m giving you one last chance to explain yourself. If you do, you might escape with just a sanction."

    Eliza smirked, adjusting her glasses.

    "Explain?" she said with a chuckle. "There''s nothing to explain. You have the power to fire me in this educational circus, so why don''t you just use it?"

    The director''s eyes flashed with anger, but she kept her composure.

    "Despite everything, I still believed in your knowledge, your expertise," she said slowly. "But your behavior has become a serious problem."

    Eliza rolled her eyes, a snort escaping her.

    "Oh, of course. It''s all about the academy''s reputation now, isn''t it? The noble establishment that mistreated the hero Eratz and then turned into a witch hunt. How honorable. Being part of the survivors offers no reward, only a front-row seat to the next public execution."

    The director''s expression hardened.

    "Is that why you''ve been missing all this time?" she asked sharply. "Disappearing when you claimed looking for a solution to salvage this masquerade?"

    Eliza waved a hand dismissively.

    "I was busy," she said coolly. "I was working on something with Mercury, and I found someone interesting. I thought I could use him, it was a perfect weapon, but after that drama, it was obvious it was already over for Genova. I decided to wait for the inevitable storm." The director''s eyes narrowed, her tone dripping with barely-contained fury.

    "You brought this to us, Eliza. You insisted that we track down Eratz. This entire scandal started because of your reckless decisions."

    Eliza crossed her legs, leaning back with a laugh."

    Ah, there it is. Your favorite technique: ''blame someone else for your own incompetence."" Rowan''s face flushed with anger, and he stepped forward, unable to hold back any longer. "Incompetence?" he snapped, his voice filled with indignation. "You want to talk about incompetence, Eliza? You vanished when the academy needed you most, hiding away while others tried to clean up our mess! Don''t you dare blame people, because you''re not any better."

    Eliza''s smirk only widened as she adjusted her glasses.

    "Oh, is that so? And what about you, Rowan? Promoted to head teacher, how fancy. Tell me, how did you manage that? So close to the fire, yet you came out wealthier. Was it a miracle? Or maybe it had something to do with those two prodigies you just enrolled, the new hope with the sacred blood of Eratz. Geez, this isn''t an academy, but a church."

    Rowan''s jaw clenched, his fists tightening at his sides. He opened his mouth to respond, but the director held up a hand to stop him.

    "Enough," the director said, her voice cold. "There''s no point arguing. Things happen for a reason. Unlike you, Eliza, Rowan is fighting to redeem himself. He made mistakes, but he''s working to correct them. That''s why he deserves a second chance. You, on the other hand, have shown me exactly who you are."

    Eliza laughed, a mocking, bitter sound.

    "If you were honest, you''d quit first, Granny."

    Rowan stepped forward, his face flushed with anger.

    "You''re going too far," he snapped.

    The director raised a hand, silencing him.

    "Let her speak, Rowan. This is her last stand anyway."

    Eliza''s smile widened, but it was a smile without warmth.

    "Oh, yes, you''re right. It''s my last stand, correct," she said, reaching into her pocket. "But not in the way you think."

    She pulled out a small object and placed it on the director''s desk. It was a crest, beautifully crafted with intricate, looping lines forming a golden infinity symbol. with a small, deep purple gemstone embedded at the intersection of the loops.

    Rowan''s eyes widened in shock.

    "That''s..."

    Eliza nodded, her smirk turning triumphant.

    "This," Eliza said, her voice taunting as she tapped the crest, "is the insignia of Infinite Twilight. An agency that''s a cut above, known worldwide for its formidable talent pool."

    She smirked, leaning back with a glint of amusement in her eyes.

    "Of course, they needed someone with an elite eye to scout for them, so naturally, they chose

    the best they could find," she teased, her smile widening.

    Eliza''s tone was sharp, each word laced with a sense of superiority.

    "So, as you said, Granny, my dawn and your dusk are long overdue," she continued, "why

    settle for mediocrity when you can have excellence?"

    The director''s expression faltered, replaced with a look of disbelief.

    "Infinite Twilight?" she repeated, stunned.

    Eliza leaned back, crossing her arms.

    "Yes, Infinite Twilight," she said, savoring the shock on their faces. "Home to some of the greatest beast masters in the world. Their ranks include talents like the Stormbringer and the Frost Empress. Real power. Unlike this place, which can only dream of holding onto its stars."

    Rowan looked at her, dumbfounded.

    "You''ve aligned yourself with them?"

    Eliza chuckled, leaning forward.

    "Yes, I have. Let me tell you something, Rowan, Director, an academy like Genova is nothing but a glorified nursery. You nurture talents only to see them leave when they get too good. The best you can hope for is to brag about your alumni. Meanwhile, an agency like Infinite Twilight is the shell of a warrior. It provides a home, resources, connections. It''s a place where talents can grow without the shackles of outdated bureaucracy."

    The director''s hands tightened into fists.

    "You''re delusional," she snapped. "This academy is built on history, on education..."

    "On stagnation," Eliza interrupted, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You''re just leeches, feeding off the talents until they leave. In an agency, we build stars, we don''t drain them dry.

    And I? I''m done working in a place with no vision."

    She leaned closer, smirking.

    "Of course, I''ll let you fire me. I could use the severance pay. Think of it as a donation to Infinite Twilight, and my way of forgiving your uselessness. Don''t worry, you can try to get your money back with Eratz''s siblings. Take good care of them until we come to snatch them

    from you in two years."

    The director took a deep breath, her gaze steady.

    "Give a bone to a dog, and you''ll see its true face."

    Eliza laughed, standing up and pocketing the crest.

    "Indeed, I''m sure you weren''t all bark before becoming director. But life is like a train, and if

    you don''t catch it, you''re just a sheep watching it pass."

    With one last mocking smile, she turned on her heel.

    "Looking forward to not seeing each other again," she said over her shoulder.

    The door clicked shut behind her, leaving the office in tense silence.

    Rowan let out a shaky breath, his eyes lingering on the door.

    "She''s really gone," he murmured, as if trying to grasp the reality of it. There was a hollow

    disbelief in his voice, a sense of being left behind.

    The director leaned back in her chair, her fingers rubbing her temples. She sighed deeply, eyes

    closing for a brief moment.

    "Yes," she replied softly. "And honestly, it was about time."

    Rowan''s expression tightened. He stood there, stunned, his mind reeling from the exchange. He struggled to find the right words, his thoughts racing.

    "How does this even make sense?" he muttered, almost to himself. "She caused so much

    trouble, and yet she just... walks away with a promotion? How can the world work like this?" The director opened her eyes and gave him a tired, almost pitying look. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the desk as if weighed down by an unseen burden.

    "It''s not ''the'' world, Rowan," she said quietly. "It''s ''our'' world. The world of beast masters.

    The strong will always rule. Even if they fall, they rise again. That''s just the rules of nature." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She massaged her sinuses, her gaze drifting to the window as if looking for answers outside

    the confines of her office.

    "I half-expected something like this from her. It''s frustrating, isn''t it? To find yourself on the side of the weak. It''s a bitter pill to swallow."

    Rowan clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white.

    "Then we need to change it," he said, his voice filled with a fierce determination. "We can''t

    keep letting the strong dictate everything. We have to build a world where everyone has a

    chance, where..."

    The director cut him off with a weary sigh. She looked at him with a mixture of sadness and

    resignation.

    "So you''re asking everyone to be weak, Rowan?" she asked gently. "You want to create a

    world where strength doesn''t matter? It''s a nice dream, but it''s not reality. Reality is that she''s right, we have hope because we got two prodigies. Because we got two prodigies, Kenny''s case is suspended and he hasn''t been sanctioned yet. Because we still hope that he

    will rise again, and be grateful toward us."

    Rowan''s gaze filled with disbelief. He lowered his gaze, the fire in his eyes dimming slightly.

    He took a deep breath, but couldn''t find the words to counter her.

    The director leaned back, watching him.

    "The best we can do," she said softly, "is make sure those with power have a sense of

    responsibility. But changing the entire system? That''s a battle we''ve been fighting for generations, and it''s a battle that never really ends."

    She turned her chair away, looking out the window at the distant horizon. "It''s exhausting, Rowan. But if we don''t follow the flow, we''ll drown in this sea."

 Chapter 144: New Edge

    Chapter 144: New EdgeIn a dense forest, the silence was disturbed by the sound of frantic footsteps pounding against the forest ground.

    The undergrowth rustled violently as three figures sprinted through the trees, their breaths coming in ragged gasps.

    Behind them, the beast charged. It was a massive, lumbering creature, with dark, matted fur that glistened with an oily sheen.

    Its red eyes glowed menacingly, and its maw, filled with jagged, yellowed teeth, gaped wide as it roared, the sound reverberating through the forest.

    Sharp, black claws tore through the ground, leaving deep gouges in the earth as it chased them, moving with a speed unnatural for its size.

    A girl, her brown hair flying wildly behind her, glanced back, her face pale with terror.

    "We won''t make it!" she screamed, her voice cracking. "It''s too fast!"

    A young boy, barely older than her, groaned, clutching his side as he struggled to keep up. His eyes were wide with fear and regret.

    "We shouldn''t have come here!" he panted. "The guide warned us it was too dangerous!"

    The third figure, a blond teenager, suddenly skidded to a stop, with an expression of determination mixed with fear. He clenched his teeth, turning to face the beast.

    "Keep running!" he shouted to the others. "I''ll hold it off!"

    The girl hesitated.

    "No! We can''t leave you here!" she yelled in despair.

    He shot them a stern look, his jaw set.

    "I''m the team leader! You have to listen to me! It''s my fault we came here, let me deal with it!" he barked.

    The second boy gulped, torn between fear and loyalty. He took a deep breath, his hand tightening around the girl.

    "Alright," he said, his voice strained. "But we''re coming back with weapons!" He shouted, giving one last look at the blond teenager before pulling the girl with him as they sprinted away.

    The blond boy nodded, taking a shaky breath as he turned back to face the oncoming monster. His legs felt like jelly, but he forced himself to stand tall, even as the beast''s shadow loomed over him.

    He was terrified, every instinct in his body screaming at him to run. But he stayed, his heart pounding in his chest like a war drum.

    The beast lunged, its red eyes blazing as it barreled toward him. For a split second, the boy''s resolve faltered. He could feel the hot breath of the creature, smell the rancid stench of its maw, and a wave of regret washed over him.

    Then, he saw the light.

    An enormous bolt of lightning, struck the ground with a deafening crack, engulfing the beast in a blinding explosion of light.

    The air sizzled with raw, electric energy, and the impact sent a shockwave rippling through the forest, shaking the ground beneath the boy''s feet.

    The force of the lightning knocked him off his feet, and he fell onto his bottom, instinctively covering his face with his hands. He could feel the electric charge in the air, prickling against his skin. The roar of the beast turned into a gurgled whimper before it fell silent.

    When the blinding light faded, the forest was eerily quiet. The boy slowly lowered his hands, his eyes wide with shock. The massive creature lay crumpled on the ground, smoke rising from its charred fur, its body twitching slightly before going still.

    And standing atop the unconscious beast, was Eratz.

    He straightened, the remnants of electric sparks dancing across his body. He turned his head, his eyes meeting the boy''s with a calm, almost amused expression.

    "Don''t worry, I am the weapon."

    Alarmed by the chaos, the boy and girl burst back through the trees, panting heavily, the branches scraping against their arms as they ran.

    As they stepped into the clearing, their eyes fell on the scene before them. The massive beast lay still, smoke curling from its charred fur, and standing atop it was a man they recognized immediately.

    The girl''s eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat. She grabbed the boy''s arm, pointing shakily.

    "It''s... It''s..." she whispered in disbelief. "The Pharaoh!"

    The boy flinched, his eyes wide as he took a step back. He swallowed hard, staring at the figure in front of him.

    "The Pharaoh," he repeated, almost reverently.

    Eratz''s fame had skyrocketed since his victory at the Greenridge finals. He was no longer just a beast master, he was a phenomenon.

    His battles had become the most-watched clips online, analyzed and rewatched by fans and experts alike. People talked about him in cafes, in schools, and on the streets. His face was plastered on posters, and his name trended on every social media platform.

    Soon, his popularity became overwhelming. His apartment location was leaked online, and within days, crowds of fans and paparazzi began gathering outside.

    They flooded the streets, hoping for a glimpse of the legendary Pharaoh. The constant attention became unbearable, not just for Eratz but for his family as well.

    It wasn''t long before they were forced to move, relocating to a larger, more secure house in a

    quiet neighborhood, tucked away from the noise and bustle of the city.

    It was a two-story residence with sleek, modern architecture, surrounded by a high fence draped in ivy and tall trees providing privacy.

    With five bedrooms in total, it had a sleek, modern design, with large windows that filled the space with natural light. The backyard featured a private swimming pool, a hot tub, and a deck perfect for family gatherings.

    The open-plan living room and kitchen created a warm, inviting space for everyone to relax.

    The cost of the new house nearly made Roger collapse on the spot, but when he heard about another consequence of Eratz''s post-finals fame, Cassie actually had to perform CPR, much to

    Eratz''s horror.

    The popularity of the finals brought a flood of new opportunities. and Crescent Moon aces found themselves drowning in sponsorship offers, ranging from energy drinks to luxury

    fashion brands.

    Eratz''s face was everywhere: on billboards, in commercials, his name boosting product sales

    almost overnight.

    With his sudden influx of wealth, he could finally give his family the best life possible. It was a far cry from the struggle they once knew, a complete transformation from hardship to

    comfort.

    They could finally say it, they were becoming rich, they were having the best life, and it was

    only the beginning. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As the reigning regional champion, his only real rivals now were other regional champions, the elite beast masters from across the country.

    For the first time in a year, he had something precious: free time. His battles became national events, everyone wanted to see if the next challenger could put an end to the Pharaoh''s

    winning streak.

    Everything seemed perfect. He had a wonderful family, an energetic illegitimate son, a non- official but acknowledged future wife, who had been training on her endurance for a while now for some reason, and he had wealth beyond what he had ever imagined and a reputation that made him a household name.

    But despite all of it, despite the fame, the love, and the success, something still nagged at him. It was a quiet, lingering thought at the back of his mind, a single problem he couldn''t

    ignore.

    In the agency gym, Eratz stood arms crossed, a look of mild disappointment on his face.

    At his feet, a young trainee was slumped on the ground, breathing heavily. The boy''s beast, a small, insectoid creature with razor-sharp legs, was already disappearing, dissolving into a

    puff of blue light.

    Around them, the gym buzzed with quiet murmurs. Mercury broke into a wide grin and

    started clapping.

    "Well done, Eratz! You''re making this look way too easy!"

    Eratz scratched the back of his neck, giving a worried smile.

    "Nothing special," he murmured. "I''m just warming up... I just breathed... seriously, I didn''t

    even started... how is that over?"

    Raya was sitting on a bench nearby, casually nodding her head. Kaida stretched her arms overhead, loosening her shoulders, while Catarina and Ryder watched on the front row. The other trainees clustered together, whispering in awe.

    The young trainee, still catching his breath, looked up at Eratz with wide, star-struck eyes.

    "I knew I had no hope of winning," he admitted, a shaky smile spreading across his face. "But

    wow... that''s the Pharaoh for you."

    Eratz rolled his eyes, letting out a sigh.

    "This was supposed to be a fight," he muttered. "What''s going on here?"

    Zara approached, flipping through a stack of papers on her clipboard. She glanced down at the

    boy, then back up at Eratz with a resigned smile.

    "Fedrian is one of our strongest rookies," she explained. "But... well, you''re... you. So,

    obviously..."

    Fedrian scrambled to his feet, bowing quickly.

    "I''m sorry!" he blurted out. "I thought I could put up a better fight. I really did."

    Eratz scratched the back of his neck.

    "It''s... fine," he sighed. "The problem is, I didn''t even have to use my beasts. We can''t keep

    training like this."

    Kaida chuckled.

    "Makes sense," she said with a grin. "The level among the regional champions is pretty

    insane. I saw that each of your battles was a real spectacle. Guess we''ll have to fight each other

    if we want a real challenge."

    Catarina and Ryder exchanged a look, then glanced at Raya, who smiled as if she had noticed

    them.

    "Maybe... we can trust the rookies a little longer," Ryder said nervously, scratching his cheek. "Yeah, fresh flesh is best flesh," Catarina agreed, nodding quickly.

    Zara crossed her arms, her face serious.

    "This isn''t good in the long term," she said, glancing around at the group. "We need more talent at the national level. With the next season approaching, our roster''s performance has caught a lot of attention, and with your popularity, we might really get selected to the final

    stage for any agency." Everyone leaned in, listening intently.

    "You guys are selected for a promotion on the national level, but there''s more for Eratz and Raya. You guys are being studied by the league for another rank-up," Zara continued. "Thanks to the hype surrounding your undefeated streak, and Raya''s unique style, there''s speculation that if both of you can perform just as well in the national league, you might get tested for the continental tier sooner than expected."

    The gym erupted in applause. Kaida whistled, while Catarina clapped enthusiastically, her

    eyes wide with excitement. Even the trainees, usually reserved, couldn''t hide their

    admiration.

    Raya tilted her head.

    "I''m honored," she said softly. "But... I was a rookie not too long ago. Is it really wise to push

    for such a quick promotion?"

    Eratz rolled his eyes, exhaling loudly.

    "Yeah, this is going way too fast now. And this whole ''invincibility'' hype is getting out of

    hand," he muttered. "They''re treating me like I can''t lose, so the moment I''ll lose the entire world''s going to come crashing down on me. I know it."

    Ryder stepped forward, giving him a supportive grin.

    "Oh, come on, man. You''re so strong, you might just end up defeating everyone in the

    national league."

    Eratz snorted, shaking his head.

    "Right now, if you put me up against someone on the continental tier, I''d probably lose," he

    admitted. "I''m strong, sure, but this level of hype is just ridiculous."

    Catarina giggled, nudging him playfully.

    "You''re different, though, Eratz. Look at me, for example. People say I''m good, they even call

    me now Miss Fortune, like if I was lucky to be that strong..."

    Kaida smirked.

    "That might not be a compliment, Catarina."

    Ryder chimed in, rubbing the back of his neck.

    "Yeah, for me, they just swapped out Gentleman for Paladin... what''s wrong with them?"

    Catarina ignored them, turning back to Eratz.

    "But seriously, I''m nowhere near your level. How do you even manage it?"

    Eratz gave a half-smile.

    "It''s simple," he said dryly. "It''s a secret technique called ''Don''t make your strongest beast a

    kinck''. That''s why I''m strong."

    Catarina rolled her eyes.

    "Null and void. Nyan!" she shot back, sticking out her tongue.

    Eratz sighed, his expression growing serious.

    "My biggest concern right now is the way I''ve been winning lately. It''s always coming down

    to Raijinara, and my Field Spell... oh, and one time with this new mode I got from Raya."

    Raya nodded enthusiastically, a small, proud smile playing on her lips. Kaida raised an eyebrow, smirking.

    "Bro, that''s OP."

    Eratz let out a sigh, shaking his head.

    "My other beasts aren''t getting the same result. They''re becoming less effective, and I need

    to improve fast before meeting another Raya."

    The others exchanged knowing glances. They could understand his desire to push past their

    limits, to rise above his current level, it always has been his philosophy.

    "This is exactly the kind of reflection I''d expect from our ace," the door swung open, and

    Victoria entered the gym with her usual smile.

    Every trainee stood up straight, showing respect, Victoria greeted the group with a nod, her

    eyes landing on Eratz.

    She stepped to the center of the room, surveying the fighters with a keen gaze. "I have an announcement to make," she began, her tone firm. "Now that we''ve officially registered Raya, our roster is almost complete. With two high-level fighters, we will finally be able to enter the team battles."

 Chapter 145: The Next Stage: Team Battles

    Chapter 145: The Next Stage: Team BattlesEveryone stood in a semicircle, eyes locked on Victoria as she addressed the group. Victoria''s expression was calm but there was a spark of excitement in her eyes.

    "I want to congratulate all of you," she began, her voice carrying a sense of pride. "The agency has seen tremendous growth, and it''s all thanks to your hard work. We''ve secured several new contracts with major sponsors. Your exhibition matches have caught a lot of attention, and the results have been impressive."

    There was a murmur of appreciation, and several of the rookies exchanged excited glances. Victoria continued, her gaze shifting towards Mercury and Kaida.

    "Mercury and Kaida, both of you are expected to rank up to the national level. You''ve shown remarkable improvement, and the league has taken notice. You''ll have a chance to prove yourselves in the coming weeks during a series of tests."

    Mercury''s face lit up with a confident smile, while Kaida gave a satisfied nod, cracking her knuckles.

    Victoria''s expression softened slightly as she turned her attention to Eratz and Raya.

    "As for Eratz and Raya, the league is considering both of you for assessment into the continental division. If all goes well, our agency could soon have two fighters in the continental league and two in the national league."

    The room buzzed with whispers of excitement. Ryder''s smile faltered for a moment, a flash of sadness crossing his face, but he quickly masked it. Kaida, noticing, gave him a reassuring pat on the back.

    "Don''t sweat it, dude. You''ll get there soon enough."

    Ryder forced a smile, nodding.

    "Yeah, I know. Just gotta keep pushing, and avoid all the Rayas on the way."

    Victoria held up a hand, her expression turning serious.

    "I want to remind you all that this is still just speculation. Nothing is set in stone. It could change depending on your performance in the exhibition matches. But the important thing is... we''re almost ready."

    The room went silent as her words sank in. Victoria paused, letting the anticipation build.

    "With our current roster, we are finally prepared to enter the team battles."

    A ripple of excitement spread through the room. The fighters exchanged eager looks. Victoria turned her attention to Zara.

    "Zara," Victoria said, "I''ll let you take it from here. Please, explain the details."

    Zara stepped forward, flipping through the papers. She looked up, meeting the eyes of each fighter in turn.

    "Alright, listen up, everyone," she said, tapping the papers in her hand. "The team battles are a competition held alongside the regular season, but unlike the season matches, the schedule is irregular, except for the finals. It''s not as predictable, and that''s part of the challenge."

    The fighters exchanged intrigued looks, leaning in to hear more.

    "Here''s how it works," Zara continued. "It''s a competition between organizations or agencies, where each agency puts forward eight fighters. The level you compete in is determined by the rank of your two strongest fighters. So, in our case, with Eratz and Raya being studied for a continental level assessment, we might be facing off against some of the top-ranked agencies."

    There were murmurs of anxiety in return. Mercury and Kaida exchanged a glance, both of them smirking with anticipation. Catarina''s eyes widened, her mouth forming a small ''o'' of surprise, while Ryder''s grin faltered slightly.

    A few of the younger trainees shifted uneasily, whispering among themselves.

    One trainee, a young girl with a nervous expression, glanced at her friend.

    "Same level as the Pharaoh? We''re going to get bodied out there, aren''t we?" she whispered.

    Zara continued, speaking with a confident, technical tone.

    "Relax, pansies, it''s not everyone participating. Only our aces will participate, plus two lucky victims chosen to learn the hard way."

    A wave of relieved sighs rippled through the trainees, though a few exchanged nervous glances, realizing they might end up being those victims.

    "The format is different from regular matches. Each fighter represents one point for the agency, and there are three battles in total. The first is a one-on-one fights, so we get one point. The second is a tag team match with three fighters, so we might have three points. And finally, we have the best, the juicy four-on-four battle. The winner is the team with the most points, and if it''s a draw, which happen so rarely that you might be the chosen one for achieving it, the final tiebreaker is a showdown between the strongest fighters of each agency.''

    The room buzzed with excitement. The trainees whispered among themselves, a few eyes darting toward Eratz, as a silent threat that it would happen.

    Mercury crossed her arms, nodding approvingly, while Kaida cracked her knuckles, eager for the challenge. Raya tilted her head.

    "That sounds incredible," Ryder said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "We''ve never done something like this before."

    Kaida grinned.

    "Three different types of battles? It''s gonna be wild. I can''t wait."

    Catarina raised her hand playfully.

    "Just saying, if we''re in a tag team match, I''m always in Eratz''s team!"

    Mercury chuckled, shaking her head, while Eratz rolled his eyes but couldn''t hide the small smirk on his face. Victoria stepped forward again, her voice cutting through the chatter. "This isn''t just a chance for us to prove ourselves. It''s an evolution for the entire agency. And with the success we''ve had so far, we''re making big changes for the future of Crescent Moon." The room went quiet, everyone hanging on her words.

    "The first major change," Victoria announced, "is that with the funds we''ve gathered from sponsorships and exhibition matches, Crescent Moon will be opening its very own formation center. A place dedicated to nurturing young talents and weaker fighters."

    Zara''s eyes lit up, practically sparkling with excitement.

    "Do you all realize what this means?" she asked, her voice filled with awe. "Formation centers are something you only find in the biggest agencies. It means we won''t have to constantly recruit new fighters. Instead, we''ll train and develop our own talent from the ground up. We''ll be building the next generation of champions!"

    There were gasps of amazement. The trainees exchanged looks of disbelief and excitement. It was a dream for many of them to be part of an agency that could offer such comprehensive training, and more than anything, now they would officially be part of a top agency.

    Victoria nodded, pleased with the reaction.

    "The center will open soon," she continued. "But that''s not the only change. From now on, our entire agency will follow a global training regimen. This means that everyone here will be training on par with our aces. You''ll be following the same program as people like Eratz, Kaida, or Mercury for example." Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The trainees looked at each other in awe, whispers of excitement spreading through the room. Ryder''s eyes widened, while Catarina clapped her hands together, grinning.

    "Are you serious?" one of the younger trainees blurted out. "We get to train with them?"

    Victoria''s gaze softened as she looked at them, her voice taking on a warm, almost motherly

    tone.

    "We''ve come a long way," she said, her gaze sweeping across the faces in front of her. There was a quiet intensity in her eyes, the kind that demanded respect and inspired belief. "But this is just the beginning. It''s time for us to evolve, to grow into something even greater. We''ve outgrown our old name, and it''s time to step into the future."

    She paused, the silence in the room almost tangible as everyone held their breath, sensing the significance of her words.

    "From today onward, Crescent Moon will become... Golden Cosmos."

    For a moment, there was silence, and then, the room erupted. The trainees shouted, their faces alight with a mixture of disbelief and joy, clapping each other on the back with unbridled enthusiasm. For many, this was more than a name change, it was a promise of a new era, a symbol that they were part of something big.

    Ryder''s eyes gleamed with a new sense of purpose. He clenched his fist, a confident grin spreading across his face as he felt the excitement coursing through the room.

    "This is it," he whispered to himself, his voice filled with determination. "This is the push I needed. I''m never complaining again."

    Catarina, on the other hand, looked positively ecstatic. She jumped up and down like a child, her joy almost bubbling over. But then her gaze darted to Kaida. She hesitated, biting her lip.

    The if the numerous changes undergoing showed the evolution of Crescent Moon, in their case, no one remembered why they were there in the first place.

    Kaida''s eyes met Catarina''s, and for a second, her expression was unreadable, but then, she smirked and lunged forward, pulling Catarina into a strong, bone-crushing hug.

    "We fucking did it, Cat!" Kaida shouted, moving Catarina like a plushy in her powerful arms. "We''ve really become a top agency!"

    Catarina let out a relieved laugh, her tension melting away as she hugged Kaida back, her

    smile wide and genuine.

    Raya stood off to the side, feeling the scene unfold. She didn''t say much, but the soft, serene smile on her face spoke volumes. She gave a small nod to herself.

    Meanwhile, Eratz turned his head slightly, catching Mercury''s gaze. Mercury''s lips curled into

    a smirk, and Eratz answered with a confident smile of his own. Victoria observed the euphoria with a proud smile. This was her family, her team, and they

    were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

    She raised her voice, clear and resonant, cutting through the noise.

    "Then let''s get ready," she declared, her eyes sweeping across the room. "Let the world know

    about Golden Cosmos."

    The cheers rose to a deafening roar, a wave of sound that seemed to shake the foundation of

    the gym.

 Chapter 146: Ambitions and Rivalries

    Chapter 146: Ambitions and RivalriesFollowing Victoria''s announcement, Golden Cosmos became an overnight sensation. Media coverage skyrocketed, and fans couldn''t get enough of the new stars: The Pharaoh, the Shinigami, and Tethys. The agency''s rapid rise grabbed the attention of sponsors and rival organizations alike.

    They relocated to a new headquarters in a high-rise building in Lugina. Their previous location would now serve as a training center.

    The new gym was massive, equipped with specialized areas for speed, strength, flexibility, swimming, running, and sparring, with a new intense training regimen, led by the agency''s aces and expert staff, pushing everyone beyond their limits.

    Kaida and Catarina led brutal beastification sessions, forcing fighters to adapt to their beasts'' powers. Mercury''s elemental training tested control and precision. Eratz''s physical drills focused on raw strength and endurance, leaving everyone exhausted. Raya introduced meditation techniques, helping fighters find mental clarity amidst chaos.

    Though progress was slow at first, Victoria remained confident it would pay off, if they had enough time before the new season began.

    In the afternoon, the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the city. Outside Golden Cosmos'' new headquarters, a group of trainees limped their way to the exit, their bodies aching from the day''s brutal training session.

    One girl, her hair tied up in a messy bun, groaned as she rubbed her sore arms.

    "I was so excited to be in the same agency as famous people," she muttered. "But this is horrible. I almost puked... twice."

    A girl beside her, with short, curly hair, chuckled weakly.

    "At least you almost puked. I did puke... Trice... This training program is insane."

    They exchanged tired smiles, sharing in the collective suffering of the new regime. As they continued walking, they heard a familiar voice calling out behind them.

    "Hey, girls, wait for me!"

    They turned around to see Adrian jogging towards them, his signature smirk firmly in place.

    "Rough day at the office?" he asked, noting their fatigued expressions.

    "More like rough day at boot camp," the girl with the bun sighed. "This new training is killing us."

    Adrian chuckled.

    "I figured as much. They''re pushing everyone way too hard. It''s just ridiculous."

    The curly-haired girl tilted her head.

    "You think so?"

    He nodded, folding his arms.

    "Absolutely. The agency''s lost its way, focusing on these so-called ''aces'' and neglecting everyone else. It''s clear they don''t respect the people who were here from the start."

    The girls glanced at each other, a bit puzzled. The girl with the bun replied.

    "Well, the training is tough, but I guess it''s because they want us to improve."

    Adrian scoffed.

    "Improve? More like burn out. And for what? To prop up the egos of Eratz, Kaida and Raya? They''re overrated if you ask me."

    The curly-haired girl''s eyes widened.

    "Wait, what? They are amazing! Their battles are so inspiring."

    Adrian raised an eyebrow, surprised.

    "Hm... But..."

    "Of course!" the girl with the bun exclaimed. "I mean, Eratz is phenomenal. He''s the reason I wanted to join Golden Cosmos in the first place. The Pharaoh in the flesh... it''s so incredible to be in the same room as him!"

    The curly-haired girl nodded enthusiastically.

    "Same here! I was so scared to talk to Raya and Kaida, but they''re so nice."

    Adrian folded his arms, his smirk disappearing.

    "But don''t you think they''re overshadowing the rest of us? The direction things are going, it''s a mess. All this hype, all this focus on newcomers. But where were they when the agency could barely keep the lights on? It''s the people who were here back then who are the real heroes." Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The girl with the bun nodded slowly, considering his words.

    "Yeah, but... that''s why I like Mercury. She''s been here forever, and she''s even better now. She''s like a legend."

    Adrian''s smirk faltered, and his eyes lit up with a flicker of nostalgia.

    "Oh, Mercury and I go way back. We were close, you know, worked together a lot back then. She relied on me a lot."

    The two girls exchanged a look, eyebrows raised. The curly-haired one tilted her head.

    "Oh, yeah, you were around back too, right? You were one of the original aces!"

    Adrian flushed slightly, caught off guard by the question. He straightened his back, trying to maintain his confident posture.

    "Of course I was," he said, almost defensive. "I was the second ace, right after Mercury. I was this close to making it to the finals. But then Madam Victoria decided to push Eratz into the spotlight, and I got left behind."

    He clenched his jaw, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

    "And now they''ve got all this money, so they bring in outsiders, big names, and just forget the people who built this place."

    The girl with the bun raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical.

    "I don''t know, Adrian. I heard the new formation center has free registration. They''re doing recruiting campaigns among teenagers too. It seems like a good opportunity for everyone,

    doesn''t it?"

    The curly-haired girl sighed, her expression turning dreamy.

    "I only joined because I wanted to be in the same agency as The Pharaoh," she said with a

    small laugh. "He''s so cool and handsome."

    Adrian rolled his eyes, letting out an annoyed huff.

    "Of course, it''s always about him," he muttered.

    The girl with the bun shrugged.

    "Too bad he''s already dating someone," she added casually.

    Adrian froze, his frustration wiped off his face in an instant.

    "Wait, what?" He turned to the girl, eyes wide with disbelief. "He''s dating? Who? Are you

    sure?"

    The curly-haired girl giggled.

    "Oh yeah, it''s true. Some of the older trainees asked him out, but he told them he was married. He even said he had a son!"

    Adrian''s mind raced. Married? With a child? His eyes narrowed in thought, a smirk slowly creeping back onto his face. If Eratz was married, then Mercury wouldn''t be interested in him. That meant he still had a chance. He felt a surge of confidence, the self-assured grin returning

    to his lips.

    He cleared his throat, nodding slowly as if piecing together a grand revelation.

    "I see," he said, almost to himself. "So he''s married to someone already, and he even has a

    son, huh?"

    The girls exchanged a puzzled look, but before they could ask anything, Adrian straightened his jacket and took a deep breath, his smirk growing wider.

    "Well, that changes everything," he muttered, almost giddy. "I''ve got business to handle."

    Without another word, he turned and strode back toward the agency''s entrance, his

    confidence restored and his day saved.

    Meanwhile Inside the agency, the aces gathered in Victoria''s office. Kaida leaned back in her

    chair, her arms crossed over her chest.

    "Are we really sure about this?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Mercury, seated next to Eratz, gave a small, confident nod.

    "I''m sure," she said simply, glancing at Eratz for confirmation.

    Eratz met her gaze, nodding.

    "We''ve thought this through," he added. "It''s the right move."

    Zara leaned forward, her hands clasped together, looking between the two of them.

    "I hope so," she said. "It could work, if everything goes as planned."

    Ryder, sitting by the window, nodded along.

    "It''s about time," he admitted with a hopeful smile. "I think it''s a good idea. They''ve got the

    potential."

    Kaida still looked doubtful, her eyes narrowing slightly.

    "Potential isn''t always enough, we have like hundred incoming, isn''t there at least one

    prodigy?" she asked.

    Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, Catarina and Raya were playing rock-paper- scissors, with Catarina losing again, groaning in frustration as Raya gave a small, triumphant

    smile.

    Victoria watched them all, her expression calm.

    "I have faith in Eratz and Mercury," she said, her tone leaving no room for argument. "We''ll

    proceed with the plan. For now, the agency will continue with the current training regimen. The staff will take care of repeating the program, so you are now free to pursue your own training as you wish. Until then we''ll take care of that and will see how it play out." They shared a brief, smile before standing up, ready to set their plans in motion, Catarina holding Raya''s arm, guiding her.

    As they stepped out of the office, the group discussed their training schedules. "Alright," Kaida said. "We''ll go over your training regimen together." Raya nodded, looking focused. Ryder hesitated before stepping forward with a grin.

    "Count me in. We won''t make it back without bleeding from every orifice."

    Catarina made a disgusted face, letting out a purr. Kaida glanced over at Mercury.

    "Sis, want to join us?"

    Mercury looked at Eratz, her expression softening.

    "It could be fun," she said, her eyes meeting his.

    Eratz gave a small smile, shaking his head.

    "I''d like to, but I need to work on my own weaknesses. I''m heading out to find new beasts."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, feigning disappointment.

    "Oh, so you''d rather face wild beasts alone than train with us?"

    Before Eratz could answer, Kaida smirked.

    "Let it go, he''s stronger than all of us anyway. Plus, it''s only for a few days to learn the basics,

    then we''ll all travel for our own training."

    Catarina grinned. "Yeah, Boss already knows all the basis, so let him act like he''s better than us."

    "Than you." Eratz corrected.

    Catarina scoffed, crossing her arms with a huff.

    Mercury sighed but then smiled.

    "Alright, just stay near your phone."

    He gave her a reassuring nod.

    "Ma''am, I appear to have a lightning flying monster. I''ll be back for dinner."

    She chuckled and stepped closer, lightly bumping her shoulder against his.

    "You know you have no choice. Alright then! We''ll train, we''ll learn, and we''ll reunite

    stronger than before."

    They all nodded, a determined energy binding them together. With one last glance, the group

    dispersed.

 Chapter 147: A Gentle Storm

    Chapter 147: A Gentle StormMercury walked alongside Eratz, the two of them matching each other''s pace easily. The warm breeze ruffled their hair as they strolled, a rare moment of calm between them.

    "I''ve got a bit more free time now," Mercury mused, glancing sideways at him. "I was thinking of catching up with my friends. We haven''t had time for just hanging out in ages."

    Eratz nodded, smiling.

    "Yeah, you should definitely do that. Spend some time with them, do what makes you happy. We''ve been grinding nonstop, sometimes it''s good to step back and just live a little."

    She paused for a moment, looking at him with a thoughtful gaze.

    "But what about us?" she asked quietly. "We''ve barely had a chance to just... be together. It feels like everything''s been moving so fast, and I don''t want us to miss out on something." Eratz slowed down, and took her hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze.

    "Merc," he said softly. "You don''t need to push yourself to make everything happen at once. We''ve got time, you''ve got time. I''ve got everything I want right here, with you and everyone, and I''m not going anywhere... I mean, I''ll always come back, and you too."

    She bit her lip, looking down for a second before meeting his eyes again, and seeing this, Eratz leaned in, gently bumping his forehead against hers in that familiar, affectionate way of his.

    "I know what I want, and I''m learning what you like," he said quietly. "So as long as you''re surrounded by your friends, I know you''re good, then I''m good too. We''ll have our moments, no rush. Let''s just remember our family, we didn''t bought a big house for three empty bedrooms."

    Mercury''s heart swelled as Eratz''s words settled in, deeper and truer than she could have expected. She felt a rush of affection and awe, like she was seeing him anew, like he was standing there with an entire world of meaning behind him.

    She felt the urge to tell him everything in that moment, how much he meant to her, how proud she was to have him by her side, but Eratz noticed the glimmer in her eyes too early. "Please, getting all sentimental on me?"

    She laughed, trying to play it off but unable to hide her embarrassment.

    "Oh, come on! Can you blame me? With a boyfriend like mine..."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, that teasing glint still there.

    "Boyfriend?"

    Mercury''s cheeks flared an even deeper shade of red, but she tried to hold her ground.

    "You heard me. And if my ''boyfriend'' can keep being that cool, maybe I''ll have to reward him sooner than he thinks."

    Eratz''s grin widened.

    "Hm... fine, I''ll go with boyfriend... for now," he said smoothly, catching her off guard.

    After that sentence, something inside Mercury snapped. A wave of emotion crashed over her, affection, frustration, joy, all blending into one irresistible impulse.

    Without a second thought, she closed the gap between them and threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug.

    "Idiot," she whispered into his shoulder, her voice trembling with a mix of laughter and something deeper.

    Eratz was momentarily taken aback, but his surprise melted into a soft smile. Gently, he wrapped his arms around her, holding her just as tightly.

    "An idiot you''ll miss a lot," he murmured, his tone tender.

    They stood like that for a moment, the world around them fading away. Finally, with a reluctant sigh, Mercury loosened her grip.

    "Safe travels," she whispered, her eyes never leaving his.

    "Always," he replied softly.

    Eratz took a step back, giving her a small salute and a wink.

    "See you soon."

    The sky above suddenly darkened, and without warning, a bolt of bright yellow lightning crashed down beside them.

    The air crackled, the sheer force of it sending a shockwave that rustled the nearby trees.When the glow subsided, Eratz was no longer standing next to Mercury.

    A brilliant streak of light shot across the sky, moving with impossible speed. Mercury watched as the luminous trail arced upwards, cutting through the clouds, her gaze intense, her breath catching as she bit her lip, with an unspoken longing in her eyes.

    She murmured softly to herself, her cheeks flushed, as she turned around, a soft, pleased growl slipping from her lips.

    The sudden crash of lightning had echoed across the quiet city streets. A few people nearby rushed toward the source of the sound, murmuring in confusion and awe. Some pointed up at the sky, where the last traces of a brilliant streak of light were fading away.

    Mercury, however, left the scene with a light, playful step, her mood lifted like a blooming flower after rain. There was a gentle smile on her lips, her fingers brushing through her hair as she walked away. She was just about to pull out her phone to message her friends when a voice called out behind her.

    "Hey, Mercury! Wait up!"

    She turned to see Adrian hurrying over, his expression filled with concern. He glanced around, scanning the area.

    "What was that? The lightning... Did it strike close by?"

    Mercury, still wrapped in the warmth of her earlier moment with Eratz, gave him a soft,

    almost dreamy smile.

    "Oh, that? Nothing serious," she said with a casual wave of her hand. "Just a weather anomaly. You know, spontaneous thunderstorm. It happens when the heart''s about to burst,

    but the timing''s a little off."

    Adrian blinked, clearly taken aback by her lighthearted response. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "A... what?" he murmured, sounding confused.

    Mercury nodded, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

    "Yep, a totally unpredictable burst of many things," she said, a laugh bubbling up. "And you know, the calm before the storm is just a tease before a cataclysm, so the next wave will really break something." she added with a playful wink.

    Adrian stared at her, completely thrown off. His mouth opened and closed several times,

    struggling to form words.

    He''d never seen Mercury so lighthearted, so happy. It was intoxicating, and a wild idea began forming in his mind.

    He felt a rush of confidence, a boldness he hadn''t dared to show before.

    He smirked, taking a step closer, closing the distance between them.

    "Wow, look at you today, all smiles," he teased. "I gotta say, I like this side of you. Maybe you''ve finally realized what you''ve been missing out on."

    Mercury''s laugh was light and genuine. She tilted her head, looking like a child with a silly

    ideas.

    "Oh, Adrian," she chuckled, rolling her eyes. "You''re full of yourself, you know that?"

    Adrian''s smirk only grew wider. He could feel the electricity in the air, not from the lightning but from this moment. It felt like a chance he''d been waiting for.

    "Come on, Merc," he said, lowering his voice to a suggestive whisper. "You''ve gotta admit, it feels pretty good today. Why don''t we go celebrate? Just you and me. We could grab a drink, maybe get to know each other a little better... without all the noise."

    Mercury''s laughter only grew.

    "You''re dreaming, Adrian," she said, playfully pushing him away with a wave of her hand.

    He didn''t back down. Instead, he leaned in closer, his voice dropping even lower. "Am I, though? You know, we''ve always had a connection. Even back in the old days, you and I, we were good together. Admit it, you''ve thought about it too."

    Mercury shook her head, still laughing.

    "Oh, Adrian, you really don''t know when to quit, do you?"

    Taking her laughter as a good sign, Adrian reached out, attempting to drape his arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. He could almost taste victory, his confidence peaking. "Come on, Mercury, let''s play a real game. Bet you''ll be addicted, I''m quite experienced. I''ll

    make it worth your while, I prom..."

    Before he could finish his sentence, Mercury slapped his arm away with a quick, sharp motion,

    and her voice dropped into a dangerously heavy tone.

    "Oi," her eyes bored into his. "Don''t touch me, you slimy little creep."

 Chapter 148: A Dangerous Curiosity

    Chapter 148: A Dangerous CuriosityAdrian recoiled as if he''d been physically struck, his smirk faltering. He took a step back, his hands raised in a gesture of surrender.

    "H-Hey, I was just joking, Merc! Come on, lighten up," he stammered, a nervous laugh escaping him.

    But Mercury wasn''t laughing anymore. The playful light in her eyes vanished, her expression turned ice-cold, and the warmth that had been there moments ago was gone, replaced by a deadly calm.

    "Listen to me carefully, Adrian," she said slowly, enunciating each word. "I don''t care about your stupid flirting. But if you try to touch me again, I''ll rip your arm off. Got it?"

    Adrian''s eyes widened, and he swallowed hard, nodding quickly.

    "Y-Yeah, I got it. I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to cross a line," he blurted out, taking another step back.

    Mercury turned away, walking off, her mood visibly soured.

    But Adrian, still desperate to salvage the situation, scrambled after her, his voice babbling in a rush.

    "Hey, wait! I didn''t mean it like that! I was just trying to cheer you up. You know, like old times. We''re friends, right? I thought we could just catch up, maybe grab a drink and..."

    Mercury stopped abruptly, turning to face him again. Her eyes narrowed and filled with annoyance.

    "Stop following me," she said flatly.

    Adrian clenched his jaw, his frustration boiling. He decided it was time to use his trump card, hoping to hit her where it hurt.

    He smirked, leaning in slightly, his voice dripping with a smug, mocking tone.

    "Fine, fine," he muttered, then forced a casual laugh. "Actually, I was planning to grab a drink with Eratz and his wife. You know, congratulate him on his little family. I heard he''s even got a son now."

    Mercury paused, her expression shifting from irritation to mild confusion. She blinked, as she processed Adrian''s words.

    For a brief second, she looked like she was trying to solve a puzzle, and then it clicked.

    "You think you know something, don''t you? But whatever, a man doesn''t touch the woman of another man, you weirdo," she said, her voice light. "Even if it''s just to congratulate them. Have some dignity. Or are you just that stupid?"

    Adrian blinked, completely thrown off by her response. He stared at her, his mind reeling, trying to make sense of her words.

    "Wait... what?" he managed to say. "The woman of another man? What are you talking about?"

    Mercury sighed, looking at him with a mix of pity and irritation.

    "You sound like an idiot," she said bluntly. "Seriously, Adrian, do you even listen to yourself? Keep following me, and I''ll crush you."

    She turned and walked away, clearly done with the conversation. Adrian watched her go, his face filling with confusion and frustration.

    He took a step forward and called after her, trying to make sense of what she''d just said.

    "The woman of another man?" He laughed awkwardly, scratching his head. "What are you talking about? I''m not interested in Eratz''s..."

    And then, he froze, his entire body petrifying as the pieces started to click together in his mind.

    "The woman of... Another... man?" he whispered, his voice shaky.

    He looked at her retreating figure, and second by second, everything, from the change of attitude to the chat they had and their training sessions together, everything converged in a single conclusion.

    His breath started coming in short, panicked gasps. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "No... no, it can''t be," he muttered, his voice filled with disbelief. "His girlfriend... That girlfriend... Mercury?... with him? No... no, it''s not possible..."

    He shook his head, stumbling backward, his hands running through his hair in a frantic gesture.

    "What the... when? How?" he whispered, his voice breaking. "No... I must be wrong. It can''t be true..."

    He looked after her one last time, his face twisted in a mix of horror and regret like a man watching his world crumble before his eyes.

    Meanwhile, Eratz soared across the sky, the wind whipping against his face, his hair crackling with residual static from the lightning.

    Eratz flew high above the landscape, the world below a blur of green forests, winding rivers, and glinting cityscapes. The wind rushed past, the horizon stretching endlessly before him. He took a deep breath, closing his eyes briefly.

    He focused inward, trying to recreate that mind state he''d reached against Raya. With each breath, he calmed his mind, feeling his spirit align with his body. The noise of the world faded, leaving only the synchronized rhythm of his heartbeat and Raijinara''s energy.

    It was an elusive feeling, like trying to grasp smoke. He inhaled deeply, slowing his breath,

    and with each exhale, he felt the tension in his muscles melt away.

    His heartbeat synced with Raijinara, their energies flowing together like two streams converging into a river.

    The limits between him and Raijinara seemed to dissolve, the world around him blurred, fusing into a single, fluid entity, and then, he felt it.

    He flinched, eyes snapping open in surprise.

    "What... was that?" he muttered, stunned.

    He''d felt something surprising, something unexpected. The sensation was strange, but it left him curious and eager to try again. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and let his mind slip back into that focused state.

    This time, he pushed further. He synced his breath with Raijinara''s rhythm, feeling the beat of their shared pulse. He let his thoughts blend with the bird''s, their energies mixing.

    Eratz took a deep breath, closing his eyes and focusing inward. He could feel Raijinara''s power humming beneath him.

    Slowly, he extended his mind outward, tentatively at first, as if dipping his toes into an unknown current. He felt his awareness stretch and merge with Raijinara''s spirit, the barrier between them dissolving.

    Suddenly, the sensation shifted. He wasn''t just a rider anymore; he was a part of the bird itself. It was exhilarating like he had become Raijinara, and the more he pushed, the more it

    extended.

    He could feel the electric charge in the atmosphere, the way the clouds swirled with latent power. The sky wasn''t just something he sensed; it was something he was inside of,

    something he understood.

    Then, out of the blue, he reached it again, a thread, thin and barely noticeable. It was a connection, faint but undeniably real, leading somewhere far beyond his usual range. He paused, feeling a surge of surprise in him. What was this? It felt like a tiny sliver of light seeping through a crack in a door. And behind that door was something vast and immense, like an ocean of energy.

    His heart raced, a mix of awe and curiosity flooding him. He had never felt anything like it

    before. He was just training like any other day, he just wanted to combine this mind state with Raijinara''s beastification. He started something, got an idea, and tested it, it had always been

    like this.

    And like any other time, he reached something new, but this time, it was far beyond anything

    he did.

    For a moment, a flicker of doubt crossed his mind. This could be dangerous, he had no idea what lay beyond that thread, what was he even doing?

    But curiosity gnawed at him. It was like an itch he couldn''t ignore, pulling him forward. The connection felt alive, almost like it was calling to him, beckoning him closer. This energy was something alive, and the more he felt it, the more he discovered new things.

    It was reckless, and he knew it, but when was the first time he failed something he tried? Eratz was Eratz, not boastful, but he was literally famous for being a genius, how could he be fail

    there?

    He was like a fly drawn to a bright flame, the things he was seeing too formidable to resist. If he could, he would smile widely, because the more he watched them, the more he could recognize what he was feeling.

    He pushed his mind further, feeling the thread stretch. He reached out, mentally grasping at the door, trying to pull it open.

    A blinding flash of yellow light split the sky, crashing down on Eratz like a massive hammer. The shock of the strike was immense, knocking him off Raijinara and sending him spinning. It felt like he was falling into a deep, dark void, completely disoriented.

    When his senses came back, the world around him had changed. The sky was raging with a

    sudden storm, wind howling, lightning tearing the clouds.

    Eratz struggled to breathe, his body aching all over. He felt lost, unsure of what had

    happened. His head throbbed, and everything seemed blurry.

    "Raijinara!" he gasped out, sending a mental call to his beast.

    A sharp screech cut through the storm and Raijinara swooped down like a streak of lightning, catching him just before he fell. The impact left him gasping for air, the pain throbbing through his entire body. He forced himself to sit up, blinking away the rain and trying to make

    sense of the chaos around him.

    "What... just happened?" he muttered, staring up at the stormy sky, his voice shaky.

    "I could ask you the same question," A voice answered him.

    Eratz turned his head and froze. There, hovering in the air, was a man with long, golden hair.

    He had bright, shimmering wings like those of a butterfly, glowing with a soft golden light. The man''s eyes were hard, narrowed in what looked like a mix of annoyance and disbelief.

    "What are you doing?" the man scolded.

 Chapter 149: Gold and Lightning

    Chapter 149: Gold and LightningEratz straightened up, forcing himself to sit. He squinted, trying to get a better look at the man hovering in the air before him.

    The long golden hair cascading down his back, the face both calm and wise, and the shimmering butterfly wings were unmistakable.

    It was Rex Goldwing, known in the beast master world as Goldust. One of the finest beast masters on the continent, with a reputation forged through countless battles, including a few exhibition matches at the world tier. His presence here was a shock.

    Eratz''s eyes widened. Why was he here?

    Rex floated closer, his expression a mix of exasperation and concern.

    "Do you even realize what you''ve done?" Rex snapped, his tone sharp, scolding like an irritated teacher. "I''ve never seen someone so reckless... What were you even thinking?!" Eratz, still dazed from his earlier experience, could barely keep up with the barrage of reprimands. He stared blankly at Rex, his mind racing, barely registering the man''s words. He blinked, the haze of confusion lifting slightly as he realized something.

    "You have no sense of caution," Rex continued, his voice rising. "Throwing your power around like it''s a toy! What were you thinking? Do you realize how m..."

    "Damnit!" Eratz''s voice cut through Rex''s lecture like a blade.

    His shout was so sudden and filled with anger that Rex nearly flinched out of the air, his wings fluttering in surprise.

    "What... what''s gotten into you?" Rex stammered, his calm facade cracking slightly.

    Eratz''s expression twisted into a scowl.

    "You! It''s you! Damn it! You''re what''s gotten into me!" he shouted, his voice filled with frustration. "I was right there, I could touch it! You ruined everything!"

    Rex blinked, clearly rattled. He raised his hands in a placating gesture, his calm demeanor faltering.

    "Now, now, calm down, hold on a second," he said hurriedly, his voice losing its earlier confidence. "I wasn''t trying to..."

    "Calm down? You attack me, you destroy my training and now you''re asking me to calm down? What''s wrong with you?" Eratz snapped, cutting him off again. He leaned forward on Raijinara''s back.

    Rex''s eyes widened, and he shrank back slightly, his golden wings trembling. He gestured frantically at the sky, his calm demeanor completely shattered now.

    "I-I was only trying to help," he mumbled, sounding more like a scolded child than a legendary beast master. "Look at the storm around you!"

    "What.... storm...." Eratz followed Rex''s gesture and finally took in the scene.

    The entire sky had darkened, swirling with thick, roiling clouds that stretched as far as the eye could see. Bolts of lightning cracked violently through the blackened sky, illuminating the landscape with a harsh, blinding light.

    The wind howled like a wild beast, whipping the trees into a frenzied dance, and the distant roar of thunder rumbled.

    "This storm!" Rex cried, pointing at the dark, swirling clouds that stretched across the horizon.

    Eratz blinked, then looked down at Raijinara. The bird flew smoothly, unbothered, as if it was just another day.

    "Oh... crap," he muttered under his breath.

    Without wasting another second, he gently tapped Raijinara''s back.

    The beast seemed to sense the urgency in his touch and screeched, a powerful cry that echoed across the sky, and spread its wings wide.

    A bright, electric glow enveloped its body, pulsing outward like ripples on a pond. Gradually, the storm began to calm. The dark clouds thinned, the violent winds lost their bite, and the lightning that had been cracking like a whip softened to distant flickers, the chaos dissolving into a quiet, deep blue.

    The first stars of the evening peeked out, and the night sky returned, calm and serene.

    Eratz gave a sheepish look around, while

    Rex, still floating nearby, watched the scene unfold with a blank expression.

    The silence stretched between them, the storm.

    Raijinara turned slightly, positioning Eratz''s back to Rex, who cleared his throat dramatically.

    "Ahem..."

    Eratz let out a groan, tilting his head back.

    "Argh..."

    Rex floated a little closer, his arms crossed.

    "You know... if you''re feeling a bit guilty, that''s already half forgiven," he said.

    Eratz rolled his eyes, leaning back against Raijinara''s feathery mane.

    "Yeah, yeah, I got it," he muttered. "I didn''t realize what I was doing. I went a bit overboard, alright?"

    Rex raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips.

    "Oh, overboard, you say? It would be an understatement. You were a natural disaster everywhere. What''s that beast of yours? Well, question for later... First..." He paused, giving Eratz a pointed look. "Don''t you think there''s something... missing here."

    Eratz frowned, looking genuinely puzzled.

    "What? You want excuses? I just said I got carried away. I didn''t mean to create a storm. Isn''t that enough... unless... there''s no victim, right?"

    Rex gave a dramatic sigh, placing a hand on his chest like he''d been wounded. "Oh, I checked the area, and thanks God the danger zone was too high to cause big damages... But there is a victim of your actions, only one."

    Eratz squinted at him.

    "... Me?"

    Rex closed his eyes in exasperation.

    "Not in a philosophical way. A certain shout that crushed my spirit perhaps?"

    Eratz blinked, then realization dawned, and he groaned louder.

    "Oh, come on! You want me to apologize for yelling at you?"

    Rex gave an exaggerated shrug, his wings fluttering faster.

    "What''s wrong with that? I wanted to help you and you snapped at me!"

    Eratz''s face twisted in annoyance.

    "I didn''t know what I was doing and you attacked me first, what was I supposed to do?"

    Rex put his hands on his hips.

    "Attacked?! Just flashed you a little bit in self offense. You came out of nowhere and you unleashed a chaos, you know for how long I''ve been chasing you?"

    Rex adjusted his position, floating a bit closer, his hands now resting on his hips. "Where do you even come from? And what''s that beast you''ve got there?" He gestured at Raijinara. "I''ve never seen a bird like that before in Ferindale."

    Eratz''s eyes widened in surprise. "Ferindale?" he blurted out, caught off guard.

    Rex nodded, looking almost pleased with himself.

    "Yes, Ferindale, the motherland of the Ferindians, wind flute music, the roasted Flarefruit,

    that you eat it while watching the Skyglide Races, with our captain, Ferry Cario..." He paused, narrowing his eyes as he noticed Eratz''s blank stare. "Wait... you didn''t realize you crossed

    the border?"

    Eratz''s mind raced.

    ''Ferindale? I crossed the entire border without noticing?''

    He''d been pushing Raijinara to its maximum speed, for a long time, and due to his mental training he stopped focusing on the world around.

    He couldn''t even tell how long it lasted. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Ferindale was on the south of Aurelia, with Lugina being close to the border, it was

    imaginable that he had reached it without noticing, but there was something bigger taking

    his attention.

    Despite his speed, this guy had managed to not only chase him down but also strike him mid-

    flight.

    He glanced at Rex.

    "Yeah, you''re really something," Eratz admitted, almost to himself.

    Rex, catching the shift in tone, puffed up slightly, his wings fluttering as he leaned even

    closer, peering at Raijinara with a look of genuine curiosity.

    "This bird... It looks strangely familiar..." He tilted his head, but before he could get closer, Raijinara turned, facing him directly.

    The bird''s eyes glowed with an electric crackle, a low rumble of thunder resonating from its

    body.

    "Whoa, easy there," Rex said, pulling back a little.

    Eratz placed a calming hand on Raijinara''s neck, muttering something soothing under his

    breath.

    "Relax, it''s fine," he said to his bird before turning back to Rex with a casual shrug. "It''s nothing special, just a normal bird from Aurelia. Common, really."

    Rex''s eyes narrowed.

    "A normal bird from Aurelia, you say?" He leaned back slightly, giving Eratz a dubious look.

    "Do I look like an idiot to you?"

    Eratz held Rex''s gaze for a moment, his face blank, considering the question. He opened his mouth, but before he could speak, Rex''s voice shot up.

    "Don''t you dare!" Rex shouted, pointing a finger at him. "I wasn''t born yesterday! Ok, so Aurelia, so you''re from the north, eh?" He squinted, scrutinizing Eratz''s face and then Raijinara again. "It''s strange... You really do look familiar, and this bird..." He hesitated, his

    eyes widening in realization. "Hold on a minute..."

    Eratz flinched, suddenly on high alert. ''Did he figure it out?''

    Rex leaned in closer, his expression turning serious.

    "What''s the name of that bird?" he asked, his voice lower now, almost suspicious.

    Eratz hesitated. There was something odd about Rex''s line of questioning. He felt like he was

    being tested, but he couldn''t figure out why.

    After a brief pause, he decided to play it safe and gave a fake name.

    "It''s... uh, a stormtalon. Just a new breed, nothing special."

    Rex''s brows knitted together, clearly doubtful.

    "A stormtalon, huh? I thought they were only blue... But, so it''s a common name, you say?"

    He glanced at Raijinara again, still looking skeptical. "Strange... It really reminds me of her

    beast." Eratz''s eyes widened, the words hitting him like a physical blow. He leaned forward abruptly.

    "Her beast?! What do you mean, her beast? Whose beast?" He grabbed the edge of Raijinara''s feathers, his voice sharp. "Where have you seen a beast like this before?!"

    Rex recoiled slightly, his wings fluttering in a nervous, erratic motion. He stammered, fearing

    to get yelled at again.

    "The... the ice girl! She has a beast with a unique name."

 Chapter 150: Passing By... and Spilling Truths

    Chapter 150: Passing By... and Spilling TruthsEratz''s eyebrows rised in surprise.

    "Ice girl? What ice girl?"

    Rex gave him a puzzled look, then scoffed lightly.

    "Yeah, a special person, she''s still angry because she lost that match in Aurelia."

    Eratz furrowed his brow, thinking hard.

    "Ice girl... Aurelia..." His eyes widened as the realization hit him. "Sia?"

    Rex''s face lit up in surprise.

    "Oh? Sia Verizion, yeah! You know her?"

    Eratz nodded, still a bit taken aback.

    "Yeah, I know her. And you too?"

    Rex gave a nervous chuckle, his wings fluttering slightly as if shivering at the memory.

    "Not a lot. I mean, who would? She''s terrifying when she''s angry, especially after that defeat, it was unbearable for weeks."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed as he pieced it together. The way Rex had been comparing Raijinara to another beast, the familiarity he''d noticed... It suddenly clicked. Sia''s ace, Nivalys.

    "Oh... He meant the sabertooth beast," Eratz murmured, more to himself.

    Rex nodded eagerly.

    "Yes, that''s the one! I''ve never seen a beast like it anywhere. It''s unique, one of a kind. I even thought of looking for one myself, but when I asked her, she said the beast wasn''t something you can hunt, it chose her."

    Eratz''s mouth dropped open slightly, stunned by the implication. He stared at Rex, trying to process what he''d just heard.

    He remembered his connection with the Aetheri, how it was the creature reaching out to him rather than him taming it. Was that the same thing Sia experienced with Nivalys?

    As the thoughts raced through his mind, another realization dawned on him. Eratz turned to Rex.

    "Wait... Did you happen to see the name of that beast?"

    Rex paused mid-air, his eyes narrowing slightly as he looked at Eratz with a curious, almost suspicious glint. He studied Eratz''s face for a moment before answering.

    "Well... it wasn''t exactly me who saw it." He leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "It was one of my friends. Someone from my team. She said it had a name... something odd. Neuro... Neurolysis, I think?"

    Eratz facepalmed.

    "Oh my God..."

    Rex gave a small, awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his head.

    "It caused such a big stir when she mentioned. They took us to the higher-ups, real shadowy types, and told us not to tell a word of it. It was like dealing with classified intel. They even wanted to make us sign non-disclosure agreements right there. This is literally a state secret and we are forbidden... to speak... about it... to... any...one..."

    His eyes widened.

    For a long moment, they just stared at each other, the silence stretching painfully.

    Rex broke first, a nervous bead of sweat forming on his forehead. He leaned in slightly, his smile strained.

    "Alright, alright, listen," he said, his voice lowering to a pleading tone. "We''re both mature adults here. I''m sure we can understand each other... So, remember that time you unleashed a hurricane in a foreign country?"

    Eratz''s face twisted into an expression of disappointment, his jaw dropping slightly, his eyes half-closed, and his head leaning forward.

    "Cheh... What are you? You don''t look like the guy I see in your matches."

    Rex gasped.

    "I don''t look like... But! What? And so what?" He threw his hands up in mock outrage. "Am I fighting now? Is this a battlefield? What''s the problem? I''m not responsible for your delusional fantasies about me! But since you look like a friend," Rex leaned in closer, giving Eratz a magnanimous smile, "I''ll let what you did slide, and I graciously accept your proposal that we forget this conversation ever happened. It was just a natural storm," he winked. Eratz blinked at him, his lips twitching before he finally burst into laughter. He leaned back on Raijinara''s mane, shaking his head.

    "You know what, Rex? You''re something else. Alright, fine. I''ll play along." He paused, wiping a tear of laughter from his eye. "So, who''s this friend of yours, anyway? The one who saw the beast? How does she look?"

    Rex immediately shook his head, crossing his arms.

    "Oh no, no, no. I''m not falling for that. I''m a wise man, Eratz. You''re not getting a word about her out of me."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed mischievously.

    "Ah, come on, Rex. I just want to know. I bet she''s tall, right? Likes to carry a big staff? Eat children at midnight? Or maybe she''s one of those brooding types, always hiding behind a hood?"

    Rex glared at him, his wings flapping faster in irritation.

    "What have you been reading? She doesn''t carry a staff, and she''s definitely not the brooding type... Well, she does wear a hoodie, but it''s more ab habit, she''s not the extrovert type."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, leaning in.

    "Not an extrovert, with a hoodie, so the shady type... I bet she''s got that short, fiery look, huh? The kind that could boss you around with just a glance."

    Rex''s face flushed slightly, his wings fluttering erratically.

    "She''s not short! And she doesn''t boss me around... much. She''s spicy, yes, but quite calm. "

    Eratz couldn''t help but smirk.

    "Glasses?"

    Rex frowned.

    "How did you know? Yes, she looks like n intelligent girl, but she hate when you call her a

    nerd."

    "Uh-huh, sure." Eratz gave him a knowing look. "So, is she a fighter in your organization? Oh, and that organization, is that your agency?"

    Rex froze, his expression shifting from flustered to a look of realization as he realized what

    he''d just let slip.

    "Pause, I think there''s something wrong here..."

    Eratz leaned forward, his smirk turning into a full grin.

    "Oh, come on, I''m sure she''s not that important after all, you''re Rex, you wouldn''t associate

    with shady hoody girl."

    Rex groaned, covering his face with one hand.

    "Is this how you see your teammates? Let me tell you..."

    "By all mean." Eratz nodded.

    Rex''s wings fluttered indignantly, and he crossed his arms tightly against his chest.

    "My team, my agency, they''re not just some random group thrown together for the sake of power and fame. We''re a family. Every single one of them matters, not just for their skills, but because they stand by each other when it counts. We protect each other, no matter what."

    He pointed a finger at Eratz.

    "You think we''re just some flashy crew? No. We''re an association of people who''ve been

    through hell together. We''ve fought battles that would''ve broken most teams apart. And as for the girl you''re so curious about, her name''s Arin, remember it. She''s been through more than you could imagine. Because of her race, she faced prejudice and hardship at every turn. People looked down on her, mocked her, dismissed her like she was nothing."

    He clenched his fists.

    "But she''s tougher than anyone I know. She fought through it all, never let it break her spirit. And if you or anyone else thinks they can make a joke out of that, I''ll defend her with

    everything I have."

    Rex took a deep breath, his eyes burning with fierce loyalty, as he fixed Eratz with a

    challenging stare.

    Eratz''s amusement faded slightly, replaced by genuine curiosity. He leaned in a bit closer.

    "Arin... alright. So, your team, your agency... Why are they keeping this whole calamity beast thing a secret? On purpose?"

    Rex nodded solemnly, his wings fluttering slightly as if mirroring his discomfort.

    "I don''t know for sure," Rex admitted, scratching the back of his neck. "But I think they want to avoid causing a panic. These new beasts are unpredictable. We can''t pinpoint where they''ll appear next, and apparently, it''s getting worse. We''ve been tasked to hunt them down as soon

    as they show up."

    Eratz nodded, a thoughtful look on his face.

    "Makes sense... So there might be a few around the world... but that thing... wait..."

    Rex sighed, looking off into the horizon. "Exactly. We''re trying to keep it under wraps, keep

    things stable. But..."

    Rex''s gaze drifted back to Eratz, and the moment he saw a wide, illuminated, smile, he

    flinched.

    "A-Anyway! What brings you here, exactly?"

    Eratz snapped back to reality, he shrugged casually, leaning back on Raijinara''s feathery back.

    "Oh, you know, just hunting. Nothing special."

    Rex narrowed his eyes. He floated a bit closer, tilting his head.

    "Hunting, huh? Why the storm then?"

    Eratz grinned, his tone taking on a playful edge. He started speaking in a sing-song voice, much like Mercury earlier when she was in that particularly cheerful mood.

    "Hunting, training, exploring... call it whatever you like, Rex! Just a beast master on a little

    adventure, definitely not causing any trouble."

    Rex''s eyes widened, his suspicion deepening. "You''re suspiciously happy for someone who nearly caused a natural disaster."

    "Oh, come on," Eratz chuckled, waving a hand. "it''s in the past, right? I mean, you''re the one

    who physically attacked me. What are YOU doing here? Is your agency around?"

    Rex flinched, his wings twitching nervously.

    "It was just a flash! I didn''t do anything wrong!" He puffed up his chest, feigning confidence.

    "And why do you talk so much about my agency? I''m alone, I was just... passing by."

    "Passing by?" Eratz echoed, giving him a mockingly doubtful look.

    Rex''s face flushed, and he stammered.

    "I-I was assessing the situation! Making sure it wasn''t a wild beast." "Sure, sure," Eratz said, nodding with exaggerated seriousness. "Just like I was ''casually

    hunting.""

    Rex pointed a finger at Eratz, his wings fluttering faster, almost in a frantic dance of

    irritation.

    "Now listen here! I''m not the one who..."

    Eratz cut him off with a sly, almost innocent grin.

    "Relax, Rex. We''re both just passing by, right? Nothing to worry about. I mean, Rex Goldwing,

    my elder, the idol of beast masters everywhere, and the man who just spilled world-shaking secrets that could put your whole agency in hot water... would never waste his precious time stalking a guy like me, right?"

    Rex blinked. He slumped slightly, letting out a dramatic sigh of defeat.

    "You are an evil man," he groaned, shaking his head. "Alright, alright. Fine. We''re just...

    passing by." They stared at each other for a moment before bursting into laughter.

    The storm between them had vanished just as quickly as the one Eratz had summoned.

    "Well then," Rex said, clearing his throat, trying to straighten his posture and salvage some dignity. "If you''re really just hunting, I suppose I''ll be on my way."

    "Yeah, me too," Eratz agreed, giving a lazy two-finger salute. "I gotta say, Rex, I really like talking to you. You have no idea how much better I feel now."

    Rex huffed, puffing out his chest slightly as he began to float away. His wings fluttered with

    renewed grace, as if he were back on a grand stage.

    "See?" he called out with a smirk. "I look a bit more like my battle self now, don''t I? Just try not to cause another storm, alright?"

    "I promise," Eratz called back, slowly turning Raijinara around. "It won''t be another storm."

    With a flash of lightning, Raijinara burst into the sky, carrying Eratz away in a brilliant streak

    of light.

    Rex watched the trail of sparks disappear, a fond, amused smile tugging at his lips. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He gave one last look over his shoulder and muttered to himself with a satisfied nod.

    "... I talk so nice."

 Chapter 151: Beyond the Threads

    Chapter 151: Beyond the ThreadsOn Raijinara''s back, Eratz felt a rush of wind against his face, but it wasn''t just the breeze that had his heart racing.

    He couldn''t stop the smile tugging at his lips, slowly widening until it turned into a grin. It grew, stretching further, his eyes lighting up with a manic kind of excitement.

    "I got it," he muttered, voice filled with a giddy kind of disbelief.

    His fingers clenched into fists, and he shook his head as if trying to hold back the wave of exhilaration washing over him.

    "This is it... This is what it was... Now I''m sure." He leaned forward, laughing breathlessly, almost deliriously. "Damn, damn, damn!"

    His eyes were wide, sparkling with an intensity rare on him.

    Rex''s revelations had lit a fuse in Eratz''s mind, bringing everything into a new view of the world.

    Rex had identified Raijinara as being the same as Nivalys and Nivalys was one of the beasts he was looking for.

    "That''s it," Eratz whispered, more to himself than to Raijinara.

    His earlier experience flashed through his mind, that fleeting glimpse of the mind state he''d achieved.

    He had seen a thread of energy linking Raijinara to something far greater, but now, in hindsight, the true revelation almost made him crazy.

    It wasn''t just one thread.

    There had been multiple threads, like an intricate web, each line of energy stretching out into the unknown, leading somewhere he couldn''t see.

    Each thread connected to that mysterious door he had felt, and now, Eratz knew what those threads meant.

    Underneath each of these threads was a unique beast.

    The truth was so glaringly obvious now, he almost laughed. It was like staring at a map of buried treasure, and he was the only one who''d figured the key.

    Eratz reached out, patting Raijinara gently, almost reverently. His fingers brushed against the bird''s feathers, crackling with residual static.

    "The menu has changed," he whispered.

    Raijinara let out a screech, as if sharing in his exhilaration, its wings flaring wide as they soared faster, cutting through the sky.

    Almost an hour later, the moon hung high in the night sky, casting a soft silver glow across a wide, empty plain.

    Eratz stood in the middle of the field, his silhouette outlined by the faint starlight. The air was still, only broken by the occasional rustle of grass in the breeze.

    He scanned his surroundings carefully, his eyes narrowing as he searched for any sign of movement.

    "Looks like we''re alone," he muttered, satisfied that Rex hadn''t followed him.

    He took a deep breath, then lowered his head. His shadow began to ripple and stretch, spreading out across the ground.

    Slowly, three familiar creatures emerged from the darkness: the Thunder Lycaon, the Terrakrus, and the Aetheri.

    Eratz straightened up, looking at each of them with a serious expression.

    "Alright, listen up," he said, his voice low. "We''re changing things from now on. I''ve decided on new strategy."

    The Thunder Lycaon tilted its head, its bright eyes fixed on him with an almost curious expression. The Terrakrus rumbled, shifting its weight as it listened, and the Aetheri floated closer, its energy pulsing gently.

    Eratz took a step forward, his tone firm.

    "First, I''m going to share a big chunk of my power with Lycaon, Aetheri and Terrakrus," he explained. "Your mission is simple. Lycaon, Terrakrus, go and find any kind of beast, defeat them, and make sure they stay alive. Then stay near them. Aetheri will act as a control tower and will absorb them from each of you."

    The Thunder Lycaon let out a low, rumbling growl, its eyes gleaming with excitement.

    The Terrakrus stomped its foot, the ground trembling slightly beneath its massive weight. The Aetheri pulsed, acknowledging its role.

    "For tonight," Eratz said, a small, predatory smile playing on his lips, "you three are the hunters. Catch everything on your sight... everything non human of course."

    His beasts growled in agreement, a unified sound that echoed across the empty plain. Eratz then turned to Raijinara.

    "And you," he said, stepping closer to his companion. "We''re going to try that mind state again. But this time, I want you to hold back your power as soon as it starts creating another storm like before."

    Raijinara let out a sharp screech, spreading its wings wide, as if to show its understanding. Eratz nodded.

    "If it takes too long and I a storm start to form, it could mean Raijinara is incapacitated by that case, so, Aetheri, I need you to attack me, just like Rex did. Do you understand?"

    The Aetheri nodded, its body shimmering as it floated closer. Raijinara screeched again.

    Eratz looked at his beasts and gave a final nod.

    "Alright," he said softly. "Let''s begin."

    He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, the world around him fading into silence. His aura surged out like a wave, directly from his beasts.

    The Thunder Lycaon and the Terrakrus roared in unison, their energy merging with his own before they leaped away in explosive, ground-shaking jumps, vanishing into the darkness. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    High above, the Aetheri hovered like a silent sentinel, its light casting a faint, ghostly glow. Eratz slowly sat down, the night air cool against his skin. He shut out everything, the wind rustling through the grass, the distant howls of creatures in the wilderness.

    Bit by bit, he lost his awareness of the world, letting go of the noise and sensations, until there was only him and Raijinara.

    The bird''s energy pulsed steadily, syncing with his own heartbeat. He felt the bond between them tighten, the limits between their minds dissolving.

    His breathing slowed, becoming deep and rhythmic. His aura calmed, flowing like a gentle river instead of a roaring tide.

    He could sense his connection with Raijinara growing stronger, the two of them merging into one singular consciousness.

    Every now and then, dark clouds gathered in the sky and a small beam of energy shot from the Aetheri, jolting him back, but he remained focused, diving deeper each time.

    Time lost its meaning. The moon moved across the sky, casting long shadows that gradually faded with the approach of dawn. He felt the cold dew forming on his skin, but it didn''t

    matter.

    The entire night became a spectacle of sensations, moments where the storm started again, followed by the Aetheri''s sharp correction.

    And then, as the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, something shifted.

    Eratz''s eyes fluttered open, and he was sitting in the middle of a shallow crater, the ground

    scorched and cracked around him.

    He smiled, his lips curling up slowly, almost lazily.

    "At last," he whispered.

    A faint yellow aura clung to his body, barely visible.

    On the outside, his appearance seemed normal, but from his perspective, everything had

    changed.

    He could see them, stretching out into the distance like strands of light: the threads.

    Dozens of them, each one glowing faintly, weaving through the sky like strings of a great

    web, all heading to different locations in the void around them.

    He chuckled, a low, satisfied sound, his smile widening. "Things are really going to be interesting now," he murmured.

 Chapter 152: The Hunter and The Predator

    Chapter 152: The Hunter and The PredatorEratz soared across the sky on Raijinara''s back, the bird''s wings slicing through the clouds with powerful, steady beats.

    The sun had dipped behind the horizon, casting a golden glow across the landscape below, painting everything in shades of orange and gold.

    It had been two days since he first accessed this new mind state, and in that time, he had pushed himself to maintain the delicate balance, avoiding another catastrophic storm like the last one.

    The air felt different now, charged with a subtle, electric pulse that synced with Raijinara''s soul. Eratz, eyes half-lidded, scanned the horizon.

    He could feel it: one of the faint, glowing threads of energy stretching out ahead of him, like a thin guiding line in the sky.

    It was closer than before, a sign that he was on the right path.

    As he got used to this state, the information came to him more easily, clearer than it had been at first. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    It was as if the world itself was speaking to him through these threads.

    He could sense the currents of the wind, the subtle vibrations in the earth below, and even the distant presence of other beasts hiding in the shadows of the forests, burrowing deep underground, or stalking prey in the open plains.

    He felt the presence of his beasts too. The Thunder Lycaon and the Terrakrus were still battling, their auras flaring as they tore through groups of lesser monsters.

    He could sense the Aetheri hovering further away, absorbing the defeated beasts'' essence one by one through their energy.

    The process was slower than expected, but Eratz couldn''t spare them more energy. He had to conserve his strength for what lay ahead.

    He knew he was closing in on something significant.

    The thread of energy in front of him began to grow, becoming more vibrant, more tangible. The landscape below started to shift, the lush greenery giving way to rocky terrain.

    The earth beneath them became rougher, jagged rocks jutting out like broken bones piercing through the surface.

    In the distance, Eratz could see mountains rising up against the horizon, their peaks sharp and intimidating.

    He frowned, narrowing his eyes as he watched the thread grow thicker and brighter.

    This had to be the place.

    He slowed Raijinara''s speed, pulling back gently on the bird''s mane.

    They glided into the mountains, the wind colder here, carrying the scent of ash and smoke.

    The more they advanced, the quieter the world became. He noticed the absence of noise, the lack of movement from small creatures in the underbrush.

    It was as if the entire area had been abandoned, left in a tense, breathless silence, or rather, deserted, due to the arrival of a mastodon.

    And then, finally, there was something. A life signal. It was faint, but unmistakable. Eratz''s eyes snapped open wide, the realization hitting him like a jolt of lightning.

    "T-There... There''s really something..." he whispered to himself, his breath catching in his throat.

    He could feel it, a presence, alive and intense, somewhere within the rocky landscape.

    It was directly in the path of the thread he''d been following.

    His heartbeat quickened, pounding in his chest with a mixture of anticipation and excitement.

    He knew now, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the life he was sensing was no ordinary creature.

    This was the unique beast, the one he''d been tracking, it was something linked to Raijinara, a potential Calamity beast.

    The tension in the air was palpable as they flew deeper into the mountain range.

    Eratz leaned forward, his hands gripping Raijinara''s mane, feeling the bird''s feathers crackle with static.

    The silence was oppressive, the only sound the faint whistle of the wind as it threaded through the jagged rocks.

    As they neared a narrow pass between two towering cliffs, Raijinara let out a low, guttural sound, almost like a groan.

    It wasn''t a sound of pain, but a warning, a dangerous noise that sent shivers down Eratz''s spine.

    "You feel it too, don''t you?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Raijinara''s wings beat slowly now, almost hovering as they approached a rocky outcrop.

    The bird''s head tilted slightly, as if scanning the area, its keen eyes locked on the direction of the thread.

    Eratz''s heart pounded in his chest, louder than ever before. He felt the thrill of the unknown, the anticipation building like a storm on the horizon.

    He was so close. Every instinct in his body screamed that this was it. This was the place.

    The pass opened up, revealing a wide plateau at the edge of a steep cliff. The ground was scorched, blackened by old flames, the rocks cracked and charred.

    It looked like a battleground, a place where nature itself had once raged in fury.

    Eratz took a deep breath, the air here thick with the smell of sulfur and smoke. He leaned forward, scanning the area carefully, his eyes sharp and focused.

    And then he saw it.

    Standing right at the border of the cliff, facing directly in his direction, was a figure unlike any he''d ever seen before.

    The beast stood tall, a humanoid figure with lean, agile limbs that promised both speed and

    power.

    Its fur was pure white on the top, and black from the hips to the ankles, ending in red rabbit

    feet.

    Fiery patter of emberred and vivid orange streaked across its body, flickering like real flames dancing in the wind.

    The very long, flamelike ears fell back along its head, swaying as though they were ablaze.

    The beast''s stance was casual, almost mocking. It stood with its arms crossed over its chest, one foot tapping lightly on the ground, as if it were impatient.

    A smirk tugged at the corners of its mouth, and its bright, burning eyes locked directly onto

    Eratz.

    There was no fear in its gaze, only a daring, cocky confidence.

    Eratz could feel it, the creature had been expecting him.

    [Cinderblaze, the Son of Fire]

    Affinity: Fire

    Rank: Calamity

    Abilities:

    Inferno Field:

    Unleashes a massive heatwave, turning the entire battlefield into a blazing inferno.

    Blazing Body:

    Its body radiates intense heat. Any physical contact leaves severe burns

    Sun:

    Gathers all ambient fire energy, concentrating it into a searing orb of flame. This orb projectile is hurled at its opponent, dealing catastrophic damage on impact.

    Indomitable Spirit:

    The more confident and energetic the user feels, the stronger its flames burn. Its power and speed increase when it senses a challenge, making it a relentless and overwhelming force in

    prolonged fights.]

    Eratz''s breath hitched, a laugh bubbling up from his chest despite himself. He couldn''t hide the exhilaration he felt. This was it, his confirmation. He''d hit the jackpot.

    Without a second thought, Eratz recalled his three aces. The Thunder Lycaon, the Terrakrus, and the Aetheri all vanished into his energy.

    Standing tall on Raijinara''s back, Eratz maintained eye contact with Cinderblaze.

    The creature''s humanoid face allowed it to convey expression as clearly as any person, and its

    smirk spoke volumes.

    It wasn''t just standing its ground, it was challenging him outright, daring him to make the

    first move.

    A wide grin spread across Eratz''s face. This was only the second time he''d been directly

    challenged by a prey.

    There was something about facing a sentient beast, one that stood on its own and welcomed

    the fight, that stirred something deep inside him.

    He hesitated. He could unleash his beasts, but the memory of their futility against the first Calamity ranked opponent lingered.

    Perhaps they would be just as ineffective here. Then again, he could simply go at it with

    Raijinara alone.

    But before he could make up his mind, Cinderblaze tapped its foot on the ground, the sound echoing through the quiet, rocky terrain like a taunting drumbeat.

    Eratz''s conflict was palpable. He knew he wanted to capture this beast, but there was a

    deeper, almost primal respect for it.

    Cinderblaze wasn''t just another target, it was a warrior, a fighter who had chosen to face him

    head-on.

    For a moment, Eratz closed his eyes, letting the silence wash over him.

    Then he took a step forward and vanished from Raijinara''s back, plunging down toward the

    ground.

    He landed like a comet, slamming into the earth with a thunderous impact.

    The force of his descent sent shock waves through the ground, cracks splintering out from

    where he stood.

    A cloud of dust and smoke billowed up, obscuring them for a brief moment.

    As the smoke cleared, Eratz stood face to face with Cinderblaze, who had barely flinched at his

    arrival.

    The beast''s head was tilted slightly, its smirk deepening, eyes glinting with a playful, almost mischievous challenge.

    Cinderblaze arrived at Eratz''s chest level, the two of them locked eyes, standing just a few

    feet apart.

    The air around them shimmered with the sheer power emanating from the beast, the ground

    beneath their feet smoldering from the residual heat.

    Eratz''s lips curled into a smirk of his own.

    "Nice skills you have there," he said.

    Cinderblaze tilted its head back slightly, letting out a sharp, confident noise similar to a

    laugh.

    It uncrossed its arms, flames licking at its fingertips. It didn''t need to speak for Eratz to understand.

 Chapter 153: Red Steel: King of Beasts Vs. Son of Fire

    Chapter 153: Red Steel: King of Beasts Vs. Son of FireRaijinara circled high above the rocky plateau.

    The tension below was palpable, a silence that felt like the breath held before a storm. Eratz stood on the hard ground, staring down his new opponent.

    Cinderblaze faced him, standing tall, arms crossed over its chest, one foot tapping lightly against the ground.

    It gave Eratz a mocking, cocky grin, tilting its head slightly as if to ask him to lead the dance.

    Eratz''s smirk widened, his own eyes gleaming with impatience, then, in an instant, he unleashed his spiritual pressure.

    A wave of raw, pure energy pulsed out from his body, swiping the air like a storm. The ground beneath him quaked, pebbles thrown away as the pressure grew.

    Cinderblaze''s smirk faltered for a split second. Its bright eyes widened in surprise, but then, just as quickly, its grin returned, even wider than before.

    The beast tilted its head back, letting out a sharp, playful chuckle, and then in turn, it''s body embrased.

    Flames erupted around in a sudden, explosive burst, expanding outward like a shockwave. The temperature skyrocketed as Inferno Field activated, engulfing the entire plateau in a blistering heatwave.

    Eratz felt the force of the heat hit him like a blast, pushing him back a step. The air shimmered, warped by the intense temperature, and the landscape around them transformed.

    The ground turned a deep, ember red, cracks forming as burning rocks cracked from beneath. Flames licked at the air, the entire area turning into a blazing furnace.

    Eratz felt the heat slam into him like a physical blow, the intense wave pushing him back a step.

    The searing temperature almost carbonized his skin, the burning sensation spreading across his body, but, for someone like him, this parameter was anticipated and even wished.

    Rockbound Fury.

    An explosion of energy burst from his body, sending a shockwave rippling outward.

    The force of his power cracked the ground beneath him, fissures spreading out like jagged scars on the earth.

    Chunks of rock were blasted into the air, shattering against the intense pressure of his unleashed strength.

    Cinderblaze''s eyes widened again, the mocking grin slipping for just a moment as it instinctively leapt back, putting distance between them.

    It landed gracefully, sliding to a halt, its bright eyes now filled with a mix of curiosity and anticipation.

    Eratz stepped forward, his body enveloped in a thin veil of flames, the searing heat licking at his skin.

    Burns covered his arms and chest, but the wounds seemed to pulse with energy, the pain transforming into raw, physical power.

    Each burn he received only made him stronger, fueling his own strength.

    He gave a feral grin through the fire, his voice low and filled with confidence.

    "Son of fire, I''ve faced down a lightning calamity bird in the sky when I was weaker than this. So..." He raised his head, one eyes gleaming. "Grit your teeth."

    In a flash, he vanished from the spot, and reappeared above Cinderblaze, his fist already cocked back, bursting with an intense surge of power.

    He brought his fist down with the force of a meteor, the air screaming as it was split apart by the speed of his strike.

    The impact was earth-shattering.

    Cinderblaze was slammed into the ground, the force of the blow creating a massive crater in the rocky plateau.

    The beast''s body broke through layers of stone and rubble, the shockwave from the punch sending a wave of dust and debris exploding outward.

    The sound of the impact echoed like a thunderclap, reverberating through the mountains. Cinderblaze''s body smashed through the rocky surface, breaking through the crust of the plateau and crashing into a deeper, darker section of the mountain.

    The ground splintered, rocks tumbling down in an avalanche as the earth struggled to absorb the force of the strike.

    Smoke and dust filled the air, obscuring everything in a thick, choking cloud. For a moment, there was silence.

    Eratz stood at the edge of a massive crater, the ground beneath him cracked and shattered from his powerful strike.

    The silence stretched on, broken only by the faint whisper of the wind. Then, slowly, the earth beneath him began to rumble.

    A deep, guttural growl echoed through the plateau.

    The ground trembled violently, and in an instant, the rocks at the center of the crater erupted like a volcano.

    A burst of fiery stones shot into the sky, trailing smoke and embers. The debris rained down around Eratz in a stunning display of fire and light, casting flickering shadows across his face.

    At the epicenter of the explosion, Cinderblaze emerged. The beast rose from the rubble, flames dancing wildly along its body.

    The cocky grin was gone, replaced by a furious, intense glare. Its arms were uncrossed, fingers flexing as if itching for another strike.

    Eratz couldn''t help but chuckle, his own grin widening as he took in the sight.

    "I prefer that face."

    Cinderblaze didn''t respond with sounds. It simply lunged forward, leaping with incredible

    speed and power.

    It closed the distance between them in a flash, its fist aimed directly at Eratz''s face.

    But the punch only hit empty air.

    Eratz was already beneath it, his arms crossed casually, looking up with a smirk. The speed of his evasion was unreal, almost as if he had vanished and reappeared in a single heartbeat.

    Cinderblaze landed, its eyes narrowing, but then its lips curled into a wild grin.

    It unleashed a massive wave of heat. The temperature rising sharply as a blistering heatwave rippled outwards, setting the air ablaze.

    Eratz felt the searing heat wash over him, the intense wave singeing his clothes, but he didn''t

    flinch.

    Instead, he stepped forward, the smile never leaving his face. The burns on his skin glowed momentarily before fading, the damage absorbed and converted into raw power.

    "I hit you and you feed me?" Eratz taunted.

    Cinderblaze''s eyes blazed with a fiery light, and in a flash, the two of them collided.

    The force of their clash sent a shockwave through the plateau, the ground beneath their feet splintering and cracking under the sheer power of their attacks.

    Cinderblaze''s strikes were relentless, each blow explosive, leaving trails of fire in the air.

    It moved like a wildfire, its fists and kicks landing with the force of small explosions, each

    impact sending bursts of flame across the battlefield.

    Eratz dodged and weaved through the flurry of attacks with a fluid grace.

    He could predict Cinderblaze''s movements, he was faster than it, but instead of dodging everything, he chose to take some of the hits head-on.

    Each punch and kick only making him stronger.

    Eratz''s grin widened, he had the upper hand. He absorbed another flaming punch, his body glowing with an intense aura, then retaliated with a devastating strike of his own.

    His fist engulfed Cinderblaze''s torso, the force of the blow sending a shockwave rippling

    through the ground.

    The earth quaked beneath their feet, a deep rumble shaking the mountains. Chunks of rock tumbled down from the cliffs above, the sheer power of their clash threatening to tear the

    landscape apart.

    Cinderblaze staggered back, but its grin never faltered. If anything, it looked even more exhilarated. It wiped a trickle of black soot from its mouth, then let out a sharp, barking laugh, its eyes alight with wild excitement.

    It lunged again, faster this time, its entire body engulfed in flames. The air around it shimmered with heat, distorting its form like a mirage. It delivered a rapid series of blows,

    each one crackling with explosive force.

    Eratz dodged most of them, his movements fluid and precise, but then, as he saw an opening, one of Cinderblaze''s punches land squarely on his stomach.

    The impact was like a bomb going off, fire erupting from the point of contact.

    The searing pain shot through Eratz, but he only grinned, the burn quickly fading as his power

    surged.

    He spun on his heel, using the momentum to deliver a crushing elbow strike to Cinderblaze''s

    side.

    The beast was sent flying like a comet, slamming into a nearby cliff with a thunderous crash. Rocks crumbled and fell, shattering into pieces around the impact zone.

    For a moment, both fighters stilled, catching their breath. The only sound was the faint crackle of lingering flames, the air thick with smoke and the scent of burnt earth. Eratz narrowed his eyes, watching as Cinderblaze slowly pushed itself up from the rubble.

    The flames around its body burned even brighter now, more intense, despite the damages it took, he seemed less and less affected.

    Then, he realized something: it wasn''t an impression, Cinderblaze was getting stronger. Its power was escalating with every passing second, like himself with rockbound fury.

    His lips curled into a smile.

    "Of course," he murmured to himself. "Your last ability... it''s the Indomitable Spirit..."

    He understood it perfectly now. Cinderblaze''s flames grew hotter, its strikes faster and more powerful, the longer it fought.

    It was as if the beast was feeding off the adrenaline of the battle, and the results of this ability, similar to rockbound fury but used by a Calamity beast was astonishing. Eratz couldn''t help but laugh, a deep, throaty chuckle that echoed across the battlefield.

    Cinderblaze paused, tilting its head slightly. Then, it too began to laugh, making a strange, barking sound like a playful taunt.

    They stood there for a moment, the two of them sharing a rare, crazy kind of joy. It wasn''t just

    a fight anymore, it was an exhilarating dance between two warriors who recognized that they

    were fucked up if the battle continued.

    Eratz locked eyes with the beast, his grin widening.

    "Alright," he said, his voice low and full of determination. "Playtime''s over. Now I really

    want you."

    Cinderblaze smirked in response, its body straightening. It gave a small, exaggerated bow, its gaze mocking yet respectful.

    Eratz''s brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of disbelief crossing his face.

    "I could almost swear you understand my language," he said slowly.

    In response, Cinderblaze raised one of its long, flame-like ears, cupping it with its hand as if listening intently, a clear gesture for Eratz to repeat himself.

    The beast''s playful expression made Eratz growl, his eyes narrowing. "Alright, I''ll assume you understand me," he muttered. He clenched his fist, flames flickering

    along his knuckles as he pointed at Cinderblaze. "Son of fire," he said, his voice filled with both admiration and challenge. "I guess you''ll understand this." Cinderblaze''s smirk faltered for the first time. Eratz''s finger began to glow with a bright,

    white light. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He traced a line through the air, the glowing line absorbing the heat and fire around it, cutting

    through the blazing inferno like a blade of pure energy.

    "This ability of yours, this Inferno Field," Eratz continued, his tone almost casual. "It looks exactly like a field spell. And if that''s the case..."

    He let the line of light absorb more of the surrounding flames. "Since I''m stronger," Eratz said, "by using my own field spell, I can nullify yours."

    Cinderblaze''s eyes went wide, its confident smirk disappearing entirely. Its teeth clenched,

    and it made a face that could only be described as a silent,

    - Oh shit...

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed with amusement as he tilted his head, watching the beast''s reaction. "You get the drift?" he asked, his voice dripping with a playful, taunting edge. "Get ready."

 Chapter 154: Red Sun

    Chapter 154: Red SunEratz''s hands shone brighter, pulling in pure energy from the very air itself.

    The light emanating from his fingers seemed to draw Cinderblaze''s fire towards him, thin trails of flame twisting and curling as they were siphoned away.

    Cinderblaze''s confident smirk faltered for the first time. It flinched, its eyes narrowing, and took a wary step back, the mocking bravado momentarily replaced with a flash of concern.

    Eratz, noticing the shift, gave a small, taunting grin. He flexed his fingers, the light intensifying, a swirl of raw power coiling around his fists like serpents.

    "What''s the matter?" Eratz called out, his voice steady and daring. "I''m faster than you. If you''ve got something left, you''d better use it now. This is your chance to touch me before I start using lightning."

    Cinderblaze''s expression twisted into a scowl, its fiery eyes narrowing to slits.

    It let out a low, guttural growl, then in a flash, it leaped backward, retreating higher into the mountainous terrain.

    It landed on a jagged outcrop, its feet barely touching the rock before it pushed off again, springing even higher.

    With a deep, guttural inhale, it threw its head back and released a deafening war cry into the sky.

    The sound echoed through the mountains like a primal call, shaking loose stones and sending tremors through the ground.

    Eratz''s confident smirk faded into a serious frown. He felt a sudden shift in the air.

    The blazing heat that had engulfed the plateau was changing, the intense flames no longer scattered across the ground.

    He watched in astonishment as the fire began to gather, drawn toward Cinderblaze as if being pulled by an unseen force.

    "This... is it," Eratz muttered, his eyes widening in realization. He was witnessing Cinderblaze''s ultimate technique: Sun.

    All around him, the inferno that had turned the plateau into a furnace was converging.

    Flames twisted and swirled, forming streams of molten red and orange, racing up the rocks toward the beast standing proudly above.

    The heat intensified, becoming almost unbearable, the very air itself crackling and shimmering like a mirage.

    Cinderblaze stood tall, arms outstretched, as the fiery vortex surrounded it.

    The flames wrapped around its body, spiraling upward in a spectacular dance.

    The ground beneath it blackened, cracking open as the heat surged to unimaginable levels.

    Eratz''s eyes were fixed on the spectacle, the swirling fire converging faster and faster, forming into a colossal orb of blazing energy.

    The ball of fire grew larger, swelling to the size of a small sun, its surface bubbling and shimmering with the raw intensity of a star''s core.

    The entire mountain seemed to glow with the light of the inferno, casting long shadows across the rocky landscape.

    The sky above turned a deep, ominous red, the flames reflected in the clouds like the aftermath of a volcanic eruption.

    Cinderblaze''s form disappeared momentarily, engulfed entirely by the blazing sphere.

    Then, with a mighty leap, it emerged from within the fireball, landing on top of it with a resounding thud.

    It stood there, arms raised in triumph, its entire body now covered in a bright, blinding flame.

    The beast was like a living inferno, its form outlined by the intense light, a fiery aura shimmering around it.

    Eratz could feel the immense heat from where he stood, the waves of fire rolling off the miniature sun in front of him.

    His skin prickled, sweat beading on his forehead as he watched the incredible sight.

    The very air around them was scorching, making it difficult to breathe. The ground beneath him smoldered, cracks forming and releasing plumes of smoke.

    Cinderblaze let out another roar, the sound almost drowned out by the crackling of the flames.

    It was a war cry, a final declaration of its resolve, echoing across the mountains.

    Eratz didn''t flinch. He simply observed, a glint of fascination in his eyes as he watched the spectacle unfold.

    He could feel the power, the sheer destructive force Cinderblaze had gathered.

    It was like staring into the heart of a star, with the promise of causing a phenomenal destruction.

    He took a deep breath, feeling the heat on his skin, but his expression was calm, almost

    serene.

    "This is exactly why I have to stick with monsters like you, good job," he murmured, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

    Cinderblaze smirked, arms crossed, standing atop the blazing sun, its fiery aura rippling with intense heat.

    It pushed off sharply, sending a shockwave through the air. The beast''s cocky smile widened as it looked down at Eratz.

    Eratz met its gaze, his own lips curling into a confident grin.

    "Whenever you''re ready," he called out, his voice unwavering.

    With a sudden leap, Cinderblaze launched itself higher, causing a ripple to spread across the surface of the massive fireball.

    The mini sun floated up, hovering like a second sun against the twilight sky.

    Cinderblaze swirled its body in a graceful spin, its white fur streaked with ember-red patterns that flared up like dancing flames.

    It tucked its legs in, then unfurled with a powerful kick, sending the blazing orb hurtling downwards.

    A scorching heatwave swept across the plateau, warping the air and splitting the rocks

    beneath.

    The sun rushed toward Eratz, a roaring comet of fire, leaving a burning trail in its wake.

    Eratz clenched his fists, pulling all of his energy inward. He combined the accumulated power of Rockbound Fury with his spiritual pressure, the air around him vibrating with a crackling

    intensity.

    He extended his arms forward, palms open, gathering every ounce of his power into a single, concentrated point of light.

    The ground beneath him cracked and crumbled as he unleashed his attack.

    A brilliant beam of pure energy shot forth, surging toward the oncoming sun with a roar like a

    storm.

    The clash was immediate, the two forces meeting in an explosive impact.

    The beam collided with the fireball, and for a moment, it seemed like a stalemate. The blast

    of energy pushed against the sun, but the ball of doom only slowed down.

    The shockwave from the clash sent ripples through the air, the sky turning redder.

    The force of the collision caused the earth to split apart from the sheer pressure.

    He dug his feet into the ground, muscles straining as he pushed back against the relentless heat and force of the blazing orb.

    The light from the blast illuminated the entire mountain range, casting long shadows that flickered and danced.

    The beam was a brilliant white, pure and searing, but the sun was massive, its surface roiling

    with molten fire.

    It pushed forward slowly, inexorably, as if an unstoppable force was meeting a not so

    immovable object.

    Eratz''s teeth clenched harder, veins bulging on his forehead. He felt the heat burning his skin,

    the intense flames licking at his clothes, singeing his hair.

    The power was overwhelming, but he refused to back down. He could have dodged, moved

    out of the way, but this time, he chose to stand his ground.

    He pushed harder, the beam of energy flaring brighter, but the sun kept getting closer, inch by

    inch.

    The sheer size and heat of the fireball were overwhelming. He could feel his energy draining, the sweat evaporating off his skin before it even formed. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Cinderblaze, still standing on the rocks, leaned forward, eyes wide in surprise.

    It hadn''t expected Eratz to not be able to deal with it faster.

    The beast''s cocky grin was gone, replaced by a look of genuine admiration. It raised its arm, clenched its fist, and shouted out a cry, as if cheering Eratz on.

    It was as if Cinderblaze recognized Eratz as a worthy opponent, and refused to see him burn to

    ashes here.

    Eratz''s eyes shone with a fierce light. He channelled the power of Rockbound Fury through his beam, and then simultaneously, he unleashed his field spell.

    A wave of pure, shimmering energy spread out from Eratz, enveloping the entire battlefield in

    a dome of crackling light.

    The Field Spell spread like a blanket, swallowing the flames and absorbing the searing heat,

    but then, a new phenomenom occured.

    Instead of spreading further, the field shrank, converging to his attack like a swirling,

    merging with the beam.

    The beam of energy transformed into a spectacular beam mixing a collection of energy type.

    It shimmered with a radiant, golden hue, intertwined with streaks of red and white.

    The air vibrated, the sound of pure energy resonating through the space.

    The sun wavered, its surface flickering as the beam pierced through it.

    The flames were swallowed whole, the fiery orb imploding under the force of the combined

    attack.

    There was a moment of blinding light, a pure, white flash that seemed to erase everything

    from existence.

    And then, came the final explosion.

    A deafening roar filled the air as a massive fireball erupted in the sky.

    From afar, it looked like a second sun had formed above the mountains, a colossal sphere of

    flames that lit up the entire horizon.

 Chapter 155: Master and Wildfire

    Chapter 155: Master and WildfireThe shockwave rippled out, sending a plume of smoke and ash high into the atmosphere. Rocks were torn from the cliffs, tumbling down in a cascade of rubble. The sky was painted with streaks of red and gold.

    For a long moment, everything was consumed by fire and smoke. The heat was unbearable, even from a distance, and the light was blinding.

    Then slowly, the flames began to recede, and the thick veil of smoke lifted like dark storm clouds parting after a violent downpour.

    The battlefield fell into an eerie silence.

    Where the blast had erupted, the ground was a shattered expanse of broken stone and fractured earth, rocks splintered and tossed aside.

    The land was a mess of jagged debris, still smoldering with traces of Cinderblaze''s attack. Suddenly, the beast leaped down from a ledge, landing nimbly on the destroyed terrain. It seemed almost frantic, making sharp, urgent noises as if calling out for Eratz.

    The fire beast scanned the destruction, its bright eyes darting across the rubble.

    Then, a low rumble reverberated through the ground. Cinderblaze''s ears perked up, and its eyes widened.

    It turned its head sharply, glancing behind just in time to see the earth begin to quake and split apart.

    With a startled leap, Cinderblaze propelled itself away, flames trailing behind it.

    The ground beneath where it had stood erupted in a violent explosion, rocks and dust flying into the air.

    From the epicenter of the blast, Eratz emerged, breaking through the shattered stone like a force of nature.

    His body was battered, his clothes torn and covered in ash, but he was still standing, his body emanating a phenomenal pressure that rippled through the air.

    Cinderblaze''s eyes widened, and a bright, almost childlike smile spread across its face.

    Without hesitation, it rushed forward, sprinting toward Eratz with incredible speed.

    The fire rabbit skidded to a halt right in front of him, bouncing excitedly on its feet. It began cheering wildly, clapping its flaming hands together, almost like a fan who had just met their idol.

    Eratz, still breathing heavily, straightened his posture and took a deep breath. He wiped the ash from the corner of his mouth, then raised an eyebrow as he looked down at the excited rabbit.

    "... What''s your deal?" he muttered, clearly amused but puzzled.

    Cinderblaze let out a series of sharp, playful noises, as if trying to speak. It gestured wildly, mimicking Eratz''s moves from their battle, especially the way he unleashed his beam attack.

    The creature''s body language conveyed pure admiration, its eyes shining with a bright, joyous light.

    Eratz''s expression softened, and he chuckled.

    "You''re really a clever beast, huh?" He sat down right in front of Cinderblaze.

    He leaned back on his hands, gesturing for the rabbit to do the same.

    "Calm down for a moment, let''s talk."

    Cinderblaze hesitated, looking at him with intrigue, then obediently sat down, its long ears flicking back and forth.

    The flames around its body dimmed slightly, almost as if it were relaxing.

    Eratz took a moment, gazing at the creature before him. He could feel it now, a distinct difference between Cinderblaze and his other Calamity.

    Raijinara had the presence of a self-assured master, calm and complete. Cinderblaze, on the other hand, was raw potential, bursting with energy and talent but lacking the maturity that Raijinara exuded.

    "You''re special," Eratz began, his voice soft but firm. "I''ve fought beasts like you before, powerful ones. But you''re different. You''ve got fire, not just literally, but in here," he pointed to his chest, then tapped Cinderblaze''s. "You felt I was coming, yet you decided to wait for me. You didn''t run nor ignored me, you just waited, because you wanted to challenged me, isn''t it?"

    Cinderblaze''s eyes widened, and it nodded rapidly, letting out a noise that sounded like agreement. It leaned forward, hanging onto Eratz''s word.

    Eratz chuckled again, shaking his head.

    "You remind me of two people, and I''m curious to see you together. You too need a little guidance, so," He held up his fist, eyes locked with Cinderblaze''s. "What do you say? Join me. Let''s push beyond our limits together."

    Cinderblaze''s smirk returned, but it wasn''t mocking this time. It was a genuine smile, filled with excitement and anticipation.

    The rabbit beast slowly extended its fist toward Eratz''s, eyes glinting.

    But instead of a gentle bump, Cinderblaze swung its fist forward with phenomenal force.

    He unleashed a powerful heatwave, flames erupting outward like an explosion, scorching the rocks around them.

    Eratz, unfazed, grinned. He unleashed his field spell in response, a shimmering wave of pure energy that swallowed the flames entirely.

    The fiery heat was neutralized, the surrounding inferno extinguished in an instant.

    Eratz pushed back against Cinderblaze''s fist, matching its strength and overpowering it

    slightly.

    He leaned in, smirking.

    "Would you start our partnership with a little discipline, then?"

    Cinderblaze''s eyes sparkled like stars, filled with admiration and joy. The rabbit beast

    stopped its fiery display, retracting its flames.

    It leapt away from Eratz, hopping around excitedly, making a cacophony of playful noises as

    it circled him, almost like a child asking a million questions at once.

    Eratz laughed, standing up.

    "You''ve got a good spirit, I''ll give you that. Alright, alright, calm down," he said, raising a hand. "I assume this means we''ve got an agreement then, hmm?"

    He extended his aura, a wave of spiritual pressure spreading out, wrapping around Cinderblaze like a gentle embrace.

    The fire rabbit stopped moving, standing still as it felt the energy surrounding it.

    Slowly, its body began to disintegrate into tiny sparks of fire, the flames turning into wisps of light. The embers floated upward, drawn into Eratz''s aura like moths to a flame.

    Eratz watched the process, a satisfied smile on his face.

    "Looks like I finally got myself another ace," he murmured.

    The last spark of Cinderblaze''s body faded away, absorbed into Eratz''s energy. The bond was S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    formed, the pact sealed.

    He looked up at the sky, Raijinara circling above, and exhaled deeply.

    "Maybe I''m really special after all," he whispered.

 Chapter 157: The Night of the Debt

    Chapter 157: The Night of the DebtMercury coordinated the entire rescue mission from afar, armed with her phone, translation apps, and fierce determination.

    As Eratz struggled to navigate the foreign port city, Mercury guided him step by step, sending him translated phrases and instructions.

    Communication was a chaotic mix of digital messages and Eratz flashing his phone to puzzled locals. Despite the confusion, Mercury managed to strike deals remotely, using online transfers to generously ''motivate'' the various helpers who agreed to assist Eratz.

    From securing directions to the nearest airport to negotiating for a local guide, Mercury''s payments kept the process moving, albeit at a steep price.

    By the time Eratz finally boarded a flight, a good number of the city''s inhabitants had received a nice bonus for their troubles. As night fell over Lugina, Eratz landed, exhausted but triumphant, back on familiar ground after a whirlwind ordeal and a digital spending spree courtesy of Mercury.

    The airport was buzzing with the typical chaos of a busy night, but in the midst of it all, Eratz and Mercury found each other easily. They stood a few feet apart, facing each other in silence. Mercury had her hands on her hips, eyebrows raised, lips twitching as if suppressing a smile. Eratz, on the other hand, had a slightly sheepish grimace, bracing for the scolding he knew he deserved.

    Without a word, Mercury stepped closer and gave him a firm pat on the shoulder.

    "Don''t worry," she said, her voice low and reassuring. "I won''t tell anyone, but now you owe me a world."

    Eratz let out a mock sigh, glancing away.

    "I give you my soul," he muttered.

    Mercury burst out laughing. In one swift move, she wrapped her arm around his neck, pulling him playfully into a headlock, ruffling his hair with her knuckles.

    Eratz grunted in surprise but couldn''t help but laugh along.

    "Because I don''t have it already?" she teased. "You really want your scolding, don''t you?"

    Eratz chuckled, playfully swatting at her hand.

    "Maybe?" he replied, feeling the tension of the past few days dissolve in the moment.

    They shared a brief look before she released him. Side by side, they walked toward the exit, the cool night air of Lugina welcoming them home.

    Mercury had arranged a private taxi for the way back. The driver kept a steady pace, weaving through the streets of Lugina as the city lights blurred past the windows.

    Eratz leaned back in his seat, his exhaustion from the trip slowly fading as he launched into an excited recount of his adventure.

    He talked about the difficulties of communicating, the odd foods he''d tried, and, most importantly, the massive find he had made for the agency. He leaned closer to Mercury, grinning.

    "You won''t believe it. I wanted to get it for later, but then I though it would be..."

    He paused, noticing that she was barely responding, only making small acknowledging noises while her fingers tapped quickly on her phone screen.

    "Hey," he said, a teasing edge to his voice. "Are you even listening to me?"

    Mercury glanced up briefly, her eyes meeting his with a casual smile.

    "Of course I am," she answered offhandedly, her attention back on her phone in the next moment.

    Eratz sighed and rolled his eyes, letting his head fall back against the seat. He turned his gaze to the window, watching the city pass by.

    But then something felt off.

    He frowned, noticing that the familiar streets leading home were nowhere in sight. Instead, they were moving through a part of town he didn''t recognize.

    "Uh, excuse me," Eratz called to the driver, sitting up straighter. "You''re going the wrong way."

    Before the driver could respond, Mercury cut in smoothly, her tone light but firm.

    "Relax, it''s the right way. Don''t worry about it."

    Eratz turned to her, a skeptical eyebrow raised.

    "What do you mean? Where are we going?"

    Mercury didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she angled her phone toward him, showing her chat screen. It was a message thread with Cassie.

    He looked at the screen quickly, catching Cassie''s last message: Safe travel.

    Eratz''s confusion deepened.

    "Wait, who''s leaving?" he asked.

    Mercury grinned, putting her phone away.

    "Me," she explained calmly. "See, tonight I''m on my way to Solmir for a big marketing meeting, and meanwhile, you''re helping with recruitment in Alder Grove. Both of us are ''busy'' tonight and won''t be back until tomorrow."

    It took Eratz a moment to piece it together. He opened his mouth, his eyes widening in shock.

    Mercury''s gaze was fixed on him, but it was different now. Her sharp eyes now burned with a dark, sultry intensity. Her lips parted slightly, curling into a slow, teasing smile playful and predatory, daring him to understand.

    Eratz swallowed hard, feeling the sudden shift in the atmosphere like a lightning strike. He turned back to the driver.

    "Man, step on it. Wherever you''re taking us, make it fast."

    The taxi stopped in a district alive with flickering neon lights, their soft glow reflecting on the damp pavement.

    Signs for love hotels loomed overhead, their promises of luxury and discretion written in bright, enticing characters.

    Eratz and Mercury stepped out, hiding their faces as much as possible.

    As they entered the hotel lobby, they didn''t speak much. Mercury leaned casually against the counter while Eratz scanned the options displayed on a digital panel. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He reached for a room, preparing to pay for a single night, but Mercury stepped forward,

    dropping a significantly larger sum on the counter.

    "Tomorrow afternoon," she said without hesitation.

    Eratz glanced at her, momentarily surprised, but her self-assured smile drew his own.

    "Alright," he said, matching her grin, "tomorrow afternoon."

    They rushed to their room, their footsteps echoing in the quiet hallways.

    When they opened the door, the room looked like something out of a dream: plush bedding

    on a king-size bed, a chandelier casting a soft glow, and a sleek bathroom.

    Mirrors lined the walls, while soft ambient music hummed faintly in the background.

    Eratz let out a low chuckle, stepping inside and turning to Mercury.

    "This is... a bit more than I expected."

    Mercury smirked, running a hand over the edge of the bed.

    "What? You''re afraid of being eaten alive?"

    He chuckled, closing the door behind them.

    "Last time I checked you''re the one who almost passed out."

    As they moved further into the room, their initial curiosity turned into playful exploration.

    Mercury ran her fingers along the smooth bedding, her eyes lighting up as she spotted the control panel for the lights and music, Eratz watching her with amusement.

    "You seem pretty comfortable," he said, raising an eyebrow.

    "I''ve been training for this," she replied simply, her tone bold but her cheeks getting hotter.

    Eratz stepped closer, the space between them shrinking. His voice dropped slightly, teasing.

    "I wondered when you''d finally make the first move, you made me wait a lotng time for this

    round 2."

    "Why wait? You know it''s whenever you want, right? You just have to ask, anytime... I''m all yes for you," she whispered, her smirk softening into something more genuine. The silence stretched between them, their hearts pounding in unison, the reality of the moment sinking in. This wasn''t their first time, but the weight of it felt monumental.

    Mercury stepped closer, her eyes fixed on him.

    "You''re not scared, are you?" she teased, though her own voice betrayed a slight tremor.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his confidence returning.

    "Maybe a little," he said.

    He reached out and gently cupped Mercury''s face. His thumb brushed against her lower lip,

    his touch tender and warm.

    "It''s getting hard to live without you," he murmured.

    Mercury''s breath hitched, her eyes fluttering shut for a moment before opening again to meet

    his.

    Without breaking eye contact, she opened her lips slightly, letting her tongue brush against

    his thumb. Slowly, she took it into her mouth, sucking gently.

    Eratz''s breath caught, his composure faltering for the first time, then, she released his thumb slowly, her lips curling into a mischievous smile as she tilted her head.

    "Really? You can''t live without me?" she asked softly.

    Eratz''s eyes softened, and he nodded, his voice firm but gentle.

    "Yes," he said simply. "It''s getting harder every day. I feel like... I''m not doing enough for

    you. Like I should be giving you more, somehow."

    Mercury''s smile faltered for a second, replaced by something raw and genuine. Her fingers curled around his wrist, holding his hand against her cheek.

    "You''re already enough," she said. "You don''t have to prove anything to me, Eratz. Just... be

    here, like usually. That''s all I need."

    For a moment, neither of them moved, their gazes locked. He leaned forward slightly, his

    forehead brushing hers.

    When their lips met, the kiss was slow, deliberate, savoring each second.

 Chapter 158: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite Ammo

    Chapter 158: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite AmmoMercury''s hands slid up to his shoulders, gripping him as if to anchor herself, while Eratz''s arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer.

    Their breaths grew heavier as the kiss deepened, their movements becoming more

    synchronized as they let go of their restraints.

    Eratz''s hands explored her curves, his touch both gentle and firm, as if he were afraid she might slip away.

    Mercury''s fingers tangled in his hair, tugging lightly, earning a low groan from him that sent a thrill through her.

    In that moment, nothing else mattered, they were in their own world far away from everything.

    Mercury broke away first, her breath coming in soft gasps as she pressed her forehead against his.

    "We should..." she started, glancing toward the luxurious bathroom. "It''s what they do in the movies, right?"

    Eratz grinned, his lips brushing her temple.

    "Hm? Now who''s the one with a weird internet history?"

    Mercury chuckled and disappeared into the bathroom first, leaving Eratz standing in the middle of the room.

    He let out a slow breath, running a hand through his hair.

    Inside the bathroom, Mercury stared at her reflection. Her skin glowed from the warmth of the room.

    Her chest rose and fell quickly, her excitation building with every passing second. She smiled faintly to herself.

    "You''ve got this."

    Eratz, now alone in the room, was sitting on the bed. His mind was a whirlwind of emotions, excitement, nervousness, and a deep, undeniable need.

    He couldn''t help but think about Mercury, the way she had looked at him, the way her body had felt against his.

    A small smile tugged at his lips.

    "Damn..." he chuckled to himself. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He let out a deep breath, trying to calm down his heart.

    When Mercury stepped out of the bathroom, wrapped in a towel, Eratz turned to her, and for a moment, he couldn''t speak.

    The soft light in the room bathed her in a golden glow, making her tanned skin look radiant. Every contour of her body was highlighted by the towel that clung to her, accentuating her generous curves.

    The faint dampness of her short blue hair framed her face and amplified her natural beauty. Her beauty mark under her eye drew his gaze, and his eyes lingered for just a moment too long on her collarbone, where another beauty mark peeked out above the towel.

    Mercury caught his reaction instantly. Her lips curled into a sly smirk, a playful glint in her eyes.

    "Your turn," she said.

    Eratz nodded, swallowing hard as he struggled to find words. He turned toward the bathroom but couldn''t stop himself from glancing back over his shoulder.

    As the door clicked shut behind him, Mercury''s smirk grew into a wide grin.

    She balled her fists, pulling them close to her chest, and did a subtle, triumphant gesture of victory.

    "Yes!" she whispered to herself, satisfied by his reaction.

    As he bathed, he thought of Mercury again, the golden glow of her skin, the fire in her eyes, the way she had teased him with such confidence.

    His heart raced at the thought of her waiting for him.

    Outside, Mercury paced the room, her fingers twitching at her sides.

    Her mind raced with thoughts of what was to come, her breath catching every time she imagined him emerging from the bathroom.

    Her heart pounded so hard she could feel it in her ears, and her body trembled with a mix of impatience and excitement.

    She bit her lip, trying to calm herself, but every passing second made the anticipation unbearable.

    She had waited for this moment, prepared herself for it, yet now that it was here, she felt like she might burst.

    Finally, unable to wait any longer, Mercury stepped toward the bathroom door.

    Her breath hitched as her hands moved with deliberate purpose. Her fingers curled around the edge of the towel, and with a deep inhale, she let it fall from her body.

    When the bathroom door opened, Eratz froze, his thoughts silenced by the sight before him.

    Mercury''s body seemed to glow under the room''s soft light, her tanned skin a radiant gold, smooth and flawless like polished metal.

    Her short, damp blue hair clung to her neck and framed her striking face, accentuating her sharp features and her piercing, fiery gaze.

    The single beauty mark beneath her eye added a delicate charm to her intensity, while the one above her chest seemed to guide his eyes downward like a trail meant only for him.

    His gaze drifted to her chest, where her full, voluptuous breasts rose and fell in tandem with her steady breaths.

    They were perfectly shaped, the soft curves accentuated by the way the remaining water droplets clung to her skin, glinting like liquid diamonds.

    Her waist dipped in gracefully, drawing his attention to her hips, which flared out into strong

    yet feminine curves.

    The golden glow of her skin continued down her long, toned legs, which stood poised and powerful, each muscle defined yet soft, her stance exuding confidence and allure.

    The faint sheen of water trailing down her body caught the light, giving her a Goddess

    appearance.

    Her body wasn''t just beautiful, it was captivating, magnetic, every curve and line pulling at him like gravity.

    Finally, his gaze returned to her eyes, and what he saw there nearly brought him to his knees.

    Those sharp, burning eyes carried a mix of raw desire, unwavering confidence, and an unexpected touch of vulnerability. They said everything she didn''t need to say.

    To Eratz, she wasn''t just beautiful, she was radiant, a masterpiece standing before him,

    daring him to step forward.

    In that moment, even if the world ended, it wouldn''t matter.

    They would fulfill what had been building between them for so long.

    Nothing could stop them now.

    Mercury burned Eratz''s image in her brain, every detail bringing her closer to madness.

    The droplets clinging to his skin, accentuating every sculpted line and muscle, his broad chest rising and falling with each breath, all over the thin towel slung low on his hips adding to his

    allure.

    Rivulets of water traced a path down his chest, disappearing into the vee of his hips. Every fiber of his being stole Mercury''s breath.

    "Wow..." Mercury breathed.

    Her skin prickled with awareness, nipples tightening into hard peaks beneath her heaving

    breasts.

    Moisture gathered between her thighs, easing the ache of desire that had been building since

    morning.

    She longed to run her hands over Eratz''s solid torso, to feel the throb of his heartbeat against her palm, each finger mapped the architecture of his physique.

    His touch ignited sparks on his skin, electrifying his nerve endings and igniting his blood with

    desire.

    Through eyes lidded heavy and glassy with desire, Mercury raised her gaze to meet Eratz''s,

    her pupils wide with hunger.

    Their gaze locked, the room around them fading into insignificance as raw chemistry pulsed

    between them.

    Without breaking eye contact, Mercury leaned in, molding her lips to Eratz''s in a languorous

    kiss.

    At first it was a slow ballet of tongues and teeth, tasting and exploring with deliberate

    gentleness.

    But as the seconds passed, the desire building between them became more and more difficult

    to contain.

    Eratz gripped Mercury''s hips, grinding their pelvises together as he devoured her mouth, swallowing her gasps and moans whole.

    Mercury threaded her fingers through his damp hair to push his head closer to her. With her mouth open, she tasted him deeper, devouring the essence of his unique flavor.

    Her hips lifting to grind insistently against his sparked a whirlwind of uncontrollable desire

    within Eratz.

    Driven by primal urges, he dug a hand into her hair, holding her tight as he ravaged her

    mouth, his other hand roamed freely over her smooth, sweaty skin, boldly cupping the heavy globes of her ass and squeezing them possessively.

    Mercury yelped in pleasure, the sound vibrating against Eratz''s tongue as she thrust deeper,

    tongues clashing, dueling in a frenzy of need, caressing the deepest recesses of his warm,

    willing mouth.

    Breaking the kiss with a wet pop, Mercury looked at Eratz with eyes blazing like blue wildfire, the string of saliva connecting their lips.

    Her chest was heaving with irregular breathing. She was beyond reason, on the edge of the devouring desire that had taken hold of her.

    Without another word, Mercury grabbed Eratz, pulled him toward the bed, and tackled him

    with a fierce cry of triumph.

    She pinned his muscular body beneath hers, straddling his waist as she rained biting kisses

    along his soaked collarbone.

    Her fingers traced delicious paths down his chest, tracing the fragile remains of her self-

    control.

    Eratz thrashed wildly beneath her, his hands roaming her curves as he struggled to maintain even a semblance of restraint.

    "No more waiting," Mercury growled, her voice a low, seductive purr.

    She reached between their bodies, deftly freeing Eratz''s rigid length from his towel.

    His rigid member grew limp, hot and eager, throbbing with eager demand as Mercury wrapped her delicate hand around the throbbing shaft.

    Wrapping her soft fingers around the engorged shaft, Mercury began to slowly pump her hand

    up and down the velvety soft steel, causing drops of precum to squirt from the sensitive tip.

    The velvety softness of her grip was intoxicating, causing Eratz''s head to roll back in ecstasy as pleasurable shockwaves radiated outwards from his straining cock. Unable to resist Mercury''s tantalizing rhythm any longer, Eratz grabbed her wrist, stopping the mesmerizing stroking motion inches from the tip.

    He turned her around, pinning Mercury''s voluptuous form beneath his hungry body.

    He washed her golden legs thoroughly, kneading and licking them from ankle to groin,

    stopping only when her thighs moved instinctively.

    He spotted something he hadn''t noticed before, a small beauty mark nestled just beneath

    Mercury''s engorged sex.

    In the heat of the moment, it passed unnoticed, a secret treasure known only by him.

    Hot breath wafted against her door as he ventured further, circling her trembling lips with the

    flat of his tongue before diving in.

    Mercury screamed in ecstasy, eyes snapping shut as

    sang rough her nerve

    endings, shooting stars of pure bliss directly onto her engorged clit.

    Heat enveloped her pussy as she grew wetter under his ministrations. The bud of her clit swelled, begging to be teased, to be touched.

    "Eratz...!" Mercury pleaded in desperation.

    The sting gradually faded to tingling, turning into incessant pulses that began between her

    trembling legs.

    Suddenly urgent, her hips rocked rhythmically into Eratz''s face. She gripped his hair, losing it each time he devoured her deeper.

    The hot swipe on his tongue every time she twitched set off fireworks behind her eyelids.

    Incoherent pleas overflowed from Mercury''s trembling lips. Her legs wrapped tightly around Eratz''s neck, pressing him deeper while keeping him rooted against her collar.

    Eratz intensified his oral assault, alternating between gentle laps and firm sucks along her engorged outer lips.

    And then, without warning her release took place.

    A wave of liquid washing over him, exploding, painting Eratz''s face in waves, spreading its

    enchanting aroma across his nose and chin while his overstimulated muscles quivered and fluttered uncontrollably.

    Panting frantically, she caught her breath with difficulty, shivering uncontrollably beneath

    him.

    Stunned by the intensity of her climax, Mercury blinked dizzily at Eratz as the euphoria finally subsided.

    When consciousness returned, her gaze turned to his face, immediately focusing on the traces

    of her explosion covering his face. Eratz''s eyes shone with a mischievous twinkle, giving Mercury a deliberately provocative

    look, a raised eyebrow paired with a smirk, and extended his tongue to lick his lips.

    Mouth twisting into a mortified grimace, Mercury made a muffled noise, his words turning

    into a desperate plea.

    "E-Eratz...what...don''t lick that...!"

    She turned her face towards the pillow, hiding from his sight as her entire body flushed with

    shame, regret already taking root in the haze of post-orgasmic satisfaction.

    Eratz chuckled, reclining casually against the plush pillows despite the weight settling heavy in his lap.

    He shot Mercury a sultry look, licking his lips slow and deliberate.

    "What I say? I promised you everything..." His tone held a smug, amused undertone as he let

    his eyes roam appreciatively over her.

    "...and that includes taking all you''ve got to offer." Murmuring that last bit low, Eratz kept

    his gaze trained on her flushed face.

    The corners of his mouth curled upward with mischief.

    "I like these cute little reactions you have." He reached out to gently brush a stray lock of hair

    from her forehead, allowing his fingertips to graze her heated cheek briefly before withdrawing.

    Before Eratz could remark further or engage in the flirtation, Mercury used all of her strength

    to flip Eratz onto his back, effectively pinning him beneath her lithe but powerful body.

    Straddling his waist, she grabbed his thick shaft, positioning it precisely at her dripping entrance.

    "You don''t know how to respect your elders, do you?", she hissed, flashing a burning smile that highlighted her pearly whites.

    Her blue eyes shone with mischief and insatiable lust as she leaned closer, the scent of her

    arousal mingling with his musk.

    "You think you''re so smart, huh, big boy?" Mercury purred, dragging a finger across Eratz''s cheek. "I''m going to eat you whole."

 Chapter 159: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite Ammo(2)

    Chapter 159: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite Ammo(2)Holding steady, mercury slowly sinks herself down onto Eratz, engulfing his steely length inch by magnificent inch. The initial penetration was met with a muffled gasp, her eyes widening at the magnitude of his presence inside her.

    Heat blossomed as her soaked entrance hugged the invader tightly, savoring the soft, silky texture contrasting with her soft inner walls.

    Each inch burrowed deeper, electric shocks coursing through their cores as Eratz filled her more and more.

    Eratz moaned irregularly, Mercury moaned softly, head tilted back in unrelenting pleasure. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Finally, with a low groan, Mercury seated herself fully, the base of Eratz'' cock nestled snugly against her tender cervix. Her pelvis rested firmly against his, trapping his hardness within the scorching embrace of her channel.

    Both were still for a moment, breathing heavily as they savored the profound connection. Rising slightly, Mercury began to rotate her hips in unhurried circles, reveling in the trail of his hardened cock sliding against her most intimate sensitive depths.

    Each rotation amplified the pressure, massaging the bundle of nerves hidden within her core until sparks began to dance behind her eyelids.

    As momentum built, Mercury increased the pace of her movements, moving Eratz in and out of her willing body with increasing fervor.

    Wet sounds filled the air, punctuated by their mutual gasps and sighs of growing happiness. Eratz felt a wave of emotions swelling within him. Pride filled his chest knowing that he was the one marking this milestone for her, the chosen partner for such intimacy.

    His attention focused on the woman perched above him, captivating as she claimed her newfound pleasure. Each measured thrust rubbed his swollen nub with perfection, bringing out symphonies of pleasure as their bodies harmonized perfectly.

    Eratz found his own pleasure fueled by witnessing the transformation of Mercury, the same mercury he knew, so strong and formidable, and just for him, just for his eyes, that same mercury was transforming, embracing her carnal desire.

    And this feeling was shared.

    Her heart swelling with delighted joy, Mercury delighted in the perfection of their coupling. The miracle that she found such an incredible partner left her speechless.

    Every cell of her being sang with gratitude for the encounter that led to this magical night.

    Overcome with elation, Mercury draped herself over Eratz''s chest, peppering his damp cheek with kisses and soothing lashes of her tongue.

    Between the tender moments, girlish laughter broke out as she whispered.

    "Recess''s over, boy," urging him to pick up the pace.

    Rolling her hips with brutal precision, Mercury struck fiercely, the impact shaking the bed frame and reverberating throughout the air-conditioned room. With a triumphant cry, she clamped around Eratz like a velvet vise, squeezing and treating him mercilessly.

    Sensing Mercury''s transition to a more primal state, Eratz allowed himself to surrender to the wild rhythm it imposed. His grip on her tightened, his hands kneading the supple globes of her ass as he plunged into her with matching ferocity.

    With each brutal thrust, a lewd slap echoed through the room, accompanied by their collective moans and the lewd sound of smooth flesh meeting over and over again.

    The atmosphere was charged with animal needs, the air thick with heat and effort.

    "Yes...! Like this... Keep going!" Mercury demanded, releasing the grip on his shoulder to seize the back of his skull, yanking his head to capture her screaming lips in a bruising kiss.

    Breathless and wanton, her screams turn into high-pitched moans as she rushes towards the pinnacle of her satisfaction, determined to pull Eratz over the edge to her side.

    Eratz felt his body tense, on the verge of erupting.

    As he tried to lift her, he struggled against the unyielding grip of her inner muscles.

    However, Mercury refused to relinquish her position, instead doubling and redoubling her attempts to milk him dry.

    "Nope, you don''t!" she taunted, her voice breaking into a laugh of pleasure.

    Clinging fiercely to him, she thrashed and writhed, countering his efforts with a frenzied energy of her own.

    The audacity of her declaration only served to further inflame his desires, the urge to claim her completely overwhelming any idea of restraint.

    In the midst of the frenzy, laughter erupted from Eratz''s chest, a rich, guttural sound that paired perfectly with Mercury''s gleeful cackles.

    Together, they advance towards the abyss, driven by a primordial impulse to merge completely, to lose themselves in the ecstatic confluence of their passion.

    Stopping abruptly, Mercury shifted her weight, dropping to her knees with Eratz''s rigid length still buried deep within her welcoming warmth.

    The sudden change in angle allowed her to arch back, presenting an intimate view of their junction.

    With deliberate slowness, she trailed her fingers along the curve of her stomach, coming to rest at the top of her lower abdomen.

    Eyes fixed on Eratz, Mercury''s expression changes into a sly, seductive pout.

    "Look at that, Eratz," she purred, her voice brimming with sensuality. "You''re coming this far."

    Without warning, she began to grind against Eratz, creating a tantalizing friction as their fluids mixed and swirled. Her inner walls rippled and clenched around him, teasing and joking him in equal measure.

    Wiping her heat across his pelvic bone, she lets out a throaty laugh, clearly enjoying the

    display of their shared passion.

    "What do you think, big boy?"

    Under Mercury''s provocative gaze and suggestive manipulation, Eratz gradually found himself in a fog of overwhelming need.

    Her actions were wildly calibrated to bring him closer to the precipice, each intentional movement, word, and passionate look serving as a direct arrow aimed straight at his heart

    and sex.

    Panting slightly, struggling to maintain some semblance of rationality amidst the sensory assault, Eratz watched in amazement as Mercury seemed to transform into a sensual puppet master controlling every aspect of his body.

    Her graceful gyrations turned his pelvic region into her personal playground, riding him mercilessly while giving him tantalizing looks of pleasure, wild eyes and full, glossy lips

    stretched into delighted smiles.

    Emboldened by his vulnerability, she leaned closer, her hot breath fanning over his ear as she whispered provocatively to push him over the edge.

    "Come on, let it go... you want it too..." Mercury teased, her smile widening as she thrust her

    hips in tight, deliberate circles. "Give it to me...Come on."

    The way Eratz trembled beneath her, his resolve fraying with each passing second, only pushed Mercury forward.

    She danced above him, a mesmerizing spectacle of fluid movements and lustful intentions. Rubbing herself wantonly against his length, she elicited guttural moans from the man

    pinned beneath her.

    Picking up speed, Mercury slammed into Eratz with merciless force, her nails digging into his shoulders as she rode him with unbridled ferocity.

    Unable to resist any further, Eratz internally exploded.

    A massive, explosive burst of cum erupted from his throbbing member, driving deep into Mercury''s core with enough force to make her entire body shake violently.

    An involuntary scream tore through Mercury''s throat as the volume and speed of Eratz''s release caught her off guard.

    Her internal muscles contracted wildly, milking him for every drop even as her own climax

    was reached.

    Her orgasm tore through her like a storm, waves of searing ecstasy crashing over her in rapid

    succession.

    Bathed in waves of shared ecstasy, Eratz barely registered Mercury''s piercing moan cut off mid-cry by her simultaneous orgasmic detonation on him.

    Panting slightly, dazed and disheveled, Mercury collapsed limply against Eratz once the

    storm of their passion finally subsided.

    In the foggy silence that followed their explosive finale, the two lovers remained entwined, stuck together by the sticky remains of their lovemaking.

    Little by little, Eratz became aware of the slow trickle of their mixed essences escaping from Mercury''s still parted thighs, winding its serpentine path beneath his rigid length.

    He painted a spidery white ribbon along its dark stem, as if nature itself had decided to immortalize this moment.

    As she caught her breath, Mercury found herself laughing uncontrollably, the absurdity of it

    all.

    "Goddamn, Mercury..." he murmured. "That was... Wow... I don''t even know what to say."

    He chuckled weakly, rubbing his thumb in gentle circles along Mercury''s hipbone as she

    relaxed against him.

    Mercury traced lazy patterns on his chest with a fingertip, smiling contentedly at the remnants of their entangled mess.

    "It''s only the beginning, Eratz," Mercury declared with a saucy wink. "You haven''t seen anything yet. I know you''ve got more in you..."

    Before he could respond, Mercury began to subtly flex her inner muscles, contracting and

    releasing in a rhythmic pattern designed to coax Eratz back to full hardness. The effect was immediate; his semi-erect member twitched and swelled, responding eagerly to her

    ministrations.

    "Mmm, look at that," Mercury cooed approvingly, her voice low and sultry. "My poor boy

    already ready for round 2."

    Laughing, Eratz shook his head in amusement at Mercury''s voracious appetite for pleasure. "Well, well, I see you''ve prepared for today," he joked, his tone warm.

    Raising his hand, Eratz cupped Mercury''s chin and guided her face to his for a deep, lingering

    kiss. When they parted, the passionate intimacy still simmered between them, fueling his

    growing arousal.

    "So, I can be a little more serious," Eratz said, his voice low as he rolled them onto their sides

    facing each other.

    Without waiting for a response, he wrapped a leg around Mercury''s to hold her in place.

    Mercury''s eyes widened in surprise, quickly followed by a triumphant smile as she realized

    that Eratz intended to take charge and guide their meeting this time.

    "Are you ready to take your revenge?"

    Mercury''s words and touches worked in tandem, urging Eratz forward as he grew harder and

    longer.

    Unable to resist the lure of her tempting curves any longer, Eratz switched positions, maneuvering them both so that Mercury was suddenly spread-legged on her back. Hands resting possessively on her hips, Eratz pulled Mercury firmly towards him, his thick

    length pushing insistently at her entrance.

    Mercury''s soft outer lips opened wide to envelop him, stretching delicately around his substantial girth as if welcoming home a cherished guest.

    It was like slipping into a custom-made glove, silky and supple yet firm enough to provide

    delightful resistance.

    Their mingled fluids served as a slick lubricant, easing his penetration further without

    compromising her comfort.

    When he started thrusting, she let out a blissful moan, surrendering completely to the wonderful pressure filling her depths.

    "Ahhh!" Mercury gasped as Eratz penetrated deeper.

    The feeling of being taken, of submitting to Eratz'' primal urges, sent shivers racing up her

    spine and caused her breasts to tighten.

    Gasping and mewling in ecstasy, she gripped Eratz'' shoulders tightly, finding support and

    stability as she adjusted to his considerable size.

    Eratz squeezed her ample bosom, molding the supple globe to fit the shape of his hand.

    With the deftness born from familiarity, he massaged her sensitive peaks, thumb brushing over the pert buds as he savored their resilience and give.

    Fixing his attention on a tantalizingly arched nipple, Eratz lowered his head, capturing the

    nipple between his lips.

    Her nipples responded instinctively, stiffening further into hardened buds under the

    relentless attention.

    Each flick of his tongue sent ripples of pleasure coursing straight to her core, intensifying the yearning ache between her thighs.

    Hot breath ghosted over her dampening skin before his tongue darted out to lap at the bud. Each touch imbued her with electric shocks, erasing inhibitions and heightening longing. Eratz fondled her other breast with calloused hands, his thumbs circling and rolling the

    tender flesh.

    Her breasts, pert and rounded, yielded readily to his exploration, offering generous handfuls

    of pliant softness that fit neatly in his palms.

    Firm yet flexible, they compressed slightly under his enthusiastic massages, the responsive give emphasizing their natural allure.

    Mercury''s moans intensified, growing louder and more desperate as Eratz'' fervent attentions heightened her arousal.

    Eratz abruptly shifted his grip, securing Mercury in place as he rearranged their positions.

    Leveraging his strength, he angled her hips upwards, tilting her torso back slightly while bending her knees towards her chest.

    Grasping her ankles, Eratz lifted and spread them wider, granting unobstructed access to her

    glistening, grasping entrance.

    Pinned beneath his gaze, Mercury''s eyes flew wide open as she stared up at Eratz over her

    shoulder, a keening moan escaping her parted lips.

    This new position allowed him unfettered access to plunge deep within her receptive depths,

    the altered angle ensuring every thrust hit her sweet spot with precision. Instinctively, Mercury wrapped her trembling legs around Eratz'' torso, locking ankles behind

    his back to anchor him close as he pistoned into her with vigor.

    The lewd sound of skin slapping against skin echoed through the room, punctuated by

    Mercury''s escalating cries of pleasure.

    Lost in the frenzy of their mating dance, Eratz continued driving into Mercury with wild

    abandon, spurred on by her wanton displays of desire.

    Every pulse of his hips seemed choreographed to push her closer to the brink, determined to bring forth another thunderous release.

    Sweat glistened on his brow as he powered into her willing body, their skin slick with the

    evidence of their passions.

    Thrust after ruthless thrust hammered mercilessly at Mercury''s quivering sex, each drive nudging her inexorably toward climax.

    Spurred on by the overwhelming sensations flooding her senses, Mercury surrendered entirely to the relentless rhythm of Eratz'' powerful strokes, each drive pushing her closer to

    the precipice of bliss.

    "AHHH!! AAHH!!" Mercury cried out, her voice cracking with strain as Eratz'' thrusts reached a

    fever pitch.

    Her inner walls clamped down rhythmically, greedily devouring every inch of his driving

    length. Tension built mercilessly, coils tightening in her core as she hurtled toward the edge.

    Then, with a guttural shriek, she toppled over the brink, the orgasm ripping through her like a

    wildfire.

    At the same time, Eratz felt his own control slipping away, every muscle in his body tensing as he leapt forward and released another blast.

 Chapter 160: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite Ammo(3)

    Chapter 160: [R18]Infinite Stamina vs. Infinite Ammo(3)The sensation of her gripping, spasming walls sent him careening over the edge, his vision fading to white as he pulsed deep within her welcoming heat.

    Wave after wave of intense pleasure coursed through him, leaving Eratz momentarily

    incapacitated in the aftermath of his monumental release.

    Slowly, deliberately, he withdrew his softened length from Mercury''s ravished passage, pausing briefly to allow her abused flesh to adjust to the loss of his warmth.

    A piercing moan escaped Mercury''s throat, echoing through the room.

    Her entire body convulsed violently, her limbs twitching uncontrollably as the most intense orgasm of her life ripped through her.

    In that moment, everything blurred into one burning sensation, the burning pleasure, the suffocating intensity, the very force of his release. Mercury''s vision grew grayish at the edges, the darkness threatening to engulf her entirely as she teetered precariously on the edge of passing out.

    Eratz couldn''t help but admire the sight of Mercury stretched out across his knees, her limbs splayed awkwardly yet exquisitely in post-orgasmic disarray.

    Panting raggedly, he shifted to lie beside Mercury, collapsing onto the mattress with a grateful sigh.

    His chest heaved with labored breaths, every inhale drawing in the heady mix of their mingled exhales.

    The intimate blend of scents, sweat, arousal, and the unique aroma that belonged solely to Mercury, only added to his sensory overload.

    Rolling onto his side, Eratz turned his head to meet Mercury''s sparkling gaze, marveling at the wide, satisfied grin splitting her face.

    Her bright eyes were glassy with post-coital daze, pupils blown wide in a telltale sign of their shared carnal indulgence.

    Eratz smiled back, reaching out to thread his fingers through her lush hair.

    "Guess I''ve won the round 2."

    Mercury lifted a shaking hand to cup Eratz'' cheek, thumb grazing his skin.

    She watched captivated as their chests continued rising and falling in synchronicity.

    With their faces practically kissing, Mercury savored the intimate mix of their quickened respirations, allowing themselves to become intoxicated by this brief window of vulnerability and raw trust.

    Their lips touched in a languid, satisfying kiss, but that peaceful interlude was short-lived, cut brutally short when Mercury''s hand snaked down Eratz'' abdomen to close around his semi-erect member once more.

    A jolt of shock rippled through Eratz as she began stroking him with firm, deliberate motions, chasing the return of full hardness.

    "Wait... Mercury..." Eratz trailed off, his voice heavy with bewilderment as much as burgeoning arousal.

    Mercury locked eyes with Eratz, her own shining with mischief and desire.

    A sly smile curved her lips.

    "Not now, big guy," Mercury purred, her voice husky. "We break everything, and until tomorrow afternoon..." She paused, leaning in close to whisper conspiratorially in his ear. "I''m going to eat my fill."

    Before he could process her intentions fully, Mercury deftly flipped Eratz onto his back, climbing astride him with a feline grace.

    The shift in position put his throbbing erection perfectly aligned with her dripping slit, and with a swift twist of her hips, she impaled herself upon him once more and started riding him with unabashed hunger.

    A low groan rumbled in Eratz'' chest as he took in the breathtaking view of Mercury''s luscious ass presented to him like a sumptuous feast. The round globes jiggled enticingly with each movement, drawing his hungry gaze like a magnet.

    "I can''t... get enough... of this," Mercury panted, her breasts bouncing enticingly with every demanding bounce of her hips.

    Mercury rode him with increasing urgency, driven by an insatiable craving for his touch, his taste, his very essence.

    Each frenzied slam of her hips against his metonym pushing beyond boundaries she never knew existed within herself.

    Eratz stood up and grabbed her bouncing breasts firmly, squeezing the soft mounds possessively, Mercury let out a muffled moan of encouragement.

    Emboldened by his touch, she pistoned her hips even faster, the wet squelching sounds of their bodies colliding becoming the sole soundtrack to their primal symphony.

    Glancing over her shoulder, Mercury captured Eratz'' lips in a fierce, dominating kiss, twining their tongues in a sinfully intimate dance.

    She explored the recesses of his mouth with reckless abandon, stoking the inferno raging within her core.

    Over the course of endless, entwined hours, Eratz and Mercury succumbed to their unrestrained desires, abandoning any semblance of propriety or decorum. Their bodies intertwined, twisted, and turned, seeking novel ways to maximize their sensual pleasures throughout the room. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Starting from the short, sodden sheets of the bed, they gradually moved to exploring other surfaces.

    The desk became a platform for passionate fucking, the chair supporting aggressive pounding. Against the closet door, they braced for raunchy grinding, hands gripping knobs and handles.

    Eratz pinned Mercury facedown, pounding into her sopping cunt as she wailed with delight. Flipped onto her back, she received Eratz'' oral worship as her hands worked to stimulate her own aching clit.

    The bathroom served as additional playground for these two lovebirds in heat.

    Time itself seemed to blur and stretch as Eratz and Mercury careened wildly through a labyrinthine series of sexual positions, each encounter sparking a new blaze of pleasure.

    The air grew thick with the scent of their sweaty, sex-drenched flesh, clinging to their bodies and infusing every molecule of the room with the tangible proof of their insatiable appetites. Yet despite the extraordinary marathon of carnal exploration, Mercury appeared to defy nature''s limitations, maintaining an uncanny resilience.

    No matter the position or the depth of penetration, the immense volumes of Eratz'' potent seed flooding her depths, she never flagged, her supple body absorbing impact with elastic

    fluidity.

    No matter how many times they collapsed into exhausted heaps, somehow she always regained her strength, ready to embark on the next phase of their relentless lovemaking

    odyssey.

    As dawn finally breached the horizon, painting the sky in hues of crimson and gold, Eratz and Mercury lay entangled in a blissful heap, their limbs still twined from the previous night''s

    unrelenting passion.

    The room around them was a testament to their wild, uninhibited celebration of sexuality, the bedsheets torn and stained, furniture upended, clothing strewn about like confetti from a

    debauched party.

    Despite the state of the suite, neither partner gave a damn. All that mattered was the warmth of the other''s embrace, the sweetness of their lingering kisses.

    Eratz pulled Mercury flush against him, relishing the feeling of her naked skin against his own, as they lazily kissed and cuddled, basking in the afterglow of their nonstop romp.

    They called a truce to call room service to get breakfast trays. they barely broke lips, continuing to kiss and snack between mouthfuls of eggs and toast. Throughout the hours of the day, Eratz and Mercury danced in a ceaseless ballet of debauchery, fueled by insatiable appetites and irrepressible passions.

    No corner of the sumptuous suite remained untouched by their lascivious activities.

    Their loving crescendo climaxed in tandem with the relentless pulsing of their combined bodily rhythms, each grunt and gasp harmonizing into an aural symphony underscored by the rhythmic thud of skin hitting skin.

    By late afternoon, the atmosphere was thick with tension, their energies diminishing in anticipation of the inevitable climax that would end the cycle.

    With one last, mighty burst of effort, Eratz buried himself deep into Mercury''s welcoming warmth, his orgasm erupting in powerful spasms that painted her inner walls with copious amounts of his release.

    His grip on her ass tightened reflexively, holding her steady as wave after wave of intense

    ejaculation filled her.

    Following his climax, Eratz shifted his attention to Mercury''s breasts, capturing a pert nipple between his lips for one last languid suckle.

    Mercury''s low groan vibrated against his cheek, her trembling body arching in surrender as

    the last tremors of orgasm coursed through her.

    Exhausted and exhilarated, they tumbled together onto the ruins of the bed, collapsing into a tangled mass of quivering limbs and flushed skin.

    Breath heaved from lungs as they struggled to steady heartbeats, gazes shut in post-coital

    reverie.

    Sweaty, satisfied, and utterly spent, the pair simply lay there, allowing the warm silence to

    envelop them.

    Even as consciousness slowly seeped back into his mind, Eratz was unable to articulate the whirlwind of emotions churning within him.

    Words failed him, rendering speech impossible as his throat constricted and laughter escaped

    in feeble, rasping giggles instead.

    Mercury''s laughter emerged as a mere whisper. Her attempts at speech faltered, reduced to

    gentle giggles and soft, needy whimpers as she sought comfort in the intimate press of Eratz''

    skin against hers.

    For a long moment, neither said a word. They simply looked at each other, their smiles

    widening.

    They needed no words to express anything else, their smiles said everything.

 Chapter 161: Our Crazy, Beautiful Bond

    Chapter 161: Our Crazy, Beautiful BondA faint beep broke the quiet stillness of the room.

    Mercury stirred, her eyelids fluttering open as a soft groan escaped her lips. For a moment, her mind swam in a fog, the lingering exhaustion and bliss of the previous day weighing heavily on her. Everything felt distant and surreal, like the remnants of a dream she couldn''t quite piece together.

    Her gaze moved lazily across the dimly lit room. Disheveled sheets, torn pillows, and scattered clothing surrounded her. The air hung thick with the evidence of their passion, and the soft glow of the bedside lamp cast shadows on the walls. Slowly, the fog in her mind cleared, and a frown tugged at her lips.

    Her eyes widened.

    "Oh no..." she whispered, bolting upright.

    They had fallen asleep. Worse, their time here had long passed.

    "Crap, crap, crap!" Mercury scrambled, leaning over to shake the figure buried under the sheets. "Eratz, wake up! We overslept! What time is it?!"

    The mound under the covers shifted sluggishly, but when a head emerged, it wasn''t Eratz... it was Cinderblaze.

    The fire rabbit''s orange eyes gleamed mischievously, its long ears flicking back as it smirked at her. The rabbit''s expression was almost human-like, its smirk so wide and smug it seemed to mock them for what they did.

    Mercury froze, staring at the smug creature in horrified silence. Her cheeks flushed as her brain struggled to catch up with the situation. Her jaw dropped, and then...

    "AAAAHHHHH!"

    Her scream echoed through the room, startling Eratz awake.

    "What''s happening?!" he groaned. He sat up, rubbing his eyes groggily, only to freeze when he saw Mercury standing on the bed, one arm raised, a glowing ball of water aimed directly at Cinderblaze''s face.

    "The heck is going on?" Eratz asked, blinking in disbelief. His head tilted slightly. "... Cinderblaze?! Why are you out? How?"

    The fire rabbit shrank back slightly, holding up its paws in a silent plea for mercy, its ears twitching nervously. Mercury''s expression was a mix of mortification and fury.

    "Don''t panic, Eratz," Mercury hissed, her voice sharp as she glared at the rabbit. "I''ll handle this. Just stay..."

    "Whoa, whoa, Mercury!" Eratz''s voice cracked as he scrambled to sit up, but the moment he moved, his body wobbled, his legs giving out. He collapsed back onto the bed, groaning in protest. "Ow... darn legs... wait, don''t... Just calm down!"

    Mercury looked at him, then back at Cinderblaze, who was now making pitiful, squeaky noises that were clearly meant to be apologetic, hardly working.

    But before she could say anything, she was interrupted by a sharp knock on the door.

    "Excuse me," a voice called from outside. "Your time has been over for quite a while now. If you don''t respond, we''ll open the door."

    Eratz groaned, slumping back onto the bed. Mercury''s panic reached a fever pitch as she shouted.

    "W-We''re fine! We''re leaving! Don''t open the door!"

    The muffled voice replied after a pause.

    "Very well. Please hurry."

    Mercury exhaled heavily, glancing around the room.

    Cinderblaze was pressed against the wall, looking as pitiful as a fire rabbit could. Eratz groaned into the mattress, his legs too exhausted to move, and the room itself was a disaster.

    The sheets were shredded, the bed frame bent and creaking, and the walls bore wet splashes. One of the lamps was toppled and shattered in the corner, while the desk chair was overturned, its cushion torn. Even the air was heavy with a mix of sweat, heat, and ozone from their earlier passion.

    As Mercury observed everything, her horror turning to reluctant acceptance. Her lips quirked into a faint smile as her gaze met Eratz''s.

    "Bribery?" Eratz muttered weakly, still sprawled across the bed.

    "Bribery," Mercury sighed, shaking her head as she dropped her water ball harmlessly to the floor.

    For a brief moment, they simply looked at each other. And then, simultaneously, quiet laughter bubbled between them. It was ridiculous, mortifying, and entirely them.

    Later, the crisp night air brushed against their flushed skin as Eratz and Mercury sat side by side on a wooden bench near the love hotel. It was 4 a.m., the city wrapped in the kind of quiet stillness only the earliest hours could bring. Above them, the sky was dark, with faint hints of dawn teasing the horizon.

    Both of them looked utterly spent, their legs too weak to carry them far from the scene of their crime. Eratz let out a long, exaggerated sigh, leaning back against the bench as he rubbed his temples. Mercury, sitting next to him, had an equally drained expression, though her eyes still held a mischievous spark.

    "Well," Eratz began, "we''ve officially spent a fortune just to ruin a room and our legs. Way to use our sponsors."

    Mercury snorted, leaning forward to rest her elbows on her knees.

    "Hey, don''t sweat it. You paid the fee for the destruction of a room, not the destruction of

    your wifey."

    Eratz shot her a sidelong glance, his lips twitching into a smirk.

    "What about the annihilation of your husbando?"

    Mercury let out a laugh, light and free.

    "Guess we''re even then. Hey, if we recorded it, maybe we could get sponsored by a porn

    company."

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Yeah, because that''s exactly what the agency needs: Golden Cosmos'' new partnership with

    Rose Love Hotel."

    Mercury doubled over with laughter, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye.

    "Oh my God, imagine the title: Beast Porn stars!"

    "Starring ''Tethys, the wet Goddess'' and her very lucky partner, the ''Apex Sexual Predator,''"''

    Eratz quipped, grinning.

    She smacked his arm lightly, still laughing.

    "Wet Goddess? Please, You couldn''t even stand at the end, it was so funny."

    Eratz feigned offense, placing a hand on his chest.

    "Excuse me? Who was the one who left a mark with every step, dripping drops of..."

    "Don''t you dare finish that sentence," Mercury interrupted, pointing a warning finger at him,

    though the grin on her face betrayed her amusement.

    Eratz leaned back against the bench, his smirk widening.

    "Fine. I''ll let you win this one."

    They sat in companionable silence for a moment, their breathing gradually evening out. The faint hum of distant traffic and the occasional chirp of early birds filled the space between

    them.

    "You know," Mercury said suddenly, breaking the silence, "this whole thing would''ve been so much easier if we just did it in the wild. No fees, no broken furniture, no nosy hotel staff

    knocking on the door."

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Yeah, except I''d probably end up doing something stupid." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury turned to him, her eyebrow raised.

    "Like what?"

    "Like... I don''t know, maybe using beastification?"

    She blinked, her mouth falling open slightly in disbelief before a grin spread across her face.

    "Beastification? Are you serious?"

    He shrugged.

    "Well? You push me to my normal limits, I didn''t know I couldn''t walk because of this... it

    could be a good counter."

    Mercury burst out laughing, the sound rich and full in the still night. She clutched her stomach, doubling over slightly as she tried to catch her breath.

    "Oh my God, Eratz. That''s... that''s insane. Beastification? For this? On poor little me?"

    Eratz grinned.

    "Hey, don''t act like you didn''t get a little wild yourself in there."

    Mercury straightened up, her laughter subsiding into quiet chuckles. She leaned her head

    back, looking up at the faint stars still visible in the sky.

    "You''re not wrong. I don''t even know who I was back there."

    Eratz nodded, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees.

    "Same here. That was... something else."

    They shared a look, Mercury''s gaze softened as she rested her head on Eratz''s shoulder, her

    short blue hair brushing against his neck.

    "You know," she murmured, her voice quieter now.

    "I''ve done a lot of crazy things in my life. But this? With you? It''s... it''s different."

    Eratz turned his head slightly, glancing down at her.

    "Different how?" Mercury closed her eyes, taking a deep breath as her thoughts flowed freely.

    "It''s like... I don''t know. Like all the madness doesn''t feel so overwhelming when it''s with you. It''s different. It feels right, like I''m actually enjoying it. I''ve spent so long focusing on everyone else, making sure they were okay, that I forgot how to live for myself... and I don''t regret that. Because now, I get to live for me, with you. I love how every first time, every crazy

    thing I do, is with you."

    Her voice was soft, yet filled with raw sincerity.

    Eratz''s lips curved into a small, genuine smile as he nuzzled closer to her, his hand finding

    hers and lacing their fingers together.

    "You know," he began, his voice quiet but steady, his thumb rubbing gently hers, "everything that''s happened to me, all the chaos, the betrayals, the losses... none of it matters anymore. If it all led me here, to you, to this moment... then I''m thankful for every second of it." He leaned in closer, their foreheads gently touching.

    "I''d go through it all over again. Every struggle, every heartbreak, just to meet you. And you know what''s even better?" His smile deepened, more intimate now, his words wrapping around her like a warm embrace. "This is just the start, Mercury. We''re going to have so many firsts together. First times in places we''ve never been, first dreams we chase... everything, even things that aren''t first, we''ll make them ours. Over and over again." Mercury''s breath caught, her chest rising and falling as his words sank in, filling her with an indescribable warmth. She opened her eyes, her lips quivering.

    Without a word, she threw her arms around him, burying her face in his neck, holding him as tightly as she could. Her voice was muffled against his skin, trembling with emotion. "I''m so lucky it''s you... that it''s always you."

    For a long moment, they stayed like that, wrapped in each other''s arms, their hearts beating

    as one. It wasn''t just love, it was a promise, a shared truth they both knew without needing to say another word.

 Chapter 162: A Clowns Resolve

    Chapter 162: A Clown''s ResolveThe sun pierced through the thin curtains of Adrian''s modest apartment, casting streaks of light across the room.

    In the bathroom, he stood before a fogged mirror, gripping the sink tightly.

    His chest rose and fell with uneven breaths, droplets of water sliding down his face.

    His reflection stared back, pale and haggard, haunted by the echo of Mercury''s rejection.

    Her words looped endlessly in his mind, each repetition a stab to his pride. Mercury wasn''t just a crush, she was a spark, a guiding light, the only unattainable dream he''d dared to chase. But now, she belonged to someone else. Someone who had everything he didn''t.

    He clenched the sink harder, his knuckles whitening as images of Eratz filled his mind.

    The fame, the glory, the respect Adrian craved, it all seemed to fall effortlessly into Eratz''s lap. And now, even Mercury.

    "You''re right, Mercury," Adrian muttered, his voice venomous, his lip curling into a bitter smirk.

    His finger traced his lips, remembering every detail of her disgusted face.

    "Why would you be interested in a clown?" His smirk faded, replaced by something cold and steely. "I''ll give you something to go crazy for. From today... Adrian doesn''t exist anymore." Later that day, the Golden Cosmos gym hummed with activity. Machines whirred, weights clanged, and faint roars echoed from the battle arena.

    Among the crowd of trainees, Adrian stood out, not for his skill, but for his sheer determination to break himself.

    He sprinted on the treadmill, his legs pounding against the belt with a raw intensity that belied his exhaustion.

    Sweat drenched his shirt, streaming down his face and dripping onto the machine.

    His breathing was ragged, his vision blurring slightly, but he pushed on, jaw clenched in defiance of his body''s protests.

    When the timer beeped, signaling the end, Adrian stumbled off, his legs trembling.

    His chest heaved as he staggered to the weight rack. With shaky hands, he loaded heavier plates than usual onto the barbell, the clinking sound drawing the attention of nearby trainees.

    "Is he okay?" one whispered, watching Adrian struggle to lift the bar.

    Adrian''s face twisted with strain, veins bulging as he forced the barbell upward.

    His muscles quivered under the weight, the effort so consuming that the bar wavered dangerously in his grip.

    With a frustrated growl, he racked the barbell, his chest heaving, and moved toward the pool.

    The cool water hit him like a shock, but Adrian wasted no time. He dove in, each stroke driven by sheer will.

    The water churned violently as he forced himself through lap after lap, his form growing sloppier with each turn.

    His arms burned, his legs kicked unevenly, but he refused to stop.

    On the sidelines, a group of trainees exchanged uneasy glances.

    "Is it safe to not stop him?" one muttered as Adrian reached the edge of the pool, gasping for breath, before launching into another lap.

    Joel, the loudest of the group, smirked as he cupped his hands around his mouth.

    "Hey, Adrian! Careful, buddy!" he shouted. "If you keep going like that, you''ll drown before you even bulk up enough to sink!"

    Several trainees laughed nervously, their eyes flicking back to Adrian. His strokes faltered, his body pausing mid-swim as Joel''s taunt echoed in his ears.

    Adrian gritted his teeth, his breath ragged as he clung to the pool''s edge. Joel''s voice wasn''t what bothered him, it was the memory it stirred.

    He saw these same trainees weeks ago, huddled near the agency''s entrance, staring at Eratz. Adrian had stood at a distance, watching as Eratz walked past them, calm and confident, the embodiment of everything Adrian wanted to be.

    Not a word had been spoken, no greetings, no teasing. They were too awed, too intimidated.

    Joel had been there too, standing stiffly, his hands behind his back. Adrian remembered the nervous glance Joel exchanged with another trainee, his lips twitching as if he wanted to speak but lacked the courage. Not even a simple "good morning" left his lips.

    The memory stung, the contrast bitter. Eratz had been untouchable, respected. Adrian? He was just a joke.

    The laughter grated on him, sparking something dark. Adrian turned, his pale eyes glinting with cold intensity as he emerged from the pool.

    Water cascaded off his broad shoulders, his wet hair clinging to his forehead as he advanced toward Joel.

    The laughter died instantly, the air growing tense. Joel''s smirk faltered, his confidence evaporating as Adrian loomed over him.

    "Hey, man... relax. It was just a..."

    Before Joel could finish, Adrian''s hand shot out, clamping around his throat, cutting off Joel''s words as his eyes widened in panic.

    "You think I''m a joke?" Adrian hissed, his voice dangerously low. His fingers tightened, his expression cold. "Say it again. I dare you."

    Joel sputtered, clawing at Adrian''s wrist, his face reddening. The trainees froze, too stunned to move.

    "Adrian, stop! You''re gonna kill him!" one of them shouted, stepping forward hesitantly.

    Adrian''s gaze flicked toward the voice, sharp and unyielding, silencing the trainee instantly. Without a word, Adrian hurled Joel into the pool with a brutal shove. Joel hit the water with a loud splash, resurfacing moments later, coughing and spluttering.

    "What''s your problem, man?" Klark, one of the older trainees, stepped forward, his fists clenched. "You don''t have to act like this."

    "Stay out of it, Klark," Adrian snapped, his voice icy.

    "No," Klark shot back, his tone firm. "You''ve been acting like a psycho all morning. You think you''re some kind of badass? You''re just a bitter failure."

    The insult was a spark to dry tinder. Adrian lunged, swinging wildly. Klark dodged, countering with a jab to Adrian''s side.

    They clashed in a chaotic, uncoordinated brawl, their movements fueled by anger more than

    skill.

    Adrian''s exhaustion showed as his punches lacked precision, but he pushed forward with

    sheer aggression.

    Klark managed to shove Adrian back, but the wet tiles betrayed him. Both men slipped, tumbling into the pool with a loud splash. Water sprayed everywhere as they thrashed,

    gasping for air.

    "Enough!" a booming voice cut through the chaos as two staff members stormed in. One

    hauled Adrian out of the pool with little effort, glaring at him.

    "Adrian, what the hell is wrong with you?" the staff member barked.

    Adrian didn''t answer, his fists still clenched as he glared at Klark, who was being pulled out by

    another staff member.

    "He''s lost it. He needs to be kicked out," Klark sputtered, coughing violently.

    "You''re done for today," the staff member ordered. "Shower, cool off, and get out of here!"

    Adrian yanked his arm free, his jaw tight as he stalked off toward the locker rooms, water

    pooling in his wake. The silence of the trainees behind him was deafening.

    Adrian and Klark were ushered into a small meeting room by staff, their tempers still simmering. Two officials sat behind a desk, their expressions stern.

    "You both need to understand that this type of behavior won''t be tolerated," one of the officials began, his tone measured. "Klark, instigating further after tempers are clearly high is reckless. Adrian, physical violence, especially at this level, is unacceptable."

    "We''re issuing you both formal warnings," the other official continued. "Klark, your gym privileges are suspended for two days. Adrian, due to the nature of your actions, you''ll be suspended from training for a week. Further incidents like this could result in harsher

    consequences."

    Klark muttered an apology and left. Adrian, however, didn''t move, his jaw tight and his fists clenched on the armrests.

    "For three years, I''ve been here," he began, his tone simmering with restrained anger. "Three years I''ve trained, fought, and bled for this agency. I''ve taken on whatever they''ve thrown at me, no complaints. I''ve been loyal. And now?"

    The staff exchanged uneasy glances but didn''t interrupt. Adrian''s voice grew harder, bitterness seeping through.

    "And now, I''m not even good enough to talk to Zara? Victoria is unreachable. Eratz and his

    golden crew can waltz into her office, have lunch with her, get pep talks, but me? The guy who helped keep this place running, who''s fought on no-name rosters to fill gaps, who''s trained newcomers when no one else cared?" He scoffed, shaking his head. "I''m treated like I''m

    nothing."

    One of the officials cleared their throat.

    "Adrian, this has nothing to do with you not being good enough. With this behavior, we Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    can''t..."

    "Don''t," Adrian snapped, standing abruptly. "Don''t lecture me about behavior. I''ve seen behavior, real issues, and nothing was done because it came from the ''stars.'' But the second I speak up, I''m told to back down? You''re afraid to even listen to me."

    The officials shifted uncomfortably. One opened their mouth to respond but hesitated.

    Adrian''s glare pinned them in place.

    "Contact Zara," Adrian demanded. "Now."

    "That''s not procedure," one of them replied hesitantly. "You''re not in a position..."

    Adrian laughed bitterly, cutting them off.

    "Not in a position? I''ve put three years of my life into this agency, and you''re telling me I''m

    not in a position to talk to someone about how I''ve been treated?"

    The room fell silent, the tension heavy. The staff exchanged nervous glances, clearly unsure

    how to handle the situation. Finally, one of them sighed, picking up their phone.

    "Fine," they said reluctantly. "Wait here."

    Adrian folded his arms, leaning back in his chair. His stare didn''t waver as they made the call.

    After a hushed conversation, the staff member hung up and looked at him.

    "Zara will see you."

 Chapter 163: Survival of the Finest

    Chapter 163: Survival of the FinestAdrian strode out of the meeting room, his lips curling into a victorious smirk as he glanced back at the staff members.

    "Told you she''d see me," he taunted, his voice dripping with disdain. "Learn who''s important here."

    The staff exchanged glances, a mixture of irritation and unease etched across their faces.

    Adrian reveled in their discomfort, walking away with exaggerated confidence.

    Zara''s office was a testament to the agency''s transformation.

    Times ago, Zara hadn''t even had an office of her own. Back then, she worked alongside everyone else, and more often in Victoria''s office.

    But that was before Crescent Moon became Golden Cosmos, before the agency''s rise to prominence.

    Now, her office reflected that success. The walls were painted a soft, modern gray, adorned with minimalist art that hinted at sophistication without being ostentatious.

    The polished wooden desk at the center of the room was sleek yet functional, its surface immaculate save for a laptop, a stack of neatly arranged files, and a small potted plant.

    Behind her, a wide window stretched almost the length of the wall, offering a panoramic view of the bustling city skyline.

    Zara sat behind the desk, her posture impeccable. She wore a soft, oversized beige cardigan draped casually over a simple white blouse. When Adrian entered, she looked up.

    "Adrian," she greeted, her voice steady. "Take a seat."

    Adrian sauntered in, his confidence on full display as he flopped into the chair opposite her. "About time, Zara," he began, his tone laced with mockery. "So long after these finals, and this is the first time you''ve had the courtesy to actually listen to me."

    Zara didn''t react to his jab. She folded her hands on the desk, her gaze unwavering.

    "You''re here because of what happened today," she said, her tone neutral. "Not because I''ve suddenly decided to entertain your grievances."

    Adrian''s smirk faltered slightly, but he leaned forward, undeterred.

    "Grievances?" he repeated. "You mean being ignored, sidelined, treated like an afterthought while Eratz and his little fan club get all the glory?" He gestured broadly. "Yeah, I''d call those grievances."

    Zara remained impassive.

    "You''re upset," she said simply. "I understand that. But let''s set the record straight. I am not your here to joke, Adrian. I am the assistant manager of this agency, and my responsibility is to maintain its standards and ensure its growth."

    Her words landed like a cold slap, wiping away Adrian''s smugness.

    "Then why the hell am I always the one left out?" he snapped, his frustration bubbling over. "Three years, Zara. I''ve bled for this place. I was one of the first to carry the banner of Crescent Moon before anyone else. And what do I get in return? Ignored! Disrespected! I kept this agency running before any of them showed up!"

    Zara sighed softly, shaking her head.

    "You''re clinging to the past, Adrian. Yes, you were here when Crescent Moon was struggling. But let me ask you this: why do you think you stood out back then?"

    Adrian frowned, caught off guard. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Because I was good," he said, his tone defensive.

    "You were better than the others at the time," Zara corrected, her voice firm but not unkind. "Because they were bad. You weren''t exceptional, Adrian. You were just slightly better than the rest. The only prodigy we had was Mercury."

    Adrian''s jaw tightened, his fists clenching. Zara leaned forward slightly.

    "You managed seven battles in your best week, Adrian," she said evenly. "Do you know how many Mercury used to do? Seven... in a single morning. And then Eratz arrived and matched her numbers."

    Adrian leaned forward, his voice rising.

    "Because I wasn''t trying! If the agency had supported us old members, given us the spotlight, I would''ve had a reason to push myself!"

    Zara raised an eyebrow.

    "Why would we support complacency? The new members are motivated, driven, and they produce results. Mercury is also one of the oldest but she is still the top performer in terms of matches fought. She carried this agency on her back. Eratz became her equal and saved us when we needed it most. Ryder, while less talented, consistently wins and works hard. Then Kaida, Catarina, and Raya, do you realize how critical they were to our success? Their recruitment wasn''t just about talent; they were essential to taking Crescent Moon to the next level. These new recruits are the reason there is a Golden Cosmos in the first place."

    Her gaze sharpened, pinning Adrian in place.

    "Everything, this agency''s rise, its evolution, it''s because of them. You''re surprised they''re treated differently? They''ve earned it."

    Adrian''s anger flared, his voice breaking through her calm.

    "And I haven''t?!" he shouted. "I''ve given three years of my life to this place! I deserve..."

    "You deserve what you earn," Zara interrupted, her voice cold. "And right now, Adrian, your attitude is earning you nothing but a suspension."

    Adrian fell silent, his chest rising and falling as he stared at Zara. Her words felt like a

    hammer, but his pride wouldn''t let him buckle.

    "I''ll prove you wrong," he said finally, his voice low and sharp. "In the team battle, I''ll show you, and everyone else, exactly who I am."

    He pushed himself upright, his movements abrupt and stiff, heading toward the door.

    "Adrian," Zara''s voice cut through the room.

    He stopped, his back tense, and turned just enough to glance at her over his shoulder.

    "That will be... difficult now," she said, her tone weary, the weight of the conversation etched

    across her face.

    Adrian frowned, confusion flickering across his expression.

    "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Zara leaned back in her chair, her hands folding in front of her as she exhaled slowly.

    "The agency has already chosen two candidates for the team battle."

    Adrian froze, his breath catching. For a moment, he thought he''d misheard.

    "Candidates?" he repeated, his voice faint and unsteady.

    Zara nodded, her gaze unwavering but tired, as if bracing herself for the storm.

    "That''s not possible," Adrian said, his voice rising, trembling with disbelief. "Candidates for what? I''ve been with the agency for three years. Three years! I''m not just some nobody, you know I''m right behind all the aces. If you need two more people for the battle, it has to be me. There''s no one else! Tell me this is a joke."

    Zara tilted her head, studying him with something that might have been pity.

    "Adrian," she said softly, "you''re not going to like the answer. I''m giving you a chance to hear it and have a bad reaction here rather than making another scene."

    Her calmness only fueled the storm inside him. His fists clenched at his sides.

    "Who?!" he snapped, his voice cutting through the room. "You''re going to tell me. Who?

    Who''s replacing me?"

    She sighed, leaning back in her chair as though the exhaustion of explaining this had already

    taken its toll.

    "Fine. Brace yourself." She looked at him directly, her words deliberate and steady. "These people we are planning to add are..."

    The sun dipped low over the horizon, casting its golden light over a certain middle school.

    The grand building stood proudly, with its arched windows and sprawling courtyard buzzing with students, their laughter and chatter filling the cool evening air.

    Near the gates, a group of girls lingered, their uniforms crisp and neatly pressed.

    They leaned against the railings, their backpacks slung over their shoulders as they chatted

    casually.

    "Did you hear about Mr. Hensley losing it again today?" one of the girls asked, grinning.

    "Yeah," another replied, rolling her eyes. "Poor Danny got grilled so bad he couldn''t even get

    a word out."

    The group chuckled, the memory still fresh and amusing, but then, their conversation was interrupted by a group of boys who sauntered over, their ties loosened and their postures

    slightly exaggerated.

    "Yo, ladies," one of the boys said, spinning a ball on his finger. "What''s the gossip today?"

    The girls rolled their eyes in unison.

    "Nothing you''d care about," one of them replied lightly.

    The boy with the ball grinned wider, nudging his friend. Another boy, taller, stepped forward,

    hands shoved casually into his pockets.

    "Alright, jokes aside," he said, his voice calm but confident. "Where''s Sunshine? Haven''t seen

    her all day."

    One of the girls groaned.

    "Seriously? Stop calling her that. It''s annoying."

    "What? It''s cute," he protested, his grin widening. "She should feel special."

    "Yeah, she should feel something," another boy muttered, smirking.

    Before they could tease further, a sharp voice cut through the banter.

    "She has a name, and it''s not ''Sunshine.""

    The group turned toward the sound, and there stood Colin.

    She stepped forward with an effortless grace, her schoolbag held neatly in front of her, her

    posture calm and elegant.

    "Thanks for the nickname," she said, her voice steady and dignified. "But I don''t need one. Just stick to my actual name, okay?"

 Chapter 164: Secrets and Surprises

    Chapter 164: Secrets and SurprisesColin walked alongside a group of students from Ridgewood Preparatory Academy, her steps steady and confident.

    She held herself with a calm dignity, her posture straight, and her expression composed.

    She wasn''t the same as before, it was clear she wasn''t someone who could be easily pushed around.

    There was strength in her quiet demeanor, but it wasn''t something harsh.

    She was polite and poised, the kind of person who naturally commanded respect without needing to demand it.

    "Hey, Sunshine!" Liam called, the boy with the soccer ball.

    He jogged to her side, whistling in an exaggerated, playful way with a wide grin.

    "We''re all thinking of going bowling later. What do you say? You in?"

    Behind him, his friends chuckled, nudging each other. The girls in the group exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of curiosity and mild annoyance.

    Colin stopped, turning slightly toward Liam. Her face stayed calm, but her words were firm.

    "Thank you for the invitation, Liam, but I can''t. I need to get home early."

    Liam tilted his head, his grin not faltering.

    "Home early? Come on, Sunshine, live a little. You''re not a grandma!"

    Colin allowed a faint smile, but her tone didn''t waver.

    "I have things to do. I''m helping someone with tutoring tonight. Maybe next time."

    The girls nodded as if that explanation made perfect sense, but Liam wasn''t ready to give up. "Alright, alright," he said with a shrug, spinning the ball in his hands. "Then we''ll just walk you to the bus stop. Wouldn''t want anything to happen to our Sunshine."

    The group chuckled again, gathering beside her. Colin didn''t protest. She didn''t mind the company, but the nickname was starting to grate on her nerves.

    As they walked, the conversation shifted to middle school clubs.

    "I think I''m joining the art club," Josh said, tossing his bag over his shoulder. "My brother said they''ve got some cool projects."

    "Art club?" Liam scoffed, spinning the ball faster. "That''s so boring. I''m aiming for something cool, like the beast masters club. You know, start early and maybe go pro one day."

    He turned to Colin with a teasing smirk.

    "Bet that''s what the princess would pick, huh?"

    Colin slowed down. Her composed facade cracked just slightly, a flicker of annoyance crossing her face. She turned to him, raising an eyebrow.

    "And how would you know what I''d choose?"

    Liam puffed out his chest, his grin growing wider.

    "I''ve got my sources," he said, lowering his voice like it was some big secret.

    "Creep much?" Emma, Colin''s best friend, stepped in, her pigtails bouncing as she moved to stand protectively next to Colin. Her bright eyes narrowed at Liam.

    "Why don''t you mind your own business and stop being weird?"

    "Being weird?" Liam laughed, brushing off the accusation with a wave of his hand. "Please. I''m just confident. I''ve got talent, and I''m thinking ahead. Beast mastering is where the real action is. Watch, I''ll be the best in the whole school."

    "Sure, Liam," Mina, one of the girls, said with a smirk. "You''ve been ''thinking ahead'' about a lot of things, haven''t you?"

    The group burst into light laughter, and they finally reached the bus stop. Colin adjusted her bag, preparing to leave.

    "You sure you can''t come, Sunshine?" Josh asked hopefully.

    "I really can''t," Colin said, her voice dropping. "Maybe next time."

    "Well," Liam said with a wink, "if you won''t come, we''ll just head to your place instead. Make it easier for you."

    Colin stiffened, her calm demeanor faltering slightly.

    "No!" she said, her tone firm. "I can''t have visitors."

    The boys groaned in exaggerated disappointment.

    "Come on," Eli said. "We''ve been to everyone''s house for study group except yours. What''s the big secret?"

    Colin''s cheeks flushed faintly. She hadn''t expected them to notice or care so much.

    "It''s not a big deal," she said quickly. "I just... can''t."

    The boys exchanged glances, then shrugged it off.

    "Alright, Sunshine," Liam said with a smirk. "Go home safe."

    The group began to disperse, but Liam lingered a moment longer, his smile following Colin

    as he finally turned and walked away with the others.

    Emma stayed behind, studying her friend with concern.

    "You okay?" she asked softly. "They''re just being dumb. Don''t let it get to you."

    Colin hesitated, biting her lip before gently taking Emma''s wrist. Her touch was light, almost

    shy.

    "Do you... want to come with me?" she asked quietly. "Just you. But you have to promise to keep a secret."

    Emma''s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

    "A secret? What secret?" She tilted her head, her pigtails bouncing slightly. "Colin, you''re acting all mysterious. Did what they said actually bother you?"

    Colin shook her head, her calm expression returning.

    "No, it''s not that. It''s just... complicated." She paused, glancing away. "I trust you, Emma,

    but you have to promise not to tell anyone."

    Emma smiled reassuringly.

    "Alright, I promise. So, what''s the big deal?"

    Before Colin could answer, a hand rested gently on her shoulder, making her freeze. The touch

    was firm but gentle, and a familiar voice followed.

    "It''s okay, Colin," the voice said softly. "You don''t have to hide your life from your friend."

    Colin turned slowly, her breath catching as she looked up at the hooded figure standing

    behind her.

    "Eratz?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Colin froze for a heartbeat before her composure shattered entirely. Her eyes lit up with sheer

    delight, and she gasped, her voice bursting with excitement.

    "Eratz!" she cried, throwing herself at him without hesitation.

    Eratz barely had time to steady himself as Colin leapt into his arms, wrapping herself around

    him in a tight hug.

    Her schoolbag dangled awkwardly from her side, but she didn''t care. She clung to him with an unrestrained joy that made her seem much younger than her usual calm attitude.

    "It''s really you! You''re back!" she exclaimed, her words coming out in a rush. "I can''t believe you''re here! It''s been days, and it felt like forever, and I thought..."

    Eratz laughed softly, his hands gently supporting her so she didn''t slip.

    "Easy, Colin, slow down," he said, though his smile was warm. "I missed you too. But it''s

    only been 4 days."

    "I don''t care!" Colin said, her voice muffled as she buried her face into his shoulder. "You were gone, and everything felt so... so quiet without you."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, surprised by her reaction.

    "Quiet, huh? With aunt Cassie and Milo around?"

    Colin pulled back slightly, her cheeks flushed from excitement.

    "It was fine," Colin said quickly, "but Milo almost drove me crazy! He wouldn''t stop asking questions about if there was milk vendors where you went, and he forced me to watch his children show because he isn''t used to watch it alone. And... and everything feels different without you around. You said you''d be back for dinner! Mom and Dad were so worried!"

    Eratz''s grin stiffened as he gulped audibly. His brain felt like it had switched into overdrive, running through potential explanations for later.

    "Uh... They... They were worried, huh?" he repeated. "Yeah, well, uh, you know, things... things came up. Training schedules, uh, got rearranged. It''s all very complicated."

    Colin tilted her head, her suspicious glare sharpening. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Complicated?"

    "Super complicated," Eratz said quickly, nodding. "You wouldn''t believe the logistics of everything. Timetables, beasts, arena regulations... It''s a lot."

    Colin squinted at him, clearly unimpressed.

    "... I thought you said a beast master don''t do maths."

    Eratz chuckled nervously.

    "Anyway, I see you look different than last time 4 days ago, cute shoes, your everyday

    haircut..."

    Emma stood nearby, frozen in place. Her mouth hung open as she stared at Colin, completely

    taken aback.

    It was the first time she had ever seen her usually composed friend react so dramatically. It

    was surreal.

    "Uh... Colin?" Emma advanced hesitantly. "Who... who is this guy?"

    Colin giggled and finally loosened her grip, though her fingers lingered near the fabric of his

    hoodie.

    Without thinking, she reached up and brushed the edge of it. Her playful tug was stronger than intended, and the hoodie slipped back, revealing Eratz''s face.

    The world seemed to freeze for Emma. The face beneath the hoodie was unmistakable, even

    for someone who didn''t follow beast battles closely.

    It was a face splashed across screens, posters, and headlines all over the country.

 Chapter 165: A New Chapter Begins

    Chapter 165: A New Chapter BeginsEmma stood frozen, her eyes as wide and her hands trembling slightly. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.

    Her pigtails swayed as she shifted awkwardly, her lips fumbling incoherent sounds.

    "Y-You''re... I mean, you... you''re him! The Pharaoh! The Apex Predator! The, the..." Her voice cracked, and she covered her mouth, her face beet red. "Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! You''re right here! I can''t, I can''t,"

    Eratz chuckled, raising an eyebrow as he glanced at Colin, who stood beside him, starting to regret her earlier impulsive action.

    "You did this on purpose, didn''t you?" Eratz teased, leaning closer to Colin.

    Colin groaned, her cheeks heating. She crossed her arms defensively.

    "No, I didn''t!" she shot back. "I just wanted to see your face... not start a scene."

    Emma let out a soft squeak, pointing at Eratz with a trembling hand.

    "Y-You talk! You''re actually talking! Oh no, this is real. This is actually happening." She clutched her head dramatically. "Colin! You know him? How could you keep this from me?!"

    Eratz stifled a laugh, stepping forward with his hands raised in mock surrender.

    "Alright, alright. Breathe, little girl. You''re not going to faint on Colin, are you?"

    Emma''s response came in hurried gasps.

    "I, no! I mean, maybe? Wait! Can you, you have to sign something!" She fumbled for her schoolbag, nearly dropping it. "Oh, wait, I don''t have anything Pharaoh-worthy to sign!... My hair? Oh, no, I know! My forehead! Sign on my forehead, please!" sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz chuckled again, resting a hand gently on her shoulder.

    "Relax, okay? You''re too young for a tattoo. I''m just Colin''s cousin... no big deal."

    "Cousin? Like her COUSIN?! Your papa or your mama are siblings with hers? You two share the same blood?? No big deal?!" Emma cried, her voice rising an octave. She turned to Colin, pointing accusingly. "And you didn''t say a word! Not even a hint!"

    Colin sighed, hiding her smirk.

    "This is why I let no one come to my home."

    Emma groaned, throwing her hands in the air.

    "I don''t even know where to start! How is this your life?!"

    Eratz leaned back, his amused gaze flicking between the two.

    "She''s got a point, Colin. Keeping me a secret? That''s pretty cold. You''re making me feel like some family shame."

    Colin rolled her eyes, shooting him a mock glare.

    "... Fine, I''ll tell the whole school, and even where you live."

    Later, they sat on a park bench under the shade of an oak tree in a quiet, deserted park.

    The only sounds were the rustling leaves and the faint chirping of birds. Emma stared at Eratz, doing her best to stay calm, while Colin sat beside her, arms crossed, looking faintly smug.

    "So..." Emma began, glancing at Colin. "You''re really his cousin? Like, actually?"

    Colin nodded, her lips curling into a small smile.

    "That''s right."

    Emma let out a disbelieving laugh.

    "How does that even happen? You''re so... normal. And he''s the Pharaoh! Why didn''t you ever tell me?"

    Colin shrugged, her voice tinged with pride.

    "Look at your reaction now. How could I tell you?"

    Emma turned to Eratz, narrowing her eyes slightly.

    "Do you know how many people would lose their minds to be here right now?"

    Eratz leaned back, his expression calm.

    "I figured. That''s why I waited until the other kids left."

    Colin blinked and turned sharply to him.

    "Wait... what? You waited? You were following us?"

    Eratz smirked, his tone casual.

    "Yeah, I was. I''ve been stalking you for a while, in the dark, making sure no one would interfere once I would decide to initiate the action."

    Emma gasped, her hands flying to her mouth, but her shock was fuelled by something else.

    "You saw me defend Colin, didn''t you? You probably thought, ''Wow, that Emma is fearless! She''s got guts!'' Right? That''s what you thought, isn''t it?"

    Eratz observed her a little puzzled, not confirming or denying. Colin groaned, putting a hand to her forehead.

    "Okay, enough about Emma''s imaginary praise. What is this about, Eratz? Why are you following me?"

    Eratz stood, brushing off his hoodie.

    "Because you aren''t going home right now. We''re heading to the forest."

    Colin froze.

    "The forest? What are you talking about?"

    Eratz''s smirk returned.

    "It''s time for the next phase of your formation."

    Colin''s eyebrows shot up, her voice incredulous.

    "In the middle of the week? What do you mean, ''formation''? Training? Now?"

    "Exactly," Eratz replied. "You and Milo are spending the next two days in the forest. Hunting."

    The late afternoon sun cast long shadows as Eratz and Colin stood at the edge of the forest.

    The towering trees stretched endlessly, their dark green canopy seeming to hold secrets just out of reach.

    Colin shifted on her feet, her nerves visible in her fidgeting, but her expression betrayed a hint of excitement.

    "This... this is the moment, isn''t it?" she said, glancing at Eratz with wide eyes. "I''ve been waiting for this day for so long. But..." She hesitated, her confidence faltering. "What about school? I mean, holiday classes are still happening. I might miss something important."

    Eratz smirked, waving her concerns away.

    "Holiday prep classes? Come on, Colin. They''re just appetizer before the real meal. Trust me, you can skip them. You''re not going to miss anything life-changing... especially if you succeed as a pro."

    Colin bit her lip but nodded, her nervous energy giving way to determination.

    "Alright. If you say so."

    Before Eratz could reply, a familiar voice called out from behind them.

    "Hey! Guys!"

    Colin turned just in time to see Milo barreling toward them at full speed.

    "Eratz!" Milo cried, leaping forward.

    He wrapped his arms around Eratz''s waist with surprising force, nearly knocking him off

    balance.

    "Where were you?!" Milo demanded, his voice a mixture of relief and irritation. "I thought you abandoned me like... like an abandoner!"

    Eratz groaned, prying Milo off.

    "I was gone for four days, Milo. Four. Why are you all acting like I disappeared for months?"

    Mercury strolled up behind Milo, her arms crossed and her sharp blue eyes narrowing at Eratz.

    "Maybe because you tell everyone you would be back for dinner?" she said pointedly. "Cassie and Roger were worried sick. They were waiting for an explanation."

    Eratz''s confident demeanor faltered, and a hint of pale worry crossed his face.

    "An... an explanation?"

    Mercury smirked, stepping closer.

    "Relax, I covered for you. Managed to calm them down before they could give you the talk."

    Eratz sighed in relief.

    "Thanks, Mercury. I owe you one."

    Mercury''s smirk grew wider, her tone turning mischievous.

    "Oh, you shouldn''t thanks me. They were really upset, so I had to use everything. I told them

    we were busy... pushing our relationship to the next level... in THAT kind of place."

    Eratz froze, his face draining of color.

    "You what?!"

    Mercury''s expression feigned innocence.

    "Oh, and Cassie had a message for you. She said, ''Ride that girl, horse!""

    Eratz groaned loudly, his hand slapping against his face. Colin, more mature, avoided eye

    contact entirely, while Milo blinked in confusion.

    "... You''re a cowboy?" Milo asked, looking between them.

    As the sun dipped lower, the group vanished into the forest, their silhouettes swallowed by the shadows. The world beyond was shifting, bracing for a new chapter.

    A new academic year at Genova Academy brought rumors of transfer students and the long-

    awaited reunion of those who had parted after the Greenridge Finals with unfinished stories business on the brink of collision.

    The season ahead promised unmatched stakes. Temporarily split between the national tier for Golden Cosmos'' aces and the continental stage for Eratz and Raya, the stakes had never

    been higher

    The storm was coming, and it would shake everything.

 Chapter 166: A New Era

    Chapter 166: A New EraIt had been weeks since Colin and Milo''s first hunt, and the new academic year at Genova Academy was finally beginning.

    The sun rose over the campus, casting a golden glow over the bustling grounds. Old and new students filled the halls with a new sense of purpose.

    This year was different. Inspired by the Greenridge Finals, students were determined to forge their own paths rather than blindly follow the academy''s top ace. While Eratz''s name was still whispered, they were now driven to prove themselves.

    The atmosphere was filled with ambition, and it seemed every student had something to prove.

    Kian and Lila drew a crowd like magnets among the bustling excitement of Genova''s halls. As the youngest students to enroll at the academy, the twins stood confidently as a cluster of first-years peppered them with eager questions.

    "Is it true the director personally invited you?" one asked, wide-eyed.

    "How did you even get in so young?"

    "Have you already tamed a beast?"

    Kian smirked, crossing his arms as if the praise was his birthright.

    "It''s not a secret. We''re just exceptional. Some people are born for this, and we are two of them."

    Lila, standing next to him, tilted her head with a faint smile.

    "It''s not about luck. It''s about talent. And we have more than enough." sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The students murmured in awe, exchanging glances as if standing before royalty. Every word from Kian and Lila seemed to cement their status as prodigies. The twins soaked in the admiration, their confidence swelling with every comment.

    To them, their place at Genova was indisputable proof of their brilliance. What they didn''t know was that it was Eratz, the brother they resented, who had quietly ensured their enrollment, and the many people only got attracted after noticing their family name.

    "Can we train sometime together? I would like to follow your model," a first-year asked eagerly.

    Kian shrugged casually.

    "Of course. Just try to keep the rhythm."

    Lila nodded, brushing her hair over her shoulder.

    As the lively chatter buzzed around them, a clear, calm voice interrupted them.

    "Welcome to Genova Academy. I''m Lisa, and I''ll be your guide."

    The group of students turned almost in unison. Standing before them was Lisa, her expression warm and relaxed, a soft smile playing on her lips.

    She showed a calm confidence, her approachable appearance a stark contrast to the stern, depressed air she had carried before. There was an ease in her posture now as if a weight had been lifted.

    Kian''s brows furrowed slightly, his sharp eyes narrowing as if trying to assess her immediately.

    "You''re our guide?" he asked.

    "That''s right," Lisa replied, unfazed. Her smile was warm, and she gestured for the group to follow her.

    She led the group through the academy, her steps steady as she pointed out the key landmarks. She spoke with confidence, her tone calm but engaging.

    "This is the training field," she said, stopping at a large open area. "It''s where most of the action happens. If you''re serious about improving, this will become a second home."

    Kian glanced around, unimpressed.

    "Looks standard. Do they have private areas for advanced students?" Kian asked, his tone edged with skepticism.

    Lisa offered a small smile.

    "There are specialized lessons for those who prove themselves, particularly those with powerful beasts. Last year, though, many first-years weren''t focused on beast-taming. Only a few ended up with anything noteworthy."

    Kian''s eyes widened slightly.

    "What? A place as famous as Genova allowed students to stay without beasts? That''s ridiculous. What kind of academy allows this?"

    Lila nodded in agreement, her voice sharp.

    "It''s incompetence, plain and simple. How can they even call themselves beast masters if they don''t have beasts?"

    Lisa''s calm smile didn''t waver, though there was a faint flicker of amusement in her gaze. "Many things happened. It was our mistake, and we are learning to be better. Not everyone rises to the top, But for those who do..." She gestured toward the expansive training field. "The results speak for themselves."

    Kian folded his arms, his frown deepening.

    "If they''re relying on self-motivation, they''d better hope this year''s group has more sense

    than the last."

    Lila smirked.

    "At least we know ''we'' won''t be the ones dragging Genova''s reputation down."

    They moved on to the library, its towering shelves casting long shadows over the group. The students gazed around, awestruck by the sheer size of the collection.

    "This is where you''ll find the knowledge to back up your skills," Lisa said. "Genova prides

    itself on developing not just strong fighters, but smart ones."

    The first-years nodded eagerly, but Kian and Lila exchanged a glance, their silent agreement clear: these people were many things, but clever wasn''t one of them.

    Their final stop was the Hall of Tournaments, where photos and trophies lined the walls, commemorating past champions.

    One boy stopped in front of a photo of several past student leaders and hesitated before

    speaking.

    "By the way," he began, looking at Lisa nervously. "I thought the student council president was the one greeting us, you know... the girl from the finals. The one during the Pharaoh''s match against the Beast Whisperer?"

    Lisa paused, her expression shifting slightly. She observed the young man for a moment, then

    sighed.

    "Yes, the student council president is in charge of your visit," she said simply.

    The boy frowned, confused.

    "Why isn''t she leading this tour then?"

    Lisa turned to face the group, her smile softening.

    "I should''ve mentioned earlier, I''m the student council president now."

    The group froze, the weight of her words sinking in.

    "You? You''re... the president?" another student asked, his eyes wide with surprise.

    "Yes," Lisa replied calmly.

    Her voice carried a quiet confidence, but there was something thoughtful in her tone.

    "Many things changed after the finals."

    She gestured for them to keep walking, her pace steady as the group trailed behind, their curiosity growing in whispers.

    "Didn''t see that coming," one of the students muttered to another.

    "Do you think she threatened the old president or something?" Lisa didn''t acknowledge the murmurs, keeping her focus on the tour.

 Chapter 167: Game of Faces

    Chapter 167: Game of FacesAfter the Greenridge Finals, Crystal''s world had crumbled.

    Her plans to manipulate Eratz had backfired, and her carefully constructed lies fell under scrutiny.

    While some students still wanted to support her, others questioned how she could fabricate such a serious accusation for so long.

    Her reputation was further damaged, then another problem surfaced when they came back at Grushia.

    Kenny refused to admit any guilt. Despite Rowan''s efforts, he denied everything and avoided expulsion.

    Officially, he was innocent, and the director had no grounds to act against him without abusing her position.

    Crystal, furious, stormed into the director''s office.

    "You''re leaving a predator on campus!" she shouted. "Do you have any idea what you''ve done? I put myself at risk to expose him, and this is how you repay me?!"

    The director promised to monitor Kenny, but it wasn''t enough. Feeling isolated and threatened, Crystal resigned from her role as student council president.

    Now, she rarely attended classes and avoided secluded areas of the campus.

    Elsewhere, a young first-year sprinted through Genova''s grand halls, his eyes wide with excitement.

    Caught up in the grandeur of the place, he turned a corner too quickly and collided with someone, stumbling back onto the marble floor.

    His breath hitched as he looked up to see a tall figure standing over him.

    Kenny loomed there, his wide smile stretched unnaturally across his face, as if carved into his skin. His sharp eyes fell down on the boy, scrutinizing him in a way that made the first-year''s stomach twist.

    "Careful," Kenny said softly. "You don''t want to hurt yourself, now do you?"

    The boy scrambled to his feet, clutching his bag tightly to his chest. "Oh, huh... sorry, I wasn''t looking, "

    Kenny chuckled, a low sound that seemed to echo in the empty corridor.

    He bent slightly, leaning just close enough that the boy could feel the warmth of his breath.

    "No need to apologize," Kenny murmured.

    His gaze lingered a moment too long, making the boy shift uncomfortably.

    "Running like that... You could fall. Get hurt. That wouldn''t be good for someone so... innocent."

    The young boy nodded quickly, his heart pounding in his chest.

    "Y-Yeah, I''ll be more careful," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Kenny''s smile didn''t falter. In fact, it seemed to widen, his teeth almost too perfect, too sharp.

    "That''s a good idea," he said smoothly, his tone dripping with something the boy couldn''t quite name. "This is a big place, after all. Lots of corners. Lots of... dangerous people."

    The boy froze for a split second before taking a hurried step back.

    "I-I should get going," he said, his voice breaking slightly.

    Kenny straightened, his expression never changing.

    The boy turned, practically running down the hall. Kenny''s gaze followed him until he disappeared around the corner, his footsteps echoing faintly in the distance.

    Alone once more, Kenny''s smile faded, replaced by a blank, unreadable expression.

    His fingers twitched slightly at his sides as he muttered under his breath.

    "No need to hurry, everyone will receive what they deserve. Some more than the others..."

    Students passing by instinctively avoided the area, their unease clear.

    At Genova, Kenny had become an scarecrow, a shadow that smiled, watched, and waited for something.

    Meanwhile in Grushia''s most exclusive district, a towering skyscraper of glass and steel loomed above pristine streets lined with luxury cars and high-end boutiques.

    Its glass facade glowed in the setting sun, and polished marble and gold accents marked its private entrance.

    Gabriel stepped out of a taxi, shoulders hunched with exhaustion.

    Glancing briefly at the building, he adjusted his bag and entered through the glass doors.

    The cool, quiet air inside felt like another world. He headed straight for the private elevator, swiping his access card without pausing to admire the decor.

    As the elevator ascended, Grushia''s glittering skyline spread below him, but his reflection in the glass caught his eye, a face etched with stress.

    When the elevator doors opened, Gabriel entered the minimalist penthouse, its floor-to- ceiling windows showcasing the city.

    The polished furniture and art exuded wealth, but to him, it felt hollow.

    Dropping his bag by the door, Gabriel moved to the couch and collapsed with a groan.

    "This is harder than I thought," he muttered, rubbing his temples. "I should''ve refused the rank-up... if that''s even possible."

    He leaned back, staring at the ceiling as his mind swirled with the pressures of his position. The endless expectations, the difficulty of the battles, it was suffocating. For a brief moment, The closed his eyes, trying to forget.

    "Refuse it?"

    Gabriel flinched, his eyes snapping open. Crystal stood in the kitchen doorway, a plate of food in her hands.

    Her figure was illuminated by the soft light from the kitchen, highlighting the subtle curves of her silhouette.

    Her expression was warm, almost playful, but something in her tone made the hairs on the back of Gabriel''s neck stand up.

    "You should be proud, Gabriel," she said, stepping into the room with slow movements. "Not everyone gets the chance to rise."

    Gabriel blinked.

    "Oh... It''s just... It was so easy before. People in national tier are crazy, I''m starting to think that I won''t live to see the next finals..."

    She approached him, cutting him off with a soft laugh.

    "You''re overthinking again," she said, setting the plate on the glass table in front of him. Her fingers brushed his arm lightly, a subtle touch that made his breath catch. "That''s in your

    head."

    Gabriel tried to straighten, to regain some semblance of composure, but her presence was suffocating in a way he couldn''t explain.

    "It''s just... a lot," he admitted, his voice quieter than he intended. "The rank-up, the people,

    it''s all overwhelming. Sometimes I feel like I''m drowning."

    Crystal tilted her head, her hair falling over one shoulder as she leaned closer, her voice

    dropping to a near whisper.

    "Drowning? Or do you mean... afraid?"

    "Afraid?" Gabriel repeated, his throat dry. "Of what?"

    She smiled, her lips curling into something soft and predatory.

    She slid onto the couch beside him, her leg brushing against his, her hand resting lightly on Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    his knee.

    The warmth of her touch sent a ripple of unease through him, but he couldn''t move away, or rather, he couldn''t convince himself to move away.

    "Afraid of falling," she murmured, her fingers tracing slow patterns against his leg. "Afraid

    of what happens if you stop climbing. But you don''t need to worry, Gabriel."

    Her hand drifted higher, her touch light but electric, her gaze locked onto his.

    Gabriel''s pulse quickened, his mind clouding with confusion and something darker, something he couldn''t understand.

    "You''ll get used to it," Crystal continued, her tone impossibly soft, "the pressure, the expectations. It''ll all become normal. As long as you keep climbing."

    Her breath was warm against his ear, and her proximity was intoxicating. Gabriel''s thoughts scattered, his body betraying him as a flush of heat coursed through him.

    Crystal''s smile widened, her eyes flicking downward for the briefest moment before returning

    to his.

    She leaned back slightly, her gaze playful.

    "Oh, Gabriel," she teased, her voice dripping with false innocence. "You''re such a hard

    worker."

    Gabriel tried to respond, but his voice failed him. His heart pounded in his chest, his

    breathing shallow.

    Crystal''s laughter was soft, almost musical, as she stood, smoothing her skirt as if nothing

    had happened.

    "Eat up," she said over her shoulder as she walked toward the kitchen. "You''ll need your strength to reach the top. Everything will be alright... You just have to keep climbing." Gabriel sat frozen, his earlier worries about the rank-up forgotten.

    His thoughts were consumed not by the weight of his responsibilities, but by the warmth of

    Crystal''s touch, the sound of her voice, and the way she seemed to know exactly how to

    unravel him.

    He forgot why she seemed scary, and remembered why he paid for everything in this place.

 Chapter 168: A Day for Themselves

    Chapter 168: A Day for ThemselvesIt was night at the Golden Cosmos Agency, and the central lounge was quiet, save for the low rumble of strategic planning.

    Victoria and Zara sat at a polished table, a stack of papers and folders spread out between them.

    The soft glow of the room''s lighting reflected off Victoria''s teacup as she sipped, her composure as steady as ever.

    Zara, on the other hand, flipped nervously through a folder, her brow furrowed.

    "We need to ensure we''re competitive," Zara said. "With Eratz and Raya''s popularity, everyone will be watching us closely. This is the perfect opportunity to get visibility for the next finales, but we need to perform in team battles too. An exhibition match could help us gauge the team''s readiness... and deflect some pressure."

    Victoria placed her cup gently on the table, her sharp eyes meeting Zara''s.

    "You think they''ll pass the selections and handle the pressure of the team battles?"

    Zara sighed, setting the folder down and leaning back in her chair.

    "They''ll pass the selections, no doubt about it. I''ve seen Milo in action. He''s young, but there''s raw talent there. He even managed to win a battle during the last round of selections."

    She hesitated, her fingers tapping lightly on the edge of the folder.

    "But for the team battles... the level is set based on our strongest fighters. With Eratz and Raya leading the charge at a continental level? Let''s just say we''re starting with a two-point disadvantage."

    Victoria''s lips curled into a faint smile, her confidence unbreakable.

    "Eratz doesn''t make decisions lightly. I don''t know Milo and Colin as well as you, but if he believes now is the time, then I trust his judgment."

    Zara nodded slowly, though her expression remained clouded with concern.

    "I hope you''re right. Tomorrow will tell us everything. It''s going to be a big day."

    The night deepened, and meanwhile, across town, the ambiance was more different. Eratz''s house glowed warmly in the quiet neighborhood. The open-plan living room, cozy and filled with chatter, overlooked a garden where crickets chirped softly.

    Simple furniture, a large rug, and family photos gave the space a welcoming charm, while snacks and drinks cluttered the coffee table, adding to the lively atmosphere.

    Near the entrance, Cinderblaze grudgingly swiped the floor with a broom, his punishment for often teasing Eratz and Mercury.

    He answered to his punishment with dramatic sighs and grumbles, which the others ignored with amused smirks.

    On one side of the room, Colin and Milo sat slouched in their chairs, their exhaustion from the day''s training written all over their faces.

    Cassie walked in from the kitchen carrying a tray of steaming plates. Her voice was light and cheerful, full of encouragement.

    "Here we go," she said, placing the tray on the coffee table. "Extra food for my two warriors. You''ve earned it today."

    Milo groaned, half-heartedly reaching for a fork.

    "I don''t think I can eat anymore..." he muttered. "I feel like a protagonist before his character development."

    "Nonsense," Cassie said, placing a firm but loving hand on his shoulder. "You''re a

    protagonist everyday, and you''ll need your strength for tomorrow. Eat up, Milo. No excuses." Colin picked up her plate.

    "Thanks, Mom," she said casually, already taking a bite. "We''ll need all the energy we can get for the big day."

    Across the room, Eratz and Roger sat at the dining table, deeply engrossed in a card game. Roger''s brow furrowed as he studied his hand, while Eratz leaned back in his chair, looking unusually confident.

    Behind Roger, Mercury stood quietly, her sharp eyes glancing at Roger''s cards.

    She caught Eratz''s attention with a subtle nod, then mimed the correct card for him to play. Eratz smirked and slapped the card down on the table.

    "Maybe this one?" Eratz said, leaning forward. "Your move, Uncle Roger."

    Roger raised an eyebrow, his tone skeptical.

    "That''s a suspiciously good play. You''re getting lucky tonight."

    "Always" Eratz said, grinning. "I''ve been very lucky lately."

    Behind him, Mercury grinned in silence, crossing her arms and leaning casually against the wall. Colin, watching the scene, smiled faintly.

    Milo, meanwhile, poked at his food, his shoulders tense.

    "What if I mess up again tomorrow?" he blurted out suddenly. The room quieted for a

    moment, everyone turning to look at him. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "You won''t," Colin said, not even looking up from her plate. "Just do your best. That''s all you

    need."

    "But what if it''s not enough?" Milo pressed, his voice anxious.

    Colin shrugged, her tone cool.

    "It will be enough, you''re panicking for nothing. This is just a formality."

    Eratz, still shuffling his cards, glanced over.

    "Sounds like you''ve got it all figured out, Colin. Maybe I don''t even need to show up

    tomorrow."

    Colin froze mid-bite, her calm facade cracking. She looked up sharply.

    "Wait, what? You''re not coming?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening.

    "Well, if it''s just a formality..."

    Colin''s usual composure shattered as she sat up straighter, her voice rising slightly.

    "Of course not! I mean, of course it''s a formality, but that''s not the point! What if Milo freaks out? What if... what if something happens?"

    Cassie chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she placed a hand over her mouth. Milo, pouting dramatically, gave her the side eye.

    "I might not be the smartest," he declared loudly. "but even I can smell blasphemy when I hear it! And that''s pure blasphemy!"

    His exaggerated tone made Cassie laugh even harder, while Colin shot him an embarrassed look. Mercury smirked and walked over to Colin, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

    "Relax, Colin," she said gently. "Eratz would never miss something this important. You know

    that."

    Before Colin could respond, Eratz leaned back in his chair with a teasing grin.

    "Hm, I don''t know, she grew a lot these past months, I feel like the little bird doesn''t need the old fossil anymore." he said, leaning forward slightly to study her reaction.

    Colin''s expression shifted, her usual calm demeanor slipping as she quickly looked away,

    trying to hide her embarrassment.

    "That''s not it!" she protested, her voice a bit too loud. Then, quieter, she muttered, "I''m not

    a child anymore... But it doesn''t mean you don''t have to come!"

    Eratz chuckled softly.

    "Don''t worry, podling. I wouldn''t miss it for the world. I lived to see you give your first

    beating."

    Colin glanced at him from the corner of her eye, her lips twitching into the faintest hint of a smile before she quickly looked down at her plate.

    "Whatever," she said, trying to sound casual, though the softness in her voice betrayed her

    feelings.

    Cassie stepped forward, her warm smile lighting up the room. She placed a hand on Colin''s shoulder, then Milo''s.

    "Listen, you two," she said gently. "Tomorrow isn''t about anyone else. It''s your day, just for you. No one else matters. You''ve worked hard, and you''re ready. Trust yourselves, okay? Show

    them who you are."

    Milo nodded hesitantly, while Colin gave a small, embarrassed smile.

    As the night went on, laughter and conversation filled the house.

    For now, the worries of tomorrow were set aside, replaced by the warmth of family and the comfort of being surrounded by those who cared most.

 Chapter 169: Rising Sparks, Growing Flames

    Chapter 169: Rising Sparks, Growing FlamesThe morning sun streamed through the windows of the house, signaling the start of a big day. The house was calm and quiet, except for Milo''s room, where chaos had already begun.

    Milo''s alarm clock buzzed loudly, and he shot out of bed like a soldier responding to a siren. His hair stuck up in all directions, his eyes blazing with determination.

    "It''s today," he muttered, pacing back and forth like a commander preparing for battle. "The day I stop being a boy and become... a man!"

    He turned sharply to the mirror, jabbing a finger at his reflection.

    "You hear me? You''re a menace! A storm! You shed no tear!" He flexed dramatically, struck a ridiculous pose, and then dropped to the floor to do a single push-up.

    "That''s it! I''m ready!" he declared, springing to his feet and storming out of his room.

    In the next room, Colin woke much more slowly. The sunlight poured across her bed as she stretched lazily, blinking at the clock with calm disinterest.

    "Still early," she murmured to herself, rubbing her eyes as she slipped out of bed.

    She moved to the bathroom with no rush, brushing her teeth and washing her face with practiced ease. Every movement was calm, deliberate, as though today was no different than any other.

    After bathing, the two made their way to the breakfast table, each in their own style.

    Milo grabbed his plate and digged in with an intensity that left everyone watching in stunned

    amusement.

    Meanwhile, Colin neatly placed her plate in front of her, eating with elegantly.

    After breakfast, the two prepared to leave, their contrasting energies still apparent.

    Milo stomped to the door with exaggerated purpose, muttering motivational phrases to himself, and Colin followed behind, calm and composed.

    The rest of the family gathered by the door, watching them with pride.

    The arena where the selections would be held buzzed with life, a sprawling hub of excitement and tension.

    The crowd filled every corner, a mix of hopeful contestants, trainers, and a few spectators.

    The air was rich in anticipation as battles were announced one after another, cheers and gasps erupting at each outcome.

    In a quiet corner of the stands, Zara stood with her phone pressed to her ear as she spoke to Victoria.

    Beside her, Eratz, Mercury, Cassie, and Roger stood quietly.

    Both Eratz and Mercury wore hoodies pulled low over their heads and mouth masks to keep from being recognized. Despite her disguises, it was easy to notice the tension in Mercury''s postures.

    "It''s packed here," Zara said into the phone, her voice barely audible over the noise. "So far, most battles have been straightforward. But Milo''s turn is up next. We''ll see how he handles the pressure."

    Victoria''s voice crackled faintly on the other end, firm and reassuring.

    "He''ll be fine. Keep me updated."

    Zara ended the call and tucked her phone away just as the announcer''s voice boomed through the speakers.

    "And next, we have Milo Ambrosius stepping onto the battlefield!"

    The crowd shifted as people turned their attention to the field. Milo walked into the arena. He slapped his cheeks lightly, muttering to himself as he took his position.

    "Beastigo ergo sum, I''m beast, therefore I beat!" he whispered.

    From the sidelines, Mercury''s hands clenched tightly, her sharp eyes glued to her brother on the battlefield.

    "He''s so nervous," she muttered under her breath, more to herself than anyone else.

    Beside her, Eratz gave her a casual nudge.

    "Relax, it''s not like he''s going to accidentally face Jaden''s brother or some wannabe Sia. Just to play it safe, though, I told him a lot he''d probably lose today, to trigger some positive karma. It''s foolproof."

    Everyone slowly turned to look at him, but then, as if a light bulb went off, Mercury''s eyes lit up.

    "Oh! Great idea!" she exclaimed, clenching her fists in excitement. "You''re a genius!"

    They both clapped their hands in front of Zara, who rolled her eyes. From behind, Cassie and Roger exchanged amused glances.

    Across the battlefield, Milo''s opponent stepped forward. A teenage boy with a cocky grin and a confident stride, he looked Milo up and down, his smirk growing wider.

    "This kid?" the teenager said loudly, his voice carrying over the crowd. "This is going to be easy. Just a warm-up."

    The audience chuckled, and Milo''s nervousness flickered across his face for a moment. He quickly shook it off, pounding his chest lightly.

    Zara, standing at the edge of the field, pulled out her phone and started filming. The referee stepped forward, raising a hand to signal the start of the match.

    "Fighters, ready?"

    Milo adjusted his stance, his fingers twitching slightly as his breathing quickened. In front of him, the teenager grinned confidently, rolling his shoulders as if the battle were already

    decided.

    The referee''s hand dropped.

    "Begin!"

    The teenager wasted no time, summoning his beast. A sleek, dog-like creature materialized beside him, its fur bristling and eyes gleaming.

    Milo trembled slightly, his eyes darting between the beast and its master.

    The creature growled low before charging toward him, its movements swift and direct. The

    crowd murmured in anticipation, waiting to see how Milo would react.

    For a split second, Milo froze, his mind racing. Then, something clicked.

    Eratz''s voice echoed in his head, reminding him of a lesson he''d heard countless times.

    "There''s often a space, a moment, where the beast and the master are disconnected. Move into that void."

    As the beast closed in, Milo''s trembling stopped. A faint pink swirl of energy began to trace around him, soft at first but quickly growing brighter. His body moved instinctively.

    He jumped forward, his movements swift and fluid, slipping through the narrow space between the beast and its master. From the crowd''s perspective, he was very fast, his speed -catching everyone off guard.

    In an instant, Milo was in front of the teenager, who stood frozen in shock, his beast skidding

    to

    a halt behind him.

    Milo raised a hand, pointing it directly at the boy. His eyes squeezed as the pink energy

    surged, concentrating into his palm.

    The teenager barely had time to react before a beam of swirling pink energy shot forward, engulfing him and creating a small explosion of dust and light.

    The ground shook slightly, and when the dust cleared, the teenager was unconscious on the ground, his beast retreating into its shadow.

    Milo stood in the center of the battlefield, stunned. His breathing was heavy, and the pink energy around him faded into nothingness.

    The crowd was silent for a moment, processing what had just happened. Then, cheers erupted.

    "Milo! Milo!" they shouted, clapping and hollering for the unexpected victory.

    Milo blinked, confused. He looked around, his wide eyes reflecting disbelief.

    "I... I won?" he muttered to himself.

    The cheers grew louder, and Milo''s confusion gave way to pure joy. A wide grin spread across

    his face as he jumped into the air, pumping his fists.

    "I WON! I ACTUALLY WON!" he shouted, hopping around the battlefield like a kid who''d just scored his first goal.

    From the sidelines, Mercury exhaled sharply, her hands flying to her face as tears welled up in her eyes. A mix of relief and pride washed over her, and she clapped for her brother, her voice

    trembling as she whispered.

    "He did it... he really did it."

    Beside her, Eratz stood with his arms crossed, a satisfied smile playing on his lips.

    Further back, Cassie and Roger exchanged warm smiles, their quiet pride shining through. Meanwhile, Zara held up her phone, capturing the moment.

    Milo continued celebrating, his energy infectious as the crowd''s cheers echoed through the arena. It was a moment of triumph, one that he would remember forever.

    Next, it was Colin stepping onto the battlefield.

    Her movements were calm and measured, exuding a simple grace that contrasted sharply

    with the high-energy displays from previous contestants.

    The crowd murmured in surprise, taken aback by the sight of another child in the selection

    process.

    Across from her stood a tall woman, her posture confident but relaxed. She raised an eyebrow

    as she looked Colin up and down.

    Cassie and Roger watched from the sidelines, their eyes glued to their daughter in the

    spotlight. Cassie clutched Roger''s arm.

    "Look at her, Roger. She''s look so formidable... I can''t believe this is really happening."

    Roger nodded, his voice soft with pride.

    "That''s our girl."

    Unlike earlier, Eratz now seemed slightly on edge. His arms were crossed, and his eyes were fixed on Colin. Mercury, standing beside him, noticed his unease and patted his shoulder. "Relax," she said lightly. "I spent the entire day beating her in every game yesterday, just to

    toughen her up. Her spirit''s unbreakable right now."

    Eratz exhaled, smiling faintly.

    "I knew I could count on you," he muttered.

    The referee raised a hand.

    "Fighters, ready?" Colin stood poised, her expression calm as always. The tall woman smiled slightly, shaking

    her head.

    "I''m not really fond of beating up kids, so, I''ll give you a chance. Show me everything you''ve

    got and I''ll convince you that you will lose."

    Colin''s lips curved into a small, polite smile.

    "Thank you, madam," she replied softly.

    The referee dropped their hand.

    "Begin!"

    Colin stepped forward, walking with quiet confidence toward her opponent. Her pace was

    unhurried, almost casual, as though the battle were of no concern to her.

    The woman watched with a mix of confusion and amusement as Colin stopped just in front of

    her.

    Slowly, she reached out and gently touched the woman''s abs.

    The woman blinked, startled. "Why are you even here, kid?" she asked, her tone more curious than condescending.

    Colin looked up at her, her voice soft but steady.

    "To be like my brother."

    Before the woman could respond, a sudden blast of fire erupted from Colin''s hand.

    Flames roared across the woman''s body, and she stumbled back, screaming in shock as she tried to douse the fire with frantic movements.

    The crowd gasped, their murmurs turning to stunned silence.

    The woman managed to summon a water beast, its body shimmering as it began to

    materialize.

    But before it could act, Colin stepped back, raising her hands in a smooth motion.

    Flames gathered and swirled around her, shaping into a fiery bow. She drew the bowstring,

    fire forming an arrow that crackled with heat.

    "I''m sorry, madam," Colin said softly, "This won''t take long."

    She released the arrow.

    "Eratz''s Arrow!" The fiery projectile shot forward, growing in size as it soared through the air. It struck the

    woman with a powerful blast, engulfing her in flames.

    The force sent her rolling across the ground, unconscious before she could react.

    The arena fell silent, everyone frozen in disbelief. Then, one by one, the spectators erupted

    into cheers.

    Colin lowered her hands, quickly withdrawing the flames around her. She brushed back a stray lock of hair and straightened her robe, her expression calm and unaffected.

    But inside, her heart pounded at an incredible speed. She had shouted the name of her attack

    loudly, hoping someone in particular would hear.

    Eratz, watching from the sidelines, stood still. His arms crossed, his gaze fixed on the

    battlefield.

    Mercury, standing beside him, grinned and bumped his back playfully.

    "Nice name for the attack. Guess you''re officially her trademark now."

    Eratz didn''t turn to her, his gaze on the horizon as he muttered.

    "Alright. She''s my daughter too from now on."

    Cassie and Roger, unable to contain their excitement, hugged each other tightly, jumping up S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    and down with tears of joy.

    Nearby, Zara stood frozen, her phone still raised. Her expression didn''t change, her eyes

    locked on Colin as the crowd roared around her.

    Without lowering her phone or breaking her gaze, she pressed a speed dial and brought it to

    her ear.

    "Vic, prepare the contracts."

 Chapter 170: The New Prodigies

    Chapter 170: The New ProdigiesThe selections were a showcase of talent for Milo and Colin. Both dominated their battles with ease, leaving little doubt about their potential.

    Milo''s second opponent underestimated him entirely. While he started off nervously, Milo''s instincts quickly took over, and he began to adapt mid-fight.

    Without summoning any of his beasts, he relied on clever tactics, speed, and instinct. By the end of the battle, his opponent was left unconscious as Milo executed a flawless counterattack, securing his second victory.

    Colin, on the other hand, was all about precision and spectacle. She commanded her fire beasts with natural ease, creating attacks that were both overwhelming and awe-inspiring. Her mastery over fire left her opponent screaming for help, and her victory came with roaring applause from the spectators.

    By the third fight, the crowd''s eyes were firmly on the two.

    Milo, still refraining from summoning his beasts, showcased incredible reflexes and strategy. Each movement seemed calculated, almost improvised but undeniably effective.

    His ability to think on his feet and find weaknesses mid-battle earned him yet another win. Colin''s second fight, in opposite, was another visual marvel. With sharp commands and fluid movements, she unleashed a barrage of fiery attacks. Her beasts seemed to synchronize perfectly with her, creating an almost dance-like coordination that left the crowd mesmerized.

    She finished her fight with a fiery finale, unleashing an enormous blast of flame that overwhelmed her opponent''s defenses. The fire reflected in her confident gaze as her third victory was called, securing her perfect record.

    Spectators murmured among themselves, impressed by both contenders but for different reasons. Colin''s mastery of fire beasts and her confident, commanding style made her a standout, while Milo''s unconventional approach left people amazed at his ability to win without summoning his creatures.

    Zara, observing from the stands, had a quiet moment of realization. Watching Milo adapt mid-fight, she couldn''t help but notice the similarities to Eratz''s style, instinctive, powerful, unpredictable, and effective.

    Meanwhile, Colin''s elegance and precision mirrored Mercury''s calm yet overwhelming approach. A smile crept onto Zara''s face as she kept her thoughts to herself.

    When the final names were called to receive their licenses, Milo and Colin were announced first, their perfect records earning them the highest recognition of the day.

    Cassie couldn''t hold back her tears, hugging Roger tightly as they celebrated their daughter''s achievement. Mercury, standing nearby, wiped a tear from her eye as she glanced at Eratz.

    "They finally did it," she said softly, a proud smile tugging at her lips.

    Eratz chuckled, shrugging as if it were all expected.

    "They didn''t just do it, they crushed it. Now you won''t have to worry about his tutoring anymore."

    The two kids had not only passed but had done so in a way that left everyone in awe. As they stood holding their new licenses, Colin''s calm composure masked her euphoria, while Milo grinned from ear to ear, basking in the cheers of the crowd.

    Their journey was just beginning, but today, they had taken their first step toward greatness, and nothing could take it from them.

    The event of Milo and Colin''s success spread joy and sparks, and amidst the cheers, Zara had initially intended to approach them for a proper congratulations. However, in her euphoric state, she made the grave mistake of blurting out to Eratz.

    "I''m done with the grown-ups! Today, I''m here for the unrippled fruit!"

    The moment the words left her mouth, a stunned silence followed. Eratz stared at her with an arched eyebrow, while Mercury covered her mouth, trying to stifle laughter. The nearby staff, however, were less amused.

    What followed was hours of explaining and clarifying to the staff, during which Zara tried to explain her vocabulary choice. By the time Victoria arrived to retrieve them personally, Zara was utterly drained.

    Victoria, influential as ever, stepped in to defuse the situation. After assuring everyone that the incident was simply an unfortunate slip of words, she invited Milo, Colin, and their family to celebrate properly at the Golden Cosmos Agency.

    The celebrations were held in the agency gym, a spacious room decked out for the occasion.

    Despite the utilitarian setting, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The agency''s aces were all present, Eratz, Mercury, Kaida, Catarina, Raya, and Ryder. Cassie and Roger had also been invited, both to celebrate and to officially sign Colin''s contract.

    Milo and Colin were immediately welcomed into the fold. The aces treated them like family from the start, showering them with congratulations and playful teasing.

    Kaida ruffled Milo''s hair, her grin wide and teasing.

    "Not bad, little guy! Three wins in a row? You''re tougher than you look."

    Milo puffed out his chest, clearly proud. But before he could bask in the moment, Catarina''s

    voice chimed in, her cat-like tail flicking lazily.

    "Yeah, yeah, don''t get cocky, kitten. You''re still miles away from Boss level."

    Milo''s chest puffed up even further as he declared boldly.

    "Because I''m a miniboss! I take half of everything father take!"

    Kaida and Catarina burst into laughter, their voices mixing with the lively atmosphere. Catarina nearly doubled over, swishing her tail in amusement.

    Milo, grinning at their reaction, suddenly noticed Raya standing nearby, tilting her head slightly to the side. Her uneven eyes seemed focused on him, her expression calm but curious.

    "Uh... why are you looking at me like that?" Milo asked hesitantly.

    Cassie and Roger stiffened slightly, exchanging a glance, but the rest of the group didn''t react. For them, Raya''s blindness wasn''t a limitation, it was part of what made her one of the most respected and feared fighters in the agency.

    At worst, mentioning a handicap was an insult to the woman who had nearly single-handedly eliminated Crescent Moon from the finals.

    Raya nodded to Milo.

    "It''s only an impression," she said softly, a faint smile on her lips. "But I like the memory of

    your soul."

    Milo blinked, unsure whether to feel flattered or confused.

    "Oh... you too dream of fairy sheep?" he asked, scratching his head.

    Ryder, standing nearby, turned his attention to Colin.

    "I''m glad to finally meet Eratz''s cousin. I heard what you did, and I''m amazed. If you ever need anything, you can count on me. From now on, I''m your big bro."

    Colin gave him a polite nod.

    "Thank you," she said quietly.

    The group''s chatter continued, their camaraderie growing as the newest members were welcomed with warmth and humor.

    Eratz and Mercury stood back, watching the scene unfold. Cassie and Roger, meanwhile, looked positively radiant as they mingled with the group, their pride in Colin clear. After the festivities began to wind down, Victoria stepped to the front of the room and called for everyone''s attention. The chatter quieted, and all eyes turned to her. "Thank you all for coming tonight," Victoria began, her tone calm but full of warmth. "Today, we celebrate not just the success of two exceptional young talents, but the growth of our family. Colin and Milo, you have proven yourselves capable and determined, and it is my honor to welcome you both to the Golden Cosmos Agency."

    A round of applause erupted, with Mercury giving Milo a playful shove, while Eratz gave Colin

    an approving nod.

    Victoria continued, her tone shifting slightly.

    "Now, some of you may be wondering why we chose to hold this celebration here in the gym

    rather than at a restaurant, or with a larger audience." She paused, her sharp eyes scanning

    the room before resting on Eratz.

    "Because this isn''t just about celebration. The selections were only the first part, and now, we can proceed to the main focus of our meeting. Eratz, the floor is yours."

    All eyes turned to Eratz. He let out a breath, straightened, and stepped forward. He stopped a few paces from the center of the gym.

    Energy began to gather around him, faint at first, like a low hum in the air. It grew rapidly, crackling louder and brighter until, with a sudden surge, a burst of lightning illuminated the

    room.

    With a thunderous flash, Raijinara materialized, its massive wings crackling with yellow energy and its piercing gaze sweeping over the room.

    Everyone watched with attention, their eyes locked on the magnificent beast. Then, a fiery

    heat began to radiate through the room. The air shimmered, ash swirling in the glow of an

    ember-red light.

    Then, with a sudden surge of flame, Cinderblaze emerged.

    The sleek, rabbit-like creature landed gracefully on the gym floor, its ember-red patterns

    glowing fiercely as flames flickered and danced across its fur.

    The room fell into stunned silence.

    Ryder froze mid-step, his usual grin wiped away as his gaze locked onto the fiery beast. Kaida''s arms fell to her sides, her sharp eyes widening in disbelief. Catarina''s ears flicked forward, her tail stiff as she took an instinctive step back. Even Raya tilted her head slightly, her uneven eyes seeming to follow the intensity of the heat radiating from the creature. Mercury remained steady, though the faint curve of her lips betrayed her satisfaction. Cassie and Roger exchanged quiet glances.

    No one spoke, the weight of this new mastodon''s presence holding the room in a breathless S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    moment of awe.

    Eratz stepped forward once more.

    "It''s time," Eratz began, his voice steady and firm, "to share something I''ve discovered with

    everyone here."

 Chapter 171: Calamity Beasts

    Chapter 171: Calamity BeastsEratz stood calmly as the room remained silent, the two beasts beside him radiating a powerful energy that filled the air.

    Raijinara, with its crackling yellow lightning, was awe-inspiring on its own, but what stunned everyone wasn''t just its presence, it was the fiery creature at its side.

    Cinderblaze, with its ember-red glow and flames flickering across its ears, exuded a presence equally as strong as Raijinara.

    For the first time, everyone could feel it: the two beasts shared a similar aura.

    Kaida was the first to break the silence. She stammered, her usual confidence shaken.

    "This thing... It''s... no way... this thing''s real?"

    Her wide eyes were fixed on Cinderblaze as she struggled to find the words to match her amazement.

    Raya''s frown deepened, her uneven eyes seeming to focus on the fiery aura radiating from Cinderblaze.

    "I see," she murmured. "I''m starting to understand why your soul seems deeper." Ryder scratched his head, his usual carefree grin replaced with a look of confusion. "Uh... are we missing something here?" he asked, glancing at Catarina.

    Catarina''s tail flicked uneasily, her ears twitching as she leaned slightly closer to Ryder. "Yeah... I mean, Boss always pulls surprises, but this? Another beast with the same level of crazy power as the thunder chicken? How does that even happen?"

    Victoria straightened, her expression calm and unreadable as she observed the scene. She crossed her arms, her sharp eyes focused on Eratz and his two beasts.

    From the sidelines, Milo tugged at Mercury''s sleeve.

    "Hey, Sis... What''s so special about Eratz''s new beast? It''s our butler, right?"

    Mercury glanced down at her brother, her expression soft but firm.

    "You''ll understand soon enough," she said simply. "Just watch and listen."

    Kaida finally shook herself out of her stupor. Her stunned expression transformed into one of amazement as she approached Cinderblaze.

    "That thing is amazing," she said, her voice filled with excitement.

    She crouched slightly, her sharp eyes scanning the beast from head to toe.

    Cinderblaze tilted its head, its bright orange eyes meeting hers with a look of playful

    arrogance. Flames flickered across its fur as it flicked its fiery tail, seemingly enjoying the attention.

    Kaida grinned, completely captivated.

    "Where did you find this thing?" she asked, turning to Eratz but not taking her eyes off the beast. "It''s like your thunder chicken, but a fire bunny! And it''s strong. Like, really strong! You have to tell me where you found it, man!"

    Eratz chuckled softly, watching her reaction with a calm demeanor.

    "It''s pointless," he began. "Because beasts like this come in a set of one."

    Kaida blinked, her mouth hanging open slightly.

    "What? What does that even mean?" she asked, rising to her feet and gesturing toward Cinderblaze. "You mean, there''s no chance of finding another one of these?"

    Eratz nodded, folding his arms.

    "Let me share something I''ve kept to myself until now, in a long, slow and very detailed way. So, when I focus on beasts, I can get... information about them. It''s not something I learned, it''s just something I''ve always been able to do. Names, abilities, even rarities, it all comes to me like flashes in my mind."

    The room fell silent, everyone processing his words.

    Victoria''s usually composed face shifted slightly, her eyebrows rising ever so slightly in a rare show of surprise.

    "Wait, wait," Ryder interrupted, stepping closer, his tone incredulous. "You''re telling me you''ve just been walking around with this ability and never thought to mention it? What, are you keeping a beast encyclopedia in your head or something?"

    Eratz smirked slightly, glancing at Ryder.

    "We are. For example, Ryder, your rarest beast is the Stormward Lynx. A wind-affinity creature, known for its stealth and lightning speed. Easily deletable."

    Ryder froze mid-step, his eyes widening.

    "How do you even know that?" he asked, baffled. "I''ve never mentioned that beast to anyone... even I don''t know its potential." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz shrugged nonchalantly.

    "I didn''t need to hear it from you. I saw you using beastification with it once and checked."

    Ryder''s jaw dropped.

    "Wait a second... I''ve only used that beastification once. Why would you memorize something

    so fast?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his tone calm but pointed.

    "Keeping tabs on potential threats."

    Before Ryder could respond, Eratz continued, his tone growing more serious.

    "And it doesn''t stop there. The stronger I get, the more details I can see about the beasts. Their abilities, their strengths. But the most important thing I''ve discovered is their classification."

    He paused, his words hanging heavily in the air.

    "Everyone knows the standard beast types: common, rare, special, and legendary. It''s a universal truth. Common beasts are everywhere. Rare beasts are mostly seen with professional beast masters. Special beasts are few and far between. And as for legendary beasts..."

    Eratz''s gaze became distant, as if searching for an answer in his own thoughts.

    "No one''s ever seen one. Not officially, anyway," he continued. "But if this class exists, someone must have seen them at some point, right? Someone at some point knew something

    about them."

    His words sent a ripple of unease and curiosity through the group.

    "Which brings me to this," he said, motioning to Raijinara and Cinderblaze. "These beasts

    aren''t just rare or special. They''re something entirely new."

    He turned to Raijinara, his hand gesturing toward the thunderous bird. "This is Raijinara. Its full name is Raijinara, The Thunderous Storm."

    Gasps rippled through the room, but Eratz wasn''t done.

    "And this," he continued, gesturing toward the fiery rabbit, "is Cinderblaze, the Son of Fire. Both of them belong to a new classification. Something I''ve never seen written or spoken of anywhere before: Calamity."

    The air seemed to leave the room as everyone processed his words. The term Calamity echoed in their minds, a concept that redefined everything they knew about beasts.

    Kaida took a cautious step back, her hands gripping her hips as she stared wide-eyed at

    Cinderblaze.

    "Calamity..." she muttered, her voice quiet. "What does that even mean?"

    Ryder shook his head slowly, his eyes darting between Raijinara and Cinderblaze.

    "Are you telling me these things are... beyond legendary?" he asked, his tone low with

    disbelief.

    Eratz let out a brief chuckle, crossing his arms as he replied.

    "I would be disappointed if they were stronger than legendaries. I expect a lot from ''world

    builders''."

    Catarina''s tail flicked nervously, her wide eyes fixed on the two beasts. She opened her mouth

    to speak but seemed unable to find the words.

    Raya tilted her head, her expression contemplative.

    Meanwhile, Milo stared at Mercury, his face scrunched in confusion.

    "What''s so special about ''Calamity''? Is it like... bad luck or something?"

    Mercury sighed softly, placing a hand on her brother''s shoulder.

    "I don''t know, Milo. I think of it as a force of nature. Something like a natural catastrophe. I

    have one too, and Eratz said that Sia too has one."

    Milo blinked at her explanation, his confusion giving way to a spark of curiosity.

    "So, it''s like... you guys have living catastrophes?"

    Cassie and Roger exchanged stunned glances, both wondering if their presence was necessary

    for this moment.

    Cassie and Roger, standing off to the side, exchanged a glance.

    Cassie whispered.

    "Do you think we''re... even needed here?"

    Roger''s faint shrug was his only reply.

    Eratz cleared his throat, reclaiming the room''s attention.

    "Mercury''s right. But there''s more to it."

    The group turned back to him.

    "I''ve discovered that these Calamity beasts aren''t one-of-a-kind. Kaida, you won''t find

    another Cinderblaze, but you could find another fire calamity. These beasts are scattered across the world, hidden and waiting. I''ve been tracking them... and I''m still are, technically."

    Kaida blinked, her eyes and smile widening.

    "You''re saying there''s more? A whole bunch of these Calamities just out there, waiting to be

    found? And even fire ones?!"

    Eratz nodded.

    "Correct. But for what I''m planning, we have a little problem on the road. Weeks ago, when I

    went hunting..."

    Before he could finish, a loud crash echoed through the gym, cutting him off.

    Everyone turned sharply, startled. Victoria had fallen from her chair.

    "Victoria!" Zara and Mercury were the first to move, rushing to her side.

    They knelt down, Mercury gently placing a hand on Victoria''s arm while Zara supported her

    back.

    "Are you alright?" Mercury asked.

    Victoria raised a hand to her forehead, her other gesturing to wave off their assistance.

    "I''m fine," she muttered, her voice calm but her breathing uneven.

    She fixed her gaze to Eratz, her expression shifting into something so unexpected that it

    rendered him speechless, her composed demeanor cracking in a way he had never seen before. "You..." she began, her voice low. "Do you even understand what you''re saying?"

    Her words hung in the air, the weight of their meaning pressing on everyone as the room fell silent once more.

 Chapter 172: Legends

    Chapter 172: LegendsVictoria sat on the ground, her hands trembling slightly, as she stared at Eratz. Her composed demeanor and ironclad focus had cracked, leaving her looking vulnerable in a way no one had

    ever seen.

    Eratz was stunned. He had faced monsters, geniuses, and challenges that would break anyone. Still, Victoria, the unshakable pillar of Golden Cosmos, looking at him with such an expression of raw emotion left him speechless.

    Victoria inhaled deeply, forcing herself to steady her voice.

    "My apologies for the outburst," she said, rising shakily to her feet with the help of Zara and Mercury. "But Eratz..." She paused, her gaze sharp and piercing. "Do you even realize the weight of what you''ve just said?"

    The room fell silent, and everyone froze, waiting for her explanation.

    Victoria sat back down in her chair, her posture stiff, as though bracing herself for what she had to share. Her fingers interlaced tightly, and for the first time, there was a visible weariness in her eyes.

    "It''s a catastrophe," she began softly, almost to herself. She closed her eyes briefly, gathering her thoughts before she spoke again, her tone low and heavy. "Let me explain. The world of beast masters is deeper... darker... than any of you realize."

    The others leaned in slightly, their expressions shifting to unease as they hung on her words. Victoria''s gaze swept the room.

    "You all know the fundamentals of beast mastery. To tame a beast, we must defeat it without killing it. A balance of power and restraint. But... this has always led to a question. One that every beast master should have considered at some point." Her voice dropped. "What happens to a beast when its master dies?"

    Ryder tensed. Kaida folded her arms tightly, her jaw clenching.

    "For a long time," Victoria continued, "no one knew the answer. Some believed the beasts would vanish alongside their master. Others thought they might return to the wild, reborn as a new creature."

    She straightened, though her shoulders sagged slightly under the pressure of what she was about to reveal.

    "But one day, we got our answer. Decades ago, a story began circulating. I can''t confirm its veracity. It spoke of a beast master so formidable they were deemed untouchable. Their ultimate weapon was a beast of unmatched power, known as the Infernis Striker. This fire- winged creature could unleash an attack so devastating it left entire landscapes scorched. The attack became infamous among those who witnessed its destruction, earning the name Ashstorm Oblivion."

    Colin''s eyes widened, her calm demeanor giving way to visible discomfort. Milo tugged at Mercury''s sleeve.

    Victoria''s voice grew colder.

    "This beast master was a legend in their own right, not for wielding a legendary beast, but for commanding a special one with an attack so unique and terrifying that it was both feared and revered across the world. Yet, no matter how extraordinary, a legend remains a mortal being, bound by the same fate as all others. One day, they died, and with their passing, their legacy of beasts vanished."

    She let her words hang in the air before continuing, her voice dropping even further.

    "Years later, rumors began to spread. Someone claimed to have encountered a beast... not just similar to the Infernis Striker, but identical. The same fiery plumage. The description of its attack was the same as the legendary impossible attack, Ashstorm Oblivion."

    The room grew colder as her words settled in. Catarina''s ears.

    "That''s when the theory emerged," Victoria continued. "When a beast master dies, their beasts do not vanish. They respawn. Somewhere in the world, untamed, in the same state they were when their master died, not older, nor younger, the very same, living once again by

    themselves, and meeting one day their end."

    The air in the room felt suffocating.

    Cassie gasped softly, her hand flying to her mouth as she gripped Roger''s arm tightly. The weight of her words fell like a hammer. Ryder shifted uncomfortably, Kaida''s showed an expression of unease, and even Catarina''s ears flattened slightly, her tail flicking nervously.

    Victoria''s sharp gaze swept the room.

    "Do you understand what this means?"

    Eratz''s frown deepened. He understood. Slowly, he murmured.

    "It means... if someone wanted my beasts..."

    "They will try to kill you," Zara finished hesitantly, her voice almost a whisper.

    The room erupted into murmurs of worry. Cassie and Roger exchanged alarmed glances, their faces pale.

    "This is... this is horrifying," Roger murmured. "How can they even think of something like that?"

    Milo and Colin looked confused.

    "But... Eratz is strong! No one could..." Milo began, puffing out his chest.

    Catarina cut him off, her tone unusually sharp.

    "It''s not just about strength, kiddo. This is different. If someone''s willing to kill for power... they won''t try to get it fair and square!"

    Kaida''s lips tightened as she folded her arms.

    "Yeah, it depends on who we''re talking about. But... who would kill someone just to take their

    beasts?"

    Eratz''s voice broke through the tension, quiet but steady.

    "Obviously, another beast master." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Victoria nodded slowly.

    "Not just any beast master." Her voice was heavy, each word measured. "Someone who has been at the top, or close enough... for so long that she knows what unique beasts like these represent. A master willing to do anything to get them."

    Eratz observed her for a moment, then frowned as he processed something she said.

    "''''She''? Wait, are you talking about someone?"

    Victoria hesitated, her fingers tightening around the arms of her chair as if to anchor herself.

    "Not just her. Them. There are two... that I know."

    The room stilled. No one dared speak as Victoria''s voice dropped, filled with an

    uncharacteristic edge of fear.

    "The Queen, and the Star Crusher."

    The names landed like a thunderclap.

    Catarina''s lips parted in disbelief.

    "The Queen... The Star Crusher?" Her voice trembled.

    Ryder whispered.

    "Tamara Regalia... and Kallistra Dyscordia?"

    Zara gasped audibly, her hand flying to her mouth.

    "Those names... Victoria..."

    Victoria nodded, her expression grim.

    "You''ve heard of them. Perhaps not directly, but if you''re really a beast master, you have to

    know at least one of these names. They are the pinnacle of beast mastery. Tamara is the reigning world champion, considered by many as the strongest beast master alive. Kallistra... she''s the main reason I''m terrified for you, Eratz."

 Chapter 173: The Curse of Power

    Chapter 173: The Curse of PowerThe room was shut silent, Victoria''s words hanging like a storm cloud over everyone.

    All eyes were on her, some filled with disbelief, others with shock.

    Cassie was the first to break the tension. Her voice trembled, tinged with both disbelief and rising anger.

    "Victoria, what are you even saying?" Cassie asked, stepping forward. "You''re telling us that Eratz is in danger because of... those two? This is ridiculous. It doesn''t make any sense!"

    Victoria''s sharp eyes turned to her, steady but exhausted.

    "It makes sense," Victoria replied firmly. "If you know what drives people at that level. What I''ve just told you..."

    "No." Cassie''s voice rose, cutting Victoria off. "This is absurd. You said they are important people who are already the best right? Are you listening to yourself? Why do you bring something like that? A murder?!" her voice cracked, trembling with fury.

    Roger held a calming hand on her shoulder, but Cassie shook him off, her frustration spilling like a torrent.

    "You''re telling me my... Eratz... is the target of people like that? Do you realize what you''re saying? Do you realize how insane this sounds?"

    Cassie''s eyes glistened with unshed tears, but her anger remained. She pointed a finger toward Victoria, her voice rising to a near shout.

    "I refuse to hear his name associated with being murdered, Victoria. I won''t stand here and listen to you paint this nightmare scenario about my family!"

    The tension in the room escalated as Cassie''s words echoed. Colin stood frozen, her hands clutching the edge of her robe. Milo shifted uncomfortably beside her, his gaze darting between the adults, unsure of what to do. The others exchanged uneasy glances.

    "Cassie, stop," Roger said firmly, stepping forward to place his hands on her shoulders. "This isn''t helping."

    Cassie spun around to face him, her eyes blazing with anger and fear.

    "How can you be so calm, Roger? They''re talking about Eratz! How am I supposed to just stand here and..."

    "Cassie," Roger interrupted gently, his voice steady. "I understand. But let her finish." Cassie''s shoulders sagged slightly, but her glare remained fixed on Victoria. The room felt like it was holding its breath as Victoria took a slow, deep inhale, her exhaustion evident.

    "You''ll understand," Victoria said quietly, her tone firm despite her obvious weariness. "The reason he''s in danger... is in his blood. So, as a beast master too, Colin too is in danger."

    The words sent another wave of silence through the room. Eratz''s eyes narrowed, and Colin tilted her head, confusion flickering across her face. This time, even Mercury, frowned deeply, her arms tightening across her chest.

    Victoria leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table, her fingers interlaced as she spoke.

    "Their blood," she repeated. "The race of people closer to beasts than humans. The ones who see what no one else can. The ones who can decide if a beast is worthy or not, and more than anything, the ones who can, as Eratz has already shown us, track down unique beasts."

    Eratz''s expression darkened, understanding her words. Colin''s lips parted slightly, as though she was on the verge of asking a question, but she stayed silent, watching Victoria with wide eyes.

    "You''re talking about the Ishtarians," Eratz said, his voice low.

    Victoria nodded.

    "Yes. The Ishtarians. Your people. Your bloodline."

    Cassie stepped back, her anger now mingled with confusion.

    "What does that even mean?" she asked, her voice quieter but no less urgent. "What does our blood have to do with any of this?"

    Victoria''s eyes moved to Cassie, softening slightly.

    "It''s not just about your blood, Cassie. It''s about what someone with Ishtarian blood is capable of. In Eratz''s case, it''s about what others want to do with him. To fully understand this, you need to know something about Tamara Regalia and Kallistra Dyscordia."

    Victoria leaned back in her chair, her gaze distant, as though the memories were playing out vividly before her eyes. Her voice softened, carrying a wistful tone.

    "When I started as a beast master, I was ordinary," she began. "I didn''t come from a prestigious family or have incredible talent. My first beasts were common ones, reliable, but nothing that turned heads. I was satisfied with that."

    She chuckled softly, her expression warming.

    "I wasn''t a prodigy. I wasn''t special. But I loved it, bonding with my beasts, growing alongside them. Step by step, I worked harder and climbed the ladder in my region. Before I knew it, I had become one of the top beast masters there."

    The room was silent, drawn into Victoria''s story. Even Cassie leaned forward, her anger momentarily replaced by curiosity.

    "One day, everything changed," Victoria continued. "I was recruited by a top agency, far beyond anything I''d experienced. And there, I met the two people who would become my best friends: Tamara and Kallistra. Back then, they weren''t the legends they are today. We were just three young beast masters chasing dreams."

    Her voice softened with nostalgia.

    "Tamara was already the best. She dominated every field, especially beastification, which she took to unimaginable levels. Her relentless drive reminded me of you, Eratz."

    Eratz''s expression hardened slightly. Victoria''s gaze shifted.

    "Kallistra, on the other hand, wasn''t as naturally gifted. But she was brilliant, her ability to analyze powers and strategize was unmatched. Together, the three of us were inseparable. Tamara led us on adventures, dangerous zones, hidden training grounds. It felt like nothing could break us... But one day, something changed. We were tracking a special beast, but what we found was unlike anything we''d ever seen."

    Victoria''s tone darkened.

    "Massive, metallic scales glowing like embers. Crystalline wings sharp as blades. Its speed defied its size, and its intelligence was chilling. It was chaos," she continued. "Tamara and I fought with everything we had, our beasts, beastifications, every strategy. It felt like we were fighting a living attack. But then, in the heat of battle, everything shifted."

    Victoria''s gaze locked on Cassie.

    "Tamara''s eyes turned red."

    Cassie gasped, clutching Roger''s arm.

    "... Wait... you mean..."

    Victoria nodded. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Yes. Tamara Regalia, the strongest beast master in the world, is an Ishtarian."

    "Tamara? Ishtarian?" Cassie stammered, turning to Roger, who looked equally shaken. "You didn''t know?" Ryder asked, his tone tinged with disbelief. He glanced around at the others. "I mean... she''s the best beast master in the world. Everyone knows she''s Ishtarian."

    Kaida crossed her arms, her expression serious.

    "Yeah, it''s no secret. Makes sense if you just look at her... wait... does that sound racist?"

    Catarina''s tail flicked nervously as she leaned closer to Colin.

    "Don''t worry, you have Boss'' family pass."

    Colin said nothing, her eyes wide as she clutched her hands together. Victoria pressed on. "After Tamara''s awakening, the beast, so powerful it felt invincible, was defeated in moments. What had been a desperate struggle became her decisive victory. The beast, that massive, formidable creature, fell at her feet. We were stunned, amazed... and relieved. We thought it was over, that Tamara would naturally assimilate it as the victor. But then..."

    Victoria''s voice dropped, her tone growing heavier.

    "Tamara made a choice. A choice that none of us could have foreseen. She decided not to take the beast for herself. Instead, she handed it to Kallistra. And that decision... changed

    everything."

    The room was silent, save for the faint crackle of Raijinara''s energy.

    "For Tamara, it made sense. Kallistra was struggling back then, and having a creature of such immense power in her arsenal would help her grow. At first, I thought it was impossible. Everyone knows the rule: to tame a beast, you must defeat it yourself. The bond is forged with

    that battle. But Kallistra... she managed to do it."

    Ryder leaned forward.

    "She could assimilate it? How? She didn''t even fight the beast."

    "We didn''t know," Victoria admitted. "And we didn''t try to understand. We were just relieved she succeeded. With that beast, Kallistra soared through the ranks. She became the third strongest in our agency. It brought us closer than ever. Kallistra pushed Tamara to hunt more unique beasts, and Tamara loved it. For a while, we were unstoppable."

    Victoria''s voice grew colder.

    "But as years passed, things changed. Kallistra became insanely strong, while Tamara ascended to the world tier. Their philosophies diverged, and the bond we''d built began to

    fracture."

    Victoria leaned back in her chair, her eyes clouded with memory. "As we grew stronger, Tamara and Kallistra''s paths began to diverge. At first, it was subtle, small differences in how they approached their goals. But as time went on, it became clear their philosophies were

    fundamentally opposed."

    She paused, glancing around the room.

    "Tamara was in love with the wonder of nature. She didn''t just want to master beasts, she

    wanted to preserve their mysteries, to protect the balance of the world. To her, the unknown

    was sacred, a gift meant to inspire awe."

    Her voice lowered.

    "But Kallistra... Kallistra was different. She became obsessed with taming stronger, rarer beasts. For her, it wasn''t just about power, she was obsessed with their variety, and unicity. The more she grew, the more she craved. And that hunger drove a wedge between them."

    Victoria''s shoulders sagged slightly as she continued.

    "In the end, their views became irreconcilable. Tamara refused to keep searching for unique beasts, seeing it as exploitation of the world''s wonders. Kallistra saw it as wasting potential.

    Their bond began to crumble under the weight of their differences."

    She hesitated, her expression pained.

    "It all came to a head in a confrontation neither of them wanted but neither could avoid. They

    argued endlessly, each trying to convince the other. But when words failed, they made a

    deal."

    Victoria''s gaze darkened.

    "If Kallistra could defeat Tamara, Tamara would stay by her side as a radar for unique beasts.

    But if Tamara won, Kallistra would leave the agency. It was a challenge that neither took

    lightly."

    The room was silent, the weight of her words settling heavily.

    "They chose an isolated island for their battle, a place where they wouldn''t be disturbed. No

    one witnessed what happened there, it was just the two of them. But when the battle was

    over, the island itself was gone, wiped off the map."

    Victoria sighed deeply.

    "Tamara was undefeatable by then. She was already a world-tier beast master, her strength

    unparalleled. The result was inevitable: Tamara won the battle."

    She looked down, her tone softening.

    "The following day, Kallistra left the agency. The news caused a huge stir, everyone was

    talking about it. But for those of us who had been close to them, it wasn''t just news, it was the end of an era."

    Victoria leaned forward, her voice tinged with regret.

    "I was so broken by how they had lost themselves, by how something so pure had turned into

    this... I couldn''t stay. I left the agency soon after. It was one of the hardest decisions I''ve ever made, but I couldn''t bear to watch the aftermath."

    Her eyes flicked to the group, her voice growing heavier.

    "It was a difficult time for Tamara. She lost her closest friends, her team, and the agency

    she''d called home. She carried the weight of it all. I know she felt she''d done what was right, but it must have been unbearable."

    Victoria exhaled slowly, her gaze distant. "I still regret the way it all fell apart. We were family once, but when power and ambition got in the way, there was no turning back."

 Chapter 174: The Law of Strength

    Chapter 174: The Law of StrengthThe room was drowning in silence after Victoria''s story, heavy with the weight of what she had revealed. Everyone exchanged hesitant glances, unsure of what to say.

    Zara was the first to break the silence. She folded her arms, her voice soft and incredulous.

    "I can''t believe you had such a bond with two living legends. Tamara and Kallistra..." Her words trailed off as she shook her head. "It''s... hard to imagine them like that. You really come from very far."

    Victoria leaned back, a wistful expression softening her face.

    "They weren''t legends back then. We were just three friends chasing dreams. We were young and full of hope. But power... it really changes people."

    Her eyes shifted to Eratz, studying him with intensity.

    "You''re a genius, Eratz," she said. "Exactly like Tamara. But younger. It''s too early for you." Eratz frowned slightly, but Victoria continued.

    "Kallistra... Kallistra was a schemer. She never did anything without careful consideration. When she fought Tamara, it wasn''t because she believed she could win. It was because she had no other choice. She knew she needed Tamara to find unique beasts, and she fought a battle she was destined to lose, all because she couldn''t afford to lose an Ishtarian like this. And now..." Her voice grew heavier. "You''re exactly what convinced her to take that risk. Only this time, you''re younger, more reachable. More accessible."

    The tension in the room thickened as her words sank in.

    "If Kallistra discovers you," Victoria continued, "she will hunt you down. She will do anything to force you to work for her. Absolutely anything. And Tamara..." She exhaled slowly. "Tamara would oppose you for targeting the unique beasts she adores."

    Eratz lowered his gaze, thinking deeply. The others exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of the situation bearing down on them.

    Finally, Zara spoke up, hesitantly.

    "Eratz... I think you should stop this project. It''s too dangerous."

    Ryder nodded in agreement.

    "Yeah, bro. You heard her. This isn''t just about strength anymore... it''s sounds too dangerous."

    Eratz remained silent for a moment before finally raising his head, his expression calmer. "Victoria," he began, "at the same age... who was stronger? Me or Kallistra?"

    The question caught everyone off guard. The room tensed, eyes shifting to Victoria, who looked at Eratz with a mix of understanding and concern.

    After a pause, she nodded slowly.

    "At the same age, without unique beasts? You. You''re definitely stronger."

    The others stared at him, their worry deepening.

    "But," Victoria added, her voice firm, "Kallistra isn''t an honorable opponent. She won''t wait until you''re strong enough to fight her."

    Eratz''s gaze hardened.

    "Then I won''t wait either. I''ll get strong faster."

    Victoria''s eyes widened slightly, and the others murmured in shock. Zara stepped forward, her voice trembling slightly.

    "Eratz... you can''t be serious. She''s just thinking about your safety. Don''t you see that?" Eratz nodded.

    "I do. I understand your concern, Victoria. And I appreciate your fear. But hiding isn''t a solution. There''s no rule about what kind of beasts you can hunt, or which ones you can''t. Tamara and Kallistra are both right. And in this case, you''re wrong to oppose them, Victoria."

    "Eratz..." Zara murmured softly, her voice almost pleading.

    Eratz locked eyes with Victoria.

    "There''s only one law in the world of beast masters. Power prevails. Tamara and Kallistra force their truths through their strength. Complaining about it is pointless. If you want your truth to prevail, you have to make it happen with your own power."

    The room fell silent again, everyone digesting his words. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Cassie murmured his name, her voice tinged with worry, but Eratz continued.

    "When we joined force, we agreed to reach the top, and now you''re telling me to stop? Well, sorry, but if they have already defeated you without a fight, they haven''t lay a hand on me yet, so I''m not stopping. If I''m not allowed to hunt these beasts, then there''s no point in competing at the highest level. I''m not here to fill the numbers. I''ll keep climbing... with or without Golden Cosmos."

    The tension in the room was palpable. Zara shook her head, her voice barely a whisper.

    "Eratz..."

    But before she could continue, Mercury placed a firm hand on her shoulder.

    "Zara, stop." Mercury''s voice was steady. "Eratz is right. If there are people at the top with these powers and we have to hide him, why even try to fight? Why even sign him or Colin in the first place?" Her voice softened. "Eratz saved this agency. It''s hypocritical to ignore his wishes now."

    She stepped to Eratz''s side.

    "I stand with him."

    Kaida smirked, crossing her arms.

    "I like this philosophy thing. Strong rules? Yeah, I can get behind that. Hiding won''t change anything. If we''re going to live under fear, what''s the point? And let''s not forget, we had an agreement when we joined Crescent Moon. If the agency isn''t willing to improve the right way, I''d rather quit too, and I take the cat with me."

    "M-Mew?!" Catarina flinched.

    Raya nodded slowly, walking towards them.

    "Fear isn''t an option. It''s a..." She suddenly stumbled, her foot catching on the edge of the table, and fell face-first on the floor.

    Everyone froze, their eyes wide with shock. Raya raised her head, brushing her hair out of her

    face.

    "Well... anyway, you get the idea. We are all Eratz."

    Catarina sighed dramatically, turning to Ryder.

    "Looks like they convinced us, Ryder, nya. Let''s go."

    Ryder blinked in surprise.

    "Wait... I haven''t even made a speech yet!"

    The tension began to ease as the group exchanged lighthearted glances. Victoria, observing

    the scene, felt a pang of nostalgia.

    For a moment, she saw herself, Tamara, and Kallistra in their interactions, young, driven, and full of dreams.

    A small, bittersweet smile crossed her lips as she leaned forward.

    "You''re annoying, you know that?" Victoria said softly, her voice tinged with warmth. She fixed her sharp eyes on Eratz. "You remind me so much of Tamara. In the way you fight, in your fast progression... and even in the way you always manage to push me around."

    Eratz arched a brow, arms folded.

    "Second time for everything."

    Victoria chuckled, shaking her head.

    "Apparently. But I''ll give you this, you''re not her. You''re you, and that makes you twice as irritating." Her tone softened, her gaze steady. "Which is why I owe you an apology."

    The room grew quiet again as her words hung in the air.

    "I let my fears take over," she admitted. "I made a promise to help you reach your potential, not to hold you back. I let my past cloud my judgment, and for that, I''m sorry."

    Eratz tilted his head slightly, his smirk faint but unmistakable.

    "Glad you realized it before I had to write you off as a liability."

    Victoria''s laugh was soft, her eyes narrowing playfully.

    "Liability? Me? That''s harsh. Even I can make mistakes, you know. I''m still human."

    "Keep being human, and Zara might take your desk," Eratz replied with a faint smirk. "Sometimes people need a good wake-up slap to get back to work."

    Victoria raised a brow, leaning back in her chair.

    "Fair enough. But don''t get too cocky, Eratz. You''ve still got a lot to learn. I''ll make sure to

    give you the wake-up slap you need."

    "I''ll keep that in mind," he said casually. "As long as you keep up your end of the deal."

    Victoria''s expression softened further.

    "I understand, and you''re right. I''ve always been on your side, Eratz. I might have wavered,

    but that''s over. I promise, I''ll never let you down again."

    Her gaze shifted to the rest of the group, her voice gaining a more strength.

    "And that goes for all of you. We''re in this together. No more hesitations. No more doubts."

    Mercury stepped forward, placing a hand on Eratz''s shoulder.

    "You''ve got us, Eratz. We''re with you."

    "Till the end," Kaida added, her grin wide and sharp.

    Catarina swished her tail lazily, breaking the moment with a sly remark.

    "Till Kallistra separates you from us. Nya."

    Ryder groaned.

    "Seriously? Why do you have to ruin the vibe?"

    Catarina smirked.

    "Oh, Ryder Nya, let''s be realistic. If she pop right here, and someone has to suffer... it won''t be

    us."

    Eratz glanced at them all, his smirk softening. He gave a small nod. "Maybe now, but if we can process with the plan, then this might be different."

 Chapter 175: Red Eyes

    Chapter 175: Red EyesThe room settled into a tense silence as Eratz stepped forward, taking the lead with a calm confidence.

    His gaze swept over the group, lingering briefly on each face. The atmosphere was heavy, everyone was waiting for his next words.

    "I have more to share," he began "About the calamity beasts. And about someone I met recently and am about to betray maliciously: Rex Goldwing."

    The name landed like a thunderclap. Ryder froze mid-shift, his mouth opening slightly in shock. Kaida leaned forward, her arms tightening across her chest.

    "Wait... Rex Goldwing?" Ryder repeated in disbelief. "You''re talking about the Rex Goldwing?"

    Eratz nodded, his expression unreadable.

    "Yes. I crossed paths with him during one of my hunts. He revealed something interesting: Infinite Twilight is actively hunting the calamity beasts."

    Victoria''s sharp intake of breath broke the brief silence. Her eyes narrowed as she

    straightened, her arms crossing tightly in a defensive gesture.

    "Infinite Twilight? Hunting unique beasts?" she said, her voice low and tinged with disbelief. "How would they even know such creatures exist? Tamara wouldn''t have shared that

    information..." She trailed off, her brow furrowing as if piecing together a puzzle.

    Eratz caught her hesitation, his head tilting slightly as he asked.

    "What about another Ishtarian beast master?"

    Victoria''s body stiffened, and her eyes snapped to him, startled by the question.

    "Another...?" she echoed, her voice barely audible. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz''s gaze sharpened, his tone measured as he continued.

    "There''s a certain member of Infinite Twilight. Arin Corvasta."

    The name hung in the air for a moment, unfamiliar to most of the group but clearly triggering something to Victoria. Her expression darkened as she leaned forward.

    "What are you saying, Eratz?" she asked cautiously.

    "I''ve done some research on her," he explained. "And from what Rex shared with me, along with what I''ve found online, I''m confident that she''s a half-breed Ishtarian. Her abilities confirm it. According to Rex, she can see the names and types of beasts, just like I can."

    The room stirred uneasily, the revelation sinking in.

    "But there''s more to confirm it," Eratz continued, his voice lowering. "From the pictures I found, her eyes... they''re red too."

    Victoria''s lips parted slightly, but no words came. For a moment, she looked genuinely shaken, her carefully composed demeanor cracking.

    "Red eyes..." she murmured, her voice barely audible. "That means... she''s awakened."

    Her hands slowly clenched into fists. For a moment, her gaze dropped, lost in thought, before she snapped back to the present.

    She looked directly at Eratz, her sharp eyes searching his face as if trying to find some explanation.

    "Arin Corvasta... a half-breed Ishtarian," she repeated, her tone heavy, almost disbelieving. "If what you''re saying is true, then... this changes everything."

    Ryder let out

    nervous laugh, scratching the back of his head.

    "Okay, so... we''ve got Infinite Twilight chasing after these beasts, and they have an awakened Ishtarian to help them? Well... I guess that gives us a reason to look for these beasts too, huh? If Infinite Twilight''s on it, we can''t fall behind!" His voice wavered slightly, betraying his

    unease.

    Victoria''s expression hardened as she straightened in her seat.

    "No, Ryder. This isn''t fine. Eratz said that Infinite Twilight has difficulties finding them, but he managed to locate one so easily. There''s more with this ishtarian''s ability," Her gaze drifted to Colin, lingering thoughtfully.

    "Colin," she said softly, her voice tinged with curiosity. "...Cassie. Can either of you... see anything about Eratz''s beasts?"

    Cassie exchanged a confused glance with Colin.

    "I''ve never tried before," she admitted, her tone hesitant. "But... I guess I can try."

    Both focused their attention on Raijinara and Cinderblaze, their brows furrowing as they concentrated.

    After a few moments, Cassie sighed and shook her head.

    "I can''t see anything," she muttered, glancing at Victoria before pointing vaguely. "Just the yellow bird and our butler."

    Victoria blinked, taken aback.

    "Your what?"

    Before Cassie could respond, Colin gasped softly, her hands flying to cover her mouth. Her wide eyes flickered with uncertainty as her voice wavered.

    "I... I saw something," she whispered.

    Everyone froze, turning their attention to her.

    "[Name: ???

    Type: ???]" she recited, her tone hesitant.

    She looked up at Victoria, her expression filled with confusion. "That''s all it said. It didn''t

    give me anything else."

    Eratz''s lips curved into a faint smile.

    "You did great, Colin," he said. "That''s more than I expected."

    Colin''s cheeks heated slightly as she glanced down. Roger''s lips pressed into a thin line as his

    gaze darted between Colin and Eratz.

    "Colin..." he said quietly, turning to his daughter. "What did you see? Can you explain it

    again?"

    Colin hesitated, her fingers tightening on the edge of her robe.

    "It was just... weird symbols. That''s all. It didn''t make sense." She glanced nervously at Eratz,

    who nodded at her encouragingly.

    Cassie exhaled sharply, running a hand through Colin''s hair.

    "This is... strange," she admitted, her voice wavering. "We''ve never talked about anything like this before. Colin, you''ve never shown signs of... whatever this is."

    Colin looked down at her hands.

    "I didn''t know I could do this, Mom, Dad. But... it felt like something was there. Like I knew it

    already."

    Victoria leaned back, her fingers tapping lightly on the table as she processed Colin''s

    response.

    "Interesting," she murmured. "So you can see something, but it''s incomplete. This is... unexpected. Let''s test something else. Catarina, summon a normal beast."

    Catarina rolled her eyes dramatically but stepped forward, stretching.

    "Alright, fine. But you''d better appreciate this."

    She summoned a small, rotund cat, which landed on the ground with a heavy thud before

    promptly curling up and falling asleep.

    Kaida snorted, while Ryder chuckled.

    "No comment!" Catarina retorted before they could speak, her ears twitching in annoyance.

    Colin stepped forward hesitantly, her hands trembling slightly. She closed her eyes and focused. Moments later, she spoke again.

    "Name: Purrloaf... Type: Normal."

    Victoria''s frown deepened as she leaned back, crossing her arms.

    "So it''s true. Tamara could track unique beasts, Eratz can too, but Kallistra always claimed something about Tamara being unique. I haven''t seen Kallistra in years, so I don''t know what her search has uncovered. But now I''m sure of one thing. Every Ishtarian beast master can see characteristics. But only two, for now, can track unique beasts."

    Her gaze snapped back to Eratz, her voice growing firmer.

    "This confirms it. Kallistra will hunt you, Eratz."

    The tension in the room thickened once more, and the group exchanged uneasy glances.

    Victoria sighed heavily, shaking her head.

    "Tamara. Kallistra. Infinite Twilight. This operation is going to bring us enemies at every

    turn."

    Eratz nodded, his expression calm but resolute.

    "The story of my childhood then. Let''s do it."

    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile.

    "From tomorrow, we''ll begin training together. And Eratz..." Her voice softened as she

    leaned forward. "I''m giving you free rein to decide how we proceed with your hunt."

    Catarina bumped her shoulder against Eratz, grinning.

    "Our hunt, right, Boss?"

    Before Eratz could respond, Kaida joined in, nudging him from the other side.

    "Yeah, man. Our beasts, right?"

    Ryder let out an exaggerated groan.

    "You beast diggers."

    The group''s laughter echoed through the room, easing the tension as the camaraderie

    returned.

    As the group began to head out of the room, the tension of the night giving way to a lighter atmosphere, Mercury walked toward the exit alongside Eratz and his family.

    Just as they reached the doorway, Zara called out behind them.

    "Hey, Mercury!" Zara''s voice was unusually loud, tinged with nervousness.

    Mercury stopped and turned, her expression neutral but curious.

    "What is it?" she asked, watching as Zara hesitated, gesturing awkwardly with her hands.

    It was as if Zara wanted to say something but couldn''t quite find the words.

    Mercury frowned, tilting her head. "What... are you doing?"

    Eratz, standing beside her, sighed and rubbed his forehead like a tired parent witnessing a

    familiar spectacle.

    "Unripe fruit hunter behavior..." he muttered under his breath, shaking his head in mock

    exasperation.

    Zara groaned, throwing her hands up dramatically before hesitating again.

    This time, her face twisted into an exaggerated pout.

    She looked as though she might cry, her voice trembling with theatrical sadness.

    "Child!" she exclaimed, pointing toward Mercury. "Still a child!"

    Eratz'' jaw dropped.

    "Oh my God..."

    Mercury''s eyes widened as she realized. She flinched, scrambling for an excuse.

    "I... uh... just remembered I have something to take care of first. You guys go ahead without me."

    Her voice came out rushed, and without waiting for a response, she spun on her heel and hurried off in the opposite direction.

    Eratz watched her retreat with a mix of amusement and pity.

    "Don''t try too hard," he called after her, his voice carrying over the soft murmur of the

    departing crowd. "Only a psychiatrist can fix her... or a dwarf."

    "Fuck you Eratz!" Zara lamented, holding her head in her hands.

    Eratz smirked.

    "Please, I''m pretty much riped, in every sense."

    Back inside, Mercury sat with Zara and Victoria, her expression clouded with frustration.

    Zara fidgeted, embarrassed with a flushed face.

    "I''m sorry for not realizing sooner," Mercury said quietly.

    Victoria waved her hand dismissively.

    "It''s fine. But what''s your plan for Milo''s contract?" Mercury hesitated, biting her lip. Zara tilted her head curiously.

    "Why hesitate? You''re famous now. It should be simple."

    Mercury exhaled sharply, glaring at her phone.

    "That''s the problem. Ever since the finals, I''ve been flooded these calls."

    The room fell silent, tension simmering between them. Victoria frowned, her sharp eyes

    narrowing.

    "... That should have been... expected," she observed.

    Mercury nodded grimly.

    "I hate this," she muttered. "But for Milo... I have to do it."

    Victoria''s gaze softened.

    "Do what you need to. But remember, we''ll always have your back." Mercury nodded, clutching her phone tightly, then, she started dialing a number.

 Chapter 176: Resonance of the Abyss

    Chapter 176: Resonance of the AbyssThe days that followed were intense for Eratz and his team.

    Their ambitious plan to hunt calamity beasts and match each one to the team''s abilities required precision and caution.

    Eratz''s flying beasts scouted tirelessly, identifying several targets at the end of the trails.

    However, some calamity beasts had already destroy Eratz''s flying beasts during reconnaissance.

    Catarina tried negotiating with Eratz about an hypothetical "cat calamity," to which Eratz bet Milo''s fatherhood that such a beast wouldn''t exist.

    Their training evolved as they traveled, blending endurance, aura control, field spell practice, and mock battles.

    They would individually take breaks for sponsor obligations or matches, rejoining the hunt soon after.

    For their first targets, Eratz chose a cautious approach: select beasts where elemental advantages were clear. Mercury, with her water abilities, would partner with Kaida to face a fire-type beast, while Eratz would be on water types. For plant types, he and Kaida would team up.

    If the element was different, Eratz'' presence was mandatory.

    It was early one of these mornings when Eratz stood on a rocky outcrop above a vast, tranquil lake.

    The air was crisp, the horizon painted with soft hues of dawn.

    Behind him stood Mercury, Ryder, and Catarina, all watching in silence. The scene was serene, but tension lingered in the air.

    This was their first direct confrontation with a calamity beast in this expedition.

    Eratz inhaled deeply, his shoulders rising and falling.

    The faint hum of Raijinara''s energy surrounded him, flickering like static electricity across his body.

    His eyes glowed faintly as he shifted into spiritual mode, channeling the aura of Raijinara. He raised his hand, and with a calm motion, unleashed a wave of pure aura into the lake. The energy surged forward, rippling across the surface like liquid lightning.

    The lake''s placid waters transformed as the energy struck. The wave expanded, glowing with a radiant, golden-yellow hue.

    Trails of light danced across the surface, tracing intricate patterns.

    The energy seemed to cover the lake in its embrace for a moment, illuminating every ripple and shadow, and then, the aura seeped into the depths, sending light pulses cascading downward like threads weaving into the deep.

    The aftermath was stunning. The lake shimmered with residual lightning, arcs of golden energy sparking intermittently across its surface.

    Shadows and light interplayed beneath the water, hinting at movement below.

    Eratz observed the lake, his gaze scanning the surface.

    His lips curled into a faint smile, though his eyes narrowed.

    "There he is," he murmured with a smirk.

    Behind him, Mercury stepped forward, Catarina tilted her head, her eyes fixed as if she could sense the tension in the air. Ryder observed the lake nervously.

    The lake began to shift as if responding to Eratz''s special greeting, the gentle ripples morphing into larger waves.

    The arcs of lightning dancing across the water crackled more intensely, reflecting off the surface in dazzling patterns.

    A low hum resonated through the air, deep and rhythmic, like the heartbeat of the lake itself. Suddenly, the stillness broke.

    The water at the lake''s center swirled violently, spiraling into a vortex. The vortex deepened, revealing an abyss of churning, glowing depths.

    Lightning coiled around the edges of the whirlpool, casting brilliant flashes across the landscape.

    Mist rose from the disturbance, shimmering with faint hues of blue and gold, catching the early morning light like a halo.

    From the heart of the maelstrom, a form emerged.

    At first, it was just a shadow, a dark silhouette gliding effortlessly through the chaos.

    Then, with a burst, the creature breached the surface.

    A massive form rose, breaking through the vortex with an elegance that defied its size.

    The beast was a figure of wonder of nature, its long, sinuous neck arching gracefully like a living wave.

    Its sleek, sapphire scales shimmered with a liquid brilliance, reflecting the sunlight in rippling hues of blue and silver.

    Fins, wide and powerful, extended like translucent sails, glowing faintly as they cut through the water.

    Its head was both elegant, with piercing blue eyes that shone like twin stars beneath the

    surface.

    As it rose higher, it let out a resonant, haunting cry that echoed across the valley. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury stepped closer, her breath catching as she stared at the creature.

    "It''s... so beautiful," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Ryder looked wide-eyed and awestruck, his earlier nervousness replaced with pure wonder.

    Catarina tilted her head slightly.

    "That''s... definitely not the fish I was expecting..." she murmured.

    Eratz''s smile widened, though his eyes remained sharp and calculating.

    "Now," he said softly, "this looks like a unique beast."

    The beast observed them for a moment, sending ripples of light across the water,

    Then, with a fluid, sudden motion, it submerged, leaving only the sparkling remnants of its

    trail.

    The whirlpool began to reform, the lake shifting into a new pattern of movement.

    Eratz turned to the group, his expression calm but intense, his voice unwavering.

    "Mercury," he said, locking eyes with her, "get ready."

    Mercury straightened, her awe giving way to focus. This was her moment.

    The calamity beast broke through the water with a roar that rippled through the valley, its sapphire scales shimmering and its serpentine body swaying with an elegance, its glowing fins slicing through the air like translucent blades.

    Eratz smirked, Raijinara''s energy crackling around him.

    Lightning began to envelop his body as he activated his beastification with Raijinara.

    His body transformed, arcs of golden electricity surging across his skin. Lightning wings extended from his back, crackling with energy, and his eyes glowed fiercely.

    The beast roared, its cry shaking the lake as its long, body rushed forward, sending massive waves crashing to the shore.

    Eratz shot into the air, his glowing wings spreading behind him. Lightning crackled around him, pushing him upward like a flash of light.

    The beast opened its huge jaws, firing a jet of water straight at him. The blast ripped through

    the mist, sharp and fast. Eratz raised his hand, sending a bolt of lightning to meet it.

    The two forces clashed, sending a shower of glowing droplets into the air. Without waiting, Eratz formed a ball of lightning in his hand. It glowed brighter as energy crackled around it.

    The beast lunged again, its fins slicing through the water, but Eratz hurled the ball downward.

    The glowing orb slammed into the beast''s back with an explosion of light and sound.

    The lake erupted, water shooting into the air as lightning danced across the beast''s

    shimmering scales.

    It roared and thrashed, its tail swinging up to strike, but Eratz easily dodged, moving faster

    than the beast could react.

    The lake churned as the creature created a giant whirlpool.

    Water twisted into spinning jets, firing at Eratz one after another. He moved with ease, dodging each attack, leaving streaks of golden light in his wake.

    Each missed jet slammed into the cliffs around the lake, breaking rocks into pieces. Mercury''s frown deepened. Her water marks began to shimmer faintly, her aura subtly rising

    as she prepared herself.

    Eratz pressed the advantage, darting across the battlefield like a living bolt of lightning.

    His movements were fluid and precise, each strike landing with calculated force. The beast was strong, but the overwhelming speed and power of Raijinara''s beastification left it

    struggling to keep up.

    Finally, the creature roared and began to retreat into the depths.

    Eratz reacted immediately, his hand shot up, a surge of lightning crackling around him.

    His field spell expanded outward, a brilliant web of lightning streaking across the lake''s surface, illuminating the water with flashes of light.

    Each arc of electricity raced toward the beast, trapping it in an intricate storm of electricity. The lake trembled as the beast thrashed violently against the electrified barrier. Waves surged in all directions, crashing against the rocky shores with deafening force.

    Eratz stood firm, his gaze sharp, directing the storm with the precision of a maestro commanding an orchestra.

    The golden light reflected in his eyes as he funneled his energy to keep the beast contained.

    Suddenly, a shift in the air pulled his attention.

    Eratz paused, lowering his arm slightly as he felt it, a powerful, rising energy approaching

    from beneath him.

    A faint smirk formed as he recognized the source.

    Mercury.

    Her aura was flaring with a fierce intensity. The storm around her seemed to bend and swirl in

    tandem with her steps.

    Eratz descended back to earth, taking a few steps back, his wings folding as he deactivated his

    field spell, leaving the beast still thrashing in the electrified lake.

    "The scene is yours," he murmured under his breath, stepping to the edge of the shore to

    watch.

    Ryder and Catarina, standing nearby, exchanged glances.

    "Here we go," Ryder said. Catarina nodded, her ears twitching as she crouched, ready to jump

    in if needed.

    Mercury''s aura surged with every step, the water rippling in waves around her. Her glowing

    water marks pulsed in time with the rhythm of her breathing, spreading across her body as her

    transformation began.

    The air around her shifted, spiraling into controlled gusts that picked up speed with every

    moment.

    The beast roared again, its massive body twisting in the water, but its movements slowed as if it, too, felt the danger that was coming.

    Mercury''s water beastification emerged first, her body covered in glowing marks resembling

    rippling tides.

    Streams of water coiled around her arms, rising and falling with her movements like living extensions of her power.

    Her hair shimmered, streaked with silver, moving like a current.

    The beast lunged forward, its sapphire eyes glowing with renewed fury, but Mercury

    remained unfazed.

    Her aura flared brighter, the transformation reaching its peak.

    The air and water around her merged into a storm of energy as Zephyraquiel''s power

    enveloped her.

    Translucent wings formed on her back, their edges glowing with an mystical blue light.

    The gusts around her sharpened into cutting winds, while the water surged into massive,

    swirling torrents.

    Mercury stepped onto the lake, her eyes glowing with a fierce mix of oceanic and stormy hues.

    The beast roared again, but this time it was different, less defiance.

    It surged forward to meet her, the water around it rising.

    The two forces clashed, a storm of water and wind colliding with the beast''s overwhelming

    presence.

    Ryder and Catarina''s eyes tensed, Eratz watched attentively.

    Mercury raised her arms, the storm around her intensifying as she prepared for her most

    important battle till now.

    The calamity beast let out a final, resonant cry, its glowing eyes locked on her as they faced each other in the heart of the storm.

 Chapter 178: Burden

    Chapter 178: BurdenThe team''s hunt for calamity beasts continued with relentless intensity, each battle and assimilation shaping their skills and teamwork.

    The rhythm remained the same: train, hunt, assimilate, but the challenges multiplied as they progressed.

    With Mercury''s new water beast, the team found it significantly easier to handle fire-type calamities.

    They turned their focus to hunting a powerful fire calamity for Kaida.

    During the battle, Kaida, tried to face the beast head-on in a one on one.

    The confrontation was ferocious, with Kaida pushing her limits against a formidable opponent.

    Despite her best efforts, the beast''s strength overwhelmed her, forcing Mercury and Raya to intervene.

    The battle became a grueling test of coordination and resilience. With great difficulty, the three barely managed to subdue the beast.

    However, the victory came at a cost, Kaida was gravely injured and needed several days of rest to recover.

    Her absence left a noticeable gap in the team''s momentum.

    The remaining hunts grew increasingly challenging.

    The calamity beasts became harder to track, constantly on the move.

    Eratz focused on targeting those that stayed in one location, reasoning that stationary beasts might be less dangerous.

    Yet, this strategy troubled him, he couldn''t shake the feeling that the elusive, roaming calamities were far more powerful.

    The team soon faced another unexpected obstacle: assimilation required a bond between the tamer and the beast, normally through a battle.

    Without this connection, the beast would resist being subdued, much like Eratz''s initial encounter with the Thunder Lycaon.

    For members like Ryder, Colin, Milo and Catarina, who were clearly outmatched in direct combat, this posed a significant problem.

    They lacked the raw power to earn a calamity beast''s respect through dominance.

    Their only hope was to be "chosen," much like how the Aetheri had accepted Eratz without a fight.

    Milo''s assimilation attempt with the forest spirit was a real miracle.

    For three exhausting days, he tried tirelessly to connect with the beast. During this time, the team remained close, ensuring the spirit calamity couldn''t flee or recover its strength.

    Kaida suggested weakening the beast further, arguing it would increase their chances of

    success.

    But Milo, refusing to attack a spirit in this state, stood in her way, defending it.

    This act of compassion created a rare moment of synchronicity between Milo and the forest spirit. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    On the third day, the beast finally shared its energy with Milo, forging their bond.

    The boy''s perseverance paid off, and he successfully assimilated the calamity beast.

    What followed was an unprecedented situation.

    When a beast was assimilated without a dominant bond, the relationship between master and beast remained tenuous.

    Kaida and Milo both struggled with their new calamity beasts.

    The beasts consumed an immense amount of energy to use, leaving Milo drained after mere seconds and Kaida unable to activate her beastification at all since she couldn''t dominate her beast.

    Their incomplete bonds rendered the beasts more like unstable weapons than reliable partners.

    To regain control, both Kaida and Milo temporarily stepped back from the hunts, focusing on intensive training under Raya''s guidance.

    This pause was necessary to build their strength and establish proper synchronization with their calamity beasts.

    While Kaida and Milo adapted to their powerhouses, Eratz took on the daunting task of finding suitable calamities for Catarina, Ryder, and Colin.

    Knowing their unique abilities required a visible link to their beasts, he meticulously scouted the elusive, moving calamities, focusing on one team member at a time.

    This decision led to Eratz disappearing with each of them for weeks, taking on the hunts almost entirely on his own. Despite his determination, his efforts met with limited success, five hunts ended in failure, with the beasts either escaping or proving incompatible.

    The grueling solo hunts stretched over two months, leaving the team worn with many up and down.

    By the end of this period, Kaida and Milo had made significant progress, but there was still much to learn.

    They had faced setbacks, made breakthroughs, and grown stronger together. Yet, the challenges ahead were bigger.

    With the new season officially beginning, the team knew the real trials were about to start.

    While Eratz was deep in the wilderness with Colin, Victoria gathered the team in a quiet room at Golden Cosmos'' headquarters.

    The atmosphere was heavy, a mix of unease and frustration lingering in the air.

    Kaida leaned back in her chair, arms crossed. Milo fidgeted, his gaze flitting between his hands and the floor.

    Mercury stood tall, her calm composure masking the concern in her eyes.

    Victoria stood at the center of the room. Her gaze swept over them, her expression calm but thoughtful.

    "I asked you all here because we need to have an honest conversation," she began, her tone measured. "I can see it in your faces, the frustration, the doubt. You thought we''d be collecting calamity beasts by now, moving forward. But here we are, struggling to control a single beast. It''s not failure. It''s a reflection of just how daunting this truly is."

    She paused, her words sinking in. There was no judgment in her tone, only understanding.

    "Right now, Mercury is the only one of you truly in sync with her beast," Victoria continued. "That''s not an indictment of your skills. It''s a reminder of the magnitude of what we''re attempting. Calamity beasts are unlike anything else. What Eratz is leading us through is a challenge unlike any other."

    Kaida leaned forward, her voice tinged with irritation.

    "You''re making it sound like we''re doing it on purpose, you know how hard it is?"

    Victoria shook her head, her voice softening.

    "No, Kaida. That''s not what I''m saying. I understand how ridiculous this might sound coming from me, someone who doesn''t even have a unique beast of her own. But I''ve seen what happens when someone tries to carry the weight of something this big alone. What we''re doing with Eratz now... it reminds me of what Kallistra did with Tamara."

    Her words hung in the air, drawing the room into a tense silence.

    Kaida frowned.

    "Are you really associating us with your crazy old friend?"

    Victoria''s gaze softened.

    "I''m saying you''ve leaned on him too much. Eratz is carrying this hunt because he believes in

    all of you. But if you continue to let him carry everything, you''ll lose the chance to grow with

    him, and worse, you might lose him."

    She stepped closer, her voice firm but encouraging.

    "You''re his team. His friends. His family. You need to rise with him, not behind him. Don''t

    wait for him to hand you the fruits of his labor. Prove to him, and to yourselves, that you can fight just as hard, push just as far, and lead when the time comes."

    Victoria looked at them with a small smile.

    "Eratz doesn''t need followers, he needs equals. You''ve seen what he''s capable of, and I know

    how much potential each of you holds. Now it''s time to show him, and yourselves, that you''re

    not just part of his journey. Build your own legacy."

    The room was silent for a long moment. Then, one by one, their expressions shifted.

    Kaida''s fiery determination returned, her lips curving into a faint smirk. Ryder sat up straighter, his nervous energy replaced with resolve.

    Catarina''s ears twitched, her playful demeanor vanishing as she leaned forward.

 Chapter 180: Heat and Rain

    Chapter 180: Heat and RainThe volcanic peak pulsed with unbearable heat, the air rippling as waves of molten energy emanated from the plateau.

    The phoenix stood in the center, its golden feathers blazing with light, its eyes piercing as they bore into Colin.

    The young girl stood a few steps ahead of Eratz, her shoulders tight, her fists trembling, but her resolve growing stronger.

    "Feel the energy inside you," Eratz said from behind her, his voice calm but commanding. "Let it move through you. Don''t fight it, control it. Use what you need and keep the rest. You''re the one in charge here."

    Colin took a sharp breath, her fingers flexing as she focused.

    Her heart pounded in her chest, a drumbeat of fear and anticipation.

    She closed her eyes, searching for the fire within her.

    The initial spark flickered faintly, but as she inhaled deeply, the flames began to grow, dancing around her like shadows finding form.

    "Good," Eratz said, stepping closer, his calm voice cutting through the oppressive heat. "Push it further. Build it, but don''t let it explode yet. Control it."

    The trembling in Colin''s fists eased as the flames around her swirled brighter, their heat merging with the searing atmosphere of Eratz''s field spell.

    Her crimson aura collided with the fiery dome surrounding the battlefield, the combined energy warping the air into a shimmering haze.

    The phoenix screeched, its massive wings sending waves of golden fire crashing toward them. The ground quaked under its power.

    "Stay calm!" Eratz called sharply, holding steady against the beast''s flames. "You''re a fire user too, nothing here can hurt you. Match your energy to mine, try try to imitate it as much as you can. Make it yours, Colin."

    The roar of the flames filled her ears, but Colin''s fear melted away, replaced by a fierce determination.

    Her fingers stopped trembling, and her fists clenched with purpose.

    Her crimson aura surged brighter, bending the wild flames around her to her will.

    Her eyes snapped open, glowing molten red.

    With a scream of pure resolve, she thrust her arms outward, and her aura erupted into a towering dome of fire that consumed the battlefield.

    It was her first field spell.

    The phoenix roared in response, its golden blaze surging forward to meet her crimson inferno.

    The air crackled as their powers collided, the heat and brilliance of the clash swallowing the plateau.

    Eratz stepped back, his field spell dissolving to let Colin''s fire overtake it completely.

    His smirk was faint but proud as he watched from behind her.

    "Good," he murmured to himself. "Now get ready. This is your battle now."

    With another scream, Colin surged forward, her aura blazing unyieldingly.

    The phoenix''s piercing gaze met hers, and its screech echoed as it spread its massive wings.

    The two forces clashed in a storm of fire and light.

    Far away, beneath a shroud of rain and mist, the city of Arcanis bustled with its own chaotic energy.

    Neon lights reflected off rain-soaked streets, their colors blending with the glow of traffic signals and shop signs.

    Skyscrapers pierced the low-hanging clouds, their steel and glass exteriors gleaming under the downpour.

    Pedestrians moved hurriedly under umbrellas, and cars sent waves of rainwater rippling across the slick pavement.

    Amidst this urban sprawl stood a colossal structure, seamlessly connected to a towering

    arena.

    The Infinite Twilight Headquarters was a symbol of strength and prestige, housing some of the most skilled and renowned beast masters in the world.

    Inside, the sleek reception area gleamed with polished floors, and walls adorned with holographic screens displayed iconic battles and legendary victories.

    Staff moved with purpose, their steps brisk but controlled.

    Deeper within lay the training arena, alive with tension.

    Fighters and trainees lined the edges, murmuring among themselves as they watched the aftermath of a recent sparring match.

    At the center of the arena, a girl knelt on the ground, breathing heavily as medics checked her

    over.

    "You didn''t have to go that far," one of them said, his voice low but firm. "She''s not on your level."

    Nyx stood nearby, brushing a strand of dark hair behind her ear. Her striking features were calm, but her sharp eyes carried a flicker of irritation.

    "If she couldn''t handle me, she shouldn''t have stepped into the ring," Nyx said dismissively, her tone laced with condescension. "She wasted my time. Honestly, this is ridiculous. If they''re not ready, they should just stay in the training center." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her words cut through the arena, silencing the murmurs. Most of the trainees avoided her gaze, their unease palpable.

    Nyx scanned the group, her lips curling into a sly smile.

    "Next," she said simply. "Or maybe a group of you? If you''re scared, you can all come at

    once."

    The trainees hesitated, exchanging nervous glances. The silence stretched until a calm, measured voice broke it.

    "Taking down weaklings one at a time or all at once, it''s still a waste of time."

    All heads turned toward the speaker. Arin stepped forward, adjusting her round glasses with deliberate precision.

    Her pixie-cut white hair framed her calm face, her tanned skin gleaming under the arena

    lights.

    Nyx raised an eyebrow, her smirk fading.

    "Oh, no, it''s the police," she said lazily. "What''s up, Arin? Got some wisdom to share? Or are

    you here to bore me to death?"

    Arin''s voice was even.

    "You''re bored because you''re impatient. You fight trainees and act surprised when they''re no match for you. This is only a training, what do you expect? Maybe the problem isn''t them.

    Maybe it''s you."

    The crowd murmured, a ripple of shock spreading through the trainees. Nyx''s smile vanished entirely, replaced by a cold glare.

    "You talk a lot for someone who''s never training," Nyx said, stepping closer. "Careful, or

    you''ll find out what it''s like to lose to me."

    "Why would I train with people that I could defeat without trying?" Arin said calmly. "But I suppose that''s why you''re still in the regional league?"

    The tension in the room grew thick. Nyx''s hands curled into fists, her eyes narrowing.

    "Fine, four eyes," she said coldly. "Why don''t we see if I''m still at the regional level?"

    Their standoff was interrupted by a firm, commanding voice.

    "Enough."

    Everyone turned as Sia entered, her damp hair clinging to her sharp features.

    The room fell silent, her mere presence cutting through the tension like a blade.

    Sia''s cold gaze swept across the room.

    "Stop wasting time," she said, her tone calm but firm. "We have a meeting with the leader.

    Let''s go."

    Arin adjusted her glasses, stepping back without a word. Nyx rolled her eyes but followed,

    muttering under her breath.

    The trainees remained frozen, stunned by Sia''s appearance.

    "It''s her..." one of them whispered, their voice barely audible. "Why are all of them here

    today?" "Three aces in one day," another murmured. "It has to be for the team battles."

    The three entered a sleek conference room lined with holographic screens. Already seated was a girl chewing gum, Iris, the fighter who had humiliated Kenny in the

    Grushia tournament.

    Beside her sat a slim teenager with short yellow hair, scrolling through his phone.

    Across the table, a man with fiery red hair leaned back in his chair, arms crossed.

    In the corner, a young boy with bright orange hair struggled to stay awake, his head bobbing forward before he caught himself.

    Sia entered the room, taking a seat with a composed grace. Nyx slouched into a chair with an exaggerated sigh, while Arin sat rigidly, adjusting her glasses once more.

    Sia scanned the room, frowning. "Where is he?"

    Iris smirked, her tone amused. "Forgotten, probably. Or maybe he got lost."

    Sia pinched the bridge of her nose, muttering under her breath.

    "Why is it so hard to learn discipline?"

    "Because discipline doesn''t feed. Results do."

    All heads turned as a man stepped into the room. His sharp, angular features and piercing

    gaze demanded attention.

    Dressed in a long black coat with gold accents, he exuded authority.

    "You can be as disorganized as you like," he said smoothly, his voice carrying a quiet power.

    "As long as you get the job done."

    He stepped to the head of the table, his gaze sweeping over the group.

    "Now," he said, his tone calm but commanding. "Let''s begin."

 Chapter 181: Project Calamity

    Chapter 181: Project CalamityThe aces of the agency were sitting around the sleek conference table, and at the head of the table stood Don Tiberius Leonidas, the man whose name commanded fear and respect across the continent.

    Leonidas radiated power, his gold hair flowing down his back like a lion''s mane. Rings adorned his fingers, their intricate designs catching the light with every subtle motion.

    His piercing blue eyes were set in a face as sharp as a blade, and his perfectly tailored black suit, trimmed with gold accents, further emphasized his leader aura.

    When he spoke, his voice was smooth, calm, and unnervingly authoritative.

    "There are rare moments," he began, sitting slowly on his chair, "when an agency''s strongest assets come together. These moments are not just for strategy, they are a statement. A declaration of power. And your presence here today is no exception."

    His gaze swept across the room, pausing briefly on each of the assembled fighters.

    "It is vital that an agency does more than wield strength. It must unite it. Public confidence rises when the elite stand together. Sponsors line up. Recruits flood in. Rivals... hesitate. You represent Infinite Twilight at its peak."

    Despite the weight of his words, the reactions around the room varied wildly.

    The young boy with bright orange hair, Sikver, was already losing his battle against sleep.

    He slouched further into his chair, his head nodding forward before jerking back, eyelids fluttering as he fought to stay awake. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Nyx, her dark eyes half-lidded, tapped her fingers rhythmically against the table, her gaze wandering lazily to the elaborate carvings on the ceiling.

    Iris, her gum snapping softly in the silence, casually inspected her nails, her expression indifferent, as if the meeting was a minor inconvenience.

    Finn, the teenager with short yellow hair, smirked as he scrolled through his phone, clearly absorbed in whatever entertained him more than the room''s tension.

    By contrast, Sia sat upright, her sharp gaze locked onto Leonidas, her focus unwavering.

    Beside her, Devak leaned forward slightly, his fiery red hair catching the light as he watched in silence.

    Even Arin, her round glasses reflecting the overhead lights, adjusted them slightly as her composed expression remained on Leonidas.

    Leonidas continued, his tone cold and measured.

    "Our agenda today includes discussions on recent matches, resource allocation, and updates to the roster for the upcoming team battles."

    He paused, his sharp gaze snapping to Nyx, whose fingers froze mid-tap.

    "This is a pivotal moment for us... but let''s not waste time pretending this bullshit is some morale-boosting lecture."

    Suddenly, he slammed his fist onto the table, the sound reverberating through the room.

    Silver jolted awake, blinking rapidly, his orange hair sticking up awkwardly as he glanced around in confusion.

    Nyx straightened in her seat, startled, while Iris let out an annoyed click of her tongue, her gum popping loudly.

    Finn flinched slightly, dropping his phone onto the table, muttering under his breath as he hastily grabbed it.

    Leonidas'' tone sharpened, cutting through the silence like a blade.

    "What matters," he said, his voice resonating rising, "is where we stand on Project Calamity."

    The atmosphere shifted abruptly at the mention of the project. The casual postures of the room faded as tension filled the air.

    Leonidas'' piercing gaze swept over the group, his commanding presence bearing down on them.

    His eyes settled on Sia.

    "Report."

    Sia uncrossed her arms, leaning forward slightly, her expression unreadable.

    "There''s been no progress," she said plainly. "I''m still adapting to Nivalys. I can barely manage beastification, let alone consider another beast. Even if I succeed, I wouldn''t be able to assimilate anything else right now."

    Leonidas'' gaze shifted to Nyx, who sighed and shrugged.

    "I''ve been focused on training for the national league," she said, her tone slightly annoyed. "If you want me to drop everything to chase invisible beasts, fine, but don''t expect miracles

    later."

    Silver yawned loudly before sitting up straighter, scratching the back of his head.

    "I''ve been trying," he said, his voice groggy. "No luck. I''ll just waste time if I keep looking for something that doesn''t want to be found."

    Devak spoke next, his tone calm but tinged with frustration.

    "I have no excuses," he admitted. "I''ve searched everywhere, but it''s impossible to locate them. Frankly, I''m starting to question if this ''Ice Calamity'' isn''t a joke."

    Leonidas'' gaze turned to Arin, who met it without flinching.

    "Sadly for you, your lack of results isn''t on me. The beasts are unique," she said evenly, her voice steady. "That makes them infinitely rare. It''s not a lack of expertise, it''s the nature of what we''re hunting. And if you doubt my abilities, what''s about showing your strongest beast and I tell everyone what are its skills?"

    One by one, the excuses filled the room. As the last words hung in the air, Leonidas slammed his hand onto the table again, the force of it silencing the room instantly.

    "Incompetence," he growled, his blue eyes blazing. "You are the best this agency has to offer, yet you can''t manage a single successful hunt? Unacceptable."

    He straightened, his golden hair catching the light as his voice rose, cold and commanding.

    "You''ve all been chosen because you are supposed to be our best. The very best. Yet here you sit, parading your excuses like failures masquerading as aces."

    The room fell silent under his glare, his words cutting deep as he loomed over them.

    "Let me make one thing clear," he continued, his tone like ice. "I don''t care about your setbacks. I care about results. Find these beasts. Prove to me you''re worthy of the title you carry, or don''t bother coming back."

    The room remained steeped in tension. The aces exchanged brief glances, their expressions a mixture of frustration and uncertainty.

    Finally, Nyx broke the silence. She took a deep breath, her tone calm but edged with

    politeness.

    "Don Leonidas," she said carefully, "why are you so certain these beasts even exist? What makes them worth the effort if no one has even seen them? Maybe Sia''s case has another

    explanation?"

    The silence that followed was suffocating. Every eye turned toward Nyx, and even her usual confidence seemed to falter under the weight of their gazes.

    It was as though she had just uttered the stupidest thing possible, and leonidas'' gaze admitted it already.

 Chapter 182: Facade

    Chapter 182: FacadeLeonidas'' piercing blue eyes locked onto Nyx. He didn''t move for a moment, but the air around him seemed to grow heavier.

    Then, slowly, he stood, his presence towering as he began to pace around the table.

    "Why am I so certain?" His voice was low, almost a growl, but it carried with it a chilling authority. "Do you think I waste my time on fantasies, Nyx? That I send my best into the wild on whims?"

    Nyx began trembling on her chair, convinced that his pace would conclude with a punch on her face.

    But Leonidas was eerily calm.

    He stopped, turning to face her, his golden hair catching the light like a crown.

    "There has been an outburst of mutated beasts, normal creatures stronger than ever before. Coincidentally," he continued, his voice growing colder, "some abnormalities began at the exact same time as the sightings of the unique beasts we hunt. Devastation of nature, more natural catastrophe..."

    The room was dead silent as his words sank in. Leonidas'' gaze swept over the aces, his sharp features making his contempt clear.

    "These beasts are real," he said, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. "And they are no even our goal. The more something exists, the more common it becomes. But if you can use the full extent of these beasts'' essence, then you can reach something bigger... the..."

    Suddenly, Leonidas paused.

    His hand slept into his pocket to retrieve his phone. His expression darkened as he glanced at the screen.

    For a moment, he said nothing, and the aces watched in confused silence. Finally, he looked up, his voice clipped.

    "This meeting is over," he announced. "The beasts exists, so don''t disappoint me."

    Without another word, he turned and strode from the room. The remaining aces exchanged wary glances, but none dared to speak.

    The quiet click of Leonidas'' polished shoes echoed through the sleek hallways of Infinite Twilight''s headquarters.

    Staff members paused and lowered their heads as he passed, unwilling to meet his piercing gaze.

    Reaching the end of the corridor, he opened the door to his office and stepped inside.

    The space was a reflection of its owner: imposing, elegant, and utterly commanding.

    The walls were lined with dark mahogany, accented by shelves of ancient texts and artifacts.

    The centerpiece was an enormous black desk, empty save for a single tablet.

    Behind it, a high-backed leather chair faced the floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a panoramic view of the rain-soaked city.

    Leonidas closed the door behind him, his expression sharp.

    "What is this about?" he demanded.

    A playful, melodic voice responded, its tone laced with mockery.

    "Just making sure my emotional ally doesn''t spill any unnecessary details."

    The chair turned slowly, revealing a woman with long, dark silver hair cascading over her shoulders, wearing a sleek, black gown that clung to her body, accented with intricate emerald patterns along the neckline and sleeves.

    A high slit revealed elegant, crossed legs clad in black stockings, while her heeled boots shimmered with subtle detail.

    She leaned back, her green eyes gleaming with both amusement and malice.

    It was Kallistra.

    "You''ve always been so dramatic, Leo," she said, her voice soft but teasing. "But I have to admit, watching you lash out on your pawns is so entertaining."

    Leonidas'' gaze narrowed, his hands resting on the edge of his desk as he leaned forward slightly.

    "I don''t have time for games, Kallistra. Why are you here?"

    The atmosphere was thick with tension, the only sound the rhythmic patter of rain against the glass.

    "I wanted to check on my favorites, of course," Kallistra said lightly, brushing an invisible speck of dust from her gown. "Sia... and little Arin. I needed to see how they''re doing. You could even think of me as a concerned... debt collector."

    Leonidas didn''t flinch, though his jaw tightened at her mocking tone. The room grew heavy with an unspoken challenge. Finally, he exhaled, breaking the silence.

    "Sia struggles to fully control her beast," Leonidas admitted, his voice steady and cold. "And Arin has yet to locate any significant targets. They''ve made no meaningful progress." Kallistra leaned forward slightly, her elbow resting on the armrest as she cradled her chin in her hand.

    Her emerald eyes bore into him, sharp and calculating.

    "Is that so?" she murmured, her voice low and dangerous. "Tell me, Leonidas, is this the truth... or just an excuse to delay our agreement?"

    Leonidas'' gaze remained unwavering, his expression cold.

    "You know me better than to question my resolve," he said firmly. "This is the truth. The project faces challenges, but no deal has been violated."

    Kallistra studied him for a long moment, the room growing still as the two locked eyes. Then, with a soft sigh, she leaned back in the chair, the tension easing only slightly.

    "So much potential," she said almost wistfully. "But in the end, it seems half an Ishtarian simply can''t do the work of a full one."

    Leonidas'' hands pressed against the desk, his posture stiffening.

    "If that''s all, Kallistra, you can leave now."

    She smiled faintly, shaking her head.

    "Ah, but there''s one more thing. Sia." Her tone grew sharper, cutting through the room like a blade. "I heard she lost a regional-level tournament, even with my little... gift. Curious, isn''t it? How does a so-called prodigy fail so miserably with all the cards in hand?" Leonidas didn''t respond immediately, his piercing blue eyes studying her carefully. The tension thickened, the room silent save for the rain outside.

    Finally, he brushed the comment aside with a calm yet firm tone.

    "She lost because she doesn''t yet control the beast. Her opponent''s beast dominated it.

    That''s the only reason." He straightened, adding, "Her only saving grace is that her opponent went on to win the league. Nothing more."

    Kallistra''s smirk deepened as her gaze shifted to the rain streaking down the window. Her voice was soft, almost musing.

    "A calamity beast... dominated by what?"

    The words hung in the air, their weight palpable. The office felt colder, the tension coiling tighter as the two locked in an unspoken battle of two predators.

    In the meeting room, the atmosphere was heavy with a mix of concern and silence after Leonidas'' departure.

    The aces exchanged uneasy glances, their individual personalities barely contained under the

    weight of the earlier conversation.

    Then, the door creaked open.

    Rex entered with a serious gaze, his tall frame and commanding presence immediately

    drawing attention.

    His sharp, intimidating aura filled the room. All eyes turned to him.

    But before anyone could speak, Sia stood abruptly, her sharp tone cutting through the

    tension.

    "Rex, where have you been?"

    Rex''s eyes wandered to the distance, his face unreadable as he replied in a calm voice.

    "I was busy."

    Iris, chewing her gum, raised an eyebrow, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

    "What''s more important than the director''s meeting?"

    Rex, maintaining his stoic demeanor, replied flatly.

    "There''s no point coming to a meeting when you''re busy doing something very important."

    ''Like hiding until this scary man leaves.'' He thought.

    Arin stood next, walking toward him with her calm and collected demeanor.

    "It''s been a while, Rex," she greeted softly.

    Rex glanced down at her, his expression softening slightly.

    "Arin," he said calmly. "You doing okay?"

    The others exchanged puzzled looks, clearly not expecting Rex to act so casually. Sia

    narrowed her eyes, her thoughts racing.

    ''Rex... You''ve been absent for a long time, and now you''re saying you were doing something more important than the director''s meeting... hold on...''

    Rex noticed Sia''s intense gaze and felt his heart race.

    ''Damn... Did she figure it out? I even watered my face and clothes to make it look like I was outside...''

    Sia''s voice broke his internal panic.

    "You''re sweating," she said firmly. "So you must have come from very far... and you used your

    speed to come here and tell us what you found."

    The room grew silent as all eyes locked on Rex.

    ''Roll with it.''

    Rex nodded solemnly.

    "Yes. I''ve been roaming in my country. There have been reports of three formidable monsters

    rampaging in the wild, injuring several beast masters who tried to tame them. I''ve been

    searching for them." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Another silence followed. Rex stood rigid, his eyes focused.

    ''Are they going to blame me? I ignored those reports, thinking I''d handle them tomorrow, but then

    my favorite team lost the finals, and I locked myself in my room for days...''

    Devak broke the silence with a nod of approval.

    "As expected from the ace of the agency. You''re very efficient, Rex."

    The others chimed in, one after another, complimenting him for his dedication and effort.

    Even Nyx, usually bored and dismissive, gave him a nod of respect.

    Rex blinked, his face frozen in a serious expression.

    ''What just happened?''

    Then Sia turned to the group with a determined look.

    "In the end, Rex is the first to have found a calamity beast. That''s where we''ll start. We''re

    going to follow Rex."

    The room erupted in agreement, with everyone expressing their readiness to begin the hunt.

    Rex stood motionless, his face carefully neutral, but inside, his thoughts spiraled.

    ''Calamity what?''

    Sia''s eyes shone with resolve as she addressed everyone.

    "Let''s move. This hunt begins now."

    The group began gathering their things, their energy shifting toward action. Rex, however,

    didn''t move, his gaze distant.

    ''My idol comes to town tomorrow... You can''t do this to me...''

 Chapter 183: Among the Elite

    Chapter 183: Among the EliteThe plateau was a wasteland of ash and soot. The ground was scorched black, cracked, and steaming in places.

    The air was thick with the faint smell of smoke, and faint embers glowed in the shadows of jagged rocks.

    Colin lay on her back in the middle of the devastation, still and silent. She was wrapped in a tattered jacket, its edges singed and blackened.

    Slowly, her eyes fluttered open, unfocused and hazy.

    For a moment, she stared blankly at the darkened sky above her. She blinked, confused, as she noticed the heat still radiating from the ground.

    Then, her senses sharpened, and she felt the weight of the jacket covering her.

    She sat up slowly, her head spinning. Her clothes were completely burnt, leaving her wrapped only in the jacket. Before she could process more, her eyes fell on Eratz.

    He was sitting on a rock nearby, his posture relaxed. His clothes were partially burnt, his arms and shoulders dusted with cinders, but he looked unharmed. He glanced at her and gave her a warm, reassuring smile.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, her voice trembling.

    He nodded, standing slowly as she struggled to her feet. But before she could steady herself, she stumbled forward, falling to her knees and wrapping her arms around him.

    Her grip was tight, desperate as if to reassure herself he was real. Eratz gently patted her head, his voice calm and soft.

    "You did very well. Better than I expected. I''m proud of you."

    Colin''s shoulders shook, and she buried her face against him, holding back tears.

    "I... I''m so glad you''re okay," she whispered, her voice cracking.

    "I''m sorry... I couldn''t help you properly. I wasn''t strong enough."

    Eratz smiled softly, his hand resting gently on her head as he kept patting her hair with quiet

    reassurance.

    "Don''t apologize," he said firmly. "At your age, you''re already better than I was. You''re a real phenom, Colin. You''re doing amazing."

    Her lips trembled as she looked up at him, her red eyes shimmering. She nodded, her voice barely audible.

    "Thank you..."

    The hunt was a success. The phoenix, Ignivara, had been assimilated.

    The following days saw a dramatic shift in the team''s dynamic.

    When Eratz and Colin returned, the others were electrified by Victoria''s speech.

    There was a new fire in their eyes, a determination Eratz hadn''t seen before. Even he was a little surprised by their sudden focus and drive.

    Eratz began tracking beasts for the rest of the team, pouring all his skill and energy into finding the perfect matches. Each search was painstaking. The beasts were elusive, their trails faint, and the terrain unforgiving.

    Raya was the first. Her beast was meticulously chosen by Eratz, a creature of exceptional power and uniqueness. She needed almost no intervention during her battle, her calm focus and razor-sharp instincts guiding her to victory with grace and efficiency. It was a testament to her precision and mastery.

    Ryder''s hunt was far more complicated. He had no clear affinity to a specific type of beast, making the search painstakingly difficult.

    His unique ability to use beastification with multiple creatures at once posed additional challenges, as Eratz needed to find a beast that could complement and enhance this rare skill.

    After careful observation and strategic consideration, Eratz devised a clever plan.

    He located a beast capable of synchronization, amplifying Ryder''s ability to harmonize with multiple entities. The battle was grueling, testing Ryder''s endurance and adaptability, but it marked a significant evolution in his fighting style.

    Catarina''s hunt was saved for last, and Eratz approached it with exceptional care, wanting to reward her relentless determination.

    Using his flying spy beasts, he scoured vast territories, gathering every possible detail on potential matches.

    He found several powerful candidates, but one stood out, with a specific ability that convinced Eratz to choose it. The battle was phenomenal and chaotic, a bizarre dance of unique skills and improvisation.

    Catarina fought with unyielding resolve, adapting to the beast''s unpredictability. Together with Eratz''s assistance, she overcame the challenge, winning the beast''s loyalty in a climactic finish.

    Once every member of the team had a calamity beast, the focus shifted to training.

    The course was intense and relentless, designed to push them to their limits.

    For weeks, they trained relentlessly, forging their strength and deepening their bond with their calamity beasts.

    The regimen was brutal: intense sparring sessions, mental fortification exercises, and grueling stamina drills that pushed them to their limits. Every moment was designed to sharpen their control, power, and teamwork.

    By the end, they were faster, stronger, and more synchronized than ever, their strengths honed to form an unstoppable force.

    Weeks later, Golden Cosmos Arena buzzed with energy. The new season was well underway, and the younger trainees and new recruits gathered in clusters, excitedly discussing the results of their recent matches.

    Their voices filled the air as they shared battle stories and predictions about their battles.

    In the middle of the chatter, a loud thud interrupted the flow. A trainee stumbled, bumping into someone.

    "Hey! Watch where you''re going!" she snapped, brushing herself off and glaring.

    The figure they had bumped into turned slowly.

    It was Adrian.

    His icy stare was enough to silence any further complaints. The sharpness in his gaze cut through the commotion, leaving the trainee visibly uncomfortable.

    "Let it go," whispered another trainee, tugging his friend''s arm. "That''s Adrian. You don''t want to pick a fight with him."

    "Yeah," another added in hushed tones. "He''s a problem. Doesn''t know how to talk to people without starting something."

    Adrian ignored their murmurs, his focus elsewhere as he walked briskly toward the training arena. His progress this season had been decent. Out of six matches a day, he used to win

    around three to four times.

    These losses still lingered in his mind, fueling his frustration.

    He groaned under his breath as he pushed open the doors to the arena. The space was alive

    with activity, but it quieted as an official announcement began.

    The staff gathered the trainees and new members for a special briefing.

    "We have important news," one of the senior organizers began. "Today, we will announce the

    final team for the upcoming team battles."

    Excited murmurs rippled through the trainees. The aces of Golden Cosmos were already confirmed, their names carrying legendary weight on these walls.

    But it was the final two spots on the team that had everyone on edge. No one knew who the agency would choose, and the speculation was relentless.

    "Two spots remain," the staff continued. "This decision was not made lightly. Every one of you has shown incredible effort, but only two can stand among the elite."

    The room buzzed with anticipation. Whispers spread like wildfire as the trainees exchanged

    hurried predictions.

    Everyone was eager, and hopeful, imagining their name being called. The suspense was palpable, curiosity building to a crescendo as the announcement drew closer.

    Adrian leaned against the wall, watching in silence. Unlike the others, he wasn''t caught up in

    the frenzy. He already knew the outcome.

    The clock ticked toward the aces'' arrival. As the minutes passed, the anticipation swelled.

    At 9:30 AM, the first group entered the arena: Catarina, Kaida, and Raya. Their calm and composed demeanor immediately commanded respect. Whispers of awe and admiration spread through the trainees.

    A little later, Eratz, Mercury, Colin, and Milo arrived together. Their entrance sparked a wave of intrigue. The crowd''s eyes were drawn to Colin and Milo, who stood out due to their youth.

    Speculations about their talent rippled through the trainees. Eratz and Mercury, as always, carried an aura of command that silenced even the loudest whispers.

    Finally, Ryder strolled in, his relaxed confidence earning nods of acknowledgment.

    By 10 AM, the arena was filled to the brim. Victoria stepped forward, her authoritative

    presence commanding immediate attention.

    She addressed the room with a sharp yet encouraging tone.

    "Today, we formally present the list of those chosen to represent us in the upcoming team battles," she announced. "Your efforts this season have been commendable. You''ve all shown determination and promise. But only a few can stand among the chosen."

    The tension was electric as Zara joined her, holding a tablet with the official list. All eyes were

    on her as she began reading the names. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As expected, the aces'' names were called, and each one was greeted with cheers and applause.

    Yet, the room held its breath for the final two names.

    "Colin and Milo," Zara announced.

 Chapter 184: Prove Your Worth

    Chapter 184: Prove Your WorthFor a moment, there was silence. Then, stunned murmurs rippled through the crowd like an uneasy tide. The trainees exchanged wide-eyed glances, their expressions a mix of disbelief and awe.

    "Wait... the new kids?" someone whispered.

    A wave of incredulous chatter followed.

    "Seriously? Them?"

    "What''s the meaning of this? Is this a joke?"

    "I thought they were just newbies. How could they be in the team?"

    Colin stood quietly amidst the noise, her gaze fixed firmly on the ground. Her hand was clutched tightly around Eratz''s as she tried to ignore the whispers. Beside her, Milo shifted nervously, his eyes darting around the room like a cornered animal.

    The murmurs grew louder, the confusion palpable. Some of the newest recruits exchanged clueless looks, trying to piece together who Colin and Milo were and why they''d been chosen.

    Zara stepped forward, raising a hand to quiet the growing commotion. Just as she was about to speak, a sharp clap cut through the noise.

    Adrian.

    He stood with a slow, wide smirk, his hands coming together in a sarcastic rhythm that echoed through the hushed room.

    "Of course," he began, his voice dripping with disdain. "Why are you even surprised? This is exactly what everyone wanted, isn''t it?"

    The room froze as his words hung in the air, his tone cutting through the confusion like a blade.

    "I mean, let''s not pretend we didn''t see this coming," Adrian continued, his gaze sweeping over the room, daring anyone to challenge him. "This is the kind of decision that happens when you put blind loyalty over logic. When you let Eratz play king, and the agency just bends over backward to do whatever he wants."

    He took a step forward, his presence taking the room''s attention.

    "You all wanted to blame me when I pointed it out, didn''t you? Said I was bitter, said I didn''t understand. But look at this. The agency didn''t pick the strongest. They didn''t pick the most experienced. No, they picked his favorites."

    Colin flinched ever so slightly, her grip tightening around Eratz''s hand, but she didn''t look up. Milo''s breath quickened, his nervousness escalating under Adrian''s harsh words.

    Adrian''s smirk deepened, his voice laced with venom.

    "And why?" he asked, his tone turning mocking. "It''s not like it''s hard to figure out. Look at her," he said, pointing to Colin. "Doesn''t she remind you of someone? Or are you all too dense to notice?"

    The trainees exchanged confused glances, their whispers returning, quieter now but no less curious.

    "And him," Adrian continued, pointing to Milo. "Well, that one''s obvious, isn''t it? The boy''s Mercury''s brother. What more do you need? If you''re family to an ace, or if you''ve got the right face, you''re in. Skill? Hard work? That doesn''t matter. All that matters is playing favorites."

    The room fell into a stunned silence. Adrian''s accusations hung heavy in the air, the weight of his words pressing down on everyone present.

    Colin finally lifted her gaze, her red eyes burning with quiet anger as she met Adrian''s scornful stare.

    Milo shrank back slightly, but Mercury''s steadiness seemed to anchor him, and he forced himself to stand a little taller.

    Adrian folded his arms, his smirk now a full-blown sneer as he delivered his final words.

    "So don''t act surprised," he said. "This isn''t about merit. It''s about who you know. And apparently, who you look like."

    The silence was deafening. All eyes turned to Zara, waiting for a response, but for a moment, even she seemed caught off guard by the ferocity of Adrian''s outburst.

    She looked toward Victoria, her expression troubled, unsure how to handle the tension Adrian had created.

    Across the room, Mercury''s gaze was locked onto Adrian, dark and unyielding, her jaw tight with restrained anger.

    Victoria, standing next to Zara, observed the scene with a calm, calculating demeanor.

    Her sharp eyes flicked between the murmuring trainees and Adrian, who stood triumphantly amidst the rising frustration.

    The tension grew heavier as the trainees whispered among themselves, their doubts and frustrations spilling into the air.

    "Did they really pick these kids because they''re family?"

    "Maybe he''s right? Aren''t they just Eratz''s and Mercury''s prot¨¦g¨¦s?"

    "It''s not fair. We''ve worked just as hard... harder, even."

    The murmurs rose, frustration bubbling to the surface like a storm ready to break.

    Adrian stood tall, his smirk deepening as he reveled in the chaos he''d created.

    But then, Victoria''s voice cut through the noise like a blade.

    "What about testing it?"

    The room went silent, the murmurs vanishing in an instant. Adrian paused mid-smirk, turning slowly to face Victoria. All eyes followed, the weight of her presence shifting the energy in the room.

    Victoria stepped forward, her calm, commanding voice filling the space.

    "I hear your concerns," she began, her gaze sweeping across the trainees and finally settling

    on Adrian. "And I understand your doubts. You''re frustrated. You''re wondering if my decisions are fair. If they''re just." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her expression remained steady, her tone way too normal.

    "But let me remind you of something. This agency was built with two goals in mind. The first, to create a place where talents are nurtured, a space where those with potential can rise and grow, becoming the best versions of themselves. The second, to give a chance to those who brought our name to the top to compete with the best. This mean that I''m not planning to just participate. I want a clear victory, and I want to give a chance to my aces to win. My choices are based on which potential I see."

    She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly.

    "But if you disagree, then prove it. Adrian, as the best after my aces, challenge Colin. Win, and I''ll consider your argument. Show us all that you deserve her spot."

    The murmurs in the room stopped instantly, replaced by a stunned silence. Adrian blinked,

    his smirk faltering slightly.

    "Her?" he asked incredulously. "You want me to fight a little girl?"

    He chuckled, shaking his head as if the idea itself was absurd.

    "This will make me the villain, the black cat of this story," he said, his tone oozing mockery. "Everyone will cry foul when I win. Poor little girl, beaten by the big, bad Adrian. It''s not fair

    to put me in this position."

    His words spilled out in a torrent, filled with exaggerated sympathy and thinly veiled

    condescension.

    It was clear he was looking for an escape, building a narrative to justify his actions, or soften

    the blow to his pride.

    Victoria''s sharp gaze cut through his rambling like a knife.

    "Enough," she said firmly. Her voice carried an authority that silenced him immediately.

    "I haven''t trained my fighters to be weaklings, nor to make excuses," she continued, her tone cold and decisive. "I know why I accepted Colin. I know her strength, her resolve, and her ability to endure. I didn''t put her in this position to be coddled, Adrian. I put her here because I trust her to fight."

    The weight of her words hung in the air as she stepped forward, her gaze boring into Adrian.

    "Both of you can go all out. I need a demonstration, not half-measures. Show me the power you''re so proud of, Adrian. And Colin," she added, turning her gaze to the younger fighter, "show me why I made the right choice."

    Adrian''s smirk returned, a glint of malice in his eyes.

    "Well, if that''s the case," he said, his voice slick with confidence, "I won''t hold back. I wouldn''t want to disappoint you, Director."

    He turned toward Colin, his posture shifting into a more predatory stance, clearly savoring the opportunity to punish Eratz''s family. His ego swelled at the thought.

    Colin, however, stood still, her gaze calm and unwavering. Her red eyes focused intently on Adrian, her expression unreadable except for a slight furrow of her brow.

    The room buzzed with tension as Victoria stepped back, her voice cutting through the thick

    atmosphere.

    "Enter the sparring area," she said, her tone cold. "No more excuses."

 Chapter 185: Flames of Retribution

    Chapter 185: Flames of RetributionThe tension in the arena was palpable as Colin and Adrian stood facing each other.

    The trainees filled the stands, their murmurs barely audible over the heavy atmosphere.

    While many felt uneasy about Adrian''s unstable nature, their concern grew seeing him about to fight against a child.

    The veterans watched in silence, their expressions mostly unreadable.

    Eratz sat with Mercury and Milo, his jaw tight but his gaze unwavering.

    Kaida leaned back with her arms crossed, sitting next to Catarina and Raya, her sharp eyes darting between the fighters.

    Ryder slouched near Zara, arms folded, watching intently but keeping a casual front.

    Adrian''s smirk spread wider as he reveled in the moment.

    His gaze flicked toward Eratz, and his voice echoed through the arena.

    "We''re all good after this, right, Eratz? No hard feelings? This is just a test, after all."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow but remained silent.

    Adrian chuckled, turning back to Colin, his voice dripping with mockery.

    "Hey, little one, don''t get scared now. I''ll be gentle. Or maybe I won''t. Who knows?"

    He paused, letting the crowd murmur before continuing.

    "What''s it like having everyone think you''re a joke? Just another kid riding on Big Bro''s coattails?"

    Colin didn''t respond, her calm demeanor unwavering as she met his taunts with silence.

    Adrian stepped forward, licking his lips, his voice growing darker.

    "You know, there''s something poetic about this. A sweet, innocent little girl like you, going against someone like me. After all the troubles your brother gave me... I should thanks the Director."

    The stands grew deathly quiet, the crowd shifting uncomfortably at his escalating words.

    Adrian grinned, feeding off the tension.

    "Tell me," he sneered. "Exactly who are you to Eratz, huh? Are you really his little sister, or is it something... more? I mean, I''ve seen how protective he is of you. Makes me wonder. if he isn''t a sis con."

    Colin''s fists clenched, her jaw tightening.

    "This has nothing to do with my big brother," she said firmly, her red eyes narrowing. "Stop talking about him."

    Adrian''s grin turned feral as he leaned closer.

    "So I was right, thank you," he whispered, his voice low and menacing. "Little sis."

    Something snapped in Colin. Her calm expression darkened, her fiery aura flickering faintly around her.

    Victoria''s voice cut through the tension.

    "Begin!"

    Adrian laughed loudly, throwing his arms out dramatically.

    "Let''s go, little sis!" he shouted, his voice echoing. "I''ll show everyone just how entertaining it is to..."

    Before he could finish, a searing blast of fire erupted from Colin''s hand, striking his face with unrelenting force.

    The blast was precise, igniting the inside of Adrian''s mouth.

    The arena froze in shock as Adrian staggered back, clutching his face.

    His muffled scream was agonized, guttural, as he doubled over.

    Smoke curled from his mouth as his body writhed in pain.

    The sound of his muffled gags and desperate gasps filled the silent arena.

    He stumbled, dropping to his knees, his hands clawing at his face.

    Colin stood still, her red eyes burning coldly. Her voice was calm, almost too calm, and filled with venom.

    "Open your mouth again," she said, her tone ice-cold, "There''s still some dirt in your throat."

    The crowd was stunned into silence. Even the aces exchanged glances, surprised by this unusual reaction.

    Colin''s fiery aura grew stronger as she took a step forward, her focus solely on Adrian. There was no hesitation, no doubt, only pure, burning anger. But then, through sheer will, or sheer stubbornness, Adrian forced himself to his knees, his ragged breathing filling the space. He staggered to his feet, his knees wobbling as his body protested every movement. His face was twisted with pain, his lips swollen and cracked, but his smirk, defiant and mocking, returned.

    "Is... that all you''ve got?" he rasped, his voice raw and broken. "You think a little fire is gonna stop me? I was being nice, but screw it. You''re going down, you little brat."

    Colin''s calm expression didn''t waver. Her fiery aura flickered faintly, but her red eyes were locked on Adrian with cold disdain.

    Adrian clenched his fists and lunged forward, his movements clumsy but fueled by anger. He swung a punch at her, but before it could land, a small burst of fire erupted from Colin''s hand, striking his wrist.

    The smell of burnt flesh filled the air as Adrian let out a guttural cry, stumbling back and cradling his hand. He dropped to the ground, rolling in agony as the flames scorched him

    briefly before retreating.

    The crowd watched in horrified silence. Many of the trainees exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier doubts about Colin''s capabilities rapidly dissolving. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Is this for real...," one trainee whispered.

    "What the hell?" another muttered, equally impressed and unnerved.

    Kaida leaned back, a small smirk tugging at her lips.

    "... Oh, I''m starting to like her even more."

    Catarina nudged her playfully.

    "Remind me not to get on her bad side."

    Raya, as composed as ever, observed quietly, her unreadable gaze shifting between the

    fighters.

    Eratz stood still, his arms crossed, a wide smile on his face. Mercury, sitting next to him, gave a small, approving nod, while Milo''s nervous fidgeting slowed as he watched Colin dominate. Victoria remained stoic, her cold gaze fixed on the fight. Her hands rested at her sides, her expression unreadable but sharp, as if every move was being scrutinized.

    Adrian, groaning in pain, pushed himself back to his feet, his face contorted with fury.

    "You little... bitch," he spat, his voice trembling with rage. "I''ll make you pay for that."

    Colin tilted her head, her voice low and biting.

    "Pay for your hospital fees? Sure, you will need it."

    Adrian snarled and charged again, this time with more determination. He swung at her, his movements more frantic and wild. But just as his fist was about to make contact, another flame burst directly on his body, this time on his shin.

    Adrian screamed, the flames licking at his leg before vanishing as quickly as they''d come. He collapsed to one knee, clutching his burned leg, his breaths shallow and ragged.

    "What''s the matter? Forgot how to walk?" Colin''s voice was icy, her words cutting deep.

    "Hard to prove you belong here when you can''t even stay on your feet."

    Adrian''s confidence was beginning to crack, but his anger flared brighter.

    "You think this is funny? You think you''re tough? You''re just a kid hiding behind cheap

    tricks!"

    Colin''s eyes narrowed.

    "Cheap tricks? That''s rich, mister I can''t beat a little girl."

    Adrian roared in frustration and lunged again, this time with a desperate kick. Colin didn''t

    dodge. Instead, she raised her hand, sending a precise jet of flame to his exposed thigh.

    Adrian howled, collapsing to the ground once more. The flame didn''t spread, burning only a small, concentrated area, but the pain was enough to leave him writhing.

    The tension in the room thickened, the spectators frozen as they watched the exchange.

    "She''s... terrifying," someone whispered.

    "She''s not even trying... just toying with him," another boy muttered.

    Adrian tried to stand again, his face pale and drenched in sweat. His movements were slower

    now, each step unsteady. He looked at Colin with pure hatred, his voice a rasping growl.

    "You... you''re dead... you hear me? Dead! Fucking whore!"

    Colin took a slow step forward, her red eyes gleaming.

    "I know you have no education but at least use insults I can understand," She raised her hand slightly, and a small flame danced in her palm. "The first screaming is the whore, ok?" Adrian hesitated, his bravado faltering as he took an involuntary step back.

    The crowd watched in stunned silence, the weight of Colin''s power settling over them like an unrelenting storm. The earlier doubts they''d harbored about her strength were now

    obliterated.

    "Okay... we were wrong... end it already," someone muttered, their voice filled with a mix of

    fear and awe.

    But Colin wasn''t finished. She tilted her head slightly, her red eyes narrowing as a cold smirk

    tugged at her lips.

    Her voice, calm and sharp as a blade, cut through the stillness.

    "You were right after all, I''m having fun." she said, almost amused.

    Her words carried an eerie edge, and the crowd shivered as if the temperature had dropped.

    Adrian, still trembling, took an unsteady step back. His breath hitched as Colin''s smile

    widened, her tone turning darker.

    "You insulted my brother, so I''m going to keep playing," she continued, her voice lowering to

    a chilling whisper, "until you surrender. If you lose here, it''ll be because you asked for it." The blood drained from Adrian''s face, his body frozen in place. Her words wrapped around him like chains, and for the first time, the full weight of her intent crashed down on him.

 Chapter 186: The Red-Eyed Monster

    Chapter 186: The Red-Eyed MonsterAdrian took a shaky step back, his breath ragged, his eyes darting between Colin and the ground. His bravado had crumbled, replaced by raw fear and pain.

    Every trainee, staff member, and veteran watching from the stands sat in stunned silence. How could someone so young and unassuming possess such overwhelming strength and presence?

    Adrian took another unsteady step back, his foot slipping slightly on the scorched ground. Colin tilted her head, a mockingly curious expression crossing her face.

    "Oh no," she said, her voice tinged with false concern. "Am I losing my sight? You keep getting farther away even though I haven''t moved. Let me verify it."

    She stepped forward once, her movements calm and slow. Adrian flinched hard, nearly tripping over himself in the process.

    "Careful," Colin said, her tone sweetly mocking.

    "You should watch where you step, or you''ll end up like those people in scary movies... you know, the ones who fall before the ghost even reaches them."

    The trainees shifted uncomfortably in their seats, the tension in the air palpable. Even the staff members exchanged uneasy glances, unsure how to process what they witnessed. Adrian''s face contorted with anger and humiliation as Colin took another step toward him. "Wouldn''t it be more efficient to run away?" she suggested, her red eyes glinting with

    amusement.

    Adrian''s jaw clenched, his humiliation boiling over into fury. His shadow stretched unnaturally, and the air around him began to shift. He snarled, his voice low and venomous.

    "I''ve had enough of this," he growled. His shadow warped and darkened, and a beast began to materialize.

    But before the summoning could finish, a searing blast of fire erupted directly where the beasts were forming. Flames consumed the emerging creatures instantly, their agonized screams echoing as they vanished into ash.

    Adrian froze, his body trembling as he fell backward, staring in horror at the raging flames where his beasts had been annihilated. His eyes darted up to Colin, who now stood over him, her silhouette framed by the flames.

    "I thought we were playing without our beasts," Colin said, with a sad smile. She took another step forward, the flames parting for her as she approached. "You''re already getting screwed. Do you really want to make it worse? At least save them from the humiliation."

    The arena was deathly silent. Milo, seated beside Mercury, looked at his little friend with wide eyes, his jaw slightly slack. Even he hadn''t seen this side of her before.

    The aces, however, were thoroughly enjoying the show.

    Eratz leaned back in his seat, pulling out his phone.

    "This is gold," he muttered, grinning as he began filming.

    Mercury crossed her arms, the corner of her mouth twitching upward into a reluctant smile.

    Colin raised her hand, creating a small flame on her index finger. The fire crackled softly, its glow dancing in her crimson eyes.

    Adrian''s face twisted with terror as he let out an unrestrained scream, scrambling backward on his hands and knees before finally managing to stand.

    He stumbled, nearly falling again, before regaining some semblance of balance.

    Then he saw them, the faces of everyone watching.

    Trainees, staff, veterans, all staring at him with expressions ranging from shock to disgust to pity.

    His humiliation reached its peak, and his rage exploded.

    "You think this is funny?!" he bellowed, his aura flaring wildly. "You think I''m pathetic? Screw all of you! I''m better than this, better than all of you!"

    His energy surged, his anger twisting his aura into a chaotic storm around him. He pointed a trembling finger at Colin.

    "And you," he spat, his voice trembling with fury. "I''m going to crush you! I''ll fuck you up!!!" Colin''s wide smile widened further.

    "Oh, another new expression," she said, her tone mocking and light. "You... Fuck." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Adrian lunged at her, his aura crackling as he swung a wild punch. Colin didn''t move until the last moment, stepping aside.

    She tapped his ribs with a small burst of fire, sending him sprawling to the ground.

    Kaida, watching from the stands, chuckled.

    "Look how she''s toying with him... I thought she would win, but not that it would be so one- sided..."

    Adrian pushed himself up, growling through gritted teeth. He charged again, this time with a kick aimed at Colin''s midsection.

    She dodged easily, this time aiming a small jet of flame at the back of his leg.

    Adrian screamed, collapsing again and clutching his scorched calf. His face contorted with pain, tears streaming as he struggled to catch his breath. Colin crouched down in front of him, her crimson eyes glowing softly as she tilted her head.

    "Mister, are you okay?" she asked coldly, her voice calm and curious. "I''m trying really hard not to give you a serious injury. Let me know if this is too much."

    From the stands, Raya''s calm voice broke the tension.

    "She''s definitely Eratz''s cousin."

    Zara leaned toward Ryder, her tone low but amused.

    "We should probably keep an eye on her before she turns out exactly like Eratz."

    Ryder chuckled, leaning back in his seat.

    "Why? She''s perfect. Imagine how great it''ll be to team up with her."

    His grin faded slightly as he paused, the realization dawning on him.

    "Oh... wait. What if I have to fight her someday?" His face grew serious, and he shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

    Meanwhile, Adrian clawed his way back to his feet, his body trembling from pain. His breathing was ragged, uneven, as he glared at Colin, who remained crouched, calm and

    unbothered.

    "Mister... Why are you sweating from your eyes?" she asked innocently. "Is this a mimic of another insult? Cry like a bitch?"

    "Shut up!" Adrian roared, his voice cracking with desperation. "Shut up, you damn bitch!"

    Colin tilted her head again, her expression feigning confusion.

    "Oh... Are you hurt? Do you want a pat on your head?"

    Adrian''s rage boiled over, his face twisting as he screamed. His legs buckled, and he collapsed to his knees, his head hanging low. Tears of frustration and humiliation streamed down his

    face.

    The trainees watched in stunned silence, their eyes wide. Even the veterans and staff looked uneasy, glancing at one another as they tried to process the scene.

    Adrian''s voice broke the silence, filled with venom. He spit as he spoke, his words dripping

    with anger.

    "You''re all the same!" he shouted. "This agency is a joke! You think you''re better than

    everyone else just because of your precious aces. They''re nothing! This whole place is

    nothing!"

    The words hung heavy in the air, but Adrian wasn''t done. He turned his bloodshot eyes toward

    Colin, his voice rising.

    "And your fucking brother? Eratz is a..."

    A sudden burst of flame erupted in Adrian''s mouth, cutting him off mid-sentence. His scream

    of agony echoed through the arena as he rolled on the ground, clutching his face. The acrid smell of burnt flesh filled the air.

    Colin stood, her gaze icy as she took a step forward.

    "Don''t talk about my big brother ever again," she said, her voice as dangerous as the flames she wielded. "I can ignore your insults on me, but don''t ever insult him."

    The crowd collectively gulped, some glancing nervously toward Victoria, who remained stoic and impassive, her icy gaze fixed on the battle below.

    Eratz, however, was visibly moved. His eyes glistened with pride, his lips curving into a faint

    smile. Mercury crossed her arms beside him, watching intently, a flicker of admiration in her

    expression.

    Colin crouched down again, her face inches from Adrian''s as he whimpered in pain.

    "I promised you I wouldn''t beat you, and I''m not a liar," she said coldly. "You will

    surrender."

    She extended her finger, a small flame igniting at the tip. Its glow reflected in Adrian''s wide,

    terrified eyes.

    "I''ll burn you. Centimeter by centimeter. Until you beg me to stop. And if you don''t surrender,

    I''ll heal you. And then I''ll start over."

    Adrian flinched, his entire body trembling as her flame drew closer to his leg.

    "N-no... You... w-wait..."

    "Watch me, it will hurt a lot," Colin whispered, her voice like steel.

    The flame hovered just above his skin, its heat searing the air. Adrian let out a panicked

    scream.

    "Enough! I quit!" he shouted through his swollen, burned lips, his voice desperate and

    broken. "I give up!"

 Chapter 188: Lights, Legends, and Legacy

    Chapter 188: Lights, Legends, and LegacyA few days after Adrian''s departure, the atmosphere at Golden Cosmos shifted, but life moved on quickly.

    His absence wasn''t deeply felt, and the agency''s rhythm resumed. Yet, the words of Colin''s battle lingered in hushed conversations and passing remarks.

    Colin and Milo, now officially part of the team, integrated smoothly into the agency''s dynamic.

    They were no longer just "Eratz''s cousin" and "Mercury''s brother." Instead, they were carving out their own reputations through the regular season.

    Milo, with his playful demeanor and bright energy, surprised many. His cheerful attitude masked a great talent in battle.

    His fighting style was instinctive and creative, blending physical and magical attacks with the support of his fairy beasts.

    Though his attacks appeared whimsical and were often given childish names, the results were very effective.

    Mercury claimed his light-hearted style was a tactic to throw opponents off their game. Eratz, however, had another explanation.

    "All his attacks are named after that little girl show we watch." Sacrificing his honor just to tease Milo a little bit.

    Yet, despite the amusing truth, Milo''s creativity and resilience earned him respect.

    His fairy-based techniques, combined with his youthful exuberance, earned him the nickname "Child of the Stars."

    Colin, on the other hand, was making waves with her raw power and control.

    Her fire-based techniques were devastating, her beasts versatile and adaptive. In the city-tier league, she was a force of nature, often overwhelming her opponents before they had a chance to react.

    With in her arsenal her mastery of fire manipulation, physical prowess, healing abilities, a field spell, and a calamity beast she hadn''t even needed to use, Colin quickly established herself as a rising star.

    Her calm and innocent demeanor contrasted sharply with her destructive potential, earning her the nickname "The Red Princess."

    The two young fighters became the talk of the town. Colin''s precision and Milo''s flair drew comparisons to prodigies like Gabriel, a name spoken with reverence.

    Despite their success, Colin and Milo stayed grounded, thanks to the relentless training sessions with the aces.

    Every sparring match reminded them of their place, against the aces, they were outmatched. Yet, within their tier, they were dominant, silencing any doubts about their abilities.

    With their team now complete, the countdown began for their first official team battle. The stakes were high, and the pressure was mounting, but Colin and Milo were ready. They had proven themselves as individuals.

    Now it was time to show what they could do as part of Golden Cosmos.

    The team battles weren''t just a competition, they were a national phenomenon.

    An annual event that lasted the entire year, they crowned the best organization in the country, continent or world depending on the tier they were competing and showcased the pinnacle of beast mastery.

    Fighters of all ranks competed, it was possible to see a city-level fighter against a world-class champions, creating a suspense that kept everyone enthralled.

    This year, Golden Cosmos was at the center of attention. Their meteoric revolution, team roster and Eratz''s undefeated streak had everyone talking.

    Eratz and his duel with Raya was considered one of the greatest matches in the country''s history.

    Now, the prospect of seeing those two powerhouses fight side by side electrified fans across the nation.

    The first match for Golden Cosmos was set to take place in the capital city of Aurelia, at the country''s largest and most iconic venue: the Celestia Coliseum, known for hosting world- class battles.

    Every seat in the coliseum had been sold weeks in advance. Scalpers sold tickets at outrageous prices, and exclusive broadcasting rights were secured by top networks.

    Advertisers scrambled for airtime, knowing the entire country would be watching.

    Analysts, fans, and critics alike speculated about the battle in dedicated TV segments, podcasts, and articles.

    Excitement rippled across the country.

    At Genova Academy, Rowan stood before his students in a packed lecture hall.

    His objective was to teach the his students about team battles through a real match, but he didn''t chose this match randomly.

    He scanned the room, his gaze landing briefly on Kian and Lila, seated at the back.

    Both wore identical scowls, their arms crossed as if shielding themselves from another performance of someone particular.

    Rowan knew their expressions well, but he wasn''t deterred.

    This wasn''t just about teaching strategy, it was about reshaping their perception of Eratz, their estranged brother.

    They completely ignored the class, until the team composition appeared on the screen.

    One special name stood out, triggering them: Colin Alondra.

    "Wait," Kian muttered, leaning forward. "Isn''t that...?"

    Lila''s frown deepened.

    "Her? What is she doing there?"

    For the first time, they watched with genuine interest. Elsewhere in the academy, Lisa sat on

    her couch. Beside her, Clara adjusted the cushions, ensuring maximum comfort.

    "Do you think he''ll win?" Clara asked, pulling her knees to her chest.

    Lisa''s smile was faint but certain.

    "It''s Eratz. Of course, he will."

    Clara grinned, leaning back. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "It''s surreal, seeing him like this. He really became a superstar."

    In a forest outside a small town, Kenny stood alone. His shirt was soaked in sweat as he stared

    at

    a trembling beast in his hands.

    "Finally caught one," he muttered, his voice low and shaky. "One step closer."

    Nearby, a small screen displayed updates about the match.

    Kenny ignored it, focusing instead on his training, this was only fuel to his rebirth.

    That evening, in a quiet house, Marcus sat on the couch, a newspaper in hand. Liora stood by

    the window, staring into the fading light.

    "How about dinner out tonight?" Marcus suggested. "Something fancy. We deserve it."

    Liora didn''t turn. Her voice was soft.

    "Isn''t Eratz fighting today?"

    Marcus hesitated, his expression faltering.

    "Do we always need to watch that?"

    Liora turned to him, her face calm but resolute.

    "I want to see it."

    Marcus sighed. He couldn''t argue anymore. Liora was just a shell of her past self since that

    terrible night.

    As night fell, the streets of Aurelia came alive. Fans gathered in plazas and pubs, their voices a

    filled with excitement.

    The Celestia Coliseum was a sight to behold. Its cylindrical structure towered above the city, its exterior gleaming with crystalline panels that shimmered in the night.

    Rotating holographic displays showcased the teams and match details, casting vibrant colors

    across the skyline.

    Inside, the arena was breathtaking. The stands rose in tiers, a sea of fans waving flags and

    chanting names.

    Above the battleground, the sky was open, stars twinkling against the glow of the coliseum''s

    lights.

    The battleground itself was a pristine expanse of soft green grass, its edges marked by glowing lines. An invisible shield surrounded it, protecting the spectators while allowing the

    fighters to go all out.

    The crowd''s roar was deafening, a wave of excitement that surged through the stadium. The announcer''s voice boomed through hidden speakers.

    "Welcome to the Celestia Coliseum! Tonight, we witness the beginning of your favorite

    events, the legendary team battles!"

    The lights dimmed briefly, only to explode into a dazzling display of colors.

    The stage was set. The battle was about to begin.

 Chapter 189: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard

    Chapter 189: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar VanguardThe Golden Cosmos team gathered in the locker room beneath the Celestia Coliseum. The locker room was modern, sleek, spacious, and efficient.

    Rows of lockers lined the walls, their metallic surfaces gleaming under the soft, diffused lighting. At the center of the room stood a circular table with a built-in holographic display. Its faint blue glow illuminated the team as they huddled around it, studying the profiles of their opponents.

    Victoria and Zara stood at the head of the table. Around them, the team members and support staff listened intently.

    "Stellar Vanguard," Victoria began, "is one of the top agencies on the continent. Their roster is exceptional, with two fighters ranked at the continental level. This is your first match, but it''s already a serious test of your abilities."

    Zara picked up the briefing, swiping the screen to reveal a detailed image of a man standing beside a massive, fiery lion-like beast.

    "Let''s start with their ace, Aeron Solaris. He''s a continental-ranked beast master who specializes in light and fire. His field spell engulfs the battlefield in intense fire, boosting his beasts'' strength while wearing down opponents. Then there''s his signature beast, the Infernal Ardentis, a molten-furred creature capable of unleashing devastating area-of-effect attacks. In a one-on-one format, he''s almost unbeatable."

    The hologram shifted to show Aeron and his Ardentis, a feline-like beast with molten fur pulsing with heat.

    Zara continued.

    "Their second ace is Thyra Voss, ranked just below Aeron. She''s an earth and poison specialist. Her field spell creates a toxic battlefield that saps her opponents'' energy while her beasts flourish. If I were them, I''d reserve her for the 1v1, she can dominate solo battles and her abilities would be a problem for her teammates."

    A holographic image of Thyra appeared, flanked by her beasts, a towering stone scorpion and a snake with gleaming, venomous fangs. The room buzzed with quiet murmurs.

    "Thyra''s field is going to be a problem if she can pull that," Mercury said, crossing her arms. Ryder leaned against a locker, nodding.

    "I could manage with my beastifications, some of my different forms might help me to adapt if it''s just poison."

    Kaida, sitting on the bench with her arms folded, frowned.

    "What about a strong counter-field? Someone with enough power to overwhelm her? Mercury or I could nullify it."

    Mercury arched a brow.

    "You''re volunteering?"

    "Why not?" Kaida said with a small smirk. "If they put Thyra it has to be in the 1v1, and in the worst case I am almost immune to their ace. It''s a good bet."

    Raya''s calm voice cut through the conversation.

    "But if you go for the 1v1, that means we''re pulling one of our strongest for a single point. Is that the best move?"

    Eratz leaned over the table, his gaze fixed on the profiles.

    "Exactly. We have to think about the 4v4. That''s where we can maximize points. In the 1v1, anything can happen. If we send our strongest there and they send a cannon meat, it''s a waste."

    Kaida rolled her eyes.

    "So who? Our weakest are the healing machines, I''m sure they''ll do better in the 3v3 and 4v4." Eratz smiled faintly.

    "I''m not saying the opposite. We can''t predict every scenario in a solo battle. But in the 4v4, Raya and I can change the flow of the match. That''s where we should focus. If we get Colin or Milo, we can avoid losing a single point. That means we potentially get the minimum point to not lose. Now we need at least one of us to keep an eye on them, this is where a 3rd powerhouse is needed."

    The team huddled around the glowing holographic table as their discussion deepened. Milo raised his hand, his face scrunched in confusion.

    "Why would they target Colin or me?" he asked, his tone puzzled.

    Ryder smirked, leaning back against the lockers.

    "Gamer mentality. You''re healers. You''re our trump card in extended battles."

    Milo gulped, suddenly looking far less eager. Colin nudged him with her elbow, offering a reassuring smile.

    Colin nudged him gently.

    "Don''t worry," she whispered. "Half the time, I''m pretending to understand too. Just focus on what you can do."

    Victoria took control of the conversation again.

    "For the first battle, Mercury will step in. Her field spell control and versatility give her the best chance of countering either of their aces. If she faces Aeron, we smile, if it''s a meat shield, we''ll cry."

    Zara outlined the strategy, emphasizing that Raya and Eratz would be split between the 3v3 and 4v4 matches to maximize their impact. Colin and Milo would also be divided to ensure both teams had healing and support capabilities.

    With the plan set, Victoria turned to a console embedded in the table. She tapped in their finalized roster, each fighter''s name and position displayed alongside their specialties.

    The screen flashed as the data was transmitted to the match database for the official announcement.

    The team made their final preparation, the weight of the coming battles settling on their shoulders.

    As they left the locker room, the sound of the crowd''s euphoria grew louder. The stage was set, their roles decided, and their first match was about to begin.

    The arena erupted as the announcer''s voice boomed through the colossal Celestia Coliseum. "Ladies and gentlemen, let''s welcome our first contenders: Golden Cosmos!"

    The crowd''s roar rose like a wave, shaking the very ground. Golden lights flooded the corridor as the team emerged, one by one, stepping into the spotlight.

    At the front was Mercury, her steps steady but her eyes betraying a glimmer of awe.

    The sheer size of the arena and the deafening cheers from tens of thousands of spectators sent chills down her spine. She straightened her posture, gripping the straps of her gloves as if grounding herself.

    Beside her, Milo struggled to hide his nerves. His wide eyes darted between the dazzling lights and the roaring crowd, his hands fidgeting nervously at his sides.

    Colin tried to mimic Eratz''s composed walk. She adjusted her stance, her face calm but her hands clutching tightly at her sleeves.

    Eratz, walking just ahead, showing a quiet confidence, his piercing red gaze fixed on the arena floor. He glanced at the gigantic crowd, way bigger than anything he''d visited before.

    Catarina sauntered forward with a playful grin. She blew a kiss toward the audience, eliciting an uproar of cheers and whistles.

    Kaida followed with a fiery smirk, her head high, soaking in the atmosphere as if it were fuel. Ryder gave the crowd a casual wave, showing an generous energy that balanced the tension. Raya closed the walk, walking slowly with the energy of the crowd washing over her. From the opposite corridor, the Stellar Vanguard team emerged in synchrony, their stride calm and imposing.

    At their forefront was Aeron Solaris, his golden hair gleaming under the light. Thyra Voss followed, her emerald-green cloak trailing behind her as she walked.

    The two teams approached the center of the battlefield, the atmosphere electric with tension.

    The crowd held its breath as the fighters stood face to face. For a moment, the deafening noise faded, replaced by the crackling intensity of the confrontation.

    The giant screens above the arena displayed the team compositions:

    Golden Cosmos:

    1v1: Mercury Banks

    3v3: Kobayashi Raya - Catarina - Milo Ambrosius

    4v4: Eratz Pandora- Kaida - Colin Alondra - Ryder Crow

    Stellar Vanguard:

    1v1: Thyra Voss

    3v3: Cassian Drell - Lyric Aven - Soren Tylis

    4v4: Aeron Solaris - Vale Emberhart - Lucien Skye - Kael Dravok

    The names and faces of the fighters glowed on the screens. The Golden Cosmos team

    exchanged glances, their expressions reflecting a quiet satisfaction.

    This setup was halfway what they had hoped for, each fighter in the position where they could

    counter them.

    "Perfect," Eratz murmured, his gaze flicking toward the Stellar Vanguard side. "We go with

    plan B."

    Mercury adjusted her gloves, a small smirk playing on her lips. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Alright, this is it."

    Meanwhile, on the Stellar Vanguard side, their fighters nodded with confidence. As expected,

    the pharaoh was in the battle with the most points.

    Both teams moved to their designated benches, sleek and futuristic seating areas on either

    side of the arena.

    Each station was equipped with holographic displays, energy monitors, and resting zones for

    the competitors not yet in battle.

    The Golden Cosmos fighters settled in, their expressions a mixture of focus and excitement.

    On the Stellar Vanguard side, their team gathered in a calm, disciplined manner. The crowd''s energy surged again as the announcer''s voice boomed across the arena.

    "The first battle! In the 1v1, we have Golden Cosmos''s Mercury Banks versus Stellar

    Vanguard''s Thyra Voss!"

    Both fighters stepped forward, the anticipation in the air thick enough to cut. Mercury''s water marks began to glow faintly as the arena floor beneath her shimmered with moisture.

    In front from her, Thyra''s aura oozed like a creeping poison, the ground beneath her feet

    darkening with toxic green energy.

    The announcer''s voice rang out one last time.

    "Let the first battle...begin!"

 Chapter 190: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(2)

    Chapter 190: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(2)"Let the battle... begin!"

    Thyra moved first. She extended her hand, and her field spell erupting like a toxic storm.

    Green and purple, swirling energy engulfed her side of the arena, spreading rapidly as vines of poisonous energy snaked across the ground.

    Her beasts, the stone scorpion and venomous serpent, materialized, moving with precision, their bodies glowing faintly within the haze.

    Mercury responded calmly, her water marks glowing as her field spell expanding in kind.

    A cool mist rolled across the battlefield, meeting the poisonous haze in a visual clash of green and blue.

    Jets of water erupted from the ground, slicing through the poison and creating clear pockets amidst the chaos.

    For a moment, the two spells seemed to battle for dominance, the energy between them crackling.

    Thyra smirked as her toxic aura surged forward, her voice cool and calculated.

    Thyra''s scorpion raised its claws, firing concentrated rays of toxic energy that sliced through the mist like sharp beams.

    Her serpent slithered through the poisonous haze, its strikes swift and elusive, each attack aimed at exploiting Mercury''s movement.

    Mercury dodged with measured precision, her movements fluid and controlled.

    She raised a hand, and a torrent of water spiraled upward, intercepting the toxic rays mid- flight. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    With a sharp twist, she redirected the water into a wave, forcing the serpent to retreat momentarily.

    Rather than reacting to Thyra''s pressure, Mercury remained focused. Her field spell expanded further, the mist growing denser as the battlefield shifted in her favor.

    The water on the ground began pooling into reflective surfaces, amplifying her control.

    Thyra, noticing the shift, clicked her tongue. Her beasts intensified their attacks, the scorpion launching precise energy spikes while the serpent darted forward with venom-laden fangs.

    Mercury countered with strategic positioning, her water forming barriers and jets around the field to parry and redirect the attacks.

    But Thyra''s poison wasn''t easy to avoid.

    Their speed was a dangerous weapon.

    A ray grazed Mercury''s side, and the venom began to take hold. The crowd gasped as Mercury staggered slightly, her breathing quickening.

    Thyra smiled coldly.

    "Game over."

    Mercury''s glowing marks flared brighter. Without hesitation, she activated her beastification with water.

    The mist around her thickened, washing over her body and cleansing the poison from her system. Her hair moved like liquid, her movements growing faster and more fluid.

    "Second that," Mercury said, her voice steady as water spiraled around her like a shield.

    Thyra''s aura surged as she directed her scorpion to slam the ground, sending waves of poisonous energy rippling outward.

    Her serpent followed with precise strikes, using the haze to conceal its movements.

    The audience watched in awe as Mercury countered with her own burst of energy.

    The battlefield was a chaotic blend of water and poison, each fighter''s field spell battling for dominance.

    Mercury, however, remained calm. She used the reflective pools she''d created to anticipate and intercept Thyra''s attacks, the scorpion''s energy spikes deflected by sudden jets of water.

    Thyra''s composure wavered as Mercury''s field spell began to overtake hers.

    The toxic haze thinned under the relentless mist, and the scorpion stumbled as its footing was washed away.

    Desperate, Thyra commanded her beasts to charge. The scorpion lunged, claws glowing with toxic energy, while the serpent darted toward Mercury with deadly precision.

    Mercury activated her Zephyraquiel Beastification, her semi-transparent wings unfurling as wind and water swirled around her in a dazzling display.

    She dodged the serpent''s strike with ease, her wings propelling her upward as she unleashed a devastating hurricane, shredding the poison in its path.

    Thyra''s beasts faltered under the onslaught, their movements slowing as the battlefield shifted entirely to Mercury''s control.

    With a final, spectacular move, Mercury gathered a large amount of water to summon a towering tidal wave that crashed down on Thyra and her beasts with overwhelming force before erupting like a gigantic geyser.

    When the water cleared, Thyra lay on the ground, her aura extinguished and her beasts defeated.

    The arena was silent for a heartbeat, and then, the crowd erupted into deafening cheers. The announcer''s voice boomed across the arena, charged with excitement. "Incredible! A stunning upset! The Water Goddess of Golden Cosmos claims victory! Thyra Voss, a continental-ranked fighter, has fallen to a national ranked fighter!"

    The roar of the crowd swelled as Mercury straightened, her breathing steady despite the grueling battle.

    Her glowing water marks faded as she stepped back, the faintest of smiles tugging at her lips.

    At the Golden Cosmos bench, her teammates jumped to their feet, clapping and cheering.

    "Now that''s how you make a big impression! And against a continental ranked girl!" Kaida shouted with a grin, pumping her fist.

    Catarina whistled, leaning back casually.

    "Knew she had it in the bag, nya."

    Eratz clenched his fist.

    "Great, the best case scenario is reachable."

    The giant screen above the arena lit up, the scoreboard updating with a loud chime:

    [Golden Cosmos 1 - 0 Stellar Vanguard]

    Across the battlefield, the Stellar Vanguard bench sat in stunned silence.

    Thyra had been their second strongest fighter, their insurance for the 1v1. Yet, Mercury had

    completely overwhelmed her.

    Vale Emberhart leaned back in his seat, his brow furrowed deeply.

    "This... wasn''t supposed to happen."

    Lucien Skye crossed his arms, his icy gaze locked on Mercury as she returned to her bench.

    "I thought the danger was just the Pharaoh and that shiki... shimi... well, the blind swordswoman. If she''s this strong, how deep does their roster go?"

    Aeron Solaris remained outwardly composed, but his golden eyes betrayed a bit of unease.

    "She''s not even their strongest. If Mercury can do that to Thyra, what happens when we face Eratz or Raya? This changes everything. We must change our strategy."

    The Stellar Vanguard fighters exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier confidence beginning to crack under the realization of Golden Cosmos''s true strength.

    Mercury returned to the Golden Cosmos bench, her teammates greeting her with enthusiasm.

    "That was insane!" Milo exclaimed, his wide eyes sparkling with admiration. "You wiped the

    floor with her!"

    "That was so amazing, you''re really strong," Colin added softly, her small smile showing her

    pride.

    Kaida gave Mercury a playful nudge.

    "Great job, sis. That was legendary."

    Mercury shook her head, though a faint blush crept up her cheeks.

    "She was strong. She was just unlucky to face the almighty me."

    Eratz smirked, leaning back with a teasing glint in his eyes. "Almighty, huh? Careful, or that crown might get too heavy for your head."

    Mercury shot him a playful glare, crossing her arms.

    "You''re just jealous I turned your high level league into a fraud, little Pharaoh."

    "Eh, wait my turn," he quipped with a grin. "I''ll show you what domination is."

    "Deal." Mercury grinned.

    She took her seat, letting the adrenaline fade as she drank some water. Her focus shifted

    immediately to the next battle.

    The screen above flickered again, highlighting the next match.

    [3v3: Kobayashi Raya - Catarina - Milo Ambrosius vs. Cassian Drell - Lyric Aven - Soren

    Tylis]

    The team stood up, each preparing in their own way. Catarina stretched with a lazy smirk, her black cat ears twitching.

    "Alright, time for Miss Fortune to make her grand show. Try to keep up, little mini Boss."

    Milo gulped audibly, his hands trembling slightly.

    "I... I fear no man. Only Father."

    Raya placed a steady hand on his shoulder, her calm voice cutting through his nerves.

    "Good, I''m delighted to fight alongside you again in this life. We''re here for you, so don''t

    panic."

    The three fighters made their way toward the battlefield. As they approached the glowing arch that marked the entrance, the roaring crowd greeted them with cheers and chants.

    On the opposite side, Cassian Drell and his teammates from Stellar Vanguard stepped

    forward.

    Cassian, tall but visibly tense, forced a strained smile. Lyric Aven moved with cautious

    precision, her usual grace laced with unease. Soren Tylis cracked his knuckles, the sound sharp

    in the quiet, but his clenched jaw betrayed his growing apprehension.

    Facing Golden Cosmos''s second ace was clearly weighing on them.

    The two teams met at the center of the battlefield, the tension between them palpable.

    The announcer''s voice echoed once more, igniting the crowd''s excitement.

    "And now, we move to the team battle! A 3v3 clash of wits, strategy, and raw power! Let the

    fighters take their positions!"

    Raya, Catarina, and Milo took their stances, ready for the chaos. Milo inhaled deeply,

    steadying himself.

    The crowd''s roar grew louder as the lights dimmed slightly, and the stage transformed into a

    dynamic battlefield. The announcer''s final words rang out:

    "Let the 3v3 battle... begin!"

 Chapter 191: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(3)

    Chapter 191: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(3)When the announcer''s voice echoed, all three Stellar Vanguard fighters wasted no time, they launched themselves at Raya.

    Time seemed to slow as they descended on her like a pack of predators.

    Soren, with his brute strength, swung his massive fists. Lyric moved like a shadow, her strikes aimed with deadly precision to her throat. Cassian brought a sharp wind blast, intending to disrupt her balance.

    Face to this, Raya smiled. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    A flash of light erupted as her katana materialized, followed by an explosive impact. A shockwave shook the arena, rippling outward, and sending dust and debris flying. The crowd gasped in stunned silence.

    When the dust cleared, Raya stood tall, her katana raised. She had parried Soren''s and Lyric''s strikes simultaneously. However, one body lay on the ground behind them.

    It was Cassian, writhing in pain, his body covered with deep, slashing marks. He struggled to get up, his breaths shallow.

    Far behind them, Catarina stood, her black cat claws gleaming as she straightened her curved body. She licked her lips playfully and wagged a finger at the others.

    "Open wi~de," she teased, her voice dripping with mockery.

    Cassian groaned, still conscious but barely able to stand. Soren and Lyric froze, their gazes darting between Raya and Catarina.

    "She''s too fast," Soren muttered in panic.

    But they didn''t have time to process. Raya''s katana began to glow with a ghostly light, and a spectral samurai beast appeared behind her.

    The two attackers hesitated for a moment before deciding to strike again, aiming to keep her from attacking. However, Raya''s speed outmatched them, her movements blinding.

    Catarina moved simultaneously, weaving through their defenses like a shadow.

    Before Soren and Lyric could react, they turned to defend themselves, only to realize too late that Raya and Catarina had shifted their target.

    Another thunderous explosion erupted as both women struck Cassian, still on the ground, in perfect harmony.

    The force sent him skidding across the ground, his screams echoing through the arena as he fell unconscious.

    Golden Cosmos [2-0] Stellar Vanguard

    The Stellar Vanguard bench was silent, their fighters staring in disbelief. Vale''s fists clenched, his knuckles white. Even Aeron, usually calm, looked visibly shaken.

    Raya exhaled softly, lowering her katana as she spoke.

    "A good blade must be forged in fire, and tempered to perfection... until the end."

    Soren and Lyric growled in frustration, their anger boiling over. Both summoned their beasts, a massive, armored bear and a dark, winged creature.

    The arena trembled as the beasts charged toward Raya and Catarina, their massive forms aiming to overwhelm them.

    But neither of the two women flinched.

    Raya''s ghostly samurai met the bear head-on, cutting it off with swift, precise strikes. Catarina darted around the winged beast, her agility allowing her to stay one step ahead. But Catarina was also in instinctive mode.

    As the beasts moved to attack her, she slipped through their moved, her claws gleaming as she lunged toward Soren and Lyric.

    "W-watch out!" Lyric shouted, her voice frantic.

    Soren swung his massive fists, aiming to catch Catarina, but she dodged effortlessly.

    Raya intercepted Lyric, her katana glowing as she blocked every incoming strike.

    The two fighters worked seamlessly, their synergy unmatched. Catarina often ignored her own opponent, delivering sharp strikes to Raya''s adversary instead.

    When the other tried to intervene, Raya intercepted with swift precision, slashing her and maintaining the delicate balance of their coordination.

    Milo, standing on the sidelines, watched in awe. The speed and power on display left him stunned.

    "They''re amazing," he whispered, his voice filled with admiration.

    But something clicked in his mind. He tightened his fists. "... I can''t just stand here. I... I''ll do something too!"

    Milo summoned many of his fairies at once. A shimmering mist began to spread across the battlefield, reducing visibility.

    Soren and Lyric faltered in the mist, their vision obscured. Desperately, they tried to focus on the movement around them, but the strikes came from every direction.

    Raya and Catarina weaved through the mist with ease, their spiritual training allowing them to sense every movement. They struck with surgical precision, delivering blow after blow to their disoriented opponents.

    Milo, meanwhile, commanded his beasts to fly above the mist, launching beams of energy at random intervals.

    The chaos intensified as the beams forced Soren and Lyric to move erratically, leaving them open to more attacks from Raya and Catarina.

    "They''re everywhere!" Soren shouted, his voice edged with panic.

    "Fuck! D-Do something!" Lyric shouted, her voice trembling.

    One final coordinated strike from Raya and Catarina sent Soren crashing to the ground. His bear dissipated as he fell unconscious.

    Lyric screamed in frustration, her dark beast lashing out wildly. Ignoring strategy, she rushed out of the mist, her eyes locked on Milo.

    "I''ll take you down at least!" she shouted, her hand raised.

    But as she reached Milo, a synchronized attack from Raya and Catarina erupted in a shockwave

    of energy.

    Their strikes landed with devastating force, slashing Lyric several times in a dazzling explosion. She collapsed to the ground, unconscious.

    Golden Cosmos [4-0] Stellar Vanguard

    The arena fell into stunned silence, the weight of the moment hanging heavy, before erupting

    into euphoria.

    The crowd screamed, their cheers deafening, as the display of power and flawless

    coordination left everyone in awe.

    At the Golden Cosmos bench, the team processed the spectacle, with reactions of admiration

    and disbelief.

    "That... was insane," Kaida said, shaking her head with a wide smile.

    Eratz leaned forward, a proud smirk tugging at his lips.

    "To think those two could work so well together... We need to test more combinations like

    this."

    Mercury crossed her arms, nodding with a mixture of amazement and satisfaction.

    "I knew they were good, but that? That was next-level."

    Ryder let out a low whistle, impressed, while Colin clasped her hands together, murmuring.

    "It was like... like a dance."

    Seated at the edge of the bench, Victoria chuckled, folding her arms with an incredulous

    smile.

    "Well, I didn''t see that coming. It was perfect... simply perfect!"

    On the field, Catarina waved at the crowd, laughing heartily.

    "Mew, this was barely 2% of my full power!" she teased, her playful energy sparking another

    wave of cheers.

    Beside her, Raya''s katana dissolved into light as she smiled softly.

    "Fighting in a team like this... it''s rare and so exciting. I enjoyed it." Milo slumped on the ground with a deep sigh, his relief palpable. "That... was close," he muttered, a faint smile crossing his face.

    The Golden Cosmos team was shining, not just with this victory, but with the undeniable realization of their strength at this stage.

 Chapter 192: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(4)

    Chapter 192: Team Battle: Golden Cosmos vs Stellar Vanguard(4)The Stellar Vanguard bench was suffused with tension, the weight of their crushing defeat pressing down on every fighter.

    Cassian sat hunched over, his hands trembling as he stared blankly at the ground.

    Soren''s jaw was set tight, his knuckles trembling as he gripped the edge of the bench.

    Lyric paced nervously, her face expression now twisting and unfocused.

    "We''re done," Vale muttered, breaking the silence. "They didn''t even use a field spells. They toyed with us. If just one of you fall in the final match..." His voice trailed off, but the implication was clear.

    Lucien slammed his fist on the bench, his icy demeanor cracking.

    "And now we''re up against the Pharaoh. That monster. How the hell are we supposed to not lose against someone like him?!"

    Panic rippled through the group, the earlier confidence of Stellar Vanguard now shattered.

    Even Aeron Solaris stood silently, his golden colored clothes catching the dim light but lacking its usual luster.

    "They''re unstoppable," Soren muttered, his voice laced with despair. "Even if we throw everything at them, it won''t be enough."

    Suddenly, Aeron stepped forward, his move taking the attention of the room. His golden eyes burned with determination as he looked at each of his teammates.

    "Enough," he said, his voice firm but calm. The room quieted, every pair of eyes turning to him. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "We''ve come too far to give up now," Aeron continued. "I know what you''re feeling. Fear. Doubt. But I won''t let this end in failure. Not for us."

    His gaze hardened, the intensity in his expression sparking a faint flicker of hope in his team.

    "You''ve done enough. I''ll handle this."

    Lucien frowned.

    "You mean..."

    Aeron nodded, the fire in his voice unwavering.

    "Yes. Alone. I''ll take the Pharaoh and his team myself. Step aside and trust me."

    For a moment, silence filled the air. Then, one by one, the Stellar Vanguard fighters nodded, a mixture of relief and hope washing over them.

    Aeron turned toward the arena, his hair moving slightly as he strode away.

    At the Golden Cosmos bench, the mood was calm but focused. Zara stood before the team, her voice steady as she briefed them.

    "Stay focused," she said. "We only need one point. That''s it. Don''t take unnecessary risks."

    Eratz leaned back, a faint smirk on his face.

    "The only problem is their ace. Aeron''s field spell is dangerous. If we had Mercury, we could counter him easily and add salt with Raijinara."

    Kaida stretched, cracking her neck with a confident grin.

    "Relax, Apex. If Mercury were here, it''d make it too easy and it''d just hold Colin and me back. Besides, you heard Zara, no need to go all out. Just one point is enough... And that one point will be Aeron."

    Colin said little, but her excitement was clear in the way she adjusted her gloves and glanced at Eratz to imitate his moves.

    Eratz noticed it and gave her an encouraging smile, then turned his attention to the Stellar Vanguard bench. He observed them for a moment, and then, his red eyes narrowed, and an idea sparked in his mind.

    "Ryder," he called, motioning for him to come closer. "Quick question, how durable are you?"

    Ryder raised an eyebrow.

    "What? What are you thinking?"

    Eratz didn''t answer immediately but smirked as he began explaining his idea.

    The arena roared as the final fighters took their positions.

    Eratz, Kaida, Colin, and Ryder stepped onto the battlefield, their presence commanding attention.

    Colin''s eyes widened as she took in the massive arena, the sheer scale and energy overwhelming her for a moment. "It''s... incredible," she whispered.

    "Focus up, Colin," Kaida said with a grin, nudging her lightly. "You''ll get used to it."

    At the center, the Stellar Vanguard team stood, but only Aeron stepped forward. He exuded an aura of fierce dominance.

    The announcer''s voice echoed through the coliseum.

    "The final match! Golden Cosmos vs. Stellar Vanguard! Let the battle... begin!"

    To everyone''s surprise, Aeron''s three teammates immediately turned and ran, retreating to

    the edges of the battlefield.

    "What the...?" Kaida muttered, her brow furrowing.

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed as realization dawned.

    "What... Damn! Get ready! He''s activating his field spell!"

    Aeron raised his hand, his golden armor shining brighter. Flames erupted around him, spreading rapidly across the battlefield.

    "Savor it! My perfect gift for you all!" Aeron roared.

    A massive explosion engulfed the area, the fire spreading like a tidal wave. The audience gasped in horror as Golden Cosmos''s team was swallowed by the flames.

    When the flames subsided, the battlefield was unrecognizable.

    The ground was scorched, glowing with molten cracks. Flames licked the edges of the arena, creating an oppressive heat that radiated outward.

    Aeron stood at the center, tall and fierce.

    The crowd watched in awe as he surveyed the field, confident that his attack had crippled his

    opponents.

    But then, in the fiery haze, several figures began to rise.

    Their eyes glowed through the smoke.

    Aeron''s confident expression faltered, his eyes widening in shock.

    "No..." he whispered.

    Across from him, Eratz and his team emerged, their appearances transformed by their

    beastifications.

    Eratz, his body enveloped in blazing energy, and red marks he activated his beastification

    with Cinderblaze.

    His aura crackled with fiery intensity, his hair crossed by blue, red, orange and yellow.

    Beside him, Ryder glowed with ember-like energy, Colin''s small frame burned with a vivid

    orange hue, and Kaida''s fiery markings pulsed rhythmically.

    Aeron''s eyes widened in disbelief as the fiery figures rose from the scorched earth.

    "How...?" he muttered, his voice trembling as he took a step back.

    Eratz stepped forward, his red eyes fixed on Aeron. His voice cut through the crackling flames.

    "Elementary reasoning. Now that they can''t enter safely, you''re all alone here. You didn''t

    protect your team, Aeron. You trapped yourself with us."

    Aeron''s jaw clenched, and he growled in frustration.

    "D... Don''t underestimate me!" He raised his hand, summoning his beast.

    The ground trembled as the fiery field responded to his call.

    "Kaida," Eratz said calmly.

    Kaida nodded, her smirk unwavering.

    "On it."

    As Aeron''s ace beast began to materialize, wreathed in golden fire, Kaida''s fiery aura

    intensified.

    But then, through the inferno, Aeron caught a glimpse of something else. Massive eyes, glowing with an intense fiery light, stared back at him through the flames.

    The Ardentis faltered, and Aeron''s confident smirk faded as the shadow of an enormous

    creature loomed behind Golden Cosmos.

    The size of the beast dwarfed anything on the battlefield.

    "What... is that?" Aeron whispered, his voice shaking.

    The light surrounding the beast grew brighter until a sudden blast erupted, sending a searing stream of fire across the battlefield.

    The explosion was deafening, and the battlefield was engulfed in flames and smoke. Inside the fiery chaos, bursts of fire and explosions erupted in quick succession. The audience watched in stunned silence, unable to see what was happening within the inferno. Suddenly, Aeron emerged, his body hurtling through the air before crashing to the ground. His clothes were scorched, his movements sluggish as he tried to rise, but his strength failed

    him.

    He rolled onto his back, in a bad shape, his golden aura extinguished.

    The Stellar Vanguard bench was frozen in shock.

    "Aeron..." Vale whispered, his voice barely audible. Lucien clenched his fists, staring at the burning field. "Damn... These... C-cover him, as long as he doesn''t..."

    But his words were cut off as the fire on the battlefield began to swirl violently.

    The flames twisted and spun, forming a massive vortex that seemed to swallow the entire

    field.

    The swirling fire converged at a single point, condensing into a dense orb that glowed like a miniature sun.

    The heat radiating from it was suffocating, and the crowd shielded their faces from the light. The orb hovered in the center of the battlefield, its fiery energy pulsating dangerously. Eratz, standing atop the fiery sphere, crouched before leaping back. With a powerful kick, he sent the orb hurtling toward Aeron''s teammates.

    The attack tore through the air, roaring like a meteor as it descended on them.

    Lucien and Vale stared in horror, frozen as the fiery sun bore down on them.

    "What do we do?!" Vale shouted in panic.

    But there was no time to act.

    The orb landed with a deafening impact, detonating in a catastrophic blast that rocked the

    entire arena.

    The explosion was immense, an eruption of fire and energy that consumed everything in its

    path.

    A massive shockwave rippled outward, shaking the coliseum to its core.

    The firestorm illuminated the entire arena, its blinding light forcing the audience to close

    their eyes. When the flames finally subsided, the battlefield was unrecognizable.

    The scorched earth smoldered, molten cracks running across the ground.

    A new fire field covered the arena, the remnants of the devastating attack.

    But there were no Stellar Vanguard fighters left standing.

    [Golden Cosmos 8 - 0 Stellar Vanguard]

    The crowd erupted into cheers, their voices shaking the coliseum with excitement.

    This was no longer just a victory, it was a spectacle that would go down in history.

    Golden Cosmos first match was a stunning 10/10.

    At the Golden Cosmos bench, the staff jumped in joy. Zara, overcome with excitement, hugged

    Victoria tightly.

    "They did it!" Zara exclaimed.

    Victoria chuckled.

    "Of course they did. What did you expect? They are our aces."

    On the field, Eratz absorbed the remaining fire into his body, the flames dimming as he

    exhaled deeply.

    His red eyes scanned the battlefield, and he smiled as he turned to his team.

    Kaida crossed her arms, a confident grin on her face.

    "Well, that was easier than I thought." Ryder blinked in disbelief, running a hand through his hair.

    "I mean... I didn''t expect it to be this one-sided."

    Colin looked around, her wide eyes reflecting her surprise.

    "It''s so... I didn''t even do anything." Eratz smirked, patting Colin on the shoulder.

    "It means our training was perfect. Our premiere was a success."

    As the flames around them died down completely, the Golden Cosmos team stood tall, their

    victory absolute.

    The public''s roaring cheers echoed through the arena, cementing their status as legends of

    the league.

 Chapter 193: Threads of Glory and Doubt

    Chapter 193: Threads of Glory and DoubtThe Golden Cosmos team gathered in the private locker room to celebrate their victory. The room was lively, with tables in the center set up with bottles of water, juice, and a few small trays of snacks. Staff members buzzed around, clapping and cheering, offering handshakes and congratulations to the team.

    Kaida laughed boisterously, slapping Ryder on the back as they recounted their fights.

    "Did you see that? I went toe-to-toe with a continental-ranked fighter for several seconds! That beast is amazing!" Kaida exclaimed, her voice brimming with triumphant pride. "Nobody could touch us out there!"

    Ryder grinned and leaned back, crossing his arms.

    "You''re right. We crushed it. Nobody''s going to forget this anytime soon. I mean, look at us. We''re on fire! I''m so ready for our next battle!" He mimicked one of his sneak attacks, drawing a loud laugh from Kaida.

    Across the room, Colin and Milo sat quietly, their expressions thoughtful.

    Colin fidgeted with her pendant, her voice low.

    "When I fought with Eratz, Kaida, and Ryder... I did nothing. I didn''t even understand what was happening. Everything moved so fast. Eratz just told me to use my beastification with any fire beast, so I did... but that''s all I could do. On my own... I felt completely outclassed."

    Milo shifted in his seat, his usual energy drained.

    "I know... For me, it was Catarina and Raya. I couldn''t even see their moves. They were just... everywhere. I felt so useless, like I didn''t belong out there with them."

    Colin sighed, her fingers tightening around the pendant.

    "They make it look so easy, but... it''s not. I can barely keep up with practice, let alone that level."

    Milo gave a weak smile, but determination flickered in his eyes.

    "It''s so hard," he admitted. "But Eratz said we''re doing better than they were at our stage, so... maybe it''s fine. I don''t know. I''ll trust him."

    Zara''s voice broke through the mixed atmosphere. She leaned casually against a table, her confident smirk drawing attention.

    "You know what''s funny? You didn''t even use our strongest beasts."

    Kaida paused mid-drink, her hand tightening around the bottle. For a moment, she was silent, her sharp gaze darting away as she drank nervously.

    She had been the only one to unleash her calamity beast, and the weight of that choice sat heavily on her. Her grip on the bottle tightened as she cleared her throat.

    Eratz, at first oblivious, chuckled lightly as Zara''s words hung in the air. Then, as realization dawned, his expression shifted. His eyes went wide, and he froze in place.

    He had forgotten something crucial: his three aces were still in Ferindale.

    He had commanded them to keep hunting and grow stronger outside, by themselves. He even told Mercury before that they were still training, but the truth was far less organized.

    He hadn''t even used them during their calamity hunt, choosing instead to rely on Raijinara and Cinderblaze, and over time, he had simply forgotten about them. Now, those powerful creatures were still rampaging in Ferindale.

    Both Kaida and Eratz sat in stunned silence, their eyes wide as they became invisible to the celebrating room. Meanwhile, the rest of the team and staff erupted in laughter, oblivious to their sudden tension.

    Mercury, seated near the window, abruptly stood as her phone buzzed. Answering it, her expression quickly shifted to a frown. She turned away from the group, speaking in hushed tones. When she hung up, her demeanor was tense.

    "I have something to take care of," she announced, her tone clipped. "I''ll head out first."

    Catarina blinked in surprise, her ears twitching playfully.

    "So soon, nya~? We just started celebrating!"

    Mercury offered a small, tight smile before leaving. Victoria, watching from the corner, furrowed her brows. Her usual calm demeanor gave way to a flicker of concern as her gaze lingered on the door Mercury had exited.

    The Golden Cosmos'' crushing victory sent shockwaves through the competitive circuit. Agencies and competitors alike analyzed their performance with both awe and unease. Their dominance and spectacular display highlighted their team''s overwhelming power.

    Eratz, Raya, Mercury, and Catarina especially left a lasting impression, giving the sense that this was a group of powerhouses.

    Discussions about Mercury, Kaida, and Catarina''s potential rank-up quickly began circulating among the arena''s elite.

    While some saw Golden Cosmos as an inspiring benchmark to aim for, others viewed them as an intimidating force, nearly untouchable in their current form.

    The Pharaoh was still undefeated, the Shinigami was still mysterious, the Goddess of Ocean always made her wins look easy. The murmurs of their rising status spread rapidly, solidifying their reputation as a serious threat to other teams and agencies.

    At Genova Academy, the students had settled into the rhythm of their new academic year. The once quiet halls were now alive with chatter and excitement as preparations for the winter tournament began.

    Posters lined the walls. Groups of students could be seen strategizing in corners or practicing their techniques on the training grounds.

    The tournament was a time for everyone to show their potential. The air buzzed with nervous energy.

    Kian and Lila had already risen to prominence. Their skills and confidence made them the top picks to win, and their popularity soared.

    However, many students weren''t ready to roll over. They trained harder than ever, determined to give the siblings a run for their money.

    During these preparations, Kenny began appearing more frequently. His presence sent ripples S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    of unease through the academy.

    Treated as a scarecrow, he remained isolated from his peers, but there was something different about him now. He walked the halls with a strange and unshakable confidence.

    His sharp gaze and composed demeanor were a far cry from the broken figure many remembered after the finals. Most of his peers didn''t care about him and often wondered why he was still at the academy.

    When the tournament finally began, the matchups were printed and pinned to the announcement board in the main hall. Students crowded around to see who they would face.

    The atmosphere grew heavier with each pairing.

    In the teachers'' area, Rowan stared at the board, his expression troubled. He glanced at the other teachers and asked quietly.

    "Is this serious?" His voice cracked slightly as he added.

    "It''s too big to be a coincidence."

    Among the students, reactions ranged from shock to unease. Lisa''s hands trembled as she stared at the board. Her breath caught in her throat.

    Her eyes widened as the reality of the matchup sank in. Kenny was going to face Kian.

 Chapter 194: Bound by Blood, Doomed by Legacy

    Chapter 194: Bound by Blood, Doomed by LegacyThe halls of Genova Academy were unusually tense. Students whispered in clusters, their faces drawn with worry. All eyes seemed to follow Kian wherever he went, though the young Pandora strode confidently through the corridors, oblivious to the unease surrounding him.

    "What''s with everyone today?"

    Kian asked, glancing at Lila, who shrugged.

    "No idea," she said, looking around at the unusually quiet crowd. "Feels like they''ve all gone weird. Do we have something on our faces or what?"

    Before either could speculate further, a voice broke through the murmurs.

    "It''s simple," came a sickly sweet tone.

    Kenny emerged from the shadows, his wide, unsettling grin plastered across his face. His teeth gleamed unnaturally, and his eyes glinted with a twisted glee.

    "They''re just worried about you, Kian. Isn''t that sweet?"

    Kian turned, his confident demeanor unshaken. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "And why would they be worried? I can beat anyone here."

    Kenny chuckled, the sound low and syrupy, almost too calm. He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper that still carried through the silent hallway.

    "Oh, come now, young Pandora," he cooed, his tone mockingly reassuring, like a predator lulling its prey into a false sense of safety. "You shouldn''t overestimate yourself. After all, you''re quite the jewel of this academy. It''s only natural they''d take an interest in someone as... precious as you."

    Lila stepped forward, her fists clenched.

    "Back off, weirdo. Your creepy act isn''t scaring anyone."

    Kenny''s grin widened, impossibly so.

    "Weirdo? Me? Oh, Lila, I''m just being friendly. I can''t help it if some people... misunderstand."

    He straightened, his eyes never leaving Kian.

    "Don''t worry, though. I''m no one special. Just someone who likes you. A lot."

    His tone dipped into something darker as he added,

    "Young Pandora."

    With that, Kenny turned on his heel and walked away, his wide smile lingering in the minds of everyone present. The uneasy silence in the hallway gave way to nervous murmurs as the students exchanged troubled glances.

    A few decided then and there to go to the director about Kenny''s behavior, their instincts warning them that something was deeply wrong.

    The following day, Lisa stormed into Rowan''s office, her face pale and her voice trembling with urgency.

    "You have to stop this fight," she said, practically pleading. "Professor, you can''t let it happen. You know what kind of person Kenny is. He shouldn''t be allowed near Kian and Lila!"

    Rowan sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

    "Lisa, do you think I don''t know that? But this isn''t as simple as canceling a match. There are other factors at play."

    Lisa''s voice rose, her desperation turning to anger.

    "Other factors? Are you serious? This is Eratz''s family! After everything, you''re really going to ignore this? Letting this match happen is just another way to prove how little you care about him!"

    Rowan''s eyes narrowed slightly, but he remained silent as Lisa''s tirade continued.

    "You, me, and the rest of this academy turned our backs on him. And now you''re doing it again, this time to his siblings. Kian and Lila don''t deserve this, and you know it. If you won''t do anything, I will. I''ll tell Eratz everything."

    She spun on her heel, ready to leave, but Rowan''s calm voice stopped her in her tracks.

    "You''re right."

    Lisa froze, her hand hovering over the doorknob. She turned slowly, confusion etched across her face.

    "What?"

    Rowan leaned back in his chair, folding his hands neatly in front of him.

    "You''re right. They are Eratz''s siblings. And that''s exactly why I hesitate to intervene."

    Lisa''s confusion deepened.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Rowan''s tone remained calm, but there was a weight to his words.

    "If I cancel this match, we''re acknowledging that we''re letting a problem run unchecked. But letting it happen... letting Kenny face him... will be the best lesson for everyone involved. Including Kenny."

    Lisa''s face contorted with rage.

    "Are you saying you''re willing to sacrifice Kian for some stupid lesson?"

    Rowan shook his head.

    "Not Kian."

    He met her furious gaze, his voice steady.

    "Just trust me. I know what I saw, and I''m confident in the result."

    Lisa trembled, her fists clenched at her sides. She stared at Rowan for a long moment before turning and leaving the room without another word.

    Time passed quickly, and soon the tournament at Genova Academy began. The initial matches were simple, low-stakes battles that allowed the younger or less experienced students to

    showcase their progress.

    The audience cheered as participants clashed with basic elemental techniques and summoned their elemental spirits. It was a lively start, but while the crowd enjoyed the spectacle, the teachers and director sat in dead silence. To them, this level of competition for first and second years at a prestigious academy bordered on comedy.

    The tension hit a peak when it was time for Kian to face Kenny.

    Both stood on the battleground, a palpable energy filling the air. Kenny''s unsettling grin returned, his satisfaction clear as he took in the crowd.

    "Back here again," Kenny said, his voice dripping with malice. "There''s always a second chance for everything, fight, success... Even vengeance."

    Kian remained unfazed.

    "I don''t care about your second chances," he said flatly. "You''re just another victim in a list

    I''ll forget."

    Kenny''s grin widened, and he laughed, a sound that sent shivers down the spines of the

    audience.

    "You''ll care soon enough," Kenny sneered. "It''ll be funny when my stepping stone is built on

    this bloodline."

    He spread his arms, and the air around him seemed to crackle with power. Elemental spirits of fire, water, and wind began to swirl around him, their energy pulsing brightly.

    Then, with a dramatic flourish, Kenny summoned his beasts: a pack of small but varied creatures. The students gasped. Most of the first and some second years only had elemental spirits, but Kenny was proving why he had once stood above them all.

    "Mock me, will you?" Kenny''s voice rose. "Mock me like the fools you are! I trained harder than any of you could imagine after what happened. And now..."

    In the stands, Lisa''s hands clenched into fists, her face tight with anger. Beside her, Clara looked nervously at Kian. Kian, however, stood unbothered, raising a single finger in response

    to Kenny''s display.

    Kenny''s voice grew louder, addressing the crowd.

    "Look at me! I''m the proof that resilience pays off! A resurrection! This is my moment!"

    The teachers and the director kept their faces impassive as they observed. Kenny turned back

    to Kian, his voice sharp.

    "Attack!"

    The beasts charged as Kenny commanded them forward. But before they could reach Kian, a single purple beam shot from his finger, piercing Kenny''s shoulder. Kenny staggered, clutching his wound.

    The beasts continued their advance, but just as they neared, a barrier of fire and lightning erupted around Kian. The beasts collided with the barrier and disintegrated on contact, their

    energy returning to Kenny.

    The arena fell silent, save for Kenny''s sharp intake of breath. His eyes widened in disbelief.

    "What was that?" he muttered, staring at Kian.

    Kian smirked.

    "All this noise for that?" he said mockingly.

    Kenny''s face twisted with anger and confusion.

    "It''s a trick! I was too hurried. Watch this!"

    He summoned his beasts again, driving them toward Kian with desperation. The result was

    the same. The beasts dissolved upon hitting the barrier, their energy siphoned back into

    Kenny.&#x20;

    Again and again, Kenny tried, his commands growing more frantic with each failed attempt.

    His breaths came quicker, and his movements became erratic.

    "Why isn''t it working?" Kenny cried, his voice breaking.

    Kian''s smirk deepened.

    "Ah, it''s finally taking effect."

    Kenny''s eyes darted around, panic setting in.

    "What do you mean?"

    Kian raised his finger again, pointing at Kenny''s shoulder.

    "The beam I shot? It wasn''t just an attack. It was poison. It''s devouring you, slowly and thoroughly." His voice dripped with mockery. "And since you''re probably as weak as everyone here, it''s enough. You''re fucked."

    Kenny''s reaction was immediate and visceral. He lashed out wildly, sending elemental blasts

    toward Kian, all of which fizzled against the barrier. He tried to summon his beasts again, only to watch them fall apart.

    He rushed forward, only to stumble and burn himself against the barrier''s edges. Spitting and

    cursing, he crawled, his body shaking as he tried to push through the pain and the poison.

    The students were stunned. Lisa was dumbfounded, her mouth slightly open as she watched

    the scene unfold. Only Lila remained unsurprised, her arms crossed as she leaned back

    casually.

    Rowan, watching from above, spoke calmly.

    "They remind me of Eratz," he said, his voice filled with admiration. "Both of them. Kian and

    Lila. The way they think, the way they improve... it''s creative and relentless. That barrier Kian

    is using? It''s through his elemental beasts, just as Eratz mastered control over his fire beast.

    Kenny isn''t weak, he''s just unlucky to have been against this family all this time." He paused, his tone almost reverent. "In the end, blood matters."

    On the battlefield, Kenny''s movements slowed. His legs shook uncontrollably, and his breaths

    came in ragged gasps.

    "Why..." he rasped, falling to his knees. His vision blurred as he looked up at Kian. "How? I

    was stronger than anyone before... I''m stronger than any student now..." His voice cracked as tears filled his eyes. "Why am I always defeated?"

    In his final moments of consciousness, the answer came to him. Kian stood tall, his presence

    unshaken.

    "It''s always them," Kenny thought bitterly, his vision fading. "His family... These damn

    people." He collapsed, unconscious, as the referee raised Kian''s hand in victory. The crowd erupted into cheers, but the shock of what they had witnessed lingered.

    Kian had won, and Kenny''s second chance had been completely crushed by the brother of the man who introduced him to hell.

 Chapter 196: The Cold Chain of Blood

    Chapter 196: The Cold Chain of BloodMercury adjusted her cap slightly, her hand steady despite the fire burning within her.

    She stood across from the man who had once called himself their father, a man who had abandoned her and Milo years ago without so much as a backward glance.

    The small caf¨¦ seemed far too bright for a moment like this, and the faint murmur of chatter around them grated on her nerves. Still, she kept her voice even, her gaze unwavering.

    "You know why I''m here," she began, sliding a neat stack of papers onto the table. "Milo''s contract."

    The man looked up at her, his expression unnervingly calm, almost detached. His presence carried an ominous weight as if he were testing her limit with every second that passed.

    He tilted his head slightly, a faint smile creeping across his lips, but Mercury wasn''t going to let him unsettle her.

    "Since Milo is still a minor," she continued, her tone sharp and controlled, "he needs the signature of his legal guardian to move forward with his beast mastery contract."

    Her father''s smile grew, but his eyes remained cold and unreadable. He leaned back in his chair, his hands clasped together as if this were nothing more than a casual conversation.

    "And that guardian is me," he said, his voice smooth, almost amused. "How convenient, isn''t it?"

    Mercury''s jaw tightened, but she refused to let him bait her. She had prepared for this moment, and she wouldn''t let him manipulate the situation.

    "Convenient for you, perhaps," she said, leaning forward slightly, her eyes narrowing. "You have the legal right to control Milo''s future because you never relinquished guardianship. It doesn''t matter that you abandoned us, that you left me to take care of him alone. On paper, you''re still his father, and apparently, that gives you all the authority."

    He didn''t flinch, but his smirk faltered for the briefest of moments before returning. Then he leaned back, a mockingly sympathetic look spreading across his face.

    "Does that mean you''re finally stopping your harassment. You have sent half the lawyers in the city after me to challenge that, after all," he said, his voice dripping with false pity. "All that effort, all that expense, and yet here we are. You really should have saved yourself the trouble. I almost feel sorry for you, Mercury."

    Mercury seized the moment and pressed on.

    "I''m not here to argue about the past. I''m here to make this official." She slid the papers closer to him. "Sign these. They transfer all legal rights over Milo to me. No more decisions, no more weight of responsibility for a child you clearly don''t care about."

    Her father''s gaze dropped to the papers and the pen that sat just within reach of his fingers. He stared at them for a long moment, his expression unreadable.

    Then, slowly, his lips curled into another smile, this one colder, sharper. He looked back at her, his eyes gleaming with something almost predatory.

    "You''ve thought this through, haven''t you?" he said softly. "So practical, so efficient. Just like your mother was."

    Mercury''s eyes darkened, but she didn''t react to the bait. Instead, she folded her arms, her gaze drilling into his.

    "I''m giving you what you want," she said, her voice low but firm. "Freedom. No more ties to children you abandoned. Isn''t that what you''ve always wanted?"

    Her father chuckled, the sound low and unsettling, like a predator toying with its prey. He picked up the pen, twirling it idly between his fingers as if savoring the power it represented.

    Then he set it down without signing, leaning back in his chair with a languid ease that belied the tension in the air.

    "Oh, Mercury," he said, his voice almost mocking, laced with a faux sense of regret. "I''m shocked. Truly. I never imagined you''d come to me with something like this. After all, I''m just a man who made errors with his life, right? Why would you think I''d want to abandon my own son?"

    His tone was playful, almost teasing, but the malice underneath was razor-sharp. Mercury''s hands curled into fists at her sides, her nails digging into her palms, but she forced herself to stay calm. She refused to let him see how much his words stung.

    "Because it''s what you want too," she said, her voice steady. "You''re just playing games because you can''t help yourself. But we both know how this ends. You sign the papers, I take Milo, and you go to Hell like any other day."

    For a moment, he didn''t respond, his gaze fixed on her as if he were dissecting her every word. Then, a slow smile crept across his face, colder than before.

    "Ah, but see," he said, almost lazily, "that''s where you''ve misunderstood me. You think I want to walk away. That I want freedom from Milo. But now?" He leaned forward slightly, his eyes gleaming with something cruel. "I think I''ve been... misguided. I see things differently now."

    He paused, his smile widening as he added.

    "Wonderful, isn''t it? The timing. Milo''s growing up, becoming quite the promising little talent. Makes me realize... maybe it''s time to be the father I should have been all along. Maybe I can finally be there for my little boy."

    Mercury''s lips tightened, her fury barely contained as he went on, his tone turning saccharine.

    "Too bad you were so slow," he continued, shaking his head in mock disappointment. "I would have been there for you too, you know. If you''d just asked nicely... Well, it''s never too late, my beautiful daughter."

    The words hit like a slap, and Mercury began to tremble. Her hands pressed into the edge of the table, her knuckles pressing with force. The wooden surface groaned under the pressure.

    "You want to play games?" she said, her voice cold and cutting. "Keep testing me and I''ll show you how far I''m willing to go."

    Her grip on the table tightened, the faint sound of wood splintering beneath her fingertips breaking the tense silence.

    "Sign the damn papers."

    Her father''s smile faltered, just for a second, before he picked up the pen again, twirling it between his fingers. The moment stretched unbearably, the tension coiling tight between

    them.

    Finally, with a shrug and a dramatic sigh, he scrawled words across the papers. The scratch of the pen against the paper was loud in the oppressive silence.

    When he pushed the papers back toward her, his smirk returned.

    "There. All yours."

    Mercury grabbed the papers, her hands steady at first, but her expression faltered as she glanced down at the writing. The confidence in her eyes dimmed, replaced by confusion and then seething anger as she realized what was written on the page.

    ''Chill girl, I do what I want'' sprawled across the space where his signature should have been.

    Her composure shattered. She slammed the papers onto the table and stood abruptly, her

    chair scraping loudly against the floor. In one swift motion, she grabbed him by the collar, her voice a sharp hiss of fury.

    "What the hell is wrong with you?!" she snapped, her hands trembling with restrained

    violence.

    Her father''s smile didn''t waver. Instead, his eyes gleamed with a cold, calculated satisfaction.

    "Go ahead," he said, his voice low and taunting. "Prove to everyone here that you''re mentally unstable. Touch me, Mercury. Just once. See how fast you lose Milo... and your career." Mercury''s grip tightened for a moment, her knuckles white, before she forced herself to stop. Her chest heaved with rage as he continued, his tone dripping with mock wisdom.

    "Life isn''t a fairy tale, girl. It isn''t some game where you can win just because you have power. You touch me, and you''ll lose everything. That''s how the real world works."

    Her boiling anger reached a breaking point. She shoved him back into his chair and jabbed a

    finger at the papers.

    "Sign them," she demanded, her voice trembling with suppressed fury. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    But he shook his head, his smile as cold as ever.

    "Hm... No. You ignored my calls for the past year. Why should I respect your wishes now?"

    Mercury''s fists clenched at her sides, her entire body trembling.

    "You don''t even care for him! You''re only here because he''s successful! What''s wrong with

    you?!" she shouted, her voice cracking.

    He leaned forward, his expression turning icy.

    "And now I care," he said coldly, each word laced with venom. Then he smiled again, his teeth

    flashing like a predator savoring its victory.

    Around them, the tension was palpable. Other customers in the caf¨¦ glanced nervously at the scene, whispering among themselves. Mercury''s trembling grew worse as she stood frozen in place, torn between fury and despair. Her father''s smug gaze never wavered.

    Finally, with a visible effort, she released a shuddering breath and stepped back. Her fists unclenched, but the fire in her eyes remained. She turned sharply and stormed out of the caf¨¦, leaving him behind with his mocking smile and the insult he had left in place of a signature.

 Chapter 198: On the Edge of the Precipice

    Chapter 198: On the Edge of the PrecipiceKenny''s reaction was immediate and venomous. His fists clenched, his face twisted with anger as he lashed out.

    "You think I''m the only one to blame?" he spat. "It''s easy for you, sitting up there, acting all high and mighty. Do you know what it''s like? To be mocked, humiliated, treated like garbage by everyone around you?"

    Rowan remained silent, his expression unreadable, as Kenny''s tirade continued.

    "Eratz this, Eratz that," Kenny sneered. "Like he''s some untouchable god. Everyone loves him, but they forget what he was. I wasn''t the only one who made mistakes back then. You want me to bow down and kiss his feet? Admit I''m the monster?"

    His voice cracked with a mix of fury and desperation.

    "I''m not the only one who''s screwed up! Why should I have to grovel while he gets to be the hero?"

    Rowan sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly, as if the tension had left him completely. "If that''s how you feel," Rowan said quietly, "then there''s no reason for me to help you." The calmness in Rowan''s tone seemed to strike Kenny harder than any shout or reprimand. His face fell, his bravado crumbling as panic set in.

    "Wait! No, no, please," Kenny stammered, his voice suddenly desperate. "I''m sorry, I... I didn''t mean it like that. I... I''m just lost, okay? I don''t know what to do anymore. Everything''s a mess, and I... I don''t know how to fix it."

    Rowan leaned forward, his piercing gaze locking onto Kenny.

    "You don''t know how to apologize?" Rowan asked, his voice calm but sharp.

    Kenny froze, realizing the trap he had walked into. He stumbled over his words, his hands gesturing wildly.

    "No, I mean... I... I just don''t know where to start. Eratz is... he''s so far. What do I even say to someone like that? I..." His voice trailed off as Rowan''s gaze remained fixed on him.

    Taking a shaky breath, Kenny corrected himself.

    "I don''t know how to do it. Please... tell me what to do."

    Rowan leaned back in his chair, his expression softening slightly, though the weight of his words remained heavy.

    "This is your last chance," Rowan said firmly. "Genova is organizing a major event to showcase its growth and gain recognition. We''re setting up exhibition matches against some of the biggest organizations. If things go well, there''s a strong chance you''ll face Golden Cosmos."

    Kenny''s eyes widened, the mention of Golden Cosmos pulling him back into focus. The silence that followed was heavy.

    "You have a choice," Rowan continued. "You can prove your honesty there. Apologize to Eratz and show to everyone that you are ready to change, or you can fall back into the pit you''ve been digging for yourself. But understand this, Kenny. If you fail there too, you will lose everything. No more excuses."

    The two of them sat in silence, the weight of Rowan''s ultimatum pressing down on the room. Kenny''s mind raced, torn between fear, anger, and the faintest glimmer of hope.

    For now, he could only nod, his voice caught in his throat as Rowan''s words echoed in his mind. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    A few days later, Eratz emerged victorious once again, this time from another grueling continental-level match. The victory cemented his reputation as an incoming legend, a tamer whose name was spreading in the world.

    Later that evening, he stood on a high cliff overlooking the ocean, the vast expanse reflecting the waning sunlight. The wind ruffled his hair as he held his phone to his ear, speaking with Zara.

    "How are Mercury and Milo?" he asked, his voice steady but tinged with concern.

    Zara sighed audibly on the other end.

    "Mercury''s been holding up, but... she''s adamant about keeping this a secret from Milo. She thinks it''s better if he doesn''t know anything. At least not yet. Same for everyone except for Victoria."

    Eratz was silent for a moment, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. The sound of the waves crashing below filled the pause. Zara''s voice broke through the quiet.

    "Eratz? Are you there?" she asked, her tone cautious.

    "Zara," he said slowly, his voice distant. "Let''s say I became the strongest man in the world. In a world where strong beasts make the free roaming of tamers mandatory, a world where the threads are becoming... Dangerous... what would happen if I killed a random person?" The line went dead silent for a beat before Zara''s voice came back, sharp and alarmed. "What the hell are you talking about? That''s insane, Eratz! You can''t... you shouldn''t even think about something like that! Do you have any idea what that would mean? You''d lose everything! Your reputation, your career, your... your life! And for what? You want to be a murderer, Eratz?! Because of one man? Is this the kind of person you are??"

    Eratz didn''t respond immediately. His gaze was fixed on the horizon, his expression unreadable. Zara''s voice grew more frantic.

    "Look, I know this whole thing with their father is awful, but it''s still their father. It''s not your decision to make. Mercury wouldn''t want you to..."

    "That''s the problem," Eratz murmured, almost to himself. His voice was barely audible over the wind. "He''s not related to me. To me..."

    "What?" Zara asked, her panic giving way to confusion. "What did you say?"

    Eratz shook his head slightly, his tone shifting back to its usual calm.

    "Nothing. It was a stupid thing to say. Forget I mentioned it."

    "Eratz..." Zara began, but he cut her off.

    "I''m sorry," he said, his voice steady but final. "We''ll talk later."

    Before she could respond, he ended the call.

    The conversation lingered in his mind as he looked out over the vast, churning sea.

    The sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in deep shades of orange and purple. Eratz dialed a different number. When the call connected, his voice was firm.

    "I want to talk."

    The response on the other end was brief but affirmative.

    "At the agency," he added. "After everyone leaves."

    The call ended as quickly as it began. Eratz tilted his head back, tossing the phone high into

    the air.

    A sleek, winged beast swooped down from above, catching the device effortlessly in its talons before disappearing into the twilight sky.

    Standing alone on the cliff, Eratz exhaled deeply. The unique beasts, the thing he felt beyond, Kallistra and Tamara, and now Mercury and Colin''s father.

    The weight of the world seemed to press heavier on his shoulders, but his resolve only

    hardened.

    The time for waiting was over. He needed to act, and soon.

 Chapter 199: In the Shadow of the Pharaoh

    Chapter 199: In the Shadow of the PharaohIn the dimly lit room of the Infinite Twilight Agency, the only glow came from a laptop

    displaying a video. Seated in a plush chair, Kallistra lounged casually, a bowl of chips in her lap.

    Her striking silver-gray hair fell over her shoulders as she watched the screen with faint amusement, occasionally crunching on a chip.

    The door creaked open, and Leonidas entered, flanked by Sia and Arin. Their steps were heavy with frustration as they discussed something animatedly. Leonidas''s brows furrowed the moment his gaze landed on Kallistra.

    Sia and Arin froze in surprise at the sight of Kallistra. Their eyes widened momentarily before quickly composing themselves.

    "Lady Kallistra," they greeted in unison, their tones formal, almost militaristic. They straightened their postures like soldiers before their commander.

    Leonidas sighed, his voice tinged with irritation.

    "You''re still here? Don''t you have anything better to do?"

    Kallistra gestured to the screen, her tone nonchalant.

    "This is exactly why I''m here. There won''t be anything better."

    She popped another chip into her mouth, chewing lazily before her gaze shifted to the trio.

    "I heard you found three calamity beasts. How did it go?"

    Leonidas''s expression darkened as he shot a glare at Sia and Arin.

    "False call," he said gruffly. "One was a Terrakrus, the other was some kind of fairy, but neither was a unique beast. Ridiculous."

    Sia scowled, looking away in annoyance, while Arin''s face tightened as she stared at the floor.

    Kallistra remained silent for a moment, her expression unreadable as her gaze lingered on the screen. Then, she chuckled softly, a sound that carried an air of both amusement and exasperation.

    "There''s always a damn Terrakrus in my way," she muttered to herself.

    "Amazing... Your hope, I mean. You were so confident about finding three calamity beasts,

    but you couldn''t even locate one before this. Why were you so confident?" She swallowed her mouthful and leaned forward, her eyes narrowing.

    "By the way, speaking of Terrakrus... were the other beasts by chance an aetheri and a lycaon?"

    Sia stiffened. Arin fidgeted, her voice quiet.

    "We couldn''t see them. The beasts disappeared. We only saw the Terrakrus. The fairy was just a passerby''s description."

    Leonidas''s frustration flared, his voice sharp.

    "Ridiculous. You were chasing shadows."

    But Sia''s expression changed. Her gaze flicked to Kallistra, who was studying them with a calculating smile.

    "An aetheri and a lycaon? Why those beasts?" Sia asked cautiously. "Is there a link to..."

    Kallistra cut her off with a smirk.

    "You''re at least smart, young girl."

    She stood, turning her laptop toward them. On the screen was footage of the Greenridge League semifinals: Eratz vs. Sia.

    Leonidas''s brow furrowed.

    "You''re wasting time with this?"

    Kallistra''s smirk widened, mocking.

    "And this is exactly why you''re the one in debt, Leo."

    The weight of her words pressed on the room, suffocating and absolute. Sia and Arin straightened further, their discomfort palpable under her gaze. Leonidas said nothing, his jaw tightening. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I gave you a unique beast as a token of our partnership," Kallistra began, her tone as sharp as

    a blade. "A message, if you want. To understand who sits on the chair and who cleans the boots."

    She pointed at the screen.

    "So imagine my curiosity when I heard that unique beast lost. Naturally, I checked the match, but..." She chuckled, the sound chilling. "This is worse. This boy''s beast didn''t just win. It dominated Sia''s. How come?"

    Her question lingered, daring them to answer.

    Leonidas frowned, staring at Eratz on the screen. He hesitated, his brow furrowing deeper. After a pause, his gaze hardened as he began to understand.

    "This thing... is a unique beast? He has one???"

    Sia flinched, her eyes locked on the beast. Arin joined her, both scrutinizing the footage.

    Before anyone could speak, the door burst open, and Rex walked in, balancing several bags of snacks. He didn''t look up as he muttered.

    "Can I take my laptop back? My favorite romance show is about to..."

    When he finally noticed the room''s occupants, his heart nearly stopped. Everyone turned to him, their expressions confused.

    "I''m... still downloading my movie," Kallistra said with a playful lilt, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Four more gigabytes. You wouldn''t rush a lady''s entertainment, would

    you?"

    Rex opened his mouth, hesitated, then caught Leonidas''s glare and thought better of it. His gaze landed on the screen, where Eratz''s match played.

    "Oh," he said, narrowing his eyes. "That''s the boy I was chasing and his strange bird. Caused such chaos in Ferindale I had to use all my power. Now I''m exhausted, so I''ll deal with it...

    with snacks."

    Kallistra''s eyes bore into him, gleaming with interest.

    "You met him?" she asked, her voice calm.

    The room tensed as they realized what she meant.

    Leonidas''s frown deepened.

    "Wait, you met him? This boy and his beast? And you said nothing?! Do you realize what this

    beast might be??"

    Rex scoffed.

    "Ah, this? It''s just a stormtalon. Nothing special."

    Everyone turned to him, their expressions a mix of disbelief and sheer bafflement. Leonidas''s

    voice dripped with incredulity.

    "A... stormtalon?"

    Rex shifted uncomfortably, stammering.

    "It... that boy said it. A different breed or something."

    Leonidas''s eyes widened, then narrowed as he gently grabbed Rex by the shoulder. Rex

    fumbled further, looking increasingly panicked.

    "I don''t know! Maybe it''s a... special one?"

    Leonidas''s voice grew louder, laced with sarcasm.

    "Oh, a special one? Are you sure? Tell me, my boy, do you eat well at home? do you have

    enough nutrients for your brain?"

    He took his phone from his pocket and tapped furiously, then thrust the screen directly into

    Rex''s face, showing a picture of a blue, ostrich-like creature.

    "This? Is this the breed you''re talking about? This thing can''t fly Rex."

    Rex leaned back slightly, his hands fumbling with his snacks.

    "Uh... I... I don''t know... I don''t see anything," he murmured, eyes darting away.

    Leonidas''s brow twitched as his frustration mounted.

    "You don''t see anything? You have to choose, my boy. Are you blind or stupid?" He gestured aggressively at the screen. "How in the world is this a stormtalon?!"

    Rex remained stiff, clearly questioning all his life choices up to this point, until Arin stepped

    in firmly, her tone sharp.

    "Enough. He doesn''t know," she said, stepping between Rex and Leonidas. Her gaze was steady, almost defiant, as she added, "There''s no point in grilling him like this. It''s not his

    fault."

    Leonidas sneered, his frustration spilling over.

    "Not his fault? The boy can''t tell a terrestrial joke from a flying unique beast, and your 3

    unique beasts were merely lost predators," He jabbed a finger toward Rex, who shrank back

    nervously. "This is why we can''t have nice things, you are all wasting your time on being

    stupid!"

    Kallistra, who had been silently watching, let out a soft chuckle, her eyes gleaming with

    amusement.

    "Oh, Leonidas, you''re so dramatic. There''s nothing wrong with being a failure, this is why

    people like me exist to keep you on a leash."

    Her gaze returned to the screen, her eyes narrowing.

    "An Ishtarian with a unique beast... The Pharaoh... Isn''t that too good to be true?" Meanwhile, under the moonlit plain, Eratz stood alone. The grass shimmered in shades of

    blue beneath the celestial glow, swaying gently in the soft breeze. The world around him was quiet, save for the occasional rustle of distant leaves. He looked up at the sky, his expression

    calm but contemplative, then, his ears twitched.

    "Finally," he said softly.

    From the distance, a figure approached, Victoria.

    "I''m sorry for the delay," she said gently.

    Eratz shook his head.

    "It''s fine."

    They exchanged a brief smile before Victoria''s expression turned serious.

    "So, you wanted to train for the world tier?"

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yeah. I want to speed up things, so I need to prepare for your crazy friend. You said you were

    on par with her and Tamara before they got their unique beasts, right? I need to know where I

    stand, without my Calamity beasts."

    Victoria''s eyes gleamed with quiet excitement.

    "Well, I''d say I''m a joke compared to them, and I haven''t fought in years," she admitted.

    "But... This thrill... This suspense... I missed it. I''ll help you as much as I can."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "In years? Seriously?" he asked, leaning back slightly as if trying to process her words. The

    idea of a beast master stepping away from battle seemed almost absurd and triggered a new interrogation. "Quick question, what do you even do with beasts you don''t use?"

    She chuckled softly.

    "They''re outside, everywhere around the world. My aces are usually at my house."

    "Hm... Sound nice, I like that," Eratz replied, cracking a grin. "Ok, enough waiting. Let''s

    begin. A world-tier battle with a single rule: no calamity beast."

    Victoria''s gentle smile turned sharp. "Then bring it on."

 Chapter 200: Beneath the Surface

    Chapter 200: Beneath the SurfaceThe plains fell into an eerie silence, the air heavy with anticipation. Eratz stood motionless, his body relaxed. The faint hum of his power began to rise, like a distant storm approaching.

    The grass around him flattened as if bowing to an invisible force, and the surrounding atmosphere grew charged.

    For a brief moment, the world held its breath. Then, with a resounding crack, an eruption of power surged from Eratz. His beastification unleashed a torrent of energy, the sheer force roaring upward like a volcano exploding into the sky.

    Thousands of beasts, synchronized with his aura, formed a storm of pure, raw energy.

    The ground beneath him cracked and splintered, and the air around him distorted.

    The area darkened as swirling currents of power rose, spiraling into a hurricane. Waves of light and shadow intertwined, creating a kaleidoscope of shifting colors. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The surrounding landscape was swallowed by the chaos, trees bending, grass uprooting, and rocks shattering under the weight of his unleashed potential.

    Victoria stood at a distance, calm and unyielding. Her eyes reflected the spectacle before her. She tilted her head slightly, a soft smile playing on her lips.

    "Beautiful," she murmured, her voice almost lost in the cacophony. Her gaze lingered on Eratz, taking in the storm of energy with quiet admiration.

    Then her smile faded, replaced by a thoughtful expression.

    "It''s been a while... Let''s see..." she whispered, raising two fingers in front of her face in a sword-finger pose. The air around her shifted, a stillness descending like the calm before a

    storm.

    In an instant, her aura exploded outward. The sheer pressure was suffocating, blurring the edges of the world around her. Colors bled together, forms became indistinct, and the battlefield transformed into a haze. The clash of their power erased everything beyond them. In the Pandora household, the mood was lighter. Kian and Lila sat proudly at the dining table, their voices animated as they discussed their recent accomplishments and a future event teased by the professors.

    "We''re going to be the stars of the event," Kian said with confidence, leaning back in his chair. "Everyone''s already talking about it."

    Lila grinned.

    "It''s our big opportunity. People will finally see how far we''ve come."

    Marcus nodded approvingly, his arms crossed as he observed his children. "You''ve done well. The Pandora name is finally getting the recognition it deserves."

    He leaned forward slightly, his tone shifting to one of encouragement.

    "How about we celebrate? A proper winter getaway... maybe at a resort? It''s about time we enjoyed ourselves."

    Kian and Lila exchanged satisfied glances.

    "That sounds great," Lila said.

    But the mood shifted when a faint noise escaped Liora. All eyes turned to her. She looked troubled, her hands fidgeting with the fabric of her dress.

    Marcus''s confidence wavered.

    "It will be good for us," he said, his voice tinged with nervousness. "We deserve it, don''t we?"

    Liora hesitated, her lips trembling.

    "We never did it before..." she finally said, her voice barely audible.

    Marcus leaned closer, his expression growing firm.

    "The situation was different then. We have the money now. Our children are successful. This is the time to enjoy it."

    But Liora shook her head weakly.

    "I don''t... I don''t deserve it."

    Marcus''s frustration bubbled to the surface.

    "Why are you being like this? Just because of Eratz? Everything is fine now. He is fine, and he''s the one who abandoned us last, somehow. But look at us. We ended up blessed. Why... why can''t you just be happy?!"

    Liora''s hands tightened into fists, her voice trembling with emotion.

    "Because I''m tired of this! I''m tired of this, Marcus... I hate everyone! I hate myself. I... I''m not like the people who hated me for my skin. I can''t... I just can''t be like them." Her voice broke, and she abruptly stood, rushing toward the bathroom.

    Marcus, Kian, and Lila watched her go in stunned silence, the atmosphere growing heavy and uneasy.

    Marcus''s hand twitched slightly, as though he wanted to reach out, but he stayed frozen. Kian shifted uncomfortably in his chair, while Lila frowned, her lips pressing into a tight line as she exchanged a glance with her brother.

    Inside, she locked the door and leaned over the sink, her reflection staring back at her. Memories flooded her mind, a young girl standing alone under the cruel gaze of strangers, the insults from adults, the mocking laughter of other children.

    The image of a young Cassie flashed before her, shielding her from harm and taking a rock thrown by bullies. Tears streamed down Liora''s face as she murmured to herself.

    "I didn''t want this. I... I''m just tired of always being... always being..."

    Her reflection shifted, and for a brief moment, she saw Eratz staring back at her. A sob escaped her lips as she broke down, her cries muffled by the walls of the bathroom. Meanwhile, Marcus sank heavily onto the sofa, groaning loudly. Kian and Lila exchanged uncertain glances before Kian gathered his courage and straightened his posture.

    "We need to talk to Mom about this," Kian declared, his voice filled with determination. "She''s stuck on him, but we''re the ones here. Eratz doesn''t care about us. He never thought about us after becoming famous. And not only that, he helped Colin to become a pro... Colin... instead of us, his own brother and sister."

    Kian looked toward Marcus, trying to project confidence.

    "Don''t worry, Dad. I''ll be the man of the house. I''ll take care of everyone."

    Marcus glanced at Kian, but instead of admiration, his expression was one of mild annoyance. He stood abruptly, shaking his head.

    "Man of the house? You''re insulting me? Children are children," Marcus said with a tired sigh. "Don''t mess with the adult stuff. I''ll talk to your mother myself."

    Without waiting for a reply, he left the room, his footsteps heavy with frustration. Kian sat

    back, dumbfounded by the unexpected reaction.

    Lila sighed dramatically, leaning back in her chair.

    "Maybe if you had said ''we'' instead of ''I...''" she said sarcastically, crossing her arms.

    Kian groaned, burying his face in his hands.

    "Ah, shut up."

    At dawn, far away, the plains were unrecognizable.

    The terrain was a chaotic mess of craters and shattered earth. The remnants of beasts

    dissolved into shimmering energy, leaving the battlefield eerily quiet.

    Eratz lay sprawled in a massive crater, his chest heaving as he stared at the sky with wide eyes. His body felt heavy, his mind reeling from the battle that had just unfolded.

    Victoria stood a short distance away, examining the back of her hand, which was reddened and slightly trembling. A wide grin spread across her face, her expression almost childlike with excitement. She turned the hand toward Eratz, showing it off like a prize.

    "You did it," she said, her voice brimming with delight. "You really did it. You hurt me!"

    Eratz slowly sat up, his movements sluggish. His head turned, his eyes narrowing as he observed Victoria in disbelief. She... was happy?

 Chapter 201: Titans Dance

    Chapter 201: Titans DanceThe plain was in ruins, torn apart by the sheer force of their battle. The air buzzed with the lingering energy of Eratz''s unleashed power.

    He stood in the middle of the chaos, breathing heavily. His gaze fell on Victoria, who extended her reddened hand toward him, her face lighting up with childlike excitement.

    Her expression was pure delight, as though she were a young woman showing her wedding ring.

    Eratz''s brows furrowed.

    "You said you were just a normal fighter."

    Victoria''s grin widened.

    "And I am. But you... you''re a phenom!"

    He straightened his posture, his sharp gaze narrowing.

    "You also said you lacked talented fighters to save the agency."

    Victoria nodded, her voice taking on a more serious tone.

    "It''s true. This wasn''t an easy task. But with you and the others, the agency will be safe. I''m certain of it."

    Eratz stood in silence, studying her carefully. Finally, he spoke.

    "You said you were impressed by my power."

    Victoria''s expression didn''t change, bringing her hand to her chest.

    "Yes, and I was so excited. You''re so strong you tanked my attack. I''m so impressed."

    Eratz frowned, his voice sharp.

    "No, I didn''t. You didn''t attack me. You''re lying. You''re lying to me."

    Her smile faltered.

    "Eratz..."

    "You lied to me from the beginning," he said, his tone vexed. "This wasn''t a normal level. I want explanations. Who are you?"

    Victoria''s smile returned, softer this time, tinged with an apologetic edge. She raised her hands as if to calm him.

    "I didn''t mean to deceive you. I didn''t even intend to. I''m telling the truth, I am not like the others. When I was active, my schedule was relentless. I could only fight once a week, while Tamara and Kallistra managed two."

    Eratz''s expression was skeptical.

    "And... What was your win rate?"

    Victoria laughed lightly.

    "I lost a few times. I wasn''t some invincible machine like you. Even Tamara lost, back before... before we all reached the world tier. Once we got there, though, I was the only one who lost consistently, but only to Tamara and Kallistra."

    Eratz stared at her, processing her words.

    "... Ok... only to these two... these two who collected calamity beasts for a long time... you fought them when you didn''t have a single calamity beast, and you lost."

    Victoria shook her head with a calm smile.

    "I mean, thinking about it, a Calamity beast is just another beast with more abilities. To me, any beast can be powerful in the right hand. Look at your thunder lycaon, it''s almost a myth now."

    Stunned, Eratz murmured.

    "Not against bigger opponents. But you... you''re a monster."

    Victoria''s modesty shone through as she waved the compliment away.

    "Maybe for your level, but remember I''ve been in these fields for a long time. I just have more experience than you, it''s natural. Besides, you weren''t going all out, were you?"

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed.

    "But you didn''t attack me directly even once. The gap is gigantic."

    Victoria''s smile turned playful.

    "Then go all out this time. I''ll adjust my level based on you. Kallistra won''t go easy on you anyway, so it''s better to train at your full potential now."

    Eratz''s frown deepened, but he nodded.

    "Yeah... I underestimated you. I still have many questions, but for now, I need to confirm this. This time, we go all out."

    He leaped back, clenching his fists as his aura flared. The storm of his power returned, stronger than before.

    He used the beastification with Raijinara, and then he added Cinderblaze to the mix. His energy erupted like a formidable wave, engulfing the battlefield in crackling lightning and roaring flames, slowly morphing into pure energy.

    Behind him, Cinderblaze emerged, while Raijinara hovered above, its wings spread wide, lightning crackling around its body.

    Victoria, her hands on her hips, nodded approvingly.

    "Now we''re talking."

    She brought her fingers together in her sword-finger pose, her aura surging outward once more in an overwhelming wave of pressure.

    "Which field spell are you going to use? Which attack will you prioritize?" she asked, her tone laced with excitement.

    Eratz disappeared in a flash, appearing on her left, while Cinderblaze materialized on her right. Victoria''s irises glowed as an explosion shook the battlefield.

    Hours later, at Genova Academy, preparations were underway for the highly anticipated event. In the training arena, the director stood among her staff, overseeing the arrangements. Workers scurried about, setting up equipment and adjusting fixtures.

    The director gestured toward a large display as she spoke.

    "We need the defensive shield installed at world-class standards. I won''t accept any less."

    A teacher frowned.

    "The fees for that are... significant. Shouldn''t we wait for confirmation from the guests before making such an investment?"

    Another teacher chimed in, his voice tinged with doubt.

    "By the way, is this really a good idea? Our students aren''t high-class fighters. Why invite these big agencies? Won''t we just embarrass ourselves?"

    The first teacher nodded in agreement.

    "I agree, but I don''t think this will happen. At worst, the agencies won''t even consider the event worthwhile. They''ll probably send their rookies. A top beast master would never fight against a city-level student."

    The director''s expression remained unreadable, but her tone carried an unusual weight.

    "That''s precisely what I''m hoping for."

    The teachers exchanged confused glances.

    "What do you mean?" one of them asked.

    The director folded her arms, her gaze sweeping across the arena.

    "Our goal is to show our growth. From humiliation to progress. From failure to promise. Of course, we have no chance against strong fighters. That''s the point. Because this is so ridiculous, these agencies won''t take it seriously. They''ll send weaker representatives, thinking we''re beneath them. And that..." She smiled faintly. "...is when our students will

    shine."

    A murmur rippled through the staff, some nodding in tentative agreement, while others still seemed unsure. A teacher finally broke the silence, her voice tinged with skepticism. "Director, is the plan to have our students fight rookies just to make the academy look good?"

    she asked.

    The director''s expression remained calm as she turned toward the teacher. "Exactly," she admitted without hesitation. "And it''s the perfect opportunity for us."

    The teacher raised an eyebrow.

    "How is that perfect?"

    The director''s gaze swept across the room, her voice steady as she elaborated.

    "If we compete against weaker representatives, our students will have a chance to shine. This will highlight our progress, resilience, and potential. And it will put these agencies under pressure. They underestimated us and lost, isn''t that perfect?"

    She folded her arms, her voice firm.

    "And if, by chance, the agencies send their stronger representatives, there''s an added benefit.

    This event will draw attention. Imagine the headlines: ''The Academy Where the Pharaoh Paid a Visit.'' That alone will elevate our reputation. Either way, we win."

    Her conviction left a marked silence as the staff absorbed her words, some still uncertain, but others visibly swayed by her vision. The teachers exchanged uncomfortable glances before

    one of them hesitantly spoke.

    "Should we... should we mention this in front of Rowan?"

    Another teacher shook his head.

    "He''s too sentimental. It''s better not to involve him."

    The director''s gaze sharpened.

    "It doesn''t matter. Rowan won''t interfere. Everyone wins in this matter."

    The preparations continued, the weight of the upcoming event pressing heavily on everyone

    involved.

    Meanwhile, far from the bustling halls of Genova Academy, the plain was in absolute ruins.

    Lightning danced through the sky, flames licked at the ground, and waves of energy rippled through the air as Eratz and Victoria clashed with explosive force.

    Eratz charged forward in his beastification form. Raijinara circled above, sending bolts of lightning crashing down in jagged arcs, while Cinderblaze roared below, its fiery aura spreading in waves that turned the ground to molten rock.

    Eratz''s movements were swift and relentless as he unleashed a storm of creative and

    unpredictable attacks.

    Victoria moved with grace, her aura shimmering like an unbreakable shield. Her expression was calm but focused, impressed by Eratz''s relentless creativity.

    With a flick of her wrist, she summoned a shimmering barrier of energy that absorbed Raijinara''s lightning, scattering it into a dazzling array of sparks that lit up the battlefield like fireworks. She couldn''t help but smile.

    ''You''re full of surprises, Eratz,'' she thought, her gaze filling with admiration.

    She twirled elegantly, conjuring swirling waves of water that doused Cinderblaze''s fire before hurling sharp icicles toward Eratz, forcing him to dodge mid-air.

    Eratz leaped high, flames trailing his feet, and sent a massive fireball hurtling toward her. His

    mind raced as he pushed himself further, thinking.

    ''I have to break through her defense somehow.'' Victoria countered with a dazzling sphere of light, her movements fluid and controlled.

    The two attacks collided in a blinding explosion that shook the ground, sending waves of

    energy rippling through the battlefield.

    When the smoke cleared, she was already in motion, conjuring glowing vines from the smoke,

    ensnaring Eratz''s legs. He incinerated them instantly upon contact but was met with a powerful gust of wind that sent him flying back.

    Their battle took to the skies as Raijinara unleashed a barrage of lightning bolts, creating a

    stormy dome around Victoria.

    She responded by summoning a massive shimmering dragon of pure light, which soared through the lightning unharmed and crashed into Raijinara, dispersing the energy.

    Eratz used the cover to close in, appearing right behind her in a flash. Victoria''s eyes gleamed

    as she spun and summoned a fiery flying beast from her hands, clashing directly with Cinderblaze as they both erupted in an explosion of heat and flame.

    Eratz pushed through the blast, aiming a direct punch at Victoria, but she weaved gracefully

    out of reach, leaving behind glowing feathers that exploded in his path.

    On the ground, Eratz charged again, combining Raijinara and Cinderblaze''s powers into a massive beam of energy that carved through the battlefield.

    Victoria raised her arms, summoning a giant wall of crystal that reflected the beam at him,

    forcing him to leap aside.

    The ground shattered beneath him as she struck with a series of quick, precise magical blasts,

    each one pushing him further back.

    Eratz gritted his teeth, his energy surging as he launched a crackling lightning attack that

    zigzagged unpredictably in several directions.

    Victoria''s glowing eyes tracked the wild arcs, but before she could act, Eratz appeared behind

    her through one of them. Forced to react instantly, she raised her arm, parrying his strike

    directly. The clash sent a shockwave rippling through the air.

    Victoria wasted no time. Using the momentum of the block, she spun gracefully, her movements flowing like a dance. As she turned, she thought. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "This boy''s resilience is remarkable. But let''s see how he handles this.''

    Radiant energy gathered in her hands, glowing brighter with each second. With one smooth

    motion, she unleashed a blinding light attack that struck Eratz squarely.

    "You''re not giving up, are you?" she murmured as the force sent him hurtling downwards.

    The force of the impact sent him hurtling downward, breaking through layers of earth as a deafening explosion tore through the battlefield.

    Dust and debris filled the air, and when it settled, Eratz had disappeared, buried under the

    rocks.

    Victoria descended gracefully, her glowing aura dimming as she approached the crevice.

    Despite the bruises on her face and the torn sleeve of her clothes, she smiled warmly,

    examining her reddened arm with delight.

    "You''re really something, Eratz," she said, holding up her bruised hand like a trophy. "But we''re not done yet. Come on, let''s go again!"

 Chapter 202: The First Lesson

    Chapter 202: The First LessonThe battlefield was a complete wreck under the midnight sky. Rocks were shattered, the ground was scorched, and the air was thick with the lingering traces of an intense battle.

    The faint glow of distant stars cast an eerie light on the devastation, while the moon hung high, illuminating the chaos with a cold, silvery hue.

    Half-buried in a jagged rock, Eratz groaned, his body covered in scratches and bruises. His head tilted just enough to see Victoria, who stood nearby, holding a torn piece of her clothes with both hands like it was a prized artifact.

    "This is incredible," Victoria said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. She examined the fabric closely, her bruised face lighting up with excitement. "You pierced my defense! Do you know how long it''s been since anyone managed to do this? Not since Tamara. You''re truly amazing, Eratz!"

    Through the muffled groans of pain, Eratz muttered.

    "Don''t make me laugh, my ribs are broken."

    Victoria chuckled and stepped closer, crouching next to him with a bright smile. "Oh, you''ll be fine. Just walk it off."

    "I can''t even walk."

    Victoria tilted her head playfully, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

    "Hmm, what should I try next? Beastification? A field spell? Or maybe that spiritual mode you guys used? There''s so much to explore!"

    Eratz rolled his eyes or tried to, but the pain stopped him halfway.

    "Oh sure, the ''it''s not even my final form'' speech. Why not?"

    Victoria laughed, brushing some dirt off her torn clothes.

    "Don''t be so dramatic. This is fun! Honestly, it''s been ages since I had a fight like this."

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to her, he wanted to ask her age, but something in him felt a potential threat and morphed his words to create another sentence.

    "Why didn''t you ever try to carry Crescent Moon with Mercury? You''re clearly strong enough." Victoria''s smile faded slightly, her tone taking on a more reflective edge.

    "I told you before. I didn''t want to fight anymore. I fought for fun, not responsibility. After what happened with Kallistra and Tamara... I lost my purpose. My first goal was to create a beginner-only arena, a place where rookies could experience the beauty of friendship in an agency. But after meeting people like Zara, Mercury, and now you, I feel motivated again. With all of you, I think we can go beyond anything I imagined."

    Eratz was silent for a moment, her words sinking in. Finally, he nodded.

    "After thinking about it, it feels like a waste. We could have had a world-class beast master fighting with us," Eratz said, his tone thoughtful. "But I respect your decision. And honestly, I see this as a good gift for us."

    Victoria raised an eyebrow, curious.

    "Why''s that?"

    He smiled faintly.

    "Now we can use you to gauge our level."

    Victoria laughed.

    "Use me, huh? I like that confidence."

    He smiled faintly.

    "I want to try again. But each time, I want you to tell me what I''m lacking so I can improve it. And let''s bring the others too."

    Victoria''s excitement was almost palpable.

    "Oh, absolutely. Let''s do it! I wonder if I''ll have as much fun as with you... but I love it. I''ll be your teacher."

    Eratz''s aura began to flare again, a storm of energy swirling around him. Victoria stood with one hand on her hip, her expression both amused and determined.

    "First lesson, young boy," she said over the roar of his power. "You''re not using your beasts efficiently."

    Eratz blinked, his aura dimming slightly in confusion.

    "What do you mean?"

    Victoria''s tone shifted into one of playful instruction.

    "It''s better to focus on one strong beast and use the others spontaneously depending on the situation. For example, you use a single beast, your ace, as your main beastification, and add the others as skills rather than commanding them. It allows you to use the maximum of your ace. Think about it, even a weak beast can become a monster when used correctly. Do it with each of your aces, and you''ll find out your most efficient fighting style."

    She gestured dramatically.

    "Take your Terrakrus, for example. Such a magnificent creature. Very rare. And yet, you''re only using it for Rockbound Fury. Clever, but not efficient."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed.

    "I''m not sure to understand... isn''t that what you just said?"

    Victoria''s gaze sharpened, her irises gleaming amber as her aura surged outward, causing the ground around her to tremble. The air seemed to grow heavier, and a faint hum vibrated through the battlefield.

    "Let me show you..." she said, her voice dropping to an ominous tone. The temperature seemed to shift, the cool night air turning warmer as her aura flared.

    "The correct way..." she continued, and a gust of wind rippled through the area, scattering dust and debris. Eratz''s eyes widened, beads of sweat forming on his brow as the pressure

    intensified.

    "Of using..." Victoria added, her stance shifting slightly as the light from her irises brightened, casting an eerie amber glow across her face. Eratz felt a shiver run through him as he recognized this particular aura.

    "A Terrakrus," she finished, her aura exploding outward in a blinding flash.

    Eratz was left stunned, his body tensing as he murmured in shock.

    "Oh, God..."

    For Eratz, the real game was about to begin, but it was just the beginning of a new cycle. Time moved steadily, bringing subtle changes and maintaining constancy in its rhythm.

    Days later, the Crescent Moon Agency was buzzing with activity, though a strange tension filled the air. In the gym, Mercury was training relentlessly, lifting heavy weights with

    unyielding focus.

    Earphones covered her ears, blocking out the world around her, while her phone rested on the

    bench nearby.

    Trainees lingered at the edges of the room, casting anxious glances in her direction. Catarina and Kaida huddled together, whispering.

    "What''s going on with her, nya~?" Catarina asked nervously. "She''s been like this all day.

    Barely said a word!"

    Kaida shrugged, crossing her arms.

    "Something''s definitely bothering her. Maybe it''s Eratz. He hasn''t been around much either."

    Ryder walked by, shaking his head.

    "Just leave her be. I said hi to her and I''m warning you, she''s clearly not in the mood.

    Whatever it is, give her some space."

    Catarina frowned, her tail flicking anxiously.

    "Wait! What if something happened between her and Eratz?! What if... what if he went out to buy milk and... made some kittens on the way?! Nya~!"

    Kaida snorted.

    "Impossible. Eratz is a smart man. He wouldn''t do anything..."

    The gym door creaked open, and all three turned to look. Eratz appeared, hesitating in the doorway. His body was covered in bandages, and his movements were stiff. Ryder, Kaida, and Catarina stared at him, then turned their gazes to Mercury, who hadn''t noticed his arrival. Their confusion deepened as Victoria entered right behind him, looking as fresh as ever. She clapped her hands together cheerfully.

    "That was wonderful, Eratz! See you tonight again?"

    Kaida and Ryder exchanged silent looks, their expressions a mix of confusion and disbelief. Catarina''s ears twitched, and her voice rose nervously.

    "M-mew?!"

    Eratz sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

    "Could you at least delete the videos you took? If those leaks, it could ruin me."

    Victoria waved him off dismissively.

    "How will you improve your technique if you can''t see what you''re lacking? Besides,

    watching them will definitely get you in the mood. I''m sure seeing this will awaken the fire in you."

    Catarina''s voice rose to a near-scream.

    "NYU?!"

    Victoria tilted her head innocently.

    "Plus you have great stamina, Eratz. And you didn''t hold back either. I could barely walk this

    morning."

    Eratz groaned.

    "Well, I couldn''t walk. Next time, I''ll try that... uh... what''s it called again? The... argh, the S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    protection thing."

    As he spoke, Mercury''s phone lit up on the bench, the notification cutting through the music in her earphones: You have received a message.

    Mercury froze, her grip tightening on the weights. She slowly set them down, closed her eyes,

    and groaned.

    "I''ll kill you..."

    Catarina, unable to contain herself, screamed openly.

    "NYAAAA!"

 Chapter 203: Of Fire and Lies

    Chapter 203: Of Fire and LiesVictoria sat at the head of her grand office, with the gathered aces of Golden Cosmos. Their expressions ranged from curious to cautious.

    Victoria, unusually animated, leaned forward with a beaming smile.

    "I''ve decided to participate more actively in our formation," she announced, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "Not just as a leader, but to give you all the guidance you deserve."

    The room fell silent. Kaida, Ryder, and Catarina exchanged relieved looks, Kaida muttering.

    "So, Eratz only got banged figuratively? Thank goodness."

    Ryder stifled a laugh while Catarina nodded solemnly as if it were a life lesson.

    Zara, on the other hand, looked genuinely impressed.

    "This is... unexpected. Victoria, it''s been years since you''ve been this dynamic."

    Victoria waved a hand dismissively, her tone humble.

    "Oh, please. I''m just normal, like all of you. I have normal reactions."

    Eratz, sitting quietly in a corner, flinched.

    "That''s a lie. You''re not normal."

    Victoria laughed, the sound warm and genuine.

    "Well, to me you''re the one special."

    The lighthearted atmosphere lingered until Victoria''s expression turned more thoughtful. She straightened in her chair, addressing the group with a calm intensity.

    "I want us to succeed together. Where I failed with Tamara and Kallistra, I''m determined to do better with all of you. But for that, I need everyone to be open about their situations, your troubles, your doubts, your wishes. This team isn''t just an agency; it''s a family. We''re here to build each other up, to be stronger together than we ever could be alone. No problem is too small, and no doubt is too big. If you face something, we face it together."

    She leaned forward, her gaze sharp and determined.

    "We''re the Golden Cosmos. And we''re not just going to win battles; we''re going to redefine what it means to fight with honor, with heart, and with unbreakable bonds. So speak up, because your strength is this team''s strength."

    Mercury, who had been avoiding eye contact, flinched and raised her gaze. She met Victoria''s gentle smile and understood the unspoken message meant for her. Summoning her courage, she opened her mouth to speak, but Catarina beat her to it, bursting into dramatic sobs.

    "Thank you, Madam... I really need to empty my bag... My misfortune started the day I woke up in an infirmary," Catarina wailed, "and a monster stared into my soul..."

    Kaida choked on her drink, while Ryder doubled over in laughter. Zara rubbed her temples, muttering something about "professionalism." Catarina, undeterred, continued sobbing theatrically, and suddenly pointed at Eratz.

    "Him! You have no idea what he put me through behind your back... I''ve never been that dehumanized before!" she wailed.

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "Of course... you''re a cat."

    Everyone laughed, the mood in the room lighter than it had been in ages. Catarina''s dramatic sobbing and Eratz''s dry comeback had the group in stitches.

    With the power gained from the laugh, Mercury could share her own story.

    She began to explain her situation, and the room grew heavy with tension as she recounted the painful history of her and Milo''s father, his abandonment, the struggles of raising Milo alone, and the unanswered questions about his lingering legal power over their lives.

    Zara spoke up, her tone firm.

    "So the case never went to court? You sent lawyers, but they all came back with excuses?" Mercury nodded.

    "Not just excuses. None of them answered my calls after that. It''s like... they''re afraid." She clenched her fists. "How does he still have more power over Milo''s life than me? He abandoned us, and Milo''s mother is still around somewhere. Legally, it doesn''t make sense."

    "It''s disgusting," Kaida growled. "You''ve done everything for Milo. That deadbeat shouldn''t have any rights."

    "Why not go to court anyway?" Ryder suggested. "There''s no way you''d lose. You''re practically Milo''s parent."

    Mercury hesitated. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I''ve thought about it, but I''m afraid to try. What if I lose? I couldn''t bear losing Milo. My last lawyer said there''s a problem because Milo dropped out of elementary school, and now he''s fighting without his guardian''s consent. This bastard of a father knows about it, and he insinuated he could use it against me. What if the court sees me as irresponsible? What if they take Milo away from me? I can''t live with that..."

    Victoria''s voice cut through the tension, steady and reassuring.

    "Focus on what you do best, Mercury. That''s the maximum you need to do right now. I promise you, you won''t be separated from Milo. The law isn''t always fair, but together we''ll make it right. You''ve been fighting this battle alone, but not anymore. Trust me, trust us."

    Mercury''s eyes softened, and she forced a small smile through her worry.

    Victoria stood, looking at everyone.

    "You have so many weapons around you. Your efforts, your current family, becoming world stars too is a big step toward immunity from this nonsense. It might sound ridiculous, but so is this nonsense your genitor is forcing on you. Face to nonsense, you fight with nonsense, and I give you my word, you''re not ready for the amount of nonsense I can bring."

    The room remained quiet for a moment as Victoria''s words sank in. Then, one by one, everyone stood and moved toward Mercury.

    Kaida was the first to place a firm hand on her shoulder, flashing her a confident smile.

    "You''ve got this, Sis," Kaida said. "We''re here for you."

    Ryder joined, patting her other shoulder.

    "Absolutely. You''re not alone in this."

    Catarina purred softly, rubbing herself gently against Mercury''s arm. Zara stood as well, placing a reassuring hand on Mercury''s shoulder and offering a warm smile.

    Mercury''s smile grew stronger as she looked at each of them.

    "Thank you," she said softly. "Really, thank you all."

    Meanwhile, at the Infinite Twilight Agency, Leonidas sat in his office, his brows furrowed as he faced Kallistra. She leaned back in her chair, an amused smile playing on her lips. "You''re getting obsessed with Eratz Pandora," Leonidas said. "He''s undefeated, sure, but you''re acting like he''s Tamara reborn."

    "He might be closer to Tamara than anyone else," Kallistra replied, her voice laced with conviction. "I absolutely want to meet him."

    Leonidas groaned.

    "And do what? Kidnap him? All you''ll do is exposing us before the big day... And knowing you,

    if you try something, it will be illegal."

    Kallistra waved a hand dismissively.

    "Illegal? Really? Did you forget the whole purpose of our partnership?"

    Leonidas, exasperated, leaned back on his chair.

    "Everything is pointless as long as Tamara is around. Once she''ll find out you''re after an

    ishtarian, she will come to us."

    Kallistra''s fiery determination cooled. She crossed her arms, annoyed but thoughtful.

    "You''re really underestimating me, right, Leo? I was only thinking of a way to approach him.

    Befriending him, perhaps."

    Leonidas raised an eyebrow.

    "It''ll be a miracle if he trusts you, considering..." He trailed off as the door swung open.

    Eliza entered, a pile of documents in her arms. Leonidas and Kallistra immediately stopped their conversation, turning to look at her with matching expressions of annoyance.

    Leonidas sighed heavily.

    "I asked to not be bothered."

    "Apologies for the intrusion," Eliza said briskly. "But these need your signature, sir."

    Leonidas massaged his sinuses.

    "Put them on the table, I''ll deal with it later. You can go."

    Eliza bit her lower lip and held up a specific paper. "Sir... This one seems... urgent. Just an

    event, so it only need a signature..."

    Leonidas''s eyes narrowed, his irritation boiling over as he leaned back in his chair.

    "Who''s the director here? I decide what''s urgent," he said sharply.

    Eliza maintained her composure, despite his tone, and pushed the paper slightly forward.

    "This event, sir, could have significant implications for Infinite Twilight''s reputation. It''s a great opportunity for your agents," she said evenly, her words calculated to cool his anger while emphasizing the importance of the matter.

    Kallistra smirked, watching the exchange.

    "This is why I never wanted to create an agency. Paperwork. I''ll leave this to you, Leo. Meanwhile, I''ll head for... what''s the name of this Pharaoh''s town again?"

    Eliza froze for a moment, her expression unreadable, before she suddenly dropped a few

    papers.

    She hurried to pick them up, muttering a quick apology under her breath. Once she stood, her cheeks flushed slightly as she straightened the papers. Then, without missing a beat, she

    asked,

    "My apologies... but... Lady Kallistra... Are you referring to the Pharaoh, Eratz Pandora?"

    Kallistra raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes. Why?"

    Eliza straightened, attempting to regain her composure.

    Eliza straightened, her gaze carefully neutral. After a pause, she subtly asked, "I''m curious,

    Lady Kallistra, why are you so interested in him?"

    Kallistra leaned back with a teasing smirk.

    "Oh, I just happen to enjoy what happens when curiosity kills a cat," she said, her tone

    dripping with amusement.

    Eliza coughed, flustered.

    "My apologies, I didn''t mean to pry," she muttered quickly, straightening the stack of papers

    in her arms. Then, regaining her composure, she added with a calculated tone, "It''s fortunate

    you asked, though. This event happens to concern Eratz Pandora directly." Kallistra''s interest piqued. She tilted her head, intrigued.

    "Does it now?" she asked, her teasing demeanor replaced with a glint of genuine curiosity.

    Eliza, seizing the opportunity, straightened and adopted a measured tone, crafting her response carefully.

    "Eratz Pandora was once a part of Genova Academy," she began. "It''s the very place that shaped him into the competitor we know today, by mistreating him completely. It''s possible, even likely, that he still maintains some grudge for them, so I''m convinced he would come too and put on a show. We definitely have to participate too... Especially if we''re interested in

    him."

    A moment of silence filled the room, and Eliza felt the weight of Kallistra''s gaze like a boulder pressing down on her shoulders. Kallistra rested her chin on her hands, leaning forward slightly. "You seem to know quite a lot about him," she said teasingly. "Why is that, young lady? Are you his long lost not Ishtarian sister?"

    Eliza hesitated, her mind racing. Saying too much could unravel everything, but staying silent

    would only make things worse.

    Finally, she frowned slightly and replied with measured restraint.

    "It''s very normal, I''ve been following the story of an undefeated fighter. It''s... inspiring, and

    as part of my role, I''ve studied his history."

    Kallistra''s smirk widened further, her gaze unwavering.

    "Is that so? Then you won''t mind sharing everything you know about him, will you? I happen to have become a pseudo big fan of him too."

 Chapter 204: Everybody Loves Eratz

    Chapter 204: Everybody Loves EratzEratz and the others'' daily routines were evolving at an impressive pace.

    Every morning began with grueling training sessions at the agency gym, thee afternoons were reserved for battles with Victoria, and in between, they enjoyed snippets of normalcy, sharing meals and laughter as a team.

    The first weeks were rough.

    Only Eratz, Mercury, and Raya managed to hold their own against Victoria.

    Catarina and Kaida were quickly overwhelmed, while Ryder often was one-shot.

    Colin and Milo, after their initial battles, were redirected to more basic training. Victoria took a hands-on approach with them, giving them literally a tutorial about the fundamentals and building them back up inch by inch.

    As weeks turned into months, their progress became visible.

    Mercury and Kaida, after a succession of victories, earned promotions to the continental tier. Catarina and Ryder remained on the national tier, but as the strongest figures in the division.

    Meanwhile, Eratz and Raya dominated their league.

    Eratz refined his approach, shifting from overwhelming his opponents with power and numbers to mastering a focused, adaptable style that relied on using the right beast for the right situation.

    The change elevated his battles into displays of artistry and precision.

    The Pharaoh was living up to his name.

    Everything was perfect in every sense, except for one thing.

    One morning, Mercury left with Cassie and Roger to meet Victoria and a lawyer.

    Eratz, left in charge of Colin, walked her to school and quickly realized the consequences of her growing fame.

    At the school gates, a swarm of students surrounded Colin, cheering her name.

    "Colin, you''re amazing!" one student shouted.

    "Can I sit with you at lunch?" another asked eagerly.

    "What''s Eratz really like?" a young boy added.

    Overwhelmed, Colin called Eratz in desperation. Coming quickly, he attempted to create a reason to make her skip school, but was recognized immediately.

    "It''s him! The Pharaoh!" someone screamed, and chaos erupted.

    The crowd surged, teachers frantically trying to restore order. A group of female teachers

    formed a barrier around Eratz to shield him from the students but quickly fell victim to their own fan impulses.

    "It''s really you! The Pharaoh!" one teacher gasped, eyes sparkling.

    Another leaned closer.

    "Mr. Eratz, if we get you out safely, could we get a selfie? Or maybe an autograph?"

    Eratz groaned, face buried in his hands.

    "I wish I was back at the agency already..."

    Later, at the agency, during training, the aces experimented with team combinations.

    Each time, Eratz''s team emerged victorious, sparking a wave of competitive energy. Kaida grinned, her fiery spirit ignited.

    "Let''s try a duo, Eratz. My fire and your fire. Full offense!"

    Ryder raised a hand, grinning.

    "No way. Bro combo next. I''ve got some ideas. Trust me."

    Mercury crossed her arms, smirking.

    "Water and lightning. You know that''ll be unbeatable."

    Catarina''s eyes gleamed mischievously.

    "Nya~! Shadow-themed performance, anyone? Imagine the drama, the beast and the Beast."

    Milo jumped up, bursting with energy. "Father-and-son magical duo! Colorful and epic.

    Picture the poses!"

    When Raya opened her mouth to suggest her team, the room responded in unison.

    "No. Absolutely not."

    Kaida shook her head firmly.

    "We already know the result. We want a fair fight."

    Eratz watched the chaos unfold, rubbing his temples.

    "This is getting out of hand... I wish Victoria''s training could start soon."

    In the afternoon, Eratz faced Victoria once more. The battle was fierce, and slowly getting even, showcasing how much he had grown.

    Despite this, the battle ended as usual, Victoria laughing after annihilating Eratz physically and mentally.

    On the ground, his face buried in dirt, he groaned.

    "I wish I was home already..."

    As Eratz prepared for bed, a shy knock came at his door. Colin thanked him for helping at school and hesitantly asked, "There''s an event... a family thing. Would you go with me?"

    Eratz smiled.

    "Of course. I''d be honored."

    He hugged her briefly, Colin smiled warmly, but after a few seconds she flinched and bolted.

    "G-goodnight!"

    Just as he settled back in, another knock came, Roger, awkwardly requesting, "Just keep an eye on Colin at school. You know... boys."

    After Roger left, Milo appeared, terrified by a creepy image he saw on internet called cat.jpg.

    Sighing, Eratz read him a story and sent him to bed.

    Finally, when peace seemed within reach, another soft knock.

    Groaning, Eratz opened the door to find Cassie grinning mischievously in the hallway.

    "Ah, Eratz, just the man I needed," she said, slipping past him into the room. "Mercury''s

    been doing so well lately, hasn''t she?"

    Eratz crossed his arms, already wary. "Yes... it''s very good, right?"

    She turned with a smile.

    "You know what? I think she might need a little... extra push tonight. You know, to feel completely free, like before."

    "Aunt..." Eratz began.

    "Look," she said, leaning closer. "I gave her two cups of ginger juice. Do you know what that

    means?"

    Eratz groaned, running a hand down his face.

    "Please, no. Whatever you''re implying, just... no."

    Cassie leaned even closer, laughing.

    "I trust you, equestrian chief. Do your job."

    She punctuated her sentence with a wink and a pat on his arm before he started ushering her

    back to her room.

    "Goodnight," he muttered as he closed the door behind her.

    Returning to his bed, he sighed.

    "Please, let me just get some sleep..."

    But a soft knock echoed once again, making Eratz freeze.

    He instantly knew who it was. He gulped, feeling an odd mixture of despair and concern.

    "Who... is there?" he asked hesitantly, already suspecting the answer.

    "It''s me," Mercury''s voice replied from the other side.

    Eratz exhaled, standing to unlock the door. As he opened it, he saw Mercury standing there,

    her expression unusually guarded.

    "Come in," he said quickly, stepping aside. Once she entered, he shut the door and asked

    cautiously, "What''s going on? Is something wrong?"

    Mercury looked hesitantly at the side, then answered.

    "I... I lost control of one of my beasts."

    Eratz''s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

    "You? But you can handle a calamity beast like it''s nothing. What kind of beast did you lose

    control of?"

    She stepped aside slightly, gesturing for him to follow.

    "Come with me. I''ll explain."

    Still taken aback, Eratz nodded and followed her to her room. As soon as they entered,

    Mercury closed the door behind them, the sharp click of the lock making Eratz pause.

    He slowly turned to face her.

    "... Wha... What... Where''s the beast?"

    Before he could process further, Mercury was suddenly in front of him. She placed a finger gently on his lips, silencing him. Her expression softened, her voice a mere whisper.

    "Me."

    Her lips curled into a dangerous smile as the lights dimmed, leaving them in a quiet, haunting

    darkness.

    The next morning, Eratz sat groaning at the agency''s restaurant. Raya studied him Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    thoughtfully.

    "You shine brighter every day," Raya observed. "But at the same time, you feel like a man

    flying too close to the sun."

    Ryder frowned.

    "Yeah, bro, you okay? You''re looking... not very juicy."

    Eratz sighed.

    "The easiest my battles become, the more tired I become. It feel like an overused orange."

    Zara watched him for a moment, her expression shifting from calm to concerned. She leaned forward, folding her hands on the table.

    "Eratz," she began carefully, "you''re pushing yourself too hard. Even the strongest need to

    take a step back sometimes."

    Eratz looked at her, slightly caught off guard by the sincerity in her tone.

    "... I don''t like hearing I''m the strongest anymore," he replied in a sigh.

    Zara shook her head.

    "We already talked about this upcoming event at Genova," she began, glancing around the

    table. "None of you planned on going because it seemed... unnecessary. But hear me out. It''s a low-level open fighting event, nothing taxing. If you participate, you''re prevented from taking on other challenges for the duration. Think of it as enforced rest."

    Ryder nodded slowly. "She''s got a point. One week of no major battles might actually do you some good."

    Eratz leaned back in his chair, thinking. The idea of returning to Grushia was another big

    trouble.

    "I don''t know... Is that really allowed?" he murmured.

    Zara''s tone softened.

    "I understand your concern, but relax. It''s okay. The event is expected to be highly popular. If

    a big name like you participate, the league won''t complain, and it''s a safe way to stay visible. This will become the event of winter."

    Eratz hesitated, his thoughts drifting to Kian and Lila. The two could benefit greatly from the

    exposure to attract big agencies.

    Finally, he nodded.

    "Fine, we''ll go."

    Days later, Genova''s director confirmed Golden Cosmos would participate, soon followed by

    Infinite Twilight.

    The news spread quickly, turning all eyes to Grushia as a gathering point of powerhouses.

    The announcement shocked many with the list of notable guests and competitors, drawing worldwide attention to the upcoming event.

    At Infinite Twilight, Kallistra dropped her glass after seeing the names expected. Leonidas

    looked up, surprised by her reaction. "What''s going on?"

    Kallistra, hands trembling, smiled wide.

    "We''re going to Grushia... Now."

 Chapter 205: Under the Flashing Lights

    Chapter 205: Under the Flashing LightsThe excitement surrounding the Genova Academy tournament reached a fever pitch as the world turned its eyes to Grushia.

    Travelers from across the nation, and even international visitors, poured into the city, eager to witness what was shaping up to be the most prestigious event of the year.

    Hotels were booked solid, street vendors lined the sidewalks, and transport hubs bustled with activity as fans, reporters, and competitors arrived in droves.

    Grushia itself transformed into a festival. Banners bearing the Genova Academy crest hung from every lamppost, the streets were alive with music and performers, and local businesses embraced the event with themed displays and special menus.

    The atmosphere was electric, for many a testament to Genova''s far-reaching influence. It wasn''t just a tournament; it was a cultural phenomenon, and Grushia''s reception made it clear why Genova was a beacon of prestige.

    In the Pandora household, preparations were in full swing. Kian and Lila moved with more determination than usual, carefully packing their things and fussing over their appearances. Marcus observed them with pride, his confidence in their abilities palpable.

    "They''ll do well," he murmured to himself, a smile tugging at his lips.

    Just then, Liora passed swiftly behind him, her movements hurried. Marcus turned to call out, already expecting her to refuse to attend.

    "Liora, are you..." His voice trailed off as he saw her heading to the mirror, fixing her hair with a sharpness he hadn''t seen in months.

    "What... what are you doing?" he asked, his tone laced with disbelief.

    Liora barely glanced at him.

    "Hm? Can''t you see? I''m getting ready," she replied briskly, smoothing the fabric of her clothes.

    Marcus blinked, struggling to process her transformation. She wasn''t retreating to their room as he had assumed; she was fully preparing to leave. Dressed sharply, her movements

    uncharacteristically urgent, she seemed entirely different.

    His sight led him to Kian and Lila who were equally focused on their appearance.

    "What''s gotten into them?" Marcus muttered under his breath before understanding how stupid that question was.

    He caught the subtle shift in the air, the shared looks, and the unspoken understanding that had gripped the household.

    Eratz was coming back to Grushia for the first time in almost 2 years.

    The news had shaken the family in different ways. Marcus felt a mix of anguish and apprehension, while Liora''s hurried actions hinted at emotions she had kept buried for too long.

    Across the city and beyond, reactions varied. Lisa spent her morning meticulously applying skincare and choosing cute outfits, her excitement masked by her desire to look her best.

    Crystal, meanwhile, finished a quick bath, studying her reflection in the mirror with an unreadable expression. Kenny emerged from a dense forest, breathing deeply as he looked up toward the horizon, the weight of his thoughts written on his face.

    At the Grushia airport, the energy was palpable. Fans screamed as Golden Cosmos'' jet landed, the agency''s emblem glinting in the sunlight. As the team disembarked, cheers erupted.

    Security worked tirelessly to manage the euphoric crowd, while reporters snapped photos and shouted questions. The team''s relaxed outfits contrasted with the buzz around them, adding to their effortless charm. Only Milo seemed aware of the surroundings, his slightly lost expression betraying his struggle to match their composure.

    The team moved gracefully through the throng, their presence getting attention like celebrities arriving on a red carpet.

    The group boarded a sleek, waiting bus that whisked them away. Eratz watched from the window, his thoughts turning to the city he had left behind.

    Other agencies followed suit, arriving with varying levels of fanfare. Among them, Infinite Twilight''s arrival drew an even greater reaction than Golden Cosmos. Their agents stepped onto the tarmac exuding an aura of polished dominance.

    The agency''s sleek uniforms, synchronized movements, and quiet confidence left the crowd awestruck.

    Grushia''s streets overflowed with people, the event sprawling from the academy grounds to the surrounding areas. It wasn''t just a tournament; it was a city-wide celebration.

    Vendors sold merchandise, performers entertained the crowds, and anticipation crackled in the air. The director of Genova Academy, along with her staff and a contingent of news reporters, greeted arriving teams with warmth and professionalism. From small agencies to national powerhouses, everyone had a place in the spectacle.

    The Pandora family, more animated than usual, spent the day exploring the academy and the bustling stands. Kian and Lila were eager, their energy infectious as they soaked in the grandeur. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Liora moved quietly, her attention drifting as she observed the surroundings. Marcus spoke animatedly about the event, while somewhere else, Lisa, enjoying time with her friends, kept glancing around as if searching for something, or someone, amid the bustling streets.

    Crystal, meanwhile, was walking nearby with Gabriel, who wore a cap and black glasses to avoid being recognized. Her absent-minded demeanor betrayed that her thoughts were elsewhere too, to the point that Gabriel ended up noticing it.

    As the noise of the crowd swelled, a ripple of excitement passed through the streets.

    "They''re here!" someone shouted.

    Liora''s heart pounded, and she moved without thinking, weaving through the crowd. Behind them, Marcus groaned, realizing what was happening, and Kian and Lila hurried after their

    mother.

    Lisa and Crystal, similarly drawn by the commotion, also rushed toward the gathering throng. They all knew what kind of event to cause such a ruckus.

    A luxurious sports team bus pulled up to the academy''s grand entrance, its glossy surface reflecting the midday sun. Security staff worked efficiently to hold back the swelling crowd, their presence adding to the air of exclusivity.

    The director stepped forward, flanked by her teachers, all poised to welcome the most anticipated guests of the event.

    Among the onlookers, Liora stood frozen, her breath caught in her chest. Beside her, Lisa craned her neck to see, her heart racing, while Crystal adjusted her position for a better view, her expression unreadable.

    The car''s door opened slowly, and under the blinding flashes of cameras, Golden Cosmos

    emerged.

    The crowd erupted in cheers, their voices a roaring wave that filled the air.

    Staff lined the entrance, followed by some seasonal fighters ranged from the city level to

    national competitors.

    And among these fighters stood the elite eight.

    One by one, the aces of Golden Cosmos descended from the bus.

    Catarina walked with an air of mischievous confidence, her feline grace captivating the crowd.

    Kaida followed, her strong presence drawing admiration and whispers of her infamous title. Ryder, the Furry Paladin, strode down with his usual camaraderie, bringing the admiration of

    the fans.

    The students observing nearby were starstruck, their breaths catching in their throats as they realized they were seeing real legends in the flesh.

    Lisa tried to inch closer, her heart racing with excitement, but security firmly held her back, preventing her from getting any nearer.

    Her gaze was fixed on the group, trying desperately to be in a good place to be spotted by

    Eratz.

    Then Raya descended, her mere presence commanding awe. The crowd''s excitement escalated into a frenzy, voices calling out her name.

    Her graceful movements and ethereal demeanor left everyone stunned, mesmerized by the

    reality of seeing her in person.

    From a distance, Kenny watched, his expression a mixture of bitterness and despair.

    This was his dream, to stand in their place, to feel the admiration of the crowd.

    Yet here he was, a nobody, while they basked in the glory he had always craved.

    Colin appeared next, walking cautiously beside Milo.

    The cheers grew louder, though their focus shifted slightly.

    Colin tried to maintain her composure, her head held high, but the slight tremble in her hands

    betrayed her nerves.

    Milo, wide-eyed and curious, glanced around, but Mercury''s firm voice cut through the chaos.

    "Don''t pay attention," she told him. "We can''t stop for anyone here, so keep moving." Finally, Eratz and Mercury stepped out together, and the crowd''s excitement reached a fever

    pitch.

    People screamed their names, their adoration palpable.

    Eratz walked with his usual calm confidence, his presence electrifying the atmosphere.

    Next to him, Mercury stayed composed, her protective gaze on Milo and Colin, ensuring they

    stayed close.

    The last to emerge were Victoria and Zara, and their appearance sent the crowd into an

    absolute uproar.

    "It''s her! The Black Lady!" someone shouted.

    Ryder glanced at Kaida, puzzled.

    "Black Lady?"

    Kaida smirked.

    "That''s Victoria''s nickname from her beast master days, apparently. You should really check

    the internet, you have no idea what she is about."

    The team reached the director and her staff, who were lined up to receive them.

    The director, confident and smiling, stepped forward, her eyes briefly meeting Eratz''s.

    She seemed ready to address him, but he simply ignored her, his gaze sweeping the area as he

    murmured something to Mercury.

    Before the director could speak, Zara stepped in smoothly.

    "Good afternoon," Zara said with a polite smile. "I''m Zara Quinn, the representative of

    Golden Cosmos. I''ll be managing our interactions for the event."

    The director blinked, surprised.

    She had expected Victoria or perhaps Eratz himself to take the lead, not a third party.

    Her gaze flickered back to Eratz, who was casually chatting with Mercury, seemingly

    uninterested in the proceedings.

    The director sighed inwardly, of course, it couldn''t be simple.

    "Very well," she said flatly. "Let me lead you."

 Chapter 206: Dangerous Reunions

    Chapter 206: Dangerous ReunionsThe director of Genova Academy had ambitious plans.

    She intended to personally give a tour to Golden Cosmos, showcasing Eratz as a symbol of the academy''s legacy while basking in the attention of reporters.

    But Zara firmly declined, requesting that they be treated like any other guest. Despite the director''s annoyance, she begrudgingly agreed, realizing her hopes for a spectacle had been dashed.

    "What about crowd control?" Zara inquired.

    The director explained.

    "There''s a designated area for challengers within the academy walls. It''s quieter, with limited public access and a few well-disciplined students."

    Zara nodded.

    "That will do."

    As they entered the academy grounds, the atmosphere shifted. Inside the walls, the chaos of the outer festivities was replaced with a more refined ambiance.

    The area felt like a cultural festival, beast masters mingled, booths displayed various techniques and tools, and the air buzzed with excitement. Zara surveyed the surroundings and remarked.

    "This should be enough." Her gaze lingered on the director, silently dismissing her.

    The director''s jaw tightened, her frustration evident as she glanced at Eratz. He ignored her completely, his attention elsewhere.

    Clenching her fists, she muttered.

    "If you need anything... there are staff available," After that, she left, her teachers casting troubled looks at Eratz as they followed.

    With the area more peaceful, the Golden Cosmos team decided to split up and enjoy their free time. Catarina and Kaida, decided to wander toward the food stalls.

    Ryder, eager to explore, declared his intent to scout the grounds.

    "Anyone coming?" he asked.

    Raya tilted her head, but then shook it.

    "I''m waiting for another permanent star," she said.

    Eratz chuckled.

    "I''m waiting too..." But before he could finish, his phone buzzed. Glancing at the screen, he smiled. "Ah, there they are."

    Mercury straightened.

    "Let''s go."

    Outside the restricted area, the crowd grew restless. Reporters and fans voiced their frustrations at being kept out.

    Lisa stood among them, fidgeting nervously. She hesitated, wondering if she could gather the courage to face Eratz again.

    What could she say? How would she approach him?

    Nearby, Liora observed silently, her heart heavy. She sighed, while Kian and Lila exchanged uncertain glances.

    "Let''s head back to the festivities." Marcus suggested.

    As they prepared to leave, a commotion erupted near the entrance, drawing the attention of everyone nearby.

    The raised voices of two individuals cut through the crowd''s murmurs, and security guards looked visibly exasperated as they argued with the pair.

    Cassie stood with her arms crossed, her sharp tone contrasting with Roger''s calmer demeanor.

    "We''ve been invited," Roger said hesitantly, holding up a letter. "We''re part of Eratz''s team. This is official."

    The guards exchanged skeptical glances.

    "We can''t allow random tricks," one said flatly, his tone dismissive.

    Roger let out an exasperated sigh.

    "I know it sounds stupid, but we were really with them. We split up earlier because my lovely wife, who I respect immensely, decided to detour into the malls to shop for Golden Cosmos merchandise instead of using the custom outfits the staff offered us."

    Cassie turned her head sharply to face him, her eyes narrowing.

    "Oh, so you''re a snitch, deary? Sorry, but it''s not a crime to refuse to profit from someone''s generosity."

    The surrounding crowd, initially irritable, began chuckling at the unexpected exchange.

    Some people whispered comments to each other, while others urged the pair to step back like everyone.

    Lisa, standing nearby, stifled a laugh as she watched the scene unfold, surprised to see two adults behaving this way.

    Marcus, meanwhile, rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his lips curving into a small smirk.

    "What are they doing here?" he muttered to himself, shaking his head. Then, with a quiet chuckle, he added, "Let me guess, Eratz doesn''t want to be seen with them. Celebrities,

    right?"

    Liora''s reaction, however, was different. Her expression froze as she stared at Cassie, a mixture of shock and something else flashing across her face.

    Marcus, oblivious, leaned down to ruffle Kian and Lila''s hair.

    "Good kids. At least we''re not embarrassing ourselves, you''re making your parents proud," he remarked, then leaned closer to Liora and whispered conspiratorially, "We could just walk ahead of them. With Kian and Lila, we''d get through no..." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Before Marcus could finish, another commotion broke out at the entrance, louder this time. The guards were visibly tense as one of them gestured wildly.

    "Sir! It''s going to be uncontrollable!" the guard exclaimed, his voice edged with panic.

    The reason to their changebinstantly froze Marcus: Eratz had arrived.

    The crowd''s excitement reached a fever pitch. People screamed Eratz''s name, phones were raised, and the air buzzed with chaos.

    It was as though the entire area had been consumed by his entrance. Lisa''s heart leapt at his

    sight.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, her voice barely audible, instinctively trying to call out to him. Her hand twitched, as if reaching for something long gone.

    But then she saw Mercury, Milo, and Colin following him closely. The words froze in her throat, the sight striking her like a cold wind.

    They walked together, united and untouchable, and she realized how far removed she was

    from that world now.

    Eratz approached the guards, who stiffened at his arrival. He gave a teasing smile at Cassie, as

    if yo say ''I told you'', and spoke.

    "Let them in."

    The guards exchanged nervous glances.

    "Mr. Pandora, we were told not to let anyone..."

    "It''s fine," Eratz interrupted firmly. "They have passes. They''re my father and mother."

    For a moment, silence fell over the crowd, the chaotic buzz evaporating as those words hung

    in the air.

    Then, as if ignited, the crowd erupted again. Cameras flashed furiously, capturing every angle of this unexpected declaration, and the whispers turned into a storm of speculation and

    shock. Cassie froze in place, her breath hitching as the words registered. For a moment, she stood motionless, the declaration echoing in her mind.

    Her wide eyes reflected shock and disbelief, and she glanced at Eratz, trying to process what

    had just happened.

    A warmth began to spread through her chest, but the weight of the moment left her unsure

    how to react.

    She reached for Roger''s sleeve, her fingers gripping it tightly, but himself needed an anchor.

    He was equally stunned. His posture stiffened, and his lips parted slightly as though to speak, but no words came out.

    His face turned a faint shade of red, a mix of pride and awkwardness bubbling beneath the

    surface.

    He adjusted his glasses instinctively, a small habit he had when unsure of how to proceed. His gaze flickered between Cassie and Eratz, trying to make sense of the overwhelming emotions

    rising within him.

    Mercury''s eyebrows lifted slightly, and a warm smile graced her face. She looked at Eratz with a knowing expression, wondering if he realized what he just said.

    Colin, standing beside Milo, couldn''t hide her excitement. Her eyes sparkled, and her small hands clenched into fists as she tried to suppress a grin.

    to everyone, it was a big news, the Pharaoh''s parents appeared officially for the first time. No more speculation, they were finally acknowledged.

    But among the crowd, Lisa''s reaction was entirely different. Her face turned ghostly pale. She knew Eratz''s biological parents. This wasn''t them.

    Her mind raced, grappling with the implications. Slowly, her shoulders dropped, the weight

    pressing down on her.

    She understood now, Eratz had changed. He was no longer the person she had once known. Approaching him, trying to reconnect, would only bring harm, to both of them.

    With a heavy heart, she gave up, stepping silently back into the crowd, her gaze lowering to

    the ground.

    Behind her, the Pandora family stood frozen. Liora''s expression shattered, her anguish etched into every line of her face as she stared at Eratz.

    Her breath hitched, and her body trembled slightly as if trying to hold itself together.

    Her mind reeled, replaying his words over and over, the weight of their meaning crushing her

    spirit.

    She felt an emptiness open up inside her as the realization that he had erased them from his

    life struck her.

    Kian and Lila trembled with anger, their fists clenched tightly at their sides. Their faces were pale, and their breaths came in short bursts as the sting of rejection sank in.

    Marcus''s frustration was palpable. He rubbed his temples, shaking his head. "Let''s go back," he said tightly, though his voice lacked conviction. None of them moved, their feet rooted to the ground as the scene unfolded. Inside the restricted area, Cassie and Roger trailed behind Eratz, their steps hesitant and shy. Cassie dabbed at her eyes with the back of her hand, her emotions spilling over. "Thank you..." she whispered under her breath, though she wasn''t sure if he could hear her. Roger cleared his throat awkwardly, his usual composure entirely shaken.

    Eratz, however, kept walking like it was nothing. He didn''t turn back, didn''t justify or explain

    himself.

    To him, the declaration had been simple, a truth that needed no elaboration. The world behind him could spin and speculate all it wanted; his path lay firmly ahead.

    On the other side, however, the madness was making its return as another bus arrived. Infinite

    Twilight had come.

    Leonidas led the procession, his towering presence unmistakable. The agents and staff followed, their strong demeanor exuding an aura of superiority.

    Everyone was in awe face to the aces, real powerhouses around the continent.

    Sia and Rex, in particular, drew the most attention.

    The atmosphere grew tense as people clamored for a glimpse of the continent''s biggest stars.

    The director of Genova Academy, eager for a photo opportunity with the biggest agency, straightened her posture and stepped forward confidently, her smile carefully rehearsed.

    But her confident stride faltered when Eliza, not Leonidas, emerged from the group to

    intercept her.

    Eliza moved with a deliberate, almost predatory grace, her smile announcing everything, but

    a good news.

    "For such a banal event," Eliza began, her voice smooth but cutting, "I''ll handle the talking. I happen to know already enough about the surroundings to not be lost, and we''re just here for a little test." She paused briefly, observing the teachers, then her gaze fell back on the director. "So, Miss Director, you''re excused from bothering us. Thanks for your cooperation." The director''s face tightened as the words sliced through her confidence like a blade.

    Her smile wavered, replaced by a stiff expression as her shoulders trembled faintly.

    Around her, whispers broke out among the students and teachers, who looked between the director and Eliza with wide eyes, some clearly recognizing the latter. Eliza''s mocking smile didn''t waver as she turned slightly, signaling for the others to move

    forward, leaving the director standing there as though she had been dismissed from her own

    stage. Inside, Golden Cosmos regrouped. Zara asked how they wanted to spend their free time, and Mercury suggested Eratz show her the academy.

    "I was only here for like a few months, but ok..." he said dismissively.

    As they prepared to leave, Cassie and Roger clung to Eratz''s sleeves, their grip firm and

    almost childlike. Cassie''s lips twitched into a slight pout as she looked up at him. "Hum... You too?" Eratz asked awkwardly.

    "We... We want..." Cassie replied indignantly, her voice rising slightly. "We want to stay with

    our son." She pouted, clinging to his arm as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Roger, gripping firmly his second arm while diverting his gaze, let no room for opposition.

    Mercury couldn''t hold back her laughter, a soft chuckle escaping as she watched the dynamic unfold.

    Eratz sighed, scratching his cheek as if trying to find a way out of the situation. His shoulders slumped slightly, but a faint smile tugged at his lips.

    "Fine," he relented, glancing at Cassie and Roger with a resigned expression. "Seriously...

    Why does everyone want a piece of me?"

    But before Cassie could retort, he got his answer faster than intended.

    "You shouldn''t blame them. Everyone loves you."

    They turned, startled by the foreign voice, and then, their eyes widened in unison.

    Walking with slow, almost regal pace, was a woman whose long, dark silver hair cascaded down her back, catching the light with a metallic sheen.

    Her attire was adorned with emerald gems that glimmered faintly with every step.

    Zara''s jaw slackened, Victoria, uncrossed her arms slowly, her jaw clenching. Mercury and

    Eratz looked at the individual in shock. Kallistra tilted her head slightly, her smile growing.

    "And I... am no different."

 Chapter 207: Gathering of Superpredators

    Chapter 207: Gathering of SuperpredatorsThe courtyard of Genova Academy was eerily quiet, the air heavy with tension.

    Kallistra Dyscordia stood at the center, her silver-gray hair shimmering faintly under the sun.

    Her sharp emerald eyes scanned the group, enjoying their fear, their unease.

    Zara clutched a notebook tightly against her chest, her breath uneven as her trembling fingers betrayed her nerves.

    Raya, standing just behind her, appeared calm, her eyes were closed.

    Mercury stepped forward, placing herself in front of Colin and Milo. Her stance was firm, protective, her sharp gaze locked onto Kallistra.

    Cassie and Roger stood to the side, their faces pale and tight with worry.

    Cassie''s trembling hand found Eratz''s arm, gripping it tightly.

    "Eratz," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Who... who is she?"

    Eratz glanced at her but said nothing, his jaw tightening. His silence was answer enough.

    Cassie''s gaze flicked between him and the woman standing before them. The dread in the air, the defensive stances of the others, it told her everything she needed to know.

    Her grip tightened.

    "It''s her, isn''t it?"

    Kallistra''s soft, melodic laugh broke the silence, startling everyone.

    "How strange," she said, tilting her head to the side, her tone light and teasing. "To not be recognized by someone... It''s so... new... I could almost enjoy it."

    She took a slow step forward, the click of her heels against the stone echoing ominously. The group instinctively flinched.

    "But I can see it in your eyes," Kallistra continued, her emerald gaze gleaming with amusement. "We''re long past introductions, aren''t we?"

    She placed a hand lightly on her chest and smiled.

    "I am Kallistra Dyscordia, also known as the Star Crusher," she announced. "But more importantly..." Her smile widened. "Your soon-to-be best friend."

    Cassie''s face turned white. Her hand on Eratz''s arm shook even harder as she whispered. "Best... friend?"

    "Oh, don''t look so surprised," Kallistra said sweetly, her eyes narrowing. "It''s the truth. You have no idea how much I like people like you."

    Her gaze swept across the group, lingering on each person''s face as she took in their stiff, defensive stances. Her amusement only grew.

    "Why so tense?" she asked, her tone almost mocking. "I''m happy to meet you all."

    Her eyes flicked to Colin and Milo, then landed on Mercury. Kallistra''s smile deepened as she took in Mercury''s protective stance.

    "How sweet," she mused. "So much care for the little ones. But you know..." Her tone

    dropped slightly. "That also mark them easy targets."

    Mercury flinched, her jaw tightening. The malice in Kallistra''s tone was unmistakable. She was toying with them, and everyone knew it.

    "Relax, though... today, my menu is someone else."

    Kallistra took another step forward, and the tension spiked. The air felt heavier, like the moments before a catastrophe.

    But instead of moving toward Mercury or Eratz, Kallistra stopped in front of Victoria. Victoria, who had been silent until now, blinked in surprise as Kallistra approached her.

    Before anyone could react, Kallistra reached out and touched Victoria''s face, her fingers brushing against her cheek.

    For a moment, Kallistra observed, palpated her face. Her lips parted slightly, and her voice trembled.

    "Vicky," she whispered. "It''s really you."

    Victoria''s eyes widened, caught completely off guard.

    "W... What?" she stammered.

    "I can''t believe it," Kallistra said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I looked everywhere for you. Where were you? How could you just disappear like that?"

    Her laugh was soft and bitter, tinged with pain.

    "Do you have any idea how much I''ve missed you?"

    Victoria''s stoic mask cracked. Her voice was quiet, almost uncertain.

    "Kally... The agency wasn''t what it used to be. You and Tammy... I..."

    "Stop." Kallistra''s voice, though soft, was firm. "Don''t give me that excuse, Vicky. Didn''t we promise to stay together? Didn''t we say we''d face everything, no matter what?" Her emerald eyes softened, and she stepped closer.

    Before anyone could react, Kallistra pulled Victoria into a hug.

    The group froze, stunned by the gentleness of her actions. The hug was firm but careful, as though she were holding something fragile.

    "You broke our friendship, Vicky," Kallistra murmured. Her voice was a mix of sadness and affection. "And for what? Problems with her? You weren''t even involved. You''re such an

    idiot."

    Victoria stood stiffly, her mind reeling. Slowly, awkwardly, she returned the hug.

    "I didn''t think it mattered," she admitted quietly. "I didn''t think I mattered."

    Kallistra pulled back slightly, her expression exasperated.

    "Of course, you mattered," she said. "You still do. Do you know what it felt like to lose you? To realize I couldn''t reach you anymore?"

    Her voice cracked, but she quickly composed herself.

    "Now that I''ve found you, I won''t lose you again."

    Victoria hesitated, her voice soft.

    "We... maybe we need to talk."

    Kallistra straightened, her usual confidence returning.

    "Good," she said. "But first..." She turned to the group, her smile widening. "I''ve made my decision. I want you, Vicky, and Eratz to join Infinite Twilight."

    The group erupted into stunned silence. Zara clutched her notebook tighter, Mercury''s eyes narrowed, and Colin gasped audibly.

    Victoria remained frozen for a moment, then, her expression darkened. Her voice was low,

    ominous.

    "Why Eratz?"

    Kallistra tilted her head, genuinely surprised by Victoria''s tone.

    "Why not?" she replied lightly. "He''s the invincible Pharaoh, isn''t he? He''d replace her so well. Vicky, imagine it... The Black Lady, the Star Crusher, and the Pharaoh... an invincible trio,

    like before."

    Victoria''s voice sharpened.

    "Replace her? I knew it... you''re the same snake I expected to see... let me guess, it also goes

    for your little hunt, right?"

    Kallistra''s smile faltered slightly, her arms crossing defensively.

    "Vicky, don''t twist this. It has nothing to do with you."

    "Don''t lie to me," Victoria snapped. "This isn''t about friendship. It''s about your obsession.

    You think Eratz is the key to your hunt."

    The tension thickened as the two women locked eyes. Kallistra sighed, her voice soft.

    "We''ll never agree, will we?"

    Before she could say more, the sound of a crowd roaring on the other side interrupted them.

    Kallistra glanced toward the noise and sighed.

    "So little time..."

    Kallistra turned to Eratz, her emerald eyes locking onto his. There was no malice in her

    expression now, only intrigue and something almost reverent.

    "And you, Master Pharaoh? Will you join me?"

    Eratz opened his mouth to respond, but Kallistra raised a hand to stop him, her sharp gaze

    already dissecting his thoughts.

    "No need to answer yet," she said, her voice softening, almost coaxing. "Listen, you''re not Victoria, and you''re not Tamara. You''re you. Eratz Pandora. The Pharaoh."

    She tilted her head slightly, a playful smirk crossing her lips.

    "But then again... you''re not so different from them, are you? We''re not so different."

    Victoria''s eyes narrowed, her voice cutting through the tension.

    "Stop this, Kallistra. He''s nothing like you."

    Kallistra''s smile didn''t waver as she turned slightly toward Victoria.

    "You''re even closer to the image you have of me than myself." she repeated, almost laughing.

    "I''m setting him free. Why are you forcing him to do what YOU want, Vicky? You and Tamara, you always stood above others, didn''t you? You did whatever you wanted to the defenseless preys, but does it also apply to your equal?" She looked back at Eratz. "You''re the same, Eratz. You may not see it yet, but you''re like us."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed, trying to sense the sarcasm in her words.

    "I''d rather follow Victoria." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kallistra chuckled softly.

    "Oh, but you shouldn''t. A superpredator doesn''t bend to anyone. They don''t wait for

    permission or follow the rules of the herd. They carve their own path. This is the rules of

    nature. Just like any other battle. You''re even closer to me."

    Eratz crossed his arms, this time his expression shifting to curiosity and intrigue.

    "What part of me even looks like you?"

    Kallistra smiled.

    "Them."

    Her gaze shifted to Mercury, Milo, and Colin, lingering on each of them.

    "You''ve already started doing what I wanted. You''ve hunted them. Gathered them. Tied them

    to you. It''s written in your aura, Eratz. You can''t hide them from someone who knows the

    quality of their particular aura."

    Mercury stiffened, her eyes narrowing.

    Kallistra''s smirk softened into something almost fond.

    "Don''t let anyone telling you how to use your power Eratz. The one who didn''t get a weapon

    shouldn''t teach the creator how to use them."

    Victoria stepped forward defensively, her body tense as her voice rose.

    "Enough of this, Kallistra! Eratz, don''t let her manipulate you. You''re not her, and you don''t

    have to listen to her!"

    Kallistra tilted her head, her emerald eyes glittering as she addressed Victoria.

    "Oh, Vicky, always so protective against me, that''s your biggest feat too," She gestured

    toward Eratz, her voice soft but cutting. "He doesn''t have to listen to me, or to you, or to

    anyone. That''s the beauty of it. He''s not Tamara, and he''s not you."

    Her voice dropped slightly, turning almost reverent.

    "He''s Eratz Pandora. The Pharaoh. A true superpredator. Not us, but like us. He decides his

    own path. And if another superpredator forces him to do something, it''s become an

    oppression."

    Victoria''s lips pressed into a thin line, her fists clenched at her sides.

    Kallistra turned back to Eratz.

    "Superpredators don''t bend to others, Eratz. They lead. They act. And you''re already doing

    it."

    Eratz''s voice was sharp, cutting through her words.

    "If I am leading, why even telling me this? You realize that now I have more reasons to just

    ignore

    you?"

    As if she was waiting for this exact sentence, Kallistra smiled. "Because I told you, you''re the same as me. Yes, I''m the same as you, you have no reason

    listening to me. But there''s one thing. I have the same hobby as you, Eratz. I am you, but I''ve been there longer, so I know some interesting things about ''them''. You might not see it yet, but there''s a problem with what you''re doing..."

    She opened her mouth to speak but paused, her gaze drifting beyond the group. Her playful smile faltered, replaced by an exasperated sigh.

    "No... two problems. Ah... Vicky... you''re also a problem you know that?"

    Victoria flinched, her body stiffening at the ominous tone in Kallistra''s voice.

    She began to move toward Eratz instinctively, but then she stopped abruptly, her eyes

    widening.

    The group followed her gaze. Mercury''s eyes widened, while Zara gasped. Even Raya flinched, her lips parting in shock.

    From the distance, a figure approached, walking forward with calm, unshakable confidence.

    Her long white hair was tied neatly into a long ponytail, swaying slightly with each step.

    Her dark skin glowed under the sun, and her pristine white jacket moved elegantly with her movements.

    Tamara Regalia, the legend, had arrived.

 Chapter 208: The Queen

    Chapter 208: The Queen(Days earlier)

    The announcement that Golden Cosmos would participate in Genova Academy''s event was an event across the continent.

    Eratz Pandora''s name carried weight, his undefeated streak and meteoric rise were drawing attention like never before.

    But then, a second announcement shattered the initial buzz.

    Infinite Twilight, one of the world''s most prestigious agency, confirmed their participation.

    The revelation sent fans into a frenzy, but it was a cryptic comment in an interview by a very special person that set the stage for what was to come:

    "I look forward to meeting an old friend." Tamara said.

    Fans and experts alike speculated with bated breath: could this be the long-awaited reunion of the legendary trio?

    The Star Crusher. The Queen. And the shadow in their wake, the Black Lady, less famous but a figure of quiet, awe-inspiring feats.

    The possibility of these three women standing on the same battlefield again had set the world ablaze. The event was no longer a simple tournament.

    It became a pilgrimage for fans, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness history.

    Everyone who could travel did so, desperate for a chance to witness history.

    Back in time, the courtyard of Genova Academy was silent. All eyes were on the figure approaching from the distance.

    Tamara Regalia walked promptly, her steps measured and powerful.

    Her long white hair, tied neatly in a ponytail, shimmered in the sunlight, swaying slightly with her movement.

    Her dark skin, glowing under the afternoon light, contrasted sharply against the pristine white jacket she wore. Ruby embroidery lined its edges, subtle yet regal.

    Beneath the jacket, a fitted navy jumpsuit clung to her athletic frame, accented by sleek metallic plating along her shoulders and wrists, a combination of elegance and practicality.

    Her boots clicked against the stone path, each sound echoing like a drumbeat signaling her arrival.

    It was as if an unstoppable force moved toward the group, shrouded in an aura of pure dominance.

    Mercury''s fingers twitched, her jaw tight as beads of sweat formed on her forehead. Roger instinctively put himself closer to Cassie, his hand trembling slightly

    Cassie, pale and wide-eyed, tightened her grip on Eratz''s arm.

    But Kallistra, standing in the center, crossed her arms with an unimpressed gaze.

    Victoria, however, was visibly shaken. Her wide eyes betrayed a mix of shock and dread as she whispered.

    "T... Tamara..."

    Tamara reached the group without hesitation, her walk unyielding and focused.

    She didn''t glance at anyone, not even Kallistra, as if they weren''t worth her time.

    She stopped in front of Victoria, looming over her. Slightly taller, she tilted her head and scanned Victoria from head to toe, her piercing gaze making Victoria stiffen.

    Victoria''s lips parted.

    "T-Tammy..."

    "Shut up," Tamara interrupted, her voice low but cutting.

    Before anyone could react, Tamara pulled Victoria into a hug.

    The hug was crushing, firm, and unrelenting. It wasn''t the warmth of reconciliation but the grip of someone who refused to let go again.

    Kallistra rolled her eyes and muttered.

    "Comedy..."

    "You''re an idiot," Tamara hissed at Victoria, her voice trembling with anger. "A complete, utter idiot."

    Victoria stood frozen, her hands hovering uncertainly.

    "Tammy, I..."

    "Don''t," Tamara cut her off, her voice rising slightly. "Don''t you dare try to explain yourself. You think you can just leave like that? Like it was nothing? After everything?"

    Victoria''s lips trembled, but she couldn''t find the words.

    Tamara''s voice cracked as she continued, her anger spilling over.

    "Do you have any idea what it felt like? To come back to the agency and find you gone? When I needed you the most, you vanished without a word!"

    Victoria''s eyes watered, her voice barely a whisper.

    "I... I had to. The situation with you and Kally..."

    "Had nothing to do with you!" Tamara shouted, her words echoing through the courtyard. "That was between me and her! You left me. You abandoned me when I needed you the

    most!"

    Victoria''s head lowered, guilt pooling in her eyes.

    "I''m... I''m sorry."

    Tamara sighed deeply, her grip loosening slightly. She pulled back just enough to look Victoria in the eye.

    Her sharp gaze softened, though the anger hadn''t entirely faded.

    "You''re a fool, Vicky," she said, her voice quieter now. "But you''re my fool. And I''m done

    being angry at you."

    The courtyard was silent, everyone looking at the two women with intrigue.

    Milo leaned toward Colin and whispered.

    "Should I still be scared again? Or... is this, like, okay?"

    Colin nudged him with her elbow.

    "Shhh! This is awkward enough..."

    Tamara finally let go of Victoria, though her sharp gaze didn''t waver.

    "I was furious with you," she admitted, crossing her arms. "Especially when I found you again during a team battle my scouts forced me to watch. And there you were... building this big agency, pouring everything into it like it was your life''s mission."

    Victoria bit her lip, but Tamara didn''t let her speak.

    "You refused to help me build our agency. But this? You had all the time in the world for this?"

    Her voice cracked slightly, but she quickly composed herself.

    "I wanted to ignore you after that. Pretend you didn''t exist."

    She paused, her eyes flicking toward Eratz.

    "Until I heard you and Infinite Twilight were coming to this event. And I knew some snake

    would take the opportunity to sink her fangs into your ace."

    Kallistra, who had been inspecting her nails, finally chimed in.

    "She''s not wrong, you know. Eratz is like honey. He attracts a lot of flies."

    Tamara turned to Kallistra, their gazes locking. Slowly, their auras began to seep out, waves

    of pressure rippling through the courtyard.

    Elsewhere on the academy grounds, Leonidas, seated, opened one eye.

    Sia flinched, her gaze snapping toward the source.

    Kaida, Ryder, and Catarina, standing together, all looked instinctively in the same direction.

    Back in the courtyard, Tamara''s voice dropped ominously.

    "You... You''re crossing that line again?"

    Kallistra smirked, unfazed.

    "What line? I''ve done nothing wrong. Eratz doesn''t need my permission to start doing what he''s destined for. Rejoice, no one needs you anymore. You can go to retirement, old woman." S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The pressure intensified, each wave heavier than the last.

    Mercury pulled Colin and Milo close, her voice firm.

    "Go. Now."

    Eratz glanced at Roger, who nodded, his face pale. Roger grabbed Cassie''s hand, and the two

    began to retreat.

    Victoria stepped between the two women, her voice growing from worry to anger.

    "Now you two... Stop this!"

    But Tamara ignored her. "This is your fault, Vicky. He was under your care and you let him do these things... And worse,

    you let this snake get close to him. And now that she knows..."

    Her eyes narrowed as she glared at Kallistra.

    "He''s already doomed. But I won''t let that happen. That''s the second reason I''m here..."

    From the back of the courtyard, the air shifted as more figures appeared.

    Members of Infinite Twilight arrived on one side, and on the other side, Catarina, Ryder, and Kaida approached in hurry, their jaws dropping as they noticed the two women.

    The tension in the air was palpable as everyone gravitated toward the center of the storm, and then Tamara''s voice cut through the crowd.

    "I''m here to recruit the Pharaoh," she said, her sharp gaze locking onto Eratz. "For World

    Star."

 Chapter 209: Stars Soup

    Chapter 209: Stars SoupThe crowd outside the academy gates surged like an unstoppable wave, cheers and shouts creating a cacophony of excitement.

    The director of Genova Academy stood amidst the chaos, had her hands full as the situation spiraled out of control.

    Security guards scrambled to hold back the throngs of onlookers desperate to catch a glimpse of the legendary figures rumored to be inside.

    Frustration etched deep lines on the director''s face as she barked into her communicator, demanding reinforcements.

    "This is ridiculous! Get more security here now! We can''t have this crowd storming the gates!" she snapped.

    Behind her, two men stepped forward, their calm demeanor starkly contrasting the frenzy around them.

    "You should stop worrying about the crowd, granny," one of them said with a teasing tone. "Things are going to get messy."

    The director turned sharply, ready to berate the intruders, but froze in place. Her eyes widened as she took a closer look at them.

    Both were Ishtarians, their distinctive hair color, eyes and skin tone unmistakable.

    And worse, these were not just any Ishtarians, she recognized them.

    In the courtyard, the atmosphere was equally electrified.

    News of the unprecedented gathering of celebrities spread like wildfire, drawing students from all corners of the academy.

    Among them, Lisa, flanked by members of the student council, rushed toward the scene, her heart pounding with both anticipation and trepidation.

    Farther away, Kenny jogged behind a smaller group, his curiosity prompting him forward until he stopped abruptly, his eyes widening at the spectacle before him.

    In the center of the courtyard, under the awestruck gazes of seasonal beast masters and academy staff, stood a collection of the most illustrious figures in beast mastery.

    The Queen, the Star Crusher, the Pharaoh, the Frost Empress, Goldust, the Shinigami, but also the Black Lady, Leonidas, and so many others famous names.

    It was a veritable constellation of stars, an impossible gathering that had turned the

    courtyard into a powder keg of tension and excitement.

    On one side of the courtyard, the tension among the gathered elites was palpable.

    Sia''s eyes widened as her gaze swept over the group, lingering on Eratz.

    "The Pharaoh..." she murmured.

    Beside her, Nyx flinched visibly, her usual confidence replaced with unease.

    The aces of Infinite Twilight exchanged uneasy glances, their focus shifting between Eratz and the woman standing beside him: Tamara Regalia.

    Ryder''s jaw dropped as he spotted Sia.

    "No way... the Frost Empress..." he muttered under his breath.

    Meanwhile, Kaida''s gaze locked onto Rex, her face paling.

    "G-Goldust?" she whispered in disbelief.

    Rex, oblivious to the scrutiny at first, scanned the crowd with his usual carefree demeanor.

    But then his eyes landed on Eratz, and they widened.

    "The... the Stormtalon liar?!" he exclaimed.

    Eratz turned sharply, in shock.

    "The snitch?!"

    The air seemed ready to explode as tensions simmered, with Milo visibly shrinking under the immense pressure of so many powerful presences.

    But just as the atmosphere reached a breaking point, Victoria stepped forward, her voice slicing through the chaos.

    "Excuse me???" she said, her tone sharp and incredulous, her blue eyes fixed on Tamara. "You... what did you just say?"

    Tamara''s expression was calm, almost serene.

    "I said I''m here to recruit Eratz Pandora to my agency, the very same you left," she repeated, her voice steady and resolute.

    Victoria''s shock turned to disbelief.

    "That''s impossible," she said, her voice rising slightly. "Why would you even think..."

    Tamara cut her off, her tone now carrying an edge of anger.

    "Because of you, Victoria. You didn''t stop him earlier. I can feel what''s inside him. I know it." Her gaze flickered briefly to Mercury, Colin, and Milo. "And I feel it in them too. You let this happen... when you abandoned me for the same thing!"

    Victoria''s expression tightened.

    "I didn''t abandon you," she began, but Tamara shook her head.

    "It doesn''t matter now," Tamara said. Her eyes shifted to Eratz. "This boy can do it too, can''t he? He can track the unique beasts. That''s the only explanation for how many he''s gathered

    inside him."

    Eratz, stunned, took a step back.

    "Wait a minute," he said, his voice filled with doubt. "There is... are others... with the same number of beasts as me. Why are you so sure it''s me?"

    Tamara''s piercing gaze met his.

    "Because of your blood, I know what people like me are capable of," she said simply.

    Eratz leaned forward, narrowing his eyes.

    "I see... Racist," he muttered.

    Tamara froze for a moment, clearly thrown off, before frowning deeply.

    "That''s not... wait... how did you jump... to..." she began, but her confusion was too big to

    process an answer.

    Victoria stepped in, her voice rising with anger.

    "You have no right to take him," she said firmly. "He''s my responsibility."

    Tamara''s calm demeanor cracked slightly.

    "It''s not your decision anymore," she shot back. Her hand gestured sharply toward Kallistra.

    "You''ve already drawn the attention of that green bastard over there."

    "Oi, pause," Kallistra raised a hand lazily.

    The debate between Tamara and Victoria escalated into a heated argument, their voices clashing as they each claimed Eratz as their responsibility. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The rest of the group, who had been on edge moments earlier, now watched with a mix of amusement and bewilderment as the two women argued like feuding parents over their son.

    Finally, Eratz, exasperated, raised his hands.

    "Alright, anyone else want a piece of me?" he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm, his gaze

    landing on Sia.

    Sia frowned, her jaw dropping. Then, she crossed her arms and after a moment, she replied

    flatly.

    "Who doesn''t?"

    Kallistra clapped her hands loudly, breaking the tension.

    "Alright, everyone, calm down," she said, stepping forward. "This is getting out of hand. Two superpredators fighting over the rights of a third superpredator? How absurd." Her gaze turned to Eratz, rising a finger.

    "Notice something, Pharaoh. I haven''t forced you into anything. I want you to do what you want. That''s why I''m better than them. If you have to choose, it should be me."

    Eratz crossed his arms, deep in thought. Mercury shot him a warning glance.

    "Don''t tell me you''re actually considering this," she said.

    He shook his head.

    "Relax, I''m just curious to see how things play out. I''m not joining any of you two," he said

    with a final nod. "I am a loyal man and I''ll stick to one woman."

    He observed Victoria for a moment then promptly turned to Mercury who flinched.

    "E... ratz..." clenching her teeth, Mercury shook her head in embarrassment. "Well, so, anyway, I''m loyal to Victoria, but I''m curious... let''s say you might influence me,"

    he turned to Tamara. "Why do you want to recruit me?"

    Tamara''s expression darkened.

    "To protect you from people like that sly, fucking psycho snake," she said, pointing at

    Kallistra.

    Kallistra smirked.

    "Mah... such language."

    Eratz sighed. "And you?" he asked Kallistra. "Why me, exactly? Be honest, or no deal. Ever."

    Kallistra''s smile faded slightly as she studied him.

    "I want to be honest," she said after a pause. "But not here. Not in front of so many people."

    She glanced up at the crowd of elite fighters around. "There''s a whole week ahead, and I like moonlight. I''m sure there''ll be plenty of chances."

    Both Victoria and Tamara flinched, understand the hidden message, but it was over now. Kallistra sighed dramatically.

    "I guess that''s it for now," she said, turning away. "My offer''s always available, Vicky. I''m

    not the leader, but Leo owes me his life, and we excel in matters of debt collection and

    ownership."

    Leonidas frowned but said nothing. As Kallistra walked away, she glanced back at Eratz.

    "Pandorq, If you really want to be convinced, I''ve got one word for you..." Her emerald eyes

    gleamed as she added softly,

    "Legendary."

 Chapter 210: Stars Soup

    Chapter 210: Stars SoupThe crowd outside the academy gates surged like an unstoppable wave, cheers and shouts creating a cacophony of excitement.

    The director of Genova Academy stood amidst the chaos, had her hands full as the situation spiraled out of control.

    Security guards scrambled to hold back the throngs of onlookers desperate to catch a glimpse of the legendary figures rumored to be inside.

    Frustration etched deep lines on the director''s face as she barked into her communicator, demanding reinforcements.

    "This is ridiculous! Get more security here now! We can''t have this crowd storming the gates!" she snapped.

    Behind her, two men stepped forward, their calm demeanor starkly contrasting the frenzy around them.

    "You should stop worrying about the crowd, granny," one of them said with a teasing tone. "Things are going to get messy."

    The director turned sharply, ready to berate the intruders, but froze in place. Her eyes widened as she took a closer look at them.

    Both were Ishtarians, their distinctive hair color, eyes and skin tone unmistakable.

    And worse, these were not just any Ishtarians, she recognized them.

    In the courtyard, the atmosphere was equally electrified.

    News of the unprecedented gathering of celebrities spread like wildfire, drawing students from all corners of the academy.

    Among them, Lisa, flanked by members of the student council, rushed toward the scene, her heart pounding with both anticipation and trepidation.

    Farther away, Kenny jogged behind a smaller group, his curiosity prompting him forward until he stopped abruptly, his eyes widening at the spectacle before him.

    In the center of the courtyard, under the awestruck gazes of seasonal beast masters and academy staff, stood a collection of the most illustrious figures in beast mastery.

    The Queen, the Star Crusher, the Pharaoh, the Frost Empress, Goldust, the Shinigami, but also the Black Lady, Leonidas, and so many others famous names.

    It was a veritable constellation of stars, an impossible gathering that had turned the

    courtyard into a powder keg of tension and excitement.

    On one side of the courtyard, the tension among the gathered elites was palpable.

    Sia''s eyes widened as her gaze swept over the group, lingering on Eratz.

    "The Pharaoh..." she murmured.

    Beside her, Nyx flinched visibly, her usual confidence replaced with unease.

    The aces of Infinite Twilight exchanged uneasy glances, their focus shifting between Eratz and the woman standing beside him: Tamara Regalia.

    Ryder''s jaw dropped as he spotted Sia.

    "No way... the Frost Empress..." he muttered under his breath.

    Meanwhile, Kaida''s gaze locked onto Rex, her face paling.

    "G-Goldust?" she whispered in disbelief.

    Rex, oblivious to the scrutiny at first, scanned the crowd with his usual carefree demeanor.

    But then his eyes landed on Eratz, and they widened.

    "The... the Stormtalon liar?!" he exclaimed.

    Eratz turned sharply, in shock.

    "The snitch?!"

    The air seemed ready to explode as tensions simmered, with Milo visibly shrinking under the immense pressure of so many powerful presences.

    But just as the atmosphere reached a breaking point, Victoria stepped forward, her voice slicing through the chaos.

    "Excuse me???" she said, her tone sharp and incredulous, her blue eyes fixed on Tamara. "You... what did you just say?"

    Tamara''s expression was calm, almost serene.

    "I said I''m here to recruit Eratz Pandora to my agency, the very same you left," she repeated, her voice steady and resolute.

    Victoria''s shock turned to disbelief. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "That''s impossible," she said, her voice rising slightly. "Why would you even think..."

    Tamara cut her off, her tone now carrying an edge of anger.

    "Because of you, Victoria. You didn''t stop him earlier. I can feel what''s inside him. I know it." Her gaze flickered briefly to Mercury, Colin, and Milo. "And I feel it in them too. You let this happen... when you abandoned me for the same thing!"

    Victoria''s expression tightened.

    "I didn''t abandon you," she began, but Tamara shook her head.

    "It doesn''t matter now," Tamara said. Her eyes shifted to Eratz. "This boy can do it too, can''t he? He can track the unique beasts. That''s the only explanation for how many he''s gathered

    inside him."

    Eratz, stunned, took a step back.

    "Wait a minute," he said, his voice filled with doubt. "There is... are others... with the same number of beasts as me. Why are you so sure it''s me?"

    Tamara''s piercing gaze met his.

    "Because of your blood, I know what people like me are capable of," she said simply.

    Eratz leaned forward, narrowing his eyes.

    "I see... Racist," he muttered.

    Tamara froze for a moment, clearly thrown off, before frowning deeply.

    "That''s not... wait... how did you jump... to..." she began, but her confusion was too big to

    process an answer.

    Victoria stepped in, her voice rising with anger.

    "You have no right to take him," she said firmly. "He''s my responsibility."

    Tamara''s calm demeanor cracked slightly.

    "It''s not your decision anymore," she shot back. Her hand gestured sharply toward Kallistra.

    "You''ve already drawn the attention of that green bastard over there."

    "Oi, pause," Kallistra raised a hand lazily.

    The debate between Tamara and Victoria escalated into a heated argument, their voices clashing as they each claimed Eratz as their responsibility.

    The rest of the group, who had been on edge moments earlier, now watched with a mix of amusement and bewilderment as the two women argued like feuding parents over their son.

    Finally, Eratz, exasperated, raised his hands.

    "Alright, anyone else want a piece of me?" he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm, his gaze

    landing on Sia.

    Sia frowned, her jaw dropping. Then, she crossed her arms and after a moment, she replied

    flatly.

    "Who doesn''t?"

    Kallistra clapped her hands loudly, breaking the tension.

    "Alright, everyone, calm down," she said, stepping forward. "This is getting out of hand. Two superpredators fighting over the rights of a third superpredator? How absurd." Her gaze turned to Eratz, rising a finger.

    "Notice something, Pharaoh. I haven''t forced you into anything. I want you to do what you want. That''s why I''m better than them. If you have to choose, it should be me."

    Eratz crossed his arms, deep in thought. Mercury shot him a warning glance.

    "Don''t tell me you''re actually considering this," she said.

    He shook his head.

    "Relax, I''m just curious to see how things play out. I''m not joining any of you two," he said

    with a final nod. "I am a loyal man and I''ll stick to one woman."

    He observed Victoria for a moment then promptly turned to Mercury who flinched.

    "E... ratz..." clenching her teeth, Mercury shook her head in embarrassment. "Well, so, anyway, I''m loyal to Victoria, but I''m curious... let''s say you might influence me,"

    he turned to Tamara. "Why do you want to recruit me?"

    Tamara''s expression darkened.

    "To protect you from people like that sly, fucking psycho snake," she said, pointing at

    Kallistra.

    Kallistra smirked.

    "Mah... such language."

    Eratz sighed. "And you?" he asked Kallistra. "Why me, exactly? Be honest, or no deal. Ever."

    Kallistra''s smile faded slightly as she studied him.

    "I want to be honest," she said after a pause. "But not here. Not in front of so many people."

    She glanced up at the crowd of elite fighters around. "There''s a whole week ahead, and I like moonlight. I''m sure there''ll be plenty of chances."

    Both Victoria and Tamara flinched, understand the hidden message, but it was over now. Kallistra sighed dramatically.

    "I guess that''s it for now," she said, turning away. "My offer''s always available, Vicky. I''m

    not the leader, but Leo owes me his life, and we excel in matters of debt collection and

    ownership."

    Leonidas frowned but said nothing. As Kallistra walked away, she glanced back at Eratz.

    "Pandorq, If you really want to be convinced, I''ve got one word for you..." Her emerald eyes

    gleamed as she added softly,

    "Legendary."

 Chapter 211: Ishtarian Encounter

    Chapter 211: Ishtarian EncounterAs Kallistra walked away, her silver hair swaying in the breeze, Eratz''s gaze lingered on her retreating figure.

    The word she left behind echoed in his mind:

    "Legendary."

    He frowned, he knew too well what it meant, there was only one possibility since she was so sure to get his attention.

    "Eratz," Victoria''s firm voice pulled him from his thoughts. "Don''t listen to her. And whatever you do, don''t follow her wherever she wants to meet you."

    Eratz glanced at Victoria but didn''t respond. His focus shifted briefly to Tamara, whose expression had darkened as she watched Kallistra leave.

    Tamara''s hands clenched into fists, and a dangerous glint appeared in her eyes. Without a word, she stepped forward, heading straight to Kallistra.

    But before she could move far, a hand landed gently on her shoulder.

    "You can''t go further, ma''am," a calm voice said. The newcomer''s sudden appearance startled everyone. A man stood behind Tamara, his long hair tied back and his narrowed red eyes exuding both calm and indifference.

    But what caught everyone''s attention most was the meaning behind this combination of physical features, he was an Ishtarian.

    Tamara''s eyes widened and she sighed.

    "Arvad," she said, her voice tinged with both surprise and irritation.

    Arvad, a renowned continental champion from Valmera, gave a small nod.

    "You''re making quite the scene here," he said lightly. "Let''s not escalate things further." Before anyone could respond, another presence made itself known. A second Ishtarian appeared seemingly out of nowhere, crouching right behind Colin. He poked her back gently. "What''s that fire inside you?" he asked curiously, his narrowed eyes glinting.

    Colin flinched and jumped away, her eyes wide with alarm. The man closed his eyes briefly, as if savoring a discovery, and murmured.

    "That''s something dangerous you''re hiding there. For your age, it''s something far too big to walk around with..."

    His tone was light, but as he opened his eyes, he found himself face-to-face with two pairs of shoes Mercury''s and Roger''s, a split second before they struck. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Mercury''s and Roger''s powerful kick sent the man sprawling backward into the ground.

    The intruder groaned dramatically, brushing dust off his shoulders as he sat up, unscathed.

    "Hey... that wasn''t nice," he muttered.

    "Rylas," Arvad said, his tone carrying a mix of annoyance and exasperation. "Apologize to the young lady."

    Rylas seemed intrigued, but eventually stood up and bowed to Colin.

    "Uh... okay... Sorry I guess," he said casually.

    Arvad turned back to Eratz.

    "Apologies for the behavior of my boss and my friend," he said with a small bow. "We''ll be taking our leave now."

    Tamara rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. Rylas stood, stretching lazily.

    "Uh... Aren''t we forgetting something?" he said, scratching his neck.

    Arvad''s gaze fell on Eratz, and a spark of recognition lit his eyes.

    "Ah, how could I..." he began, striding confidently toward Eratz. Extending a hand for a handshake, his smile was warm and inviting.

    Eratz blinked, caught off guard.

    "Uh?"

    Arvad, completely oblivious to Eratz''s confusion, clasped his hand firmly and grinned.

    "It''s always a pleasure to count a brother in the team."

    "He''s not," Tamara interjected sharply.

    Arvad kept his pose for seconds then his brows furrowed in confusion.

    "What?"

    Tamara ignored him, her focus entirely on Eratz. She walked forward until she stood in front of him.

    "I know what you''re thinking," she said, her voice quieter now but no less intense. "I was just like you at your age."

    Eratz raised a brow.

    "What, you mean all Ishtarians are the same?"

    Both Arvad and Rylas promptly shook their heads more confused than ever. Tamara, however, smirked.

    "No, but I do know this. You''re curious. You''re driven by the will to grow stronger, to understand what''s inside you. That curiosity is dangerous, Eratz. You''re not even close to your prime yet, but people like you are easily lured by the promise of power. Kallistra knows that. She''s found you, and she has all the time in the world to manipulate you."

    Eratz''s expression grew serious.

    "You seem so sure about what I want and don''t want," he said coldly.

    Tamara''s gaze didn''t waver.

    "I''m sure because I''ve seen it before. People like you... people like me. Power is tempting, but it comes at a cost. Kallistra is chill now because she thinks she''s won you over. She loves you... like a dragon loves its treasure. If you want power, I can teach you. At least with me, you won''t end up destroying yourself."

    Her words hung heavily in the air, drawing the attention of everyone present. From afar, Genova''s students watched the interaction with awe and envy, whispering among themselves about how Tamara Regalia, the legendary beast master, was speaking directly to Eratz. Kenny, standing at a distance, groaned in frustration and stormed off, unwilling to watch any longer.

    Victoria''s voice broke the tension.

    "Tamara..." she murmured, but before she could say more, Eratz raised a hand, silencing her.

    "I''ll say this once," Eratz began, his tone lighter. "I''m not joining anyone. Not Kallistra. Not you, Tamara. My choices are mine and mine alone, and no one tells me what to do or what path to take." He paused for a moment, his gaze piercing the Queen. "I''m linked only to Victoria, and that''s final. Whatever happens, I''ll see this through to the end and take responsibility for everything I''ve started."

    The courtyard fell silent, his words resonating deeply. Tamara studied him for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Finally, she sighed, crossing her arms.

    "You''re annoying," she said, her tone harsh but oddly pleased. "Still, I''ll give you this: at least you''ve got a spine. Too bad Vicky got you first... But I''m not giving up," Her smirk widened briefly before she turned to Victoria. "I''ll stick around until the end of the event.

    Dinner''s on you."

    Victoria blinked in surprise.

    "Wait, what?" she managed to say in disbelief.

    Tamara didn''t elaborate further. She pivoted and began walking away, her two companions

    falling in step behind her.

    As she moved, Arvad glanced back at Eratz with a mischievous grin.

    "Brother, do you drink Dyvaris?" he asked, referring to the sugary, potent traditional

    Ishtarian drink.

    Roger''s eyes narrowed, as he recognized Cassie''s favorite drink before Colin''s birth. Tamara

    glanced over her shoulder.

    "It''s what our people drink to settle a matter," she said simply. "Let''s have some later,

    Eratz."

    With that, she strode away, her companions trailing behind. As they disappeared into the distance, Eratz watched them go, his expression unreadable, though his eyebrows raised slightly. He turned to Victoria, implying that she should follow her, but Victoria hesitated

    before sighing.

    "She said dinner, not walking," she muttered.

    An awkward silence settled over the courtyard as members of Golden Cosmos and Infinite Twilight exchanged tense glances.

    Finally, Leonidas broke the tension with a curt command to his agents.

    "Let''s go," he said. "No point in staying here."

    As the two groups began to part ways, Leonidas lingered, his gaze fixed on Eratz. At first,

    Eratz appeared to be looking away, his focus on the opposite side of the courtyard.

    But then, Eratz suddenly flinched and turned sharply, locking eyes with him.

    Leonidas froze, startled.

    There was no way Eratz could have seen him from that angle, yet their gazes met with

    unnerving precision.

    Leonidas quickly looked away, his steps faltering briefly as he continued walking.

    "Did he...?" Leonidas thought.

 Chapter 212: Tournament of Clowns

    Chapter 212: Tournament of ClownsThe late afternoon sun bathed Genova''s arena in a soft golden glow. While the arena wasn''t the largest in the discipline, it was packed to the brim.

    Not a single seat was empty. The excitement was tangible, buzzing in the air like an electric current.

    The crowd was a mix of locals and spectators who had traveled far and wide for this global event.

    Media crews scrambled for the best angles, their cameras sweeping over the massive audience.

    This wasn''t just a regional tournament, it was history in the making.

    Tamara, Kallistra, Infinite Twilight and Golden Cosmos were present, all the big names gathered for a climactic event.

    On stage, the academy''s teachers stood rigidly beside the director.

    Among them was Rowan, calm and composed as always. He scanned the crowd, looking for Eratz''s face in the sea of faces.

    Eratz watched him carefully. Rowan''s stoic demeanor hid a subtle stiffness in his posture. The atmosphere shifted when the rules of the tournament were announced.

    "For this event, each contender will face a student from Genova Academy. The competitor with the most victories will face our champion, Kian Pandora, in the final match."

    A suffocating silence fell over the arena, as though the air had been sucked out of it. Then, a single shout broke the quiet.

    "What?!"

    The crowd erupted. Boos started as scattered grumbles, but they quickly grew into a deafening chorus of rage. The disappointment was palpable.

    "This is a joke!" someone yelled.

    "We didn''t come here for this!" shouted another.

    People were furious. They had come to see legends clash, to witness history, not to watch seasoned fighters humiliate inexperienced students.

    Agencies began pulling their fighters.

    "This is ridiculous," muttered a scout from a smaller agency. "Our rookies trained for real competition, not this farce."

    In the Golden Cosmos section, Zara let out a long sigh and turned to her team, her expression a mix of disappointment and exhaustion.

    "Well? Does anyone feel like wasting their time here?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of

    sarcasm.

    Kaida leaned back in her seat, arms crossed.

    "Fat chance. I''ve got some self-respect. I''m out."

    Eratz shook his head.

    "I didn''t get beat down by Victoria just to waste my energy on this. Count me out too."

    Even Victoria pinched the bridge of her nose and muttered something under her breath. The absurdity of the situation was testing even her patience.

    Zara clapped her hands together in mock enthusiasm.

    "If none of our aces participate, Golden Cosmos has no reason to stay around. And guess what? That means goodbye to our vacation plans. So... are you sure there''s no volunteer? Come on, sacrificial lambs, step up!"

    The group grumbled in response, none of them willing to give in.

    Amid the tension, Colin and Milo exchanged a look. Milo stood up, puffing his chest.

    "I... I was born... to be a sacrifice," he said.

    Mercury, seated beside him, immediately cut in, her tone firm.

    "No. Not a sacrifice."

    Milo kept his posture, blinking, then puffed out his chest even more.

    "I... I often dream... of electric lambs."

    Colin, sitting quietly by his side, nodded.

    "I''ll do it too," she said softly.

    Their decision brought a brief moment of calm, the other aces giving small nods, and back pats, acknowledging their sacrifice.

    But while Golden Cosmos found a temporary resolution, the arena around them was descending further into chaos.

    The boos turned into a thunderous roar, a deafening symphony of discontent that rattled the arena walls.

    Back on the battleground, chaos reigned. The director stood at the center, unfazed by the storm she had unleashed. Teachers rushed to her, their faces pale with panic.

    "This is humiliating!" one teacher cried, gripping the edge of her clipboard.

    "You''re throwing the academy''s name into a void!" another added, their voice breaking with frustration.

    But the director remained unmoved, brushing off their concerns with a wave of her hand. "This is perfect," she said confidently, her voice dripping with arrogance. "Our students will fight lower opponents, and their victories will dominate the media. This plan is flawless."

    The teachers exchanged horrified glances. Their desperation deepened as they watched agencies continue to withdraw their participants, each departure a dagger to the academy''s reputation.

    Some of the younger staff began pacing, murmuring frantic suggestions, but the director ignored them all.

    Rowan, standing silently to the side, finally lifted his gaze. His glare, cold and sharp, cut through the noise, meeting the director''s smug expression.

    For a moment, time seemed to freeze under the weight of his stare. But Rowan said nothing. The director only shrugged, turning her back to him.

    She surveyed the arena with a satisfied smile.

    "A total win," she declared, as if speaking to herself.

    However, her delusion was shattered by a voice, sharp and mocking, cutting through the air

    like a blade.

    "As expected from such a joke of an academy."

    The director spun around, her confidence evaporating as her eyes landed on the speaker. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eliza stood right behind her, her arms crossed, a sly grin playing on her lips.

    The teachers flinched, their panic replaced by an almost audible tension. The director''s expression twisted with anger.

    "Eliza," she hissed, her voice low and venomous. "What are you doing here?"

    Eliza waved a hand dismissively, her smile widening.

    "Relax, hag," she said, her tone dripping with false reassurance. "I''m not here to make a

    speech. You''re already doing enough by yourself. I''m just here to register our challengers."

    The director''s confidence cracked as Eliza stepped forward, handing over a roster. The list bore the unmistakable seal of Infinite Twilight.

    Eight city-ranked beast masters and one ace: Iris. The director''s face paled as she scanned the

    names.

    "What''s wrong?" Eliza asked, her voice light and mocking. "Is this not what you wanted?"

    The director opened her mouth to respond, but no words came. Her composure faltered completely, leaving her frozen in place.

    Without waiting for a response, Eliza turned on her heel, walking away with deliberate calm.

    Her smirk lingered long after she disappeared from sight, leaving the director to stew in her

    growing panic.

    The battles began, and Genova Academy''s downfall turned into a public execution.

    Match after match, their students fell, each one defeated, and when facing a member of

    infinite twilight, in a single attack.

    The second years and a handful of first years managed to summon their beasts, but it didn''t

    matter.

    Their techniques were sloppy, their movements predictable, their beasts, either an elemental spirit or a ridiculous beast.

    Even the least experienced rookies looked like seasoned professionals compared to Genova''s

    students.

    Milo stepped onto the field for his match. The crowd murmured, expecting at least a hint of a

    good show.

    Instead, Milo ended the battle in one swift move, not even summoning his beast.

    Colin followed, and the result was the same. Another one-shot. Another embarrassment.

    By the eleventh match, the initial laughter had vanished. The crowd had grown silent. It wasn''t entertaining anymore, it was painful to watch.

    "What kind of academy is this?" a spectator muttered, breaking the silence. "Even rookies are

    leagues ahead of them."

    The murmurs grew louder, filled with disbelief and scorn. Genova Academy wasn''t just losing,

    they were being humiliated.

    The tournament, once a spectacle of skill and competition, had become a joke. And that joke

    felt more like a funeral.

    On this day, the world gathered to assist to a funerals of an academy.

    It was a unique case among academies, one fueled by years of bad decisions.

    Putting Kian in the final round without allowing him to prove his worth earlier was one of

    them.

    Lila, the sole Genova student to advance, had barely scraped through her match against an

    agency rookie.

    Genova Academy had gone from a respected institution to a global punchline.

    Genova''s reputation was in freefall.

    On social media, hashtags like #GenovaFails and #AcademyJoke dominated the trending lists.

    Memes flooded every corner of the internet, mocking students, ridiculing the faculty, and

    tearing apart the academy''s image.

    The crowd''s jeers had become a symbol of Genova''s failure, their laughter echoing far beyond

    the arena.

 Chapter 213: Dance of Despair

    Chapter 213: Dance of DespairIn the backstage chaos, the director stood at the center, her mental crumbling under the weight of media scrutiny.

    Flashes from reporters'' cameras lit up her pale face as she turned to her staff, her voice sharp and desperate.

    "Change the next matchup," she demanded. "Pair our students against each other. The winner faces Lila in the next round."

    The room fell silent. Teachers exchanged uneasy glances.

    One of them finally spoke up, her voice low and hesitant.

    "You''re... asking us to cheat?"

    "Yes!" the director snapped, her patience threadbare. "We have no other choice. We need a win. What are you waiting for?"

    No one argued further. They knew the academy''s reputation was beyond saving, but fear of losing their jobs outweighed their morals.

    Reluctantly, they turned to the tournament board, manually adjusting the brackets.

    Moments later, the next match was displayed on the arena''s screens.

    [Kenny vs Julian]

    For most spectators, the names were unremarkable.

    Both were probably rookies, faces easily lost in the shuffle of more prominent competitors.

    The announcement passed with little fanfare, drowned out by the crowd''s restless murmurs. No one paid attention, except for Eliza.

    From her seat in the Infinite Twilight section, she leaned forward, her sharp eyes narrowing. A faint smirk tugged at her lips.

    "Well, well," she murmured to herself. "Isn''t that interesting?"

    Far from this massacre, the academy halls stretched endlessly before Kenny, their silence pressing down on him like a weight he couldn''t shake.

    His footsteps echoed, uneven and hurried, as if he were running from something, or maybe toward something. He didn''t know anymore.

    His chest heaved with shallow breaths, and his hands felt like ice.

    The distant cheers and groans from the arena only made it worse.

    Each sound reminded him of what was happening outside, the one-sided defeats, the humiliation.

    The fifth consecutive one-shot match had shattered whatever fragile confidence he had left and he found himself mysteriously teleported far away from there.

    He muttered under his breath, his voice shaky and desperate.

    "It''s fine. It''s fine. No problem. I''ll just... make a big impression. That''s all. Just don''t look ridiculous. Don''t... don''t look weak. Not like the others."

    But even as he spoke, the words felt hollow. His body betrayed him, his hands trembled uncontrollably, his legs felt like they might give out.

    Everyone was out there, literally everyone in the world. The world stars had brought the world''s attention, so every battle was seen by billions of people.

    His heart races, he felt like throwing up, and then the memories came.

    The first duel.

    Eratz standing tall, his presence unshakable, while Kenny lay on the ground, beaten, humiliated.

    He felt it again, the sting of dirt in his mouth, the ache in his limbs, the weight of everyone''s eyes on him.

    And it hadn''t just been that one time. Every fight they''d ever had ended the same way: Kenny broken, Eratz victorious, again and again, every freaking time.

    He stumbled, gripping the wall for support as his knees threatened to buckle.

    His breaths came faster, each one sharper than the last.

    He saw Lisa''s face, her disappointment cutting deeper than any wound as she abandoned him, he saw Crystal''s smile as people forced him out of the arena.

    And then there was Mercury. Kenny squeezed his eyes shut, but the image was seared into his mind.

    Mercury, beautiful, strong and confident, standing beside Eratz. Always beside Eratz.

    Her disdain for him, her rejection, it burned, it burned a lot! It burned more than anything else.

    His hands gripped his hair, pulling as if he could tear the thoughts away. But they only came faster.

    His imagination turned crueler. Kian''s face appeared, calm and cold, his superiority demonstrated over him.

    Kenny saw himself at his feet, helpless, crumpling under the weight of his strength before passing out.

    And always in front of everyone.

    "Why?" His voice cracked. "Why is it always like this? Why do I always lose?"

    His words echoed in the empty hallway, mocking him. His failures pressed down on him, suffocating.

    Why couldn''t he win? What was he doing wrong? His mind spun, grasping for answers, for solutions, for anything to stop the spiral.

    And then, suddenly, it all stopped. The noise, the chaos, the racing thoughts, it all fell silent.

    Kenny froze, his body stiff as the memory surfaced. The one time everything had gone right. The one time he had defeated Eratz.

    He remembered it vividly. Eratz''s face, twisted with distress and disbelief.

    That fleeting moment where Kenny had stood over him, victorious. For the first and only time, he had defeated Eratz.

    The gift from the heaven. The object that had changed everything. That thing that started

    everything.

    That black orb. That damn black orb...

    Slowly, he turned his head, his gaze falling on a door at the end of the hallway where his madness led him: Rowan''s office.

    Meanwhile, the arena buzzed with restless energy as the first round approached its

    conclusion.

    Most of the spectators had left, their initial excitement replaced by boredom or outright irritation. At this point, no one expected a miracle.

    In the stands, Eliza sat with a sly grin, her fingers tapping away on her phone.

    She wrote a message carefully, ensuring her anonymity before sending it out to the media.

    The contents were damning: a leak that both Kenny and Julian, the next competitors, were students of Genova Academy. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The implication was clear, Genova was cheating their own rules to salvage what little reputation they had left.

    Eliza hit send, her grin widening as she noticed the media frenzy brewing almost instantly.

    Reporters in the press section were already passing whispers and gesturing animatedly. Within minutes, news outlets were ablaze with speculation and condemnation.

    ''I hope I''ll have enough memory space to film the story of your demise, grandma,'' Eliza thought, settling back in her seat to enjoy the chaos.

    "Why are we even putting up with this farce?" Leonidas suddenly asked, his tone sharp and

    disdainful.

    Eliza flinched, her fingers tightening around her phone. She kept her face neutral but felt a bead of sweat forming on her brow. She dared not look directly at him.

    Around them, the other aces shifted slightly, visibly bored. It was clear to everyone that their presence had been overkill.

    Next to Leonidas, Kallistra raised an eyebrow.

    "Are you serious?" she asked incredulously. "Thanks to this trip, I met Vicky, a better version

    of your Ishtarian, and now that bitch Tammy burned her chance with her excessive violence.

    I''m on a winning streak."

    Her voice grew more animated, and she gestured lazily toward the arena.

    "Whoever came up with this trip deserves a raise, a bonus, and a vacation. Maybe even a kiss, I

    haven''t had this much fun since ages. Look at this chaos."

    Leonidas rolled his eyes but he said nothing more, leaning back in his seat with an air of

    resignation.

    Eliza let out a quiet sigh of relief, her tension easing slightly.

    ''I''ll do some overtime after all of this, just in case,'' she thought, leaning back with a faint smile.

    The arena grew tense as the announcer''s voice boomed across the crowd.

    "And now, for the final match of the first round... Julian versus Kenny!"

    Julian stood in the battlefield, his arms stiff at his sides. He swallowed hard, his nerves

    betraying him despite his attempts to appear composed.

    His hands fidgeted with the edge of his jacket as his eyes darted to the entrance where Kenny

    was supposed to emerge.

    The seconds dragged on, and the tension thickened. The announcer, slightly flustered, called

    out again.

    "Kenny, please report to the battlefield!"

    Still, nothing. Whispers began rippling through the crowd. The announcer hesitated, glancing

    toward the officials for guidance.

    "Kenny, this is your final call!"

    Julian''s brow furrowed, his unease growing with each passing second. The murmurs among

    the teachers turned into louder speculation.

    "Where is he?"

    "Did he run away?"

    "This is embarrassing."

    Meanwhile, behind the silent corridors of the academy, Kenny stood in Rowan''s office.

    The air was heavy, the faint hum of distant arena noise barely reaching him. His hand hovered over a small black box on the desk, his breath shallow and uneven.

    Kenny''s fingers trembled as they brushed the lid, and for a moment, he hesitated. His mind raced with every failure, every loss, every ounce of humiliation he''d endured.

    With a shaky breath, he opened the box, and the glow that emerged was a call for freedom.

    The karinite 4.

    The treasure seemed to call to him, its glow reflecting in his eyes the storm of emotions raging within him.

    Fear, anger, despair... but also hope.

 Chapter 214: One Move, 2000 Words

    Chapter 214: One Move, 2000 WordsThe battle started as Julian, desperate to cling to any hope, summoned his fire lizard.

    The beast materialized, embers sparking from its scales.

    "Go! Now!" Julian screamed, his voice breaking with panic.

    The creature obeyed, lunging toward Kenny with flames bursting from its jaws.

    Kenny didn''t move. He didn''t flinch. His grotesque smile only grew as he raised a single hand.

    A sudden gust of wind formed, extinguishing the flames with chilling ease.

    The fire lizard yelped as the wind hurled it across the arena, crashing into the ground before vanishing in the shadow.

    Julian''s heart sank. His trump card was gone, and Kenny hadn''t even broken a sweat.

    "That''s it?" Kenny sneered, his tone dripping with mockery. "That''s all you''ve got? Pathetic."

    Kenny took a step forward, his eyes glinting with malice. Julian stumbled back, his legs trembling.

    "Kenny, wait! Let''s... let''s just talk about this, alright? We don''t have to..."

    "Talk?" Kenny interrupted, his voice cold and sharp.

    He swiped his hand, and a shard of ice materialized in the air before shooting forward. It sliced across Julian''s arm, leaving a jagged wound.

    Julian cried out, clutching his arm as blood seeped through his fingers.

    "Shut up, Julian!" Kenny snarled. "I don''t want your excuses! I want your screams!"

    Julian tried to retreat, but Kenny''s attacks were relentless. Another shard of ice struck his leg, dropping him to his knees.

    A gust of wind sent him sprawling onto the dirt, coughing and choking on the dust. "You think you can run?" Kenny hissed, stepping closer. "You think you can hide? You''re nothing, Julian. You''ve always been nothing. But you know what''s even worse? You chose to crawl behind Eratz. You punched me in front of him... him! This fucking bastard!!!"

    From the side, Zara glanced at Eratz, and his expression sent a shiver running down her spine.

    His eyes were cold, impassive, but simmering with barely restrained fury. A vein pulsed on his temple, his fists trembling at his sides.

    Julian, trembling and battered, raised his hands weakly. He tried to summon a fireball, but Kenny snuffed it out with another wave of wind.

    The effort was useless. Kenny was toying with him now, savoring every moment of his torment.

    "I''m done being held back," Kenny growled, raising his hand. A crackling bolt of lightning struck Julian''s shoulder, sending him writhing in agony. "Do you understand now, Julian? You were never strong. None of you were."

    From the stands, the crowd watched in stunned horror. The spectators had fallen silent, their faces pale with shock.

    Some turned away, unable to stomach the scene unfolding below.

    Rowan remained frozen, his expression unreadable but his body rigid. His thoughts churned as he watched the boy supposed to repent descend into madness.

    In contrast, the powerhouses from Infinite Twilight and Golden Cosmos showed no outward reaction.

    "He''s gone insane," Mercury muttered.

    Kaida shook her head, arms crossed.

    "Yeah. He''s completely lost it." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Leonidas leaned back in his seat, his sharp gaze fixed on Kenny, while Kallistra tilted her head, watching the spectacle with mild curiosity, as though studying a particularly animal. In the arena, Kenny knelt beside Julian, who was now sprawled on the ground, his body shaking.

    Kenny raised a hand, letting a small flame flicker to life on his palm.

    "You know, this feels good," Kenny said, his voice rising with twisted exhilaration. "Do you know how long I''ve waited for this moment? To finally make you all feel what I felt?"

    He pressed the flame against Julian''s arm, drawing a guttural scream from him. The smell of burning flesh filled the air, and Kenny''s smile widened.

    "Does it hurt, Julian?" Kenny mocked. "Good. Pain''s the only thing people like you understand."

    Julian raised a trembling hand, his voice weak and pleading.

    "K-Kenny, please... I''m sorry..."

    "Sorry?!" Kenny bellowed, his laugh manic and cruel. "Sorry doesn''t erase what you did. It doesn''t fix what that bastard Pandoras took from me."

    The mention of "Pandoras" rippled through the crowd, and a wave of whispers broke out.

    "Pandora?"

    "Does he mean the Pharaoh?"

    Marcus frowned as if trying to piece together the connection between Kenny and his family.

    In the students area, Kian and Lila sat rigid, their annoyance at the insult to their family replaced by a creeping unease.

    Kenny wasn''t the same joke as before, and he openly declared war on them.

    Kenny continued, his voice rising with fury.

    "That arrogant bastard Eratz and his perfect little family! Always humiliating me, always acting better than me!"

    The crowd gasped, realizing the fight wasn''t just brutality, it was personal. Kenny''s voice cracked with manic laughter.

    "Do you know what it''s like to be crushed under their shadow? To be left in the dirt while they

    walk away without a scratch?... But not anymore."

    He turned his gaze to the stands, his eyes blazing.

    "I''ll tear them apart. Every last one of them. I''ll make them bleed, starting with this pathetic

    insect!"

    He kicked Julian''s face, the impact echoing in the silence.

    Blood sprayed across the dirt as Julian groaned weakly, barely conscious. Kenny kicked him

    again. And again.

    Each strike was brutal, sending more blood splattering as the crowd watched in disgust.

    Finally, the teachers rushed in, their faces pale with panic. Rowan grabbed Kenny''s arm while

    another shielded Julian''s broken body.

    "That''s enough!" Rowan shouted, his voice shaking.

    Kenny pulled his arm free, his chest heaving. His gaze turned to the teachers, his smile

    returning.

    "Oh, we''re just getting started," he said, his tone dripping with malice.

    Kenny stood in the center of the arena, arms outstretched, his energy crackling around him.

    He turned to the crowd, his smile widening.

    "This is freedom!" Kenny screamed, his voice cracking with manic glee. "This is justice! And this idiot is only the first. I''m coming for you all, damn Pandoras!"

    Suddenly, a sharp whistle cut through the air, and a projectile crashed into the ground in front of Kenny, sending a cloud of dust swirling around him and the teachers.

    Kenny stumbled back, the teachers coughing as the dust cleared. Slowly standing face to them

    was Eratz.

    "Since you want so badly to end the Pandoras..." Eratz''s voice slowly rose. "Why don''t you start with the first of them?"

 Chapter 215: Game Over: Eratz vs Kenny

    Chapter 215: Game Over: Eratz vs KennyEratz stood face to Kenny and the teachers. The dust settled around him, and the crowd erupted into hushed whispers.

    "It''s...?"

    "The Pharaoh!"

    "It''s him... It''s really him!"

    Rowan, still holding Kenny back, muttered under his breath.

    "Eratz..."

    But the eyes of the man standing before him were way past a warm reunion. Eratz cracked his neck, his expression hard and unreadable.

    "I''ve been trying to move on. To ignore all the crap I''ve lived here and focus on what matters. But people like you," he said, his eyes locking onto Kenny, "are too curious to know why I never fight back."

    Kenny took an instinctive step back, his earlier confidence faltering under Eratz''s gaze.

    Eratz''s tone didn''t waver.

    "I wasn''t going to waste my time with this farce. I''m supposed to be in vacation, but since this place is ruled by a gang of incompetents who can''t control their students, I might as well put and end to one problem myself." His gaze shifted to the teachers.

    The teachers froze, stunned into silence.

    In the stands, Kallistra and Eliza chuckld, their smile widening.

    "This," Eliza murmured, "is going to be good."

    Eratz pointed directly at Kenny.

    "You wanted to deal with me? You''re going to get what you want. I''m going to finish you, right here, right now."

    The crowd erupted into cheers.

    "The Pharaoh is going to fight!"

    "Yes! Teach him a lesson!"

    "This is what we came for!"

    Kenny stepped back, his earlier confidence diminishing. He was stronger, way stronger now, but strong on Eratz''s level? That was another story.

    The director rushed forward, her face pale with panic.

    "Eratz, stop this!" she shouted, her voice shaking. "You can''t interfere! This is an official event... you have no right..."

    The crowd drowned out her words with their roars of approval, their excitement palpable. The director turned down her microphone as she reached him.

    Eratz turned to her, his expression growing annoyed.

    "If you try to stop me, I''ll make sure everyone knows exactly how rotten this academy is. Everything you did, the racism and framing you allowed, and I''ll use my influence to ruin every single one of you."

    The director froze, stunned on the spot. Her lips parting as if to protest, but no words came out. Behind her, the teachers exchanged nervous glances, unsure of what to do.

    Farther away, Tamara crossed her arms, her eyes fixed on the arena. For the first time, she seemed fully focused.

    The crowd''s chants grew louder, their excitement almost deafening. For many, this was the first time seeing Eratz''s anger, and it was something they wouldn''t forget.

    The director lowered her head, stepping aside.

    "Fine," she muttered, defeated.

    Eratz didn''t even glance at her. His focus was entirely on Kenny, who was frozen in place, his body tense as he realized that his vengeance had been moved forward, and his second victim wasn''t a prey.

    The crowd roared, their excitement electrifying the arena. Among the students, reactions

    were mixed, Lisa looked pale, her hands clasped tightly.

    Crystal leaned forward, hoping to get rid of Kenny for good.

    Kenny forced a smirk.

    "You really came all this way for a pathetic student? That''s rich, Pharaoh."

    Eratz turned around and walked toward the center of the arena.

    "Remember what it feels like to stand. Treasure this memory."

    Kenny flinched, the mockery dying on his lips. His fists clenched, his body trembling, not just with anger, but with frustration and fear.

    Rowan, still standing near the sidelines, lowered his head, saying nothing. The teachers remained frozen, unwilling to intervene.

    Kenny glanced around, realizing he was alone. Hesitantly, he stepped forward, one shaky step at a time, until he stood face-to-face with Eratz in the center of the battlefield.

    The crowd erupted, their chants of "Pharaoh! Pharaoh!" echoing through the arena.

    Eratz didn''t move, his presence unshakable. Kenny swallowed hard, his aura flickering like a candle in the storm.

    For the first time, he realized just how far out of his depth he truly was.

    Those knowing the story between these two watched with big interest, because they knew.

    This moment, this very battle, was the conclusion of a long race between these two.

    The crowd roared as the battle began, Kenny unleashing a barrage of elemental attacks all at

    once.

    Lightning crackled through the air, fire roared, water spiraled, and chunks of earth shot forward like cannonballs, all encased in a whirlwind of chaos.

    "Let''s see you dodge this, Eratz!" Kenny shouted, his voice dripping with venom.

    With the adrenaline building in his head, his confidence returned and the battlefield was engulfed in destruction.

    But Eratz didn''t flinch.

    He simply moved, effortlessly weaving through the onslaught, his expression cold and

    unphased.

    Each attack missed by a hair, yet he didn''t seem rushed or concerned.

    Kenny sneered.

    "What''s the matter? Afraid to fight back against a college student?" His tone grew savage. "You showed you were a coward, so why don''t you grow some balls?"

    Kenny was unleashing himself, but the crowd slowly stopped cheering, not because of his

    power.

    They realized Eratz wasn''t even trying, once he would touch I''m, it would be the end.

    Kenny gritted his teeth, his aura flaring.

    "You think you''re better than me?!" He launched another volley, fireballs, jagged ice spikes, lightning bolts, but this time, Eratz stopped dodging altogether.

    He raised his hand once, calmly parrying a lightning strike.

    A burst of flames surged toward him, but he walked straight through it, the fire parting

    harmlessly around him.

    Kenny''s grin faltered.

    "What... What the hell are you doing?!"

    Eratz took a step closer, his voice cold and cutting.

    "Reflex, I overestimated you."

    Kenny''s face twisted in frustration. His attacks grew more frantic, more desperate.

    Every element at his disposal came crashing down, yet none of it landed. The crowd gasped as

    Eratz stood motionless, the ground erupting around him.

    "He''s not even dodging..." someone in the audience murmured.

    Kenny''s breathing grew ragged, his movements now wild and erratic as panic consumed him.

    His attacks, which started as a storm of elemental fury, became frantic bursts of desperation.

    "This isn''t fair! I''m stronger now! I should be able to hurt you!" he screamed, his voice cracking with frustration. "Why?! Why won''t you fight back?!"

    Eratz tilted his head slightly, his expression cold and unimpressed.

    "Did you really think being stronger would mean you''d be stronger than me?"

    The words struck Kenny like a blow, and his face twisted with rage.

    "Shut up!" he bellowed, summoning another barrage of attacks.

    Lightning crackled toward Eratz, flames roared, and sharp blades of wind carved through the

    air.

    But as before, none of it reached him. Eratz didn''t even flinch.

    "You''re nothing special!" Kenny screamed, his voice growing hoarse.

    His attacks came faster, his energy pouring out in waves, but Eratz moved through them as if

    he was taking a shower.

    Kenny''s aura flared wildly, and he lunged forward, closing the distance.

    But before he could strike, Eratz snapped his fingers. A sharp gust of wind twisted Kenny''s ankle, sending him tumbling to the ground with a scream of pain.

    Kenny clutched his leg, grimacing as he sat on the ground. His frustration boiled over, tears S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    spilling down his cheeks.

    "It''s always been like this!" he shouted, his voice filled with despair. "When I entered the academy, it was all you! Everyone loved the great Eratz Pandoras!"

    His tears fell freely now, his sobs echoing in the stunned silence of the arena.

    "I finally got rid of you! I was supposed to be the star! But then they took your family too!" His voice cracked, his grief and rage blending into one. "Why... Why is it always you?!" The arena held its breath, the weight of Kenny''s breakdown hanging heavy in the air. Eratz, still standing far away, finally moved.

    He took a single step forward, and in an instant, he was in front of Kenny, standing over him

    like a shadow of judgment.

    "So you admit it," Eratz said coldly, his crimson eyes piercing through Kenny''s trembling

    body. "You framed me."

    Kenny froze, his breath hitching. The crowd''s murmurs fell into a total silence, all eyes on

    him.

    For a moment, his face crumbled further, but then his rage flared back. "No!" he screamed, summoning his remaining energy to throw another desperate attack.

    But Eratz''s hand passed through the blast, his fist striking Kenny''s liver. Kenny''s body collapsed, convulsing as he vomited violently onto the arena floor.

    Under the disgusted gaze of the world and the amazement of Kallistra.

    Kenny clawed at the dirt, gasping for air, his face contorted in agony. Eratz looked down at him, his expression unreadable. "It''s hard to take revenge when you''re this fragile," he muttered. Kenny coughed and sputtered, forcing himself to his knees despite the pain wracking his

    body.

    He let out a guttural scream, pulling together every ounce of energy he had left, and fired a

    massive blast.

    Eratz didn''t move. He stepped through the blast, the energy washing over him harmlessly, and grabbed Kenny''s wrist mid-attack.

    In one swift motion, he raised his other hand and slapped Kenny across the face.

    The impact was brutal, the sound echoing through the arena. Kenny''s jaw dislocated from the

    force, and his body tumbled across the dirt like a broken doll.

    He landed in a crumpled heap, barely able to move. Kenny''s vision blurred, his mind racing as he tried to process what was happening. He felt humiliated, weak, and utterly powerless.

    Eratz walked toward him, crouching down in front of him with an air of detachment. "Like I said, I don''t like taking revenge on people. Wonder why? Because I don''t like doing a

    job halfway," he said, his voice low and sharp. "Kenny, I''m the origin of all your suffering, and today too I''ll doom you. This is your last battle."

    Kenny flinched, his eyes widening with a mix of anger and fear. His aura flared stronger as his

    anger consumed him, turning his irises a faint red.

    "STAY OUT OF MY LIFE!" he screamed, summoning another massive blast of energy.

    Eratz didn''t even bother to dodge. The energy crashed into him, but he remained unscathed.

    And then it happened.

    The energy surroundings Kenny ignited, and returned against him. Kenny''s body convulsed violently, his screams turning into shrieks of pure agony.

    The elements around him, fire, lightning, water, wind, and earth, began to surge

    uncontrollably, spiraling into a chaotic storm.

    His shadow stretched unnaturally across the ground, twisting and warping as the energy

    ripped through him.

    "What''s happening to him?!" a voice in the crowd shouted.

    Kenny screamed louder a his shadow took a more grotesque form, like tentacles coiling

    around him, then an event occurred.

    The beasts bound to him began emerging from the shadow, their bodies flickering and

    distorted.

    One by one, they bolted, breaking free and running or flying away.

    In the stands, Tamara leaned forward, her sharp gaze locked onto the scene.

    "The beasts... they''re separating from his aura?" she murmured.

    The elements spiraled tighter around Kenny, his body contorting under the overwhelming

    force.

    His shadow twisted and stretched further, coiling unnaturally as if alive. Finally, the chaotic energy collapsed, his shadow separated from its biggest part that

    converged, forming a single, ominous black orb hovering above him.

    The karinite 4.

 Chapter 216: The Fall of Genova

    Chapter 216: The Fall of GenovaThe arena was frozen, all eyes fixed on the battlefield. Kenny lay convulsing on the ground, his body crackling faintly with residual energy.

    Beside him, the karinite 4.

    Its faint glow pulsed unnaturally, casting a cold light across the dirt. For a moment, the crowd didn''t react, unsure of what they were seeing. But for those familiar with beast mastering, agency scouts, veteran fighters, and students with advanced knowledge, the sight of the karinite 4 sent shockwaves through their minds.

    "That''s... no way..." one scout murmured. "Is that what I think it is?" another whispered, his tone trembling.

    Then someone shouted. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "It''s a karinite!"

    The words rippled through the arena, igniting a storm of reactions. The whispers spread, quickly growing louder as more people began to understand what they were witnessing.

    "Wait... Did he use it?"

    "That''s illegal!"

    "How did he get one of those?"

    The professors sat frozen, their faces pale. Some exchanged horrified glances, but none dared to speak. Even the students were struck silent.

    Lisa flinched, her hands flying to her mouth. Her breathing quickened, and she could feel her heart pounding painfully in her chest. Her wide eyes stayed locked on the tool that had changed her life forever.

    The youngest among the students leaned forward, their brows furrowed in confusion, while the older ones began to piece together the truth. The karinite 4 was an experimental tool, a generator for creating artificial elemental spirits, used sparingly and only under strict supervision in academies.

    But now, it lay in the ground, an object that should never emerge from the shadow of a beast master. Its presence here could mean only one thing: it had been absorbed like a beast.

    "Cheater!" someone in the crowd shouted, breaking the stunned silence.

    "He cheated!" another voice added, louder this time.

    The accusations grew, quickly cascading into a roar of anger.

    "He''s a cheater!"

    "That''s how he got so strong!"

    "Disqualify him! Ban him!"

    The outrage spread like wildfire, sweeping through the arena and beyond. Livestream chats across the world exploded as viewers caught on. The suspicion, however, didn''t stop at Kenny.

    "This was a setup! The academy must''ve helped him!"

    "They knew about the karinite, there''s no way they didn''t!"

    "They rigged this whole thing to make their students look good!"

    The crowd''s anger now turned toward the academy. People stood in their seats, pointing and yelling accusations at the director and her staff.

    At the director''s podium, she stood motionless, her eyes wide as she stared at the chaos unraveling below. Her gaze flicked from the karinite 4 to Kenny, then to the screaming crowd. For the first time, her composure cracked.

    "This... this can''t be happening," she muttered under her breath.

    The youngest teachers, unable to bear the accusations or the scene unfolding, quietly left their seats, their faces a mix of shame and frustration. Some cast wary glances at the director as they walked away, silently blaming her for the catastrophe.

    The cameras panned to the director, her pale face filling the massive screens that overlooked the arena. For a moment, she seemed frozen, her lips slightly parted as though searching for words.

    Then, to the shock of everyone watching, she began to giggle.

    It was faint at first, but it grew steadily louder, her shoulders trembling as the sound turned into a full-blown laugh. Her eyes widened, gleaming with something that looked far too close to madness. The camera lingered on her, broadcasting her reaction to the entire arena and the world beyond.

    On her seat, Eliza leaned back, a sly smile playing on her lips. She crossed her legs elegantly. "Enjoy your last ovation," she murmured. "It''s been a pleasure to send you to retirement." The chaos in the arena showed no signs of stopping. The people, the internet, the world, it was all turning against Kenny and the academy.

    The aftermath of the tournament was catastrophic. Genova became the center of a worldwide scandal. The match between Kenny and Julian, both students of the academy, combined with the illegal karinite 4, left no room for defense.

    The tournament was annulled immediately, its results invalidated, but the damage had already been done. News outlets ran scathing reports day and night. Social media was relentless, mocking the academy.

    Memes flooded the internet, comparing Genova to a crumbling ruin, a broken system that symbolized failure.

    The students found themselves shunned. Scouts and agencies turned away, dismissing anyone associated with the academy as untouchable. Teachers resigned in disgrace, unable to face the public humiliation.

    For the second time in its history, Genova was ridiculed, but this time it was stronger than anything.

    Three days after the disastrous event, the director publicly announced her resignation. Her speech was brief and devoid of the confidence she had once carried. Her resignation was the

    final blow.

    Genova Academy, now leaderless and disgraced, stood as a hollow shell of its former self. The afternoon of her departure was quiet. The gates of the academy were eerily still. A black car idled nearby, its engine humming softly. The director walked slowly toward it. Rowan stood by the gates, the only one to see her off. His arms were crossed, his gaze fixed on her. He said nothing as she approached, watching her load her last belongings into the car. The silence stretched, heavy and uncomfortable. But as she reached the car door, Rowan''s voice cut through the stillness.

    "So, that''s it?" he said, his tone sharp. "You''re just running away? After creating this mess?"

    She paused, her hand resting on the door handle. For a moment, she didn''t turn. Then she straightened slightly, exhaling slowly as she turned to face him. Her gaze was hollow, devoid of the fiery determination she once carried.

    "No, Rowan. It''s not running away. It''s the opposite."

    Rowan frowned, his arms lowering slightly.

    "I''ve spent so many years chasing something that was already gone," she continued, her voice calm. "I thought I could bring glory back to Genova. I thought I could bring it back to myself. But I was blind. My time had already passed, and I was too stubborn to see it."

    Her lips curved into a faint, bitter smile.

    "It''s like Eliza said, like staying on a train that''s speeding toward a crash. You think you can fix it, slow it down, change the course. But you can''t. And when it finally crashes, if you''re still

    on board, this is what you get."

    She gestured vaguely toward the academy behind her.

    "I stayed on too long, and now I''m paying the price. If I stay any longer, it could be worse."

    Rowan''s jaw tightened.

    "So what? You think leaving will fix anything? You caused this!"

    "I know," she said simply. "And that''s why I have to go."

    Before Rowan could reply, a familiar voice broke the tension.

    "Beautifully said."

    Both turned to see Eliza approaching, her stride elegant and confident. She stopped a few paces away, her hands clasped behind her back and her ever-present smile curving her lips.

    "You..." Rowan groaned.

    Eliza ignored him, her eyes locked on the director.

    "I''m glad to see you''ve finally come to your senses, Direct..." She paused, her tone playful. "Oh, my apologies... I should say... Lady Ashworth? It has a nice old-fashioned ring to it."

    The director let out a dry chuckle.

    "If you''re here to mock me, go ahead. I don''t mind."

    "Oh, I''m not mocking you," Eliza said, her smile widening. "If anything, I''m impressed. It

    takes a certain clarity of mind to know when to step off the train."

    Rowan scoffed, his frustration boiling over.

    "Clarity? You pushed this whole thing too far, and you know it!"

    Eliza turned to him with a serene expression.

    "Correction, I did nothing. You brought that to yourself. Life''s not fair, Rowan. You fight, you

    win, you lose. Sometimes you get back up, sometimes you don''t. And sometimes... even if you

    can stand, you choose to stay down."

    Her words carried weight, and as she spoke, in several places in Grushia.

    Julian, waking up in his room, his face covered in bandages, staring blankly at the ceiling.

    Kenny, lying unconscious in a hospital bed, his body hooked up to machines. Victoria, sitting alone in her room, staring at an old photograph of herself during her prime alongside Tamara

    and Kallistra.

    "Everyone has their time to shine," Eliza continued, her voice soft but firm. "And when the twilight comes, you have to know when to step off. That''s the way it works at the top."

    The director gave a faint smile.

    "I hope to live long enough to see that day come for you, Eliza."

    Eliza''s smirk deepened.

    "Maybe, if you eat enough vegetables before you become one." She tapped her chin

    thoughtfully. "But thanks for the advice. I''ll make sure not to follow your path. You''ve shown

    me exactly what not to do."

    She turned, her steps measured as she began to walk away.

    "Enjoy your life, Lady Ashworth. Oh, and Rowan," she said, glancing back, her smile sharp.

    "It''s been a pleasure. I won''t be seeing you again. It''s time for me to pay the Pandoras a

    visit."

    Rowan''s fists clenched as she disappeared into the distance, her confidence leaving a bitter taste in his mouth.

    The director sighed deeply, leaning against the car for a moment.

    "She''s not wrong," she said, her voice quiet. "Life has a way of teaching us lessons in the

    hardest ways."

    Rowan''s voice softened.

    "I''m sorry. I should have done more. Maybe I could have stopped this."

    She shook her head gently.

    "You don''t need to force yourself, Rowan. I''m not so old that I can''t see anger behind your

    words. But... thank you."

    She placed a hand on his shoulder, her voice softening even further.

    "Don''t end up like me. That''s all I can hope for."

    She laughed lightly, a sound tinged with sadness and acceptance, before entering the car.

    The door closed, and as it pulled away, Rowan stood alone at the gates. He watched the car disappear into the distance, the weight of her departure heavy on his shoulders. Behind him, the empty, tarnished academy loomed, a reminder of the fall they would all have

    to endure.

 Chapter 217: The Price of Ambition

    Chapter 217: The Price of AmbitionThe tournament''s consequences were devastating for Genova Academy. Accusations of cheating and the exposure of the illegal Karinite 4 left the institution in ruins.

    The tournament''s annulation was only the beginning; Genova became a global joke, its name synonymous with disgrace.

    Students, especially those from wealthy families, quit in droves to escape the stigma.

    "My children won''t carry Genova''s mark," one parent declared, reflecting the widespread sentiment.

    Even those who stayed knew their futures were tainted, with little chance of seeing an agency scouting anyone linked to the academy.

    Professors followed suit. The younger teachers resigned first, but even veteran staff

    abandoned the ship, citing irreparable damage to their careers. Entire wings of the campus emptied, leaving the academy hollow and lifeless.

    The remaining students and faculty, few and demoralized, stayed only out of necessity.

    Genova was no longer a prestigious academy, but a shadow of its former self, forever marked by its fall.

    In the aftermath of Genova Academy''s fall, while most retreated into silence or fled the sinking ship, one figure stood resolute. Rowan stepped forward to face the storm.

    At a hastily arranged press conference, he addressed the world, his voice steady but firm.

    "I won''t waste your time trying to defend the indefensible. What happened at the tournament, and the scandal that followed, was a failure, a catastrophic failure. I''m not here to deny that or shift blame. I''m here to face it."

    He paused, glancing down before looking back at the cameras.

    "But I plead with you, please, do not take this failure out on the students. They are not to blame for the decisions made by those of us who were supposed to guide them. If anyone is responsible for this disaster, it is the teachers and administrators, myself included."

    Rowan admitted the academy''s policies had failed its students, but he highlighted their resilience.

    "Despite the chaos, these students improved when given the chance. They are not failures; they are promising talents who deserve the opportunity to prove themselves. I won''t give up on these students. Don''t punish them for our mistakes. Give them a chance to show the world what they can do."

    The speech spread quickly, dividing opinions. Some dismissed it as too little, too late, while others acknowledged Rowan''s sincerity.

    "It''s a start," one observer remarked. Whether it would be enough to redeem Genova remained uncertain, but Rowan''s words lit a small spark of hope in the academy''s broken future.

    Another outcome of the tournament was darker and far more troubling. In a hospital room, Kenny lay on the bed, his face battered and swollen, his jaw immobilized in a thick brace. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His eyes flickered with an intensity that belied his inability to speak, though his ears caught every word being spoken around him.

    His parents stood stiffly across from the doctor, their faces pale with disbelief.

    "This... this can''t be," Kenny''s mother whispered, her voice trembling. "There must be some mistake. He just... he just needs time to heal, right?"

    The doctor sighed, his face heavy with regret.

    "I''m sorry, but it''s not that simple. What happened during the outburst with the Karinite 4 caused internal damage... Hmm... not exactly internal, it''s complicated. It''s not something you can see or touch, but damage nonetheless."

    Kenny''s father frowned, his voice sharp.

    "What kind of damage? He looks bad, sure, but what you''re saying..."

    The doctor nodded and hesitated, searching for the simplest terms.

    "A beast tamer''s spirit flows through their body, acting as a channel that connects them to their beasts. In Kenny''s case, that flow, the canal, if you will, has been severely disrupted. It''s as if the connection is... fractured."

    His mother shook her head, tears welling in her eyes.

    "Fractured? No, that doesn''t make sense. That doesn''t mean anything!"

    The doctor lowered his voice, his tone apologetic.

    "It means Kenny can no longer control his aura. We''ve tried to make him summon his beasts. We worked for an hour, and nothing happened. And the beasts who escaped when he lost control, we could locate some of them and they are behaving normally, as if their connection to Kenny no longer exists."

    The weight of those words hung in the air like a suffocating fog. Kenny''s mother staggered, reaching out for the edge of the chair for support.

    "Gone? You mean... you mean he can''t..."

    The doctor nodded grimly.

    "He can''t tame or summon a beast anymore. He''s lost the ability entirely. I wish I could tell you if this is permanent, but... this case is unique. I''ve never seen anything like it."

    Kenny''s father clenched his fists, his face red with rage.

    "This is because you''re a damn idiot!" He slammed his hand against the wall, his voice rising. "What were you thinking?! Were you trying to prove something? Was it worth it?! You''ve thrown away your future! Your life! You''re not a beast master anymore! You''re nothing!" "Stop it!" Kenny''s mother cried, stepping between them. "He''s already suffering!" "Suffering?" His father spat, his voice breaking with anger. "He brought this on himself! Look at him! Look what he''s done to us, to himself! We''re the shame of the world now!"

    Kenny''s eyes widened, tears pooling as he tried to shake his head, his muffled groans the only sound he could make. His jaw throbbed with pain, but the agony in his chest was far worse. He tried to form words, tried to say anything, but the brace around his jaw silenced him. He wanted to scream... but he couldn''t.

    That night, the sky was painted with stars, the full moon casting a silver glow over the roof of the buildings. On top of one of them stood Eratz.

    He stood in the middle, his gaze fixed upward, lost in thought. The soft rustle of leaves and the distant chirp of insects were the only sounds accompanying him.

    With Golden Cosmos set to leave soon, the weight of recent events lingered heavily in his chest. His return here in his hometown was shorter than expected.

    "Moon watching, are we?" a familiar voice broke the quiet.

    Eratz sighed. He already knew who it was. Tamara stepped into the light, her long hair glinting faintly under the moon.

    "I thought you were supposed to be spending time with Victoria," Eratz said.

    Tamara smirked.

    "I am. Right about now, I''m supposed to be puking my guts out in the bathroom. Vicky knows

    I''m a heavy drinker so she won''t bother me."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "So... you''re toasted?"

    She chuckled softly.

    "Not tonight. Had to stay sober for this little meeting."

    Eratz folded his arms.

    "Let me guess, moonlit night, so you''re here about Kallistra?"

    "Partly," she admitted, walking closer. Her expression softened, her playful smirk fading into something more serious. "But mostly, I''m here because of what happened today."

    Eratz''s face darkened slightly. He turned back to the moon, a little annoyed.

    "I''m not interested in talking about him."

    "I can tell," Tamara said quietly, her gaze steady on him. "You''re not the kind of man who

    holds onto grudges. Not really. But I also see you''re not the kind to let things slide when they

    cross your line."

    Eratz sighed, his voice low.

    "I stepped in because I had to. Not for him, for me. Even I have limits. If Kenny''s incapacitated, that''s on him. One less danger to my family."

    Tamara''s lips curved into a faint smile.

    "A family man. Admirable."

    She moved to stand beside him, her eyes scanning the same moonlit horizon he''d been

    staring at moments before.

    "But there''s more to it than that, isn''t there? You saw what happened to him. You know what the Karinite 4 did to him. I felt something shift in him. It''s like his beasts disappeared altogether. I don''t think I''ve ever seen something like this before."

    Eratz stayed silent, listening as she continued.

    "The Karinite 4 creates so little on its own. An elemental spirit? That''s nothing, meaningless.

    But the spirit isn''t the problem. It''s the generator. This thing is a bomb waiting to go off." Her voice dropped, laced with concern. "Do you think he will recover from that?"

    "I couldn''t care less about Kenny," Eratz said bluntly, turning his gaze to her. "What happens

    to him is none of my concern. My only focus was shutting down someone insulting me and my

    family."

    Tamara studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly.

    "Fair enough. But the price he paid, that''s on him. He messed with things he shouldn''t have. That''s the sin he committed, going against nature to create what shouldn''t exist."

    Tamara''s gaze turned contemplative as she continued.

    "Nature exists as it does for a reason. The balance, the harmony, the way everything fits

    together... it''s not perfect, but it works. When you start tampering with it, forcing it to change, you disrupt that balance. At first, it might seem small, insignificant, but the consequences always catch up. That''s what happened to that boy. The scale of his actions was limited to himself, so he took the consequences himself. But what if the scale was bigger?" Eratz turned to her, his eyes narrowing slightly. The moonlight cast a silver glow over both of them, heightening the quiet intensity of the moment. She met his gaze, her expression

    unwavering.

    "You know what I''m talking about," she said softly.

    Eratz''s crimson eyes locked with hers, nodding as he understood the hidden meaning.

    "The Star Crusher."

 Chapter 218: The Blessing of Red Eyes

    Chapter 218: The Blessing of Red EyesEratz stepped on the edge of the rooftop, his gaze turning to the horizon. Tamara stood a few feet away, her posture relaxed but her sharp eyes fixed on him.

    "Kallistra again, huh?" Eratz said finally, his tone even. "Let me guess, a moonlight, so I take it this is about her little proposal?"

    Tamara nodded, stepping closer.

    "You''re aware of the danger she represents. I spoke with Victoria, and I know she''s clued you in."

    Eratz glanced at her, his expression skeptical.

    "If she''s that dangerous, why would you let her roam free?"

    Tamara''s lips twitched into a faint, bitter smile. She hesitated for a moment, then finally spoke.

    "You know, Eratz, it''s not as simple as it looks. There''s a part of me that wants to act, to remove her from the equation entirely. But what would that make me? If I did that, I''d be no better than her. I''m... idealistic in my own twisted way. I want to live in a world where people face the consequences of their actions. That''s why she''s still here, why I haven''t done what I could have. someone has to try to maintain a line between peace and Hell, so as long as I''ll be the strongest, Kallistra won''t do anything."

    She paused, her gaze turning to the moon.

    "It''s also why I''m here. To warn you. She''s not just dangerous because of what she''s done. It''s what she''s trying to do that''s far worse."

    Eratz arched an eyebrow but said nothing, waiting for her to continue.

    "Kallistra wants to go beyond the boundaries of nature," Tamara said, her voice heavier. "What that boy did with the Karinite 4? That''s child''s play compared to her ambitions. That boy wanted to bend the nature of his body. Kallistra wants to do the same on a bigger scale."

    Eratz frowned, his eyes narrowing slightly.

    "Bigger scale?"

    Tamara turned to face him fully, her expression dead serious.

    "Her goal is to reach what lies beyond the Calamity Beasts. Beyond the beasts that govern nature are the ones who created it: the legendary beasts. When Kallistra and I worked together, she was obsessed with finding them. At first, I thought it was just that, an obsession. But one day, she told me something that changed everything."

    Tamara''s voice dropped, her words coming slower.

    "If the legends are true, there''s a legendary beast for every aspect of existence. Every single thing. Think about it, Eratz. If you could control them, you wouldn''t just command beasts. You''d control reality itself. Recreate it. Alter it."

    Eratz''s eyes widened, listening to the shaking pieces of information Tamara casually threw at him, but his face remained impassive.

    "And you think she wants me because...?"

    "Because of your awakening," Tamara said bluntly. "if you have so many unique beast, it

    means it gave you the ability to locate them. If you can do that, then you''re a crucial piece of her puzzle."

    Eratz''s brow furrowed.

    "The awakening... my red eyes?" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Tamara sighed, gesturing for him to sit.

    "Yes. Let''s start with the basics. Your eyes, the color change, are the mark of an awakened Ishtarian. It means you''ve unlocked your hidden potential, it''s tied to power. Something triggered it, something related to what you''re capable of now."

    Eratz blinked, his expression blank. Tamara raised an eyebrow, her sharp eyes narrowing slightly.

    "What are you even doing with our heritage?" she asked exasperated.

    Eratz sighed, crossing his arms.

    "The only person in my house who knew about Ishtarian culture hated it so much she refused to even talk about it."

    Tamara blinked, her frown deepening.

    "That''s a damn shame," she muttered, gesturing for him to sit beside her. "Alright, I''ll give you the crash course."

    They both sat on the edge of the rooftop, the city sprawling below them in quiet stillness. "An Ishtarian awakens their hidden potential after experiencing a powerful psychological shock," Tamara began. "It''s always tied to the event that triggered it. The abilities can vary, immunity to certain powers, heightened instincts."

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to the sky, his thoughts drifting. Colin awakened when Mercury and he were neutralized by the Calamity Birds. Her power... healing flames. The memory remained, sharp and vivid, as he tried to piece together what it meant.

    Tamara continued.

    "And while every awakened Ishtarian gains a unique ability, there''s one trait we all share. We can see the information of beasts."

    Eratz''s gaze snapped back to her.

    "All of us?"

    "Yes," she said. "And depending on your training you can see more. In my case, my awakening came from the will to defeat the monster that threatened me, Vicky, and Kallistra. When I awakened, I could see something... different. I could feel the weaknesses of beasts. It let me dominate any of them."

    She looked at the moon, her expression softening.

    "There''s something else I''ve noticed about my abilities, it seems... more present against unique beasts than against normal ones."

    Eratz''s eyes widened.

    "Stronger against uniques?"

    Tamara smiled faintly.

    "That''s what gave me the edge over Kallistra. Her ultimate abilities rely heavily on unique beasts. So, in a way, she nerfed herself without realizing it. If you''re going to face me, you can''t rely on that alone. I''ll overwhelm you unless you push beyond your limits. But since Victoria''s training you, you might actually have a shot."

    Eratz studied her, his expression guarded.

    "Why are you telling me this? You sound like you''re more interested in me beating you than your friend."

    Tamara''s smile widened.

    "Maybe? You look like a friend and you sent Vicky back on the race. You''re practically a bro now. And if you could add Kally to your beating, I''d be grateful. Anyway, I''m not worried, because secrets mean nothing if you don''t train. An awakened Ishtarian who doesn''t train to fight is just as vulnerable as anyone else, so I know knowing my secrets won''t serve you."

    She hesitated, her expression shifting slightly.

    "There''s more I could tell you, but..." She trailed off, her eyes lingering on him, before her tone softened, almost sisterly. "Tell you what, Eratz. Join my agency, and I''ll tell you

    everything."

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Not interested."

    Tamara sighed, though her grin remained.

    "Fair enough, but you should think about it. You''ve got something special, and it''s not just about your power. I''m starting to like you, not just as a fighter, but as someone who could do more. The door''s always open for a lost cub like you. You''ve got the potential, Eratz, and I''d

    love to see you take the reins one day."

    She stood, brushing off her pants.

    "Think about it, at least. But... do me a favor. Don''t go see Kallistra."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

    "I''m serious," she pressed, her tone more somber. "She''s persuasive. And dangerous. You

    don''t need her in your head."

    Eratz sighed.

    "I don''t know what you''re expecting me to do. Avoid her forever? I need time to think, and

    time is all I lack right now."

    She sighed and studied him for a moment.

    "I see, so her offer still interests you?" she asked, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Let me

    give you a reason to never see her again." She stepped back, her shadow stretching long and sharp across the rooftop.

    A black substance began to flow around her fingers, coiling and twisting as it took shape. "Tamara," Eratz said, his voice low but steady, "what are you doing?"

    With a flick of her wrist, the substance solidified, revealing an object that faintly glowed with an otherworldly light. She held it out, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "This," she said, her tone heavy with meaning, "is the reason Kallistra and I fought. The key to the legendary beasts."

 Chapter 219: The Roof of the World: Legendary Beasts

    Chapter 219: The Roof of the World: Legendary BeastsThe black orb pulsed faintly in Tamara''s hand, its surface glinting with an eerie light that emanated a faint dark aura.

    Eratz stared at it with curiosity. There was something almost alive about the object, like an eye staring back at him, daring him to unravel its mysteries.

    "What is it?" he asked, his voice low, tinged with cautious intrigue.

    Tamara''s lips curved into a faint smile.

    "This, Eratz, is the treasure of my last hunt with Kallistra." Her tone turned serious. "It''s the reason everything fell apart between us."

    Eratz''s curiosity deepened, but he remained silent, letting her continue.

    "We were studying the myths of the legendary beasts," she began, her gaze drifting toward the horizon.

    "Depending on the region, the stories vary, but there are places where the myths converge. The deepest crater in the world. The hottest desert. Places where the energy of the world gathers."

    She paused, her fingers absently tracing the orb''s smooth surface.

    "One of those legends led us to a ruined castle in the Valley of the Black Sun."

    The name whistled into Eratz''s ears. The Valley of the Black Sun was located on an island in the North of the continent and had a reputation for shifting winds.

    Tamara nodded at his reaction.

    "The legend says it''s where light and darkness clashed to shape the world. Some claim it''s sacred, others call it cursed. But what we found there went far beyond myths."

    Her voice dropped, taking on a quiet intensity.

    "The energy there was unlike anything I''d ever felt. Bigger. Stranger. It wasn''t just aura. It was something... more." She glanced at him, her eyes sharp. "You should be able to feel it too, the frequency."

    Eratz stiffened.

    "The frequency?" he murmured, realization dawning.

    "Yes," Tamara said softly. "It''s how I track unique beasts. Their energy frequency is like a signature. You must sense it too, in your own way. Think about it."

    Eratz''s mind raced, and soon, he realized the link.

    "The threads," he muttered again, almost to himself.

    He''d always perceived it as threads, intangible lines of energy connecting creatures and space, but now he realized how unique and varied this ability could be.

    Tamara nodded, her voice gentler.

    "So you see it as a thread? In my case, it''s more like a wave. That''s what I followed, deep into the ruins. Beneath the castle, there was another world... an ancient castle buried below, even older than the one above. And at its heart, I found these." She held up the orb, its faint glow casting shadows on her face.

    "There were two," she continued. "One white, one black."

    Eratz''s breath hitched. The weight of her words pressed down on him. This wasn''t just a story; this was History. A piece of something that could change everything.

    "The villagers had a legend about the valley," Tamara said. "They said it was created by a battle between two legendary beasts. The white beast embodied blind justice; the black, pure malevolence. They fought endlessly, equal in power, and their battle created the equilibrium of the world. The abyss where they fight is the reason balance exists."

    Eratz stared at the orb, his thoughts racing.

    "So... these orbs represent that equilibrium?"

    Tamara nodded.

    "That''s what the legend says. Their presence there... it''s symbolic. It''s not just a story. It''s the key to understanding the legendary beasts. In my eyes, legendary beasts are always present, but invisible in our world. This thing here is one of the tools to reach them."

    The enormity of the moment hit Eratz like a wave. This was it. A doorway to the legendary beasts. The answers he''d been seeking since he judged the Calamity beasts too common for what they represented... But then, a chilling realization settled over him.

    "If they''re the equilibrium," he said slowly, his voice sharpening, "why is one of them here? Doesn''t that mean..."

    Tamara''s expression darkened.

    "I see where you''re going, but this is a temporal situation. And it''s even a better situation than before."

    Eratz''s gaze turned to hers, his mind racing as she continued.

    "When we found them, Kallistra was mesmerized. She wanted to use them immediately to find the legendary beasts. But I refused. If the beasts represent equilibrium, what happens if we disrupt it? Should they even be tamed? What''s the cost to the world?"

    Her tone turned cold.

    "Kallistra didn''t care. She saw them as tools. Power to be taken."

    "So you stopped her?" Eratz asked.

    "Not on the spot," Tamara said. "I decided to not touch them, but she wouldn''t listen. She wanted them both, so she took them. But there was a problem with her plan, I was the only one who could use them to track or reach the legendary beasts. So she challenged me."

    Eratz scratched his chin, his mind processing the weight of her words. This wasn''t how he''d imagined their legendary clash, but he began to understand Kallistra''s desperation.

    "Challenged you?" he repeated, his brows furrowing.

    Tamara nodded.

    "A risk-all duel. If I won, she''d give me one of the orbs. If she won, I''d serve her forever. You know how it ended."

    Eratz''s brow furrowed.

    "Yeah... and I''m more surprised that she actually followed the rules. You and Victoria described her like a monster but she seems pretty chill."

    Tamara let out a dry laugh.

    "Because she''s smart. She had to follow her rules, so she could use them later. She needed me and she couldn''t manipulate me, so she had to find a way. If she broke her word, then how could she convince me? It sounds stupid, but I believe that she wants to force me to play her game by showing me she followed the rules... Thinking about it... if she challenged me later and beat me... that would be the biggest mind game in History... Well, that''s if I play fair with

    her."

    Eratz leaned back, his mind spinning. The orbs, the legendary beasts, Kallistra''s ambitions... and now this. It was almost too much to process. But one thing was clear: this was bigger than

    anything he''d ever faced.

    "And now she wants me," he said quietly.

    Tamara''s gaze softened.

    "That''s why I''m warning you. She''ll do whatever it takes to get what she wants. Don''t underestimate her, Eratz. Her plan is risky because I could always refuse, but you, you''re walking in her path on your own will."

    Eratz nodded slowly, catching the weight of her words. The gravity of the black orb, the legend of the equilibrium, and the threat Kallistra posed all swirled in his mind.

    But beneath the surface, something moved in the opposite way, a spark of curiosity, of ambition. The existence of the legendary beasts and the possibility of reaching burned him. It wasn''t just fascination, it was deeper than that. These creatures were more than myths, they were real, tied to the fabric of existence.

    Raijinara changed his life, what if he got something far greater? If the beasts truly held the balance of the world in their claws, what did it mean to stand before them? To control them?

    To understand them?

    Yet, a quiet guilt lingered. He couldn''t shake the nagging thought: was he being reckless? What if Tamara was right? He considered her argument, the risk of disturbing the equilibrium. But then, wasn''t exactly Kallistra''s point? In the end, Tamara, Victoria, and Kallistra, all had different views, different ideologies. Even he was different.

    Tamara''s voice broke the silence, her tone softer now.

    "You''re thinking about it, aren''t you?" Her hand moved to her hip, her gaze unwavering. "You want to see the legendary beasts. I can see it in your eyes."

    Eratz froze, her words cutting through his inner turmoil. He couldn''t deny it. He didn''t want

    to deny it.

    "I understand you," Tamara continued, stepping closer. "It''s in your nature. You''re like me, Eratz. It''s why you''ve come so far. And this is exactly why I can''t let you meet her, at least

    right now. So listen, let''s make a deal."

    She brought the black orb closer to Eratz, a sly smile crossing her lips.

    "If you want this black orb, I''ll give you a chance to have it. No Kallistra. No tricks. Just you

    and me."

    Eratz shifted his weight, crossing his arms. The black orb, the key to the legendary beasts,

    offered to him freely. It was an opportunity that could change everything, and that was exactly why he became doubtful.

    "So, what''s the catch? You''re warning me about Kallistra, but you''re still dangling this in

    front of me. Why?"

    Tamara sighed, her expression softening.

    "Because I know what''s at stake for you. You want answers. You want purpose. And I''m offering you a chance to get it, without going through her."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed.

    "What''s the deal, then?"

    Tamara''s lips curved into a sly smile.

    "A battle."

    Eratz''s jaw slowly dropped. This was probably the easiest way to tell him he was being played.

    He couldn''t defeat Victoria, and now he was challenged by someone reputed to be stronger

    than her?

    Tamara could see the annoyance growing in his eyes, but it only fuelled her amusement.

    "Relax, I''m not against you, so I''ll play fair with you. Let''s fight in something where I can''t

    control the flow of the battle, something Vicky is very proud of. A team battle. World Star versus Golden Cosmos."

    Eratz blinked, caught off guard by the proposal.

    "If you win," Tamara continued, her voice steady, "you get the black orb, no strings attached.

    I won''t oppose you pursuing the legendaries. You''ll have what you need, and I''ll step aside. No Kallistra, no Tamara."

    The wind stirred around them, carrying a faint chill as the moonlight bathed the rooftop in

    silver.

    Tamara''s smile slowly disappeared, as she added.

    "And if I win, you join World Star."

    sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 220: Hunters Game

    Chapter 220: Hunters GameTamara sat on the rooftop, her legs dangling over the edge as the first rays of dawn painted the horizon in hues of gold and pink.

    The city below was still asleep, a gentle calm washing over the streets. Her gaze was fixed on the sunrise, a soft, satisfied smile playing on her lips.

    "The world is a beautiful place," she murmured. "What makes it so special is that you could never see it all. Every corner, every shadow, holds something new, something unexplored. And that''s why I''m in love with the mystery of living beings." She tilted her head slightly, her smile widening. "Don''t you agree?"

    Behind her, a figure emerged from the shadows. Kallistra stepped forward, her arms crossed, the sound of her heels echoing through the roof.

    She followed Tamara''s gaze to the sunrise, her expression unreadable.

    "If you really want to protect this world," Kallistra said, her voice smooth and deliberate, "you should challenge me for the second orb. That way, you''d ensure there''s no risk of me using it."

    Tamara chuckled softly and turned to glance at her.

    "Challenge you? That''s cute. Sorry, shrimp, but I already done enough. I''ve fucked up your plans to make you squirm. That''s enough for me."

    Kallistra''s lips twitched into a faint smirk.

    "You''re far too confident in your comprehension of Eratz''s wisdom. Between fighting you, leaving his agency, or taking the orb freely, the choice is obvious. I didn''t even need to

    intervene to make him see that, you keep helping me without realizing."

    Tamara''s smile didn''t falter.

    "Oh, I''m confident for good reason. He''s got more clarity than you''ll ever understand. Meeting him reminded me that people like you, people who think life is a game, always lose in the end. With him around, you''ll never get what you''re after. I can retire anytime now."

    Kallistra''s gaze narrowed slightly, the faintest flicker of irritation crossing her face.

    "And what makes you so sure? You''re putting your confidence on a boy who''s not you. Eratz might see the legendary beasts in a way you can''t predict. He doesn''t share your principles, Tamara. The number of unique beasts he hunted proves my point."

    Tamara turned her head fully, meeting Kallistra''s sharp gaze with one of calm superiority.

    "You''re right. He isn''t me, and certainly not you. And that''s exactly why I trust him. You think your game is clever, but this is wasted time. It might be time for you to think about resting." Kallistra''s smirk returned, sighing as she looked at the horizon.

    "I understand you, your era is over, my poor fossil. I suggest you lose on purpose so you let the better version of yourself take the throne."

    Tamara rose to her feet, brushing the dust off her coat.

    "That''s the goal, bitch. Don''t worry though, I''ll write a manual to be a perfect fossil, so you won''t be lost when it comes to you."

    The two women stood in silence for a moment, the tension between them as tangible as the dawn breaking over the horizon.

    Later that day, the hotel where the Cosmos resided for the time being was the center of attention. Crowds gathered outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of the agency''s stars.

    Inside, however, the mood was far more serious. The team sat in a large living room, their expressions varying from concerned to contemplative. The topic of Eratz''s earlier conversation with Tamara hung heavily in the air.

    "There''s a lot to consider here," Zara began. "The opportunity to test our strength against world-tier beast masters is tempting, but are we ready for that level of challenge?"

    Mercury leaned forward, her arms crossed.

    "We already know the answer. Victoria showed us just how unprepared we are. Remember how she wiped the floor with us?"

    Eratz, seated calmly, pulled out his phone.

    "You''re not wrong," he said, scrolling through a file. "But maybe this isn''t exactly the truth. I learned interesting things with Tamara."

    The team leaned closer as Eratz began showing a web page about beast masters on his phone. Their curiosity shifted to wide-eyed disbelief as he scrolled more. Shocked gasps and muttered exclamations filled the room.

    Raya, sitting slightly behind the group, frowned.

    "What is it? Is there something? Why''s everyone so quiet?" she asked, tilting her head.

    No one answered at first. All eyes turned toward Victoria, who was sipping her tea nervously, avoiding their gazes.

    "Is this real?" Kaida finally exclaimed, her voice rising. "Eratz was right, she''s not normal!" The web page revealed Victoria''s illustrious history, not just as a top-tier beast master but as one of the most formidable stars in the world circuit. In her prime, she had defeated Tamara three times out of seven matches and bested Kallistra twice.

    Her only losses were also against those two, and from memory, they were supposed to use unique beasts. Victoria had essentially dominated the world-tier circuit, standing just a step away from the very top.

    Kaida leaned back, still processing.

    "I thought you only lost to them! But you actually defeated Tamara and Kallistra?!" she asked, her voice incredulous.

    Victoria''s hand trembled slightly as she set her teacup down.

    "That''s more complicated. When they used their unique beasts, I was always outclassed, so they started fighting at my level for some reason, probably ridicule me, and I beat them," she said softly. "Basically at full power, they''re stronger, without their unique beasts, I could win."

    "Basically, she was taking on the best and only losing to them," Eratz said, breaking the silence. "So, I want us to try smaller. To see how we do against those who''d rank below her at S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    her peak."

    Mercury''s brow furrowed.

    "And if we lose?" she asked, her tone heavy with concern. "If we''re not ready, and we fail..." She glanced at Eratz. "You will join Tamara? We can''t give a try with that kind of threat."

    Eratz leaned back in his chair, folding his arms.

    "I need to know if we can handle this level now. We''re doing great on the continental stage, and it could help us to see how much we need to improve for the next... Then there''s the other

    thing."

    Victoria''s gaze locked onto Eratz, her tone measured but pressing.

    "You''re still ignoring the risk... if we lose, and you join her." She leaned forward slightly. "I think I know where your confidence comes from, but this isn''t just about proving yourself anymore, is it? This is about the legendary beasts."

    The room became quiet, her words cutting through the group like a blade. Everyone exchanged uneasy glances. The legendary beasts, the elusive pinnacle of beast mastery, weren''t just a rumor anymore. Tamara had made that clear.

    Zara''s voice broke the silence, firm and resolute.

    "If it''s only about the legendary beasts, then it''s not worth the risk," she said, her brow furrowed. "We don''t know what we''re walking into. We don''t know what happens if we succeed, or worse, if we fail. The stakes are too high."

    Kaida raised a hand.

    "Hold on. I think you''re jumping to the worst-case scenario too soon," she said, her voice cutting through. "Yes, it''s a problem if we lose, but we can''t let that fear stop us from the essentials. Let''s not forget what we''re dealing with here." She paused, her eyes sweeping across the group with conviction. "Guys, this is a legendary beast. Something we''re not even sure exists. What kind of beast master doesn''t want to see one? To confirm it?"

    Her passion filled the room, her words igniting a flicker of something primal in the others.

    "Before being beast masters, we''re beast tamers," Kaida continued, her tone firm. "It''s in our blood to chase the finest beast. The legendaries? They''re the top, the dream. If we don''t even try, we''re not just failing ourselves; we''re failing everything that makes us who we are. This isn''t just a hunt anymore, it''s part of our legacy."

    Ryder hesitated, his gaze shifting between Kaida and Zara. He rubbed the back of his neck, his voice thoughtful yet cautious.

    "She''s got a point," he admitted, glancing at Eratz. "If we refuse to act, we''re leaving the door wide open for Tamara and Kallistra to do anything. If we sit this one out, we''ll be giving

    up before the game even starts."

    Zara''s frown deepened, her arms crossed tightly.

    "And what if playing their game backfires? What then?" she shot back. "Do you think Tamara

    or Kallistra will be a walk in the park? You couldn''t defeat Victoria, what makes you sure you could beat people around her league?"

    The tension in the room thickened until Raya''s calm voice interjected.

    "I understand your concern, miss Zara. Truly, I do." She tilted her head slightly. "But staying still is a risk too, isn''t it? Doing nothing leaves us vulnerable. This isn''t about recklessness. It''s about resolve. We''re beast tamers because we adapt and rise to challenges, no matter how overwhelming they seem. If we''re not ready, we learn. If we''re too scared to act, then we''ve already lost. We''ve come this far because we always took any risk imaginable, if we start running away from our nature, then we open the door to our decline."

    Her words carried a weight of wisdom, quieting even Zara. Raya leaned back slightly, her sightless eyes directed toward Eratz.

    "And I believe Eratz knows that. He''s not the type to move blindly. If he thinks we should do

    it, then I won''t oppose him."

    Mercury finally spoke, her voice calm but tinged with determination.

    "They''re not wrong," she said. "And at least if we''re involved, we can maintain some control.

    If we walk away now, we lose any chance to influence what happens next. Tamara and Kallistra won''t leave us in peace now that they know Eratz has this ability. But if we''re in their game, we can be sure they will follow their rules."

    Victoria''s sharp gaze flicked between the group.

    "You''re all making valid points," she said. "And I see the passion. But don''t forget what''s at

    stake. If you''re going to do this, you need to be prepared for what''s coming. World Star is called the best agency for a reason. And if we lose Eratz..." She trailed off, letting the weight

    of her words sink in. "We can''t even begin to imagine it."

    They all exchanged a gaze, then nodded altogether. All were ready for taking that risk.

    Zara sighed, the fight in her softening as she rubbed her temples.

    "All right," she said reluctantly. "But only because I know you''re all stubborn enough to do it

    with or without me."

    Victoria''s expression softened, though her tone remained firm.

    "Then it''s settled," she said. "Let''s contact Tamara. We will take the challenge."

 Chapter 221: Icarus and The Hare

    Chapter 221: Icarus and The HareThe announcement of the upcoming exhibition match, World Star vs. Golden Cosmos, hit the world like a lightning strike.

    News spread like wildfire, igniting every corner of the beast master community. From professionals to fans, the buzz was deafening.

    Every media outlet covered the story, every social feed was flooded with speculation.

    Analysts dissected the matchups, experts debated the strategies, and fans shared their predictions with unbridled enthusiasm.

    For some, it was the ultimate clash of philosophies: Beastification mastery vs. field spell specialists.

    For others, it was about the personal stakes: The Invincible Pharaoh vs. The Queen; The Queen vs. The Black Lady; The Wildest Team vs. The Most Talented Agency.

    It wasn''t just a match; it was the event of winter, the battle to define the roof of beast mastering.

    In another hotel room in Grushia, Leonidas sat in silence, his hands steepled in front of his face. His piercing gaze was fixed on the screen, which displayed the promotional material for the exhibition match.

    After a long moment, he turned his attention to the woman standing near the window, her arms crossed and her posture relaxed.

    "Tell me, Kallistra," he began, his voice low and sharp. "How exactly is this good for us? This little stunt is proof that Tamara has taken the lead. She''s outmaneuvered you, again."

    Kallistra didn''t turn to face him immediately. Instead, she watched the snowfall beyond the glass, her crimson eyes reflecting the swirling white flakes. Her lips curved into a faint smile. "Tamara hasn''t taken the lead," she said smoothly. "I allowed her to step forward."

    Leonidas''s brow furrowed deeply.

    "You allowed her? Why would you let her gain ground? What could you possibly be gaining from this?"

    Kallistra uncrossed her arms and took a step closer, her voice steady and laced with confidence.

    "Tamara''s playing her game because she thinks it''s to her advantage. Let her. She doesn''t see the bigger picture. By reaching Eratz she''s doing half the job for me."

    Leonidas''s skepticism was growing.

    "Half the job? For what? The result of this match is obvious. The Pharaoh will join World Star. How does that benefit us?"

    Kallistra''s smile widened, cold and calculating.

    "Let him join. He can go wherever he pleases. I don''t need him around for my plans. I need him to achieve half of the job, even on her side if he wants."

    Leonidas''s voice rose slightly, his frustration breaking through.

    "We need the Pharaoh! If he doesn''t work for us, then how are we going to hunt the legendary beasts?"

    "You''re wrong," Kallistra interrupted, her tone sharp. "We don''t need him... For what he''s gonna bring. What we need is a specific legendary beast on our side. That is all that matters."

    Leonidas''s expression darkened, his suspicion growing.

    "A legendary beast? You''re saying everything we''ve done, Arin, Nivalys, everything Tamara''s meddling with Eratz, all of this leads to that? Only one legendary??"

    Kallistra''s aura began to stir around her, a slight shimmer that grew into something more tangible.

    The air in the room shifted, and slowly, the light gathered in her hand, coalescing into a radiant, glowing orb.

    The white orb hovered above her palm, its surface gleaming with brilliance.

    Leonidas stepped back slightly, his eyes narrowing.

    "The Orb of blind justice..." he whispered.

    Kallistra raised the orb higher, letting its glow illuminate her face. Her expression was calm but chilling, a quiet intensity radiating from her.

    "Do you understand the concept of ''equilibrium''? Nothing happens by chance, Leonidas," she murmured. "This orb... it''s the key to understanding everything."

    Leonidas''s voice was cautious as he asked.

    "And you think Eratz... can still be swayed by this?"

    Kallistra chuckled, the sound devoid of warmth.

    "Eratz will never have the Orb of blind justice. He doesn''t fit the criteria."

    She began to pace slowly, her voice taking on a more philosophical tone.

    "Do you know why justice, in its purest form, is dangerous? Because it blinds. Blind justice sees only absolutes, only one truth, one path. Never do wrong, never succumb to your desire. Justice prevails, it consumes everything else. And for all its supposed goodness, it is pointless if you can''t understand the meaning of blind justice."

    She paused, her gaze turning sharp.

    "But pure evil..." Her tone softened, almost reverent. "That is something I understand. Evil is clear, raw, and predictable. Ambition, domination, conflict, improvement... Evil is a force you can control. It''s practical."

    Kallistra turned back to Leonidas, the orb''s light casting long shadows across the room. Her voice dropped to a near whisper.

    "Now tell me, Leonidas. Which one do you think resembles Eratz more? Blind justice, destroying all in its path, or raw ambition, striving to conquer everything?"

    Time flew, days passed, and soon, the big day arrived.

    Hours before the match, Grushia was already alive with energy that could be felt throughout

    the city.

    Fans crowded the streets, reporters scrambled for prime positions, and vendors hawked memorabilia emblazoned with the names of the two agencies about to face off.

    This wasn''t just another match, it was the event of the year.

    The stadium, the Lumina Spire, in the north of Grushia, dominated the skyline, a masterpiece

    of modern design.

    Its cylindrical structure was clad in iridescent panels that shifted between gold and deep blue, depending on the angle of the sunlight.

    As evening descended, the panels began to glow, casting a golden hue across the city.

    Rotating holographic displays circled the upper edges of the structure, showcasing dramatic animations of the two agencies, Golden Cosmos and World Star.

    The names of their key players, "The Pharaoh VS The Queen," pulsed brightly alongside snippets of their most iconic moments.

    Inside, the arena was breathtaking. Rows of seats stretched high into the sky, encircling a central battleground encased in a shimmering energy dome. Above the dome, the sky remained open, stars beginning to twinkle against the vibrant glow of the coliseum''s light

    display.

    The sound of fans chanting and waving glowing banners echoed throughout, creating a symphony of anticipation.

    The VIP sections brimmed with notable figures: agency heads, retired champions, and rising stars. Among them were those who had initially come to Grushia for Genova''s tournament, their disappointment now replaced by awe.

    The unexpected exhibition match had become a symbol of redemption, an unexpected gift that brought with it a renewed sense of excitement.

    The city''s economy boomed as fans from across the world filled every hotel, restaurant, and shop, turning the tragedy of Genova into a distant memory.

    As the match drew closer, the camera feeds zoomed in on the arrival of Golden Cosmos.

    Their transport shimmered as it approached, their emblem projected boldly onto its sleek

    surface.

    The streets surrounding the arena roared with cheers as the team stepped out onto the crimson carpet, flanked by golden banners bearing their insignia.

    It was a scene straight out of an award ceremony, with fans screaming their names and camera flashes lighting up the dusk.

    Catarina led the procession, her black ears twitching as she moved with her signature feline

    grace, playfully flicking her tail to the crowd''s delight.

    Kaida followed, her fiery aura nearly tangible as she offered a wave and a fierce grin.

    Mercury''s intense gaze swept across the crowd, her short blue hair gleaming in the stadium

    lights before she cracked a genuine smile.

    Following her, Colin and Milo, both hardly used to this level of attention, fixing either

    Mercury''s back or the ground.

    Ryder was next, his casual thumbs-up and warm demeanor earning roars of approval.

    Raya trailed quietly behind them, her face calm and serene as ever as the crowd cheered her

    on.

    And then Eratz closed the roster of fighters, his entrance putting the crowd on another layer of

    euphoria.

    Finally, Victoria emerged, serene and composed, her golden hair shimmering as if it held the

    sunlight itself.

    The crowd''s cheers reached a crescendo, their admiration for her palpable.

    Golden Cosmos walked in unison, their strides confident and relaxed. Fans shouted their

    support, their voices a blend of hope and admiration.

    Cameras captured every detail, every glance, every wave, immortalizing the moment.

    But the atmosphere shifted as World Star made their entrance. Their transport was a sleek black bus adorned with their emblem color.

    The air seemed to grow heavier as their roster emerged from the shadows of the bus.

    Leading them was a tall Ishtarian woman, her toned physique and long ponytail exuding dominance.

    Her red eyes scanned the crowd with an intensity that silenced those who dared meet her

    gaze.

    Behind her came Arvad and Rylas, both the first smiling, the second yawning. Following them were three more figures: another Ishtarian with piercing red eyes and silver hair, a lithe woman with cropped hair and fast movements, and a taller, larger Ishtarian, with cold eyed,

    his hair falling on his shoulder and his beard masking his throat.

    And at the rear was Tamara.

    She strode with the confidence of someone who had nothing to prove but everything to take.

    Her long coat billowed slightly as she moved, her piercing gaze cutting through the atmosphere like a blade.

    The crowd fell silent for a moment, awed by their aura, before erupting into a deafening roar

    that seemed to shake the very foundations of the arena.

    World Star walked like an unstoppable force. Each member radiated their own unique energy,

    yet together they moved as a singular, devastating entity.

    Fans gaped in awe, their cheers almost drowned out by the intensity of the moment.

    Even the reporters struggled to capture the sheer power exuded by the team. When the two teams crossed paths at the arena''s entrance, the tension was palpable.

    The cheers and lights seemed to fade into the background as they exchanged brief but meaningful glances.

    Tamara''s eyes locked with Victoria''s, a silent acknowledgment of the battle to come.

    Arvad smirked slightly at Eratz, his expression almost challenging. The rest of World Star''s roster remained indifferent to their opponents.

    The moment passed, and both teams disappeared into the stadium''s interior, leaving the

    crowd outside buzzing with speculation and excitement.

    Inside the packed arena, Infinite Twilight''s roster watched from one of the VIP sections.

    Leonidas leaned against the edge of his seat, his sharp eyes taking in every detail displayed on the massive holographic screens.

    "Finally," Iris said. "A chance to see if the Pharaoh is truly invincible. If he beats the Queen,

    then it''s settled."

    Sia groaned, crossing her arms.

    "This just puts Golden Cosmos above us. It''s a gamble we should have taken first."

    Kallistra chuckled softly, resting her chin on her hand.

    "Oh, Sia, don''t ruin the fun with overthinking," she teased. "This is a rare moment. Sit back

    and enjoy the show. It''s the best entertainment you''ll get for a while."

    Sia glared but said nothing. The others, however, remained focused. "Why is this even happening?" Silver murmured. "Could this be tied to what Tamara''s been planning? It feels too weird to be a coincidence."

    No one answered directly, though the question lingered. Whatever the reasons, this match

    had captured the world''s attention. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As the lights dimmed and a spotlight illuminated the center of the arena, the murmurs in the stands quieted.

    The announcer''s voice boomed through the coliseum, amplified by the sound system. "Ladies and gentlemen, beast masters from across the globe," the announcer began, his voice

    charged with excitement. "The moment you''ve all been waiting for is finally here. Prepare yourselves for the ultimate showdown: Golden Cosmos versus World Star!" Everyone was ready for the event of the year, but no one was ready for the destruction that was about to happen.

 Chapter 222: Maximum The Hormones: World Star VS Gold Cosmos

    Chapter 222: Maximum The Hormones: World Star VS Gold Cosmos(previous chapter is at the end of volume 2)

    The atmosphere in the arena was electric, the anticipation so thick it seemed to hum in the air. As the lights dimmed and a spotlight illuminated the entryway, the roars of the crowd surged like a tidal wave.

    Golden Cosmos emerged first, their figures framed against the bright glow of the stadium lights.

    Catarina walked with her usual feline grace, her black ears twitching at the overwhelming noise. She flicked her tail, trying to mask the awe on her face.

    Ryder, just behind her, tried to smile to the audience but couldn''t hide the tension in his steps. The sheer magnitude of the moment was impossible to ignore.

    Catarina leaned closer to Ryder, her voice barely audible over the crowd.

    "I''m starting to feel less juicy..."

    Ryder nodded, his expression replaced by something much more serious.

    "Yeah. These aren''t just beast masters, they''re the peak. I''ve watched their matches and... They''re terrifying. Especially that big one."

    On the other side of the arena, the World Star team entered with a confidence that was almost unnerving. The crowd''s cheers seemed to split into awe and hushed murmurs.

    At the front was Tamara, her long coat swaying with each step. Behind her, the rest of the team followed, their auras radiating calm dominance.

    Arvad, enjoyed the show, his eyes narrowing as they scanned Golden Cosmos.

    "So, the Pharaoh..." he growled. "Been waiting for this one. Too bad it''s against ma''am. Makes it... complicated."

    Rylas, walking lazily beside him, sighed.

    "Complicated? Ah... Looks like bullying to me. He had a winning streak." He glanced at Tamara with a half-lidded gaze. "Why would you end it, ma''am?"

    Tamara didn''t even look back.

    "Winning streaks against puppets mean nothing," she said, her voice cold. "And I''m sure he feels the same."

    The rest of the World Star team remained indifferent, even as the crowd screamed their names, they moved as if the noise didn''t exist. The large man cracked his neck and let out a low growl.

    "Let''s get this over with."

    Golden Cosmos stood in a line opposite World Star, their eyes locking briefly before shifting to the massive holographic screen above the arena. The tension in the air was palpable as the crowd hushed in anticipation. This was the moment they''d been waiting for: the match-ups. The screen flickered for a moment, a little pause that only heightened the suspense.

    Names began to appear for each match and for a moment, there was stunned silence, followed by an explosion of reactions.

    Golden Cosmos:

    1v1: Ryder Crow

    3V3: Kobayashi Raya - Mercury Banks - Catarina

    4v4: Eratz Pandora - Kaida - Milo Ambrosius - Colin Alondra

    World Star:

    1v1: Tamara Regalia

    3v3: Rylas Aurelius - Braun Gonawan - Elara Solvain

    4v4: Arvad Magna - Morgiana Aeternis - Isolde Fredrin - Victor Moses

    The crowd erupted, murmurs spreading like wildfire through the stands.

    Fans, commentators, and even the teams themselves were visibly troubled by the unexpected results.

    Everyone had come expecting the ultimate showdown: Eratz versus Tamara. This twist felt almost sacrilegious.

    On the World Star side, there were mixed reactions.

    Arvad leaned back slightly, an amused smirk playing on his lips.

    "Well, well," he rumbled. "Guess you''ll miss the chance to play with the Pharaoh." He turned to Tamara with a sly grin. "You''re ok, ma''am?"

    Rylas gave a lazy shrug, scratching his neck.

    "I''d hardly blame him," he drawled. "Let the guy keep his winning streak... Ma''am just bumped into his life to end it... wait... so that means you''re gonna lose?"

    Victor Moses sighed audibly, his tall frame slouching slightly as he pinched the bridge of his

    nose.

    "Well, guess it won''t be that annoying," he muttered. "Sorry for you, Tamara."

    Tamara remained still, her expression unreadable as she stared across the arena. Her gaze settled momentarily on Victoria in the Golden Cosmos staff zone.

    Tamara''s lips curled into a faint, almost imperceptible smile, though a vein visibly throbbed on her temple. She understood now, she had been played.

    Victoria, sitting calmly amidst the Cosmos staff, returned the gaze with an unreadable expression of her own. Zara, however, nodded, her arms crossed, with satisfaction.

    "As expected," Zara said. "They were so consumed by the Queen-versus-Pharaoh narrative that they sent their strongest for the 1v1. We, on the other hand, concentrated our power where it would bring the most points."

    Victoria sighed and glanced toward Ryder, who stood among his teammates with an air of resignation.

    "It''s unfortunate for Ryder, but necessary. We are not ready for taking Tamara in a one-on- one."

    On the Golden Cosmos side, the atmosphere was lighter, though no less tense. Catarina grinned mischievously as she patted Ryder on the back.

    "You''re a hero," she teased, her tail swishing behind her. "Taking one for the team, we will remember your name."

    Kaida gave him a sympathetic shrug but couldn''t hold back a smirk.

    "On the bright side, you''re the underdog, so you have zero pressure."

    Even Mercury placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

    "Ryder, don''t take it personally. Someone had to do it. Sorry it had to be you."

    Ryder rolled his eyes dramatically, pulling away from their exaggerated condolences.

    "Say that again after the massacre, you''ll see how forgiving I''ll be."

    As the matchups displayed on the screens rotated back to the live feed, the murmurs in the crowd began to rise again as the announcer''s voice boomed through the coliseum.

    "Ladies and gentlemen," the announcer called, "the stage is set! Golden Cosmos versus

    World Star begins now!"

    The stadium roared.

    "Prepare for an explosive clash between two titans! For the first battle, representing Golden Cosmos, the courageous beast master with a heart of gold, the unyielding Furry Paladin,

    Ryder Crow!"

    Cheers erupted from the crowd, their voices swelling like a wave. Ryder stepped onto the battlefield, his shoulders squared, though a faint tremor revealed his nerves.

    He raised a hand to the crowd, offering a brave smile that barely masked his apprehension.

    "And his opponent," the announcer continued, "the pride of World Star, a legend among beast masters, the indomitable conqueror, the Queen of the battlefield... Ladies and gentlemen... Tamara Regalia!"

    The stadium erupted with deafening cheers, applause echoing like thunder. Tamara''s entrance was commanding, her presence capturing every gaze in the arena.

    She strode onto the battlefield with confidence, her long coat trailing behind her like a

    banner.

    Her sharp eyes flicked briefly toward Ryder, then drifted to the ground, a hint of disappointment shadowing her face.

    Her gaze shifted to the sidelines where Eratz stood, his expression unreadable. Tamara''s jaw

    tightened, her irritation faint but evident.

    Ryder swallowed hard, his mind racing. "This is it. Everyone doubts me, but I''ve got nothing to lose. Time to show them.''

    He steadied himself, focusing. His trump card was his calamity beast, but he needed her to

    make the first move. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Tamara tilted her head slightly, letting out a slow exhale. She raised her hand to the side, her voice dripping with mockery.

    "I was hoping for someone..." she said, her words cutting through the tense air. "I was even ready to go slow to make this a little fair... But if you''re all really playing to win, then I will

    too."

    Her eyes gleamed with an intense green light, and an explosion rocked the arena. The ground around Tamara cracked, jagged fissures spreading outward as a vortex of green and black

    energy spiraled around her.

    The air grew heavy with power, silencing the roaring crowd. At the eye of the storm, Tamara''s silhouette stood unyielding.

    Ryder''s instincts screamed at him to retreat, but there was nowhere to hide.

    In the blurry of her burst of power, Tamara leaned forward, her powerful legs tensing, and

    then, she vanished.

    The cyclone surged, the ground shattered beneath her feet as she launched forward.

    Ryder could only flinch, before disappearing in a monstrous impact.

    A wave of destruction obliterated half the battleground in an instant. Debris flew in all directions, the protective energy dome flickering under the immense strain.

    The crowd''s cheers turned to gasps, then stunned silence as the dust began to settle.

    Where the battlefield had stood moments before was now a wasteland of scorched earth and

    jagged rubble.

    Ryder lay unconscious amid the wreckage, his body battered and motionless.

    Tamara stood over him, her boots pressing firmly into his back. Her piercing gaze swept

    across the Golden Cosmos team before locking onto Eratz.

    "So, you want to play for real?" she said. "Good. We''ll introduce you all to Hell."

 Chapter 224: Maximum The Hormones : World Star VS Golden Cosmos(3)

    Chapter 224: Maximum The Hormones : World Star VS Golden Cosmos(3)The roar of the crowd was deafening as the battlefield trembled under the weight of unleashed power.

    The aftermath of the initial exchange had left the Golden Cosmos fighters on the ground, with more damage than ever in the beginning of a battle.

    On the Golden Cosmos staff zone, the rest of the team was petrified, but above them, the public was in awe.

    Mercury, Raya, and Catarina rose to their feet, their expressions shifting from shock to determination.

    Mercury grimaced, her hand instinctively moving to rub her torso where Braun''s lariat had struck. Each breath felt heavier than the last, but the dull ache only fueled her new feeling, an unyielding rage.

    Catarina staggered up, patting her face. She winced as her fingers brushed against a split lip, blood smeared across her finger. Her usual lighthearted demeanor was gone. She spat a glob of blood onto the ground, her eyes narrowing into sharp slits as she glared at Rylas.

    Raya, her katana shimmering faintly in the mist, didn''t speak. Her stance shifted subtly, her focus fixed entirely on Braun and Rylas. Her grip tightened on her blade, whose edge was getting covered in frost.

    Braun''s laughter rumbled like thunder.

    "Oh, you''ve still got fight in you? Good. You made me come here so at least entertain me."

    Rylas cracked his neck, his predatory eyes gleaming, and Elara smirked, her hands glowing with swirling elements.

    Mercury''s field spell surged, the dense water dome progressively taking over the chaos Elara unleashed. The shifting water currents grew stronger, flowing with an almost sentient precision.

    "Naiadira," Mercury called.

    A massive form emerged from the mist, Naiadira, her calamity beast. It let out a majestic cry that rippled the water, but it didn''t end there.

    "Zephyraquiel."

    Above her, the water undulated and spread like a portal under the path of Zephyraquiel, its immense wings of water and wind unfurling. Its presence exuded a powerful aura, the swirling winds intertwining with Mercury''s water currents.

    The beast''s screech echoed through the arena, a sound both beautiful and terrifying.

    The crowd gasped in unison. A few only had seen calamity beasts before, often without realizing it was one, but the combination of Naiadira and Zephyraquiel together under Mercury''s control was overwhelming.

    The arena shimmered as the mist and air swirled in perfect harmony around the two colossal creatures.

    Raya''s aura burst forth, the blue light surrounding her shimmered, growing brighter and brighter until it enveloped her entirely.

    Her hair transformed into a radiant cascade of blue, and her eyes and katana mirrored the hue of a clear, icy sky.

    Above her, the air twisted and coiled as her calamity beast emerged. A long oriental dragon rose from the vortex of energy, its scales glistening like crystalline frost under the arena lights.

    It twirled through the sky with majestic grace, each movement exuding a chilling power, its frost breath leaving shimmering trails in its wake.

    The audience, spellbound, could do nothing but watch in silent awe as the dragon circled above its master, and beside her, Catarina''s aura spread outward.

    In stark contrast, a shimmering black cloud speckled with tiny, glittering sparks of silver and gold. The energy built to a crescendo before bursting outward, revealing her calamity beast in all its enigmatic glory.

    A sleek, feline figure emerged, standing tall on two legs. Its black fur seemed to absorb the light around it, while the sparkles scattered across its body twinkled.

    The beast''s sharp, emerald eyes locked onto the battlefield as it performed an elegant bow, a reverent gesture that only heightened its mystique.

    The audience erupted in a wave of gasps and cheers, their voices mingling in a chaotic symphony of admiration and excitement, but on Infinite Twilight''s side, the impact was more

    severe.

    Sia leaned forward, her icy demeanor faltering as her lips parted slightly in disbelief.

    "This... can''t be..." she murmured.

    Arin''s voice cut through the tension, low and sharp.

    "Impossible. That''s... Guys... these things..."

    Leonidas sat motionless. His hands gripped the armrests of his chair tightly, his eyes wide open and fixed on the battlefield. Only one person was enjoying this moment.

    Kallistra with a slow, delighted smile, murmured.

    "This is magnificent," she said softly. "Just magnificent."

    The crowd erupted in cheers as the tide of the battle began to shift. Mercury, Raya, and Catarina activated their beastifications simultaneously.

    Mercury''s water beastification enveloped her in rippling, glowing water marks on her body, her hair flowing like an underwater current.

    Raya''s eyes and hair turned an icy blue, with some dragon scales on her cheeks, throat, hands, feet. Her katana leaving frost trails with every move.

    Catarina''s feline features intensified, her agility and precision increasing and she looked almost like a human version of her beast.

    [Zephyraquiel, The Deluge] [Naiadira, The Tsunami] [Shirayukiryu, The Winter] [Mystimara,

    The Mirage]

    Braun and Rylas'' eyes widened as they watched the beasts. These were not ordinary beasts, their power, control, and this particular name and title, all mirrored what they had only seen from Tamara''s beasts herself.

    Braun''s grin faltered for a moment before twisting into a grim smirk, his massive fists

    clenching.

    "Well, well," he growled, his voice heavy with tension. "Looks like the Pharaoh''s wasn''t the only interesting stuff after all."

    Rylas blinked, his usual lazy demeanor replaced by sharp focus.

    "This... this isn''t good," he muttered, his gaze darting between the beasts.

    The tension in the arena thickened as the three women stood firm, their beasts towering around them like sentinels of raw power. They locked eyes with their opponents.

    For a few seconds, there was a heavy silence, and the next instant, the battlefield became a chaotic symphony of destruction.

    Mercury, Raya, and Catarina faced the unrelenting savagery of World Star, each movement, each clash, sent shockwaves rippling through the arena, and the crowd watched in breathless

    awe.

    Mercury stood at the epicenter of the chaos, her control of the battlefield absolute.

    Waves surged and twisted under her will, her field spell dominating the environment with its relentless currents.

    She spread her arms, summoning a massive torrent of water that crashed into the World Star fighters, forcing them back.

    Braun roared, summoning three serpentine beasts to attack her. Without hesitation, Naiadira lashed out, shooting a burdt of concentrated water striking them down with devastating

    force.

    Zephyraquiel followed, unleashing a hurricane of wind that scattered Elara''s elemental

    assaults and sent her stumbling.

    Elara gritted her teeth, her hands glowing with chaotic energy. She shifted the field spell''s element to lightning and wind, the air growing dense with static.

    Bolts crackled, tearing through the battlefield, but Mercury''s control was on another level.

    With a commanding gesture, she reclaimed dominance, the currents of her field spell swallowing Elara''s storm and striking her with a spiraling column of water.

    The impact lifted Elara off the ground, slamming her back down with catastrophic force.

    Raya moved like a specter of frost, her aura blazing in icy blue as her katana left trails of frost

    in the air.

    Braun lunged at her, his massive claws tearing through the space she had occupied moments

    before.

    Anticipating his attack, she sidestepped effortlessly, her katana slashing into his side. Frost spread rapidly from the slash, encasing his scales in a web of ice.

    Braun snarled, his breath visible in the frigid air. He swung wildly, but Raya was already gone,

    a blur of icy light. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her blade pierced his armpit, eliciting a roar of pain as frost crept along his arm, slowing his movements. Yet Braun''s strength only grew, his savage grin widening as he fought through

    the freezing marks.

    His moves became faster, stronger. Raya could see the intent of attacking, but at some point the attacks became too fast and covered too much space.

    Suddenly, a rocky tail surged on Braun''s back, swung in a devastating arc, hitting Raya and sending her sprawling.

    Before he could press his advantage, a chilling frost breath from Shirayukiryu engulfed him,

    halting his advance.

    Catarina and Mystimara unleashed chaos across the battlefield. With a snap of her fingers,

    Catarina conjured shimmering projectiles that homed in on Rylas.

    Though he dodged most of them, a few struck true, staggering him.

    Catarina grinned mischievously.

    "Double it," Catarina murmured, her eyes glinting with excitement.

    Using one of Mystimara''s tricks to transfer the damage from her attacks onto Braun.

    The hulking beast snarled in confusion as the impacts knocked him off balance. Rylas''s feral gaze burned with exhilaration. He lunged at Catarina, his claws slashing with blistering speed.

    She dodged with feline agility, vanishing into a cloud of smoke. Mystimara reappeared behind Rylas, striking him with a burst of magical energy on the legs, sending him reeling.

    Mercury directed a spiraling jet of water at Braun, propelling him backward, only for him to barrel through it with brute force and give her another lariat. Mercury''s breath was cut short, but this time she remained on her feet.

    She gripped him and created another current of water to lift him, then, with a guttural roar,

    she slammed him headfirst into the ground with a sickening crunch.

    Raya''s icy assault grew more lethal, her strikes reaching any opponent even without her

    directly touching them.

    Each slash left frost marks that spread like vines, hindering gheir movements. Her dragon unleashed freezing breath upon him, encasing his back in ice.

    Despite the damage, Braun''s euphoria only increased, his savage laughter echoing through

    the battlefield.

    Rylas''s beastification completed, his form twisting into a monstrous humanoid dragon with four snapping heads.

    Each head spewed a different element, creating chaos wherever he moved.

    Mercury countered with a tidal wave that pressured him on the ground, but just then Braun

    landed a crushing knee to her ribs, sending her sprawling.

    Gasping, Mercury rose, hardly breathing. Her pain only fueled her resolve.

    "ZEPHYRAQUIEL," she called.

    The winged calamity beast descended, unleashing a torrent of wind and water that swept

    across the battlefield, forcing Elara, Braun and Rylas to regroup.

    Mercury''s control was unmatched, her attacks relentless as she reclaimed dominance over the

    field spell.

    The battle escalated into a brutal exchange of power. Mercury, Raya, and Catarina fought with

    a ferocity that matched the World Star team''s savagery. Mystimara''s tricks disoriented their opponents, redirecting attacks and striking with

    precision.

    Raya''s attacks grew more lethal, her strikes and range wider, freezing literally the battlefield

    and destroying World Star.

    She became a literal afterimage, followed by enormous blue arcs of slashes.

    But the World Star fighters grew more euphoric with each blow. Braun and Rylas''s laughs shook the arena, their monstrous forms emanating more energy.

    Braun''s claw tore through a tidal wave, his laughter mingling with the sound of shattering

    ice.

    Rylas''s heads snapped and spewed elements, forcing Catarina to vanish into her shadows repeatedly to evade.

    The audience was spellbound, their cheers and gasps creating a symphony of tension and

    excitement.

    The powerhouses watching from the stands remained silent, their eyes fixed on the

    battlefield.

    The clash of titans unfolded before them, each moment more breathtaking than the last.

    And then, it happened.

    Braun and Rylas'' eyes gleamed, their savage grins widening. Their bodies bodies began to

    glow with an intense light.

    The energy around them spiraled, creating a vortex that swallowed the battlefield.

    "What''s happening?" Catarina shouted.

    Mercury''s eyes widened as she instinctively pulled her teammates back.

    "Get ready for anything!"

    The vortex exploded outward, revealing Braun and Rylas in new, monstrous forms.

    Braun transformed into a massive dragon with two large tusks on the jaw, his arms ending in claws like jagged blades, his tail a spiked wrecking ball.

    Rylas''s transformation was like a multi-headed dragon, each head exhaling a different

    elemental energy.

    The arena fell silent as the transformed beasts loomed over the battlefield.

    Mercury, Raya, and Catarina stood their ground, their gazes locked on the towering dragons.

    The tension was palpable, the air heavy with anticipation.

    "What... kind of beastification is this?" Catarina whispered, her voice tinged with awe and dread. Raya''s grip tightened on her katana, her icy aura flaring.

    Braun and Rylas let out deafening roars, the arena shaking under their combined might.

 Chapter 226: On the Edge

    Chapter 226: On the EdgeThe medic teams rushed onto the battlefield. The aftermath of the breathtaking 3v3 battle left both sides reeling.

    Mercury, Raya, and Catarina, but also Elara were carried off the field on stretchers.

    Braun, watching his teammate from the side, spat out a broken tooth into his hand. He examined it with a mix of irritation and disdain before tossing it aside.

    "Tch. Annoying," he muttered. "I couldn''t fight properly with that many brats."

    Rylas yawned lazily, his usual slowliness returning.

    "Well... at least they got a point," he said with a shrug. "It sucks for Ela, but they deserve it."

    Tamara, standing with her arms crossed, said nothing. Her gaze remained fixed on the battlefield, her expression unreadable.

    Arvad''s voice broke the tense silence.

    "This might not be as good as anticipated," he said, glancing at the scoreboard. "They got one point, sure, but we only need one more to win. And those last two..." He paused, rubbing his chin. "Two city-level kids in the next match? That looks like free points."

    Victor sighed heavily, his arms crossed.

    "There''s still one problem," he said.

    The group followed his gaze to the Golden Cosmos bench. The remaining team members gathered around their fallen fighters, checking on their condition, and among them stood the biggest problem.

    Morgiana, silent until now, spoke in her usual measured tone.

    "The Pharaoh," she said simply.

    Braun and Rylas returned to the bench, not battered enough to need a medical check. Victor glanced at Braun and shook his head.

    "We should have kept you for that last battle," he said. "This is a big problem now."

    Rylas yawned, waving a hand dismissively.

    "Don''t berate yourself like that, Victor. You''re the third wheel here. You''ll be fine."

    Arvad snorted in agreement, leaning back with his arms crossed.

    "The Pharaoh is special," he admitted. "But if we''re being honest, his closest comparison was that blind swordsman, Raya. If he fights like her, he won''t..." He trailed off, crossing his arms tightly. After a moment, he sighed and continued.

    "Never mind. The real priority is scoring that one point. Forget the Pharaoh; focus on the three pawns."

    On Infinite Twilight''s side, Leonidas leaned back in his chair, his gaze narrowing as he observed the score.

    "Isn''t there a risk that Tamara might use him to hunt down all the legendaries to stop us? Isn''t that possible?"

    Kallistra, seated with her usual calm attitude, brushed a strand of silver-gray hair over her shoulder and replied.

    "You''re breaking records for long jumps, Leonidas, but look at Tamara''s face..."

    She gestured subtly toward the World Star bench, where Tamara stood with her arms crossed, her expression unreadable but tense.

    "That''s enough win for me."

    Leonidas followed her gaze, his sharp eyes lingering on Tamara. He said nothing more, though his fingers drummed thoughtfully against the armrest of his chair.

    Meanwhile, the arena''s staff moved swiftly to reconstruct the battlefield, a monumental task after the devastation caused by the 3v3 battle.

    The atmosphere was electric with murmurs and whispers from the crowd, who were still buzzing from the spectacular clash. The 4-1 score loomed like a death sentence for Golden Cosmos, and the audience''s anticipation for the final battle was palpable.

    Across the world, reactions poured in from those watching the event remotely.

    In their home, Kian and Lila sat together on a plush couch, their eyes glued to the screen. Their expressions were eager, almost gleeful.

    "This will teach him to choose them over us," Lila said with a smirk, her tone laced with spite.

    Kian nodded in agreement, both rooting against their brother.

    A few feet away, Liora was sitting silently in the sofa. She watched the screen from a distance, her expression unreadable, though her hands trembled slightly.

    Outside, Marcus leaned against the wall of the house, a cigarette between his fingers. Smoke curled lazily into the night sky as he exhaled, his gaze distant.

    He had refused to watch the match, decided to completely cut ties with his estranged son.

    Back in the arena, the final battle was looming. Mercury, Catarina, Raya, and Ryder were under the care of the Golden Cosmos medical team.

    Though their wounds were tended to, their bruised egos and bodies bore the weight of their earlier clash.

    Sitting among their teammates, they watched the arena staff reconstruct the battlefield.

    "I couldn''t do anything," Mercury murmured, her voice heavy with regret. She rested a hand over her bandaged ribs, her eyes fixed on the floor. "I''m sorry."

    "Don''t be," Ryder interjected with a weak laugh. "I didn''t even get a punch in." He shook his head, his tone self-deprecating. "At least you all put on a show. I just got obliterated. That''s one way to make a debut on the highest level, huh?"

    Catarina chuckled lightly, though it was tinged with bitterness.

    "Wrecked so bad," she echoed, her tail flicking lazily. "Is this always how it feels? World tier matches? I''m starting to wonder if I shouldn''t pause a little bit on the growth."

    Raya sighed, leaning back against the bench as she gingerly patted her bandaged shoulder. Her smile was faint but genuine.

    "I knew we would only be challengers, but I didn''t expect this difference in power."

    Kaida groaned, her head tilted back as she rubbed her temples.

    "What the fuck... Those guys aren''t humans. They''re beasts. Absolute monsters. We''re

    screwed against 4 of them."

    Colin and Milo sat silently. Their heads hung low, shoulders slumped. They exchanged no words, but their guilt was palpable.

    They knew they were the reason everything was already lost.

    Eratz, standing next to the group, was very quiet. His gaze remained fixed on the arena as the staff finished resetting the field.

    The team''s murmurs about their slim chances of victory didn''t seem to reach him, but their glances did. One by one, their eyes drifted to him, the question hanging heavy in the air.

    Mercury broke the silence, her voice tentative.

    "Is it really over?" She rubbed her bandaged side. "Or is there something else? Something you

    -can do?"

    All eyes were on him now. Colin and Milo shifted slightly, their heads lifting just enough to catch a glimpse of Eratz. Kaida folded her arms, her brow furrowing. Everyone was silent,

    glued to his response.

    Eratz didn''t answer immediately. His hands stilled, gripping a piece of shattered stone.

    His frown deepened, and for a moment, it seemed as though he might confirm their fears.

    Then, he turned to them.

    "We''re not losing this," he said firmly.

    The weight of his words hung in the air. Everyone looked at him, wondering if he had a plan or

    if it was just a moment of determination, but he looked at them with an strange calm gaze.

    "You did a great job," he continued. "Thanks to what you did, sacrificing Ryder to take Tamara out and earning that single point... there''s a new outcome for us."

    His words silenced any lingering doubts. The team watched him in silence, his conviction spreading through them like a ripple.

    They didn''t know how, but Eratz''s confidence gave them something they desperately needed:

    hope.

    With the arena''s reconstruction over, the final battle could finally begin.

    Arvad, Morgiana, Fredrin, and Victor stepped forward for World Star. Across the battlefield, Eratz, Kaida, Colin, and Milo prepared themselves for the ultimate showdown. The stakes could not be higher: World Star held a decisive 4-1 lead, and one more victory would seal the match. But the sole presence of Eratz, the Pharaoh, created an air of

    uncertainty.

    He was the wildcard, the one factor that kept the outcome unpredictable.

    Eratz''s gaze was focused on their opponents as he addressed his team.

    "Kaida," he began, "use your field with as much power as possible. No holding back."

    Kaida, with a little uncertainty nodded.

    "Colin," Eratz continued, turning to his cousin, "your flames, on me. Both heal and attack. I''ll

    ha''dle it."

    Colin''s eyes widened briefly, but she nodded quickly.

    "Milo," Eratz said. "Heal constantly. Focus on the three of you. Don''t worry about me."

    Milo nodded, though his expression remained tense.

    Eratz took a step back, observing their faces. He noticed the apprehension in their eyes and

    smiled faintly. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Relax," he said, his voice steady. "You''re stronger than this. I''m just being extra cautious."

    There was a moment of silence as they absorbed his words. Then Eratz turned to Colin.

    "Cluld you lend me your hairband?" he said.

    Colin blinked in surprise but quickly untied the band from her hair and handed it to him. Eratz

    tied his hair into a long ponytail, securing it tightly. He turned his back to them, and for the

    first time, his back seemed larger than ever, even for Kaida.

    "Keep your eyes wide open," he said.

    The arena fell silent as the announcer''s voice boomed through the coliseum, signaling the

    start of the match.

    The atmosphere was electric, the crowd holding its collective breath as the fighters took their positions. Even those watching on screens from far away sat in tense anticipation.

    On the World Star side, Fredrin, a tall Ishtarian with slightly blond hair and a trimmed beard,

    crossed his arms.

    He tilted his head slightly, a faint smirk on his lips.

    "Nailed it," he muttered, watching Eratz step forward. Eratz began walking alone toward the World Star team.

 Chapter 227: Invictus : All Versus One

    Chapter 227: Invictus : All Versus OneDespite the massive crowd, the arena was engulfed in silence.

    Arvad, Morgiana, Fredrin, and Victor stood at one end of the battlefield, their eyes locked on Eratz. Their postures were steady but alert, like predators sizing up another predator.

    Eratz stood alone in the center under the blazing lights, the eye of the storm, the match''s unpredictable variable.

    Behind him, Kaida, Colin, and Milo stood tense. Kaida''s arms hovered slightly at her sides as if ready to shield the children. Colin clutched her hands tightly, and Milo''s chest rose and fell with shallow breaths.

    Victoria''s worried gaze was fixed on Eratz, her hands gripping the railing so tightly it seemed ready to bend. Zara stood beside her, barely breathing. Mercury leaned forward slightly, clutching her bandaged ribs, her expression unreadable but tense.

    The audience, tens of thousands strong, was eerily still. All eyes were on the battlefield, breaths collectively held. Across the globe, people sat glued to their screens, their voices silenced by the weight of the moment.

    Even the Infinite Twilight roster was subdued. Kallistra leaned back in her seat, her serene smile widening as her sharp eyes stayed on Eratz.

    Beside her, Leonidas'' gaze was fixed on the young ishtarian, his fingers drumming softly on the armrest, his lips pressed into a tight line.

    Tamara stood among her team, arms crossed, her piercing eyes locked on the battlefield.

    The silence pressed against everyone present, a fragile calm before the storm, ready to shatter with the slightest sound.

    Eratz moved.

    He stepped forward, leaning down like a sprinter at the starting block. The movement was slow, minimal yet powerful enough to send a ripple of murmurs around the crowd.

    His body coiled like a spring, every muscle ready to unleash.

    Across the field, the World Star fighters reacted instantly. Arvad straightened, his hands unclasping. Morgiana''s eyes narrowed, her weight shifting forward. Fredrin tilted his head slightly, smirking faintly as his arms tightened across his chest. Victor flexed his fingers, his gaze sharpening.

    Behind Eratz, Kaida flinched slightly, her hand hovering near her side. Colin''s brow furrowed, and Milo gulped.

    For a moment, the world held its breath, the tension unbearable.

    And then... Eratz gritted his teeth.

    Eratz burst forward, the ground beneath him erupting in a cascade of debris as his launch generated a shockwave that rippled through the arena.

    The sheer force of his movement sent cracks racing across the battlefield, the crowd roaring in exhilaration as energy exploded from his body like a volcano.

    He streaked across the field like a bullet, his body becoming a blazing comet of power.

    The World Star fighters reacted immediately.

    Arvad, Morgiana, Fredrin, and Victor spread out instinctively, Victor, however, remained stationary, his feet rooted as he braced himself.

    He intercepted Eratz''s outstretched arm with his own, and the resulting collision produced a shockwave that sent dust and shards of stone spiraling outward.

    The two figures remained locked, arm against arm, their auras flaring like opposing storms.

    The moment froze for an instant, then chaos erupted.

    Simultaneously, the other three World Star fighters attacked.

    Morgiana descended from above, her jagged legs cutting through the air.

    Arvad flanked from the side, his movements precise and fast.

    Fredrin leaped forward with his enlarged fists glowing with destructive energy, each fighter coordinating in a perfect strike against Eratz.

    Eratz twisted his body mid-air, dodging the attacks in a fluid motion. He soared above their strikes, only for Arvad and Morgiana to chase him with blinding speed. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Beneath him, a pillar of earth erupted, aiming to knock him off balance.

    Eratz used the momentum of the pillar to propel himself higher, avoiding Arvad''s swipe and clashing briefly with Morgiana''s in the air before pivoting to strike Arvad with a spinning kick. The blows were rapid, each one reverberating with energy as Eratz danced between his pursuers.

    Suddenly, Fredrin appeared above him, his massive fist descending like a meteor.

    Eratz''s eyes glowed yellow, and in a flash of lightning, he moved, dodging Fredrin''s crushing blow while delivering a retaliatory strike to his side.

    The impact sent Fredrin spiraling downward, but before Eratz could follow up, Arvad and Morgiana closed in again, their bodies enveloped in lightning as their beastifications enhanced their speed and agility.

    They struck simultaneously, lightning crackling with each movement.

    Eratz twisted his body, redirecting Morgiana''s trajectory with a knee strike and deflecting Arvad''s attack with a taloned swipe.

    The momentum sent them careening in opposite directions as Eratz propelled himself toward Victor once more.

    Victor had summoned a rhinoceros-like beast, its thick hide radiating a stony resilience.

    Eratz''s next strike met the beast''s hardened skin, producing sparks, failing to penetrate, but burying it halfway on the ground.

    Before he could adjust, Fredrin''s shadow loomed behind him, another massive fist poised to crush him.

    But a sudden blast of lightning erupted from Eratz''s back as Raijinara appeared, striking Fredrin and sending him flying.

    Victor maneuvered around his summoned beast, clashing with Eratz in a brutal exchange of strikes. Each blow was met with raw force, their movements shaking the ground beneath

    them.

    Morgiana reappeared, her kick obliterating the spot Eratz had occupied moments before as he vanished in another burst of lightning.

    From a distance, he spread his arms wide, his aura erupting like a storm.

    In response, the World Star team unleashed their full might. The ground erupted as their

    beasts emerged, their forms enormous and terrifying. Arvad pointed a finger at Eratz,

    summoning a crimson flash from above.

    Eratz dodged it narrowly, only to be met by a giant purple snake bursting from a cloud of

    smoke.

    The snake lunged, but its head struck a translucent of spiritual energy, a feat coming from an old friend of Eratz: the Aetheri.

    The beast manifested, creating a labyrinth of mirrored barriers that shimmered across the

    battlefield.

    Within the labyrinth, Eratz moved like lightning, clashing rapidly with Morgiana and Arvad, using the walls as trampolines to take them by surprise.

    Fredrin descended from above, aiming to shatter the Aetheri''s walls, but Raijinara intercepted him with another blast of lightning, propelling him upward. Morgiana''s jagged wings cut through the air, her strikes relentless as Eratz twisted and countered.

    Victor summoned a fire pterodactyl, its wings scorching the air as it joined the fray.

    The arena became a maelstrom of chaos. Eratz fought against all four, dodging, countering,

    and retaliating with brutal efficiency.

    The World Star fighters pressed harder, their beastifications pushing their limits as their auras became heterogeneous blends of power.

    Arvad summoned a scorpion-like beast that lunged at Eratz, but another fire field spell erupted from the distance, engulfing the arena in swirling fire.

    Kaida initiated her move.

    The firestorm forced the fighters to adapt, their beastifications shifting to fire-resistant

    forms. Yet within the flames, Eratz stood, his body glowing with a fiery aura.

    As the World Star team converged on him, the firestorm began to twist and writhe, converging toward Eratz. The flames engulfed him entirely, obscuring him from view.

    And then, the ground erupted with a shockwave.

    Eratz emerged, his aura blazing with raw power as Rockbound Fury activated. The shockwave

    propelled the World Star fighters backward, scattering them like leaves in a gale. Arvad''s

    scorpion lunged, but the firestorm dissipated abruptly.

    Every trace of fire, even on the fighter disappeared, swallowed by Eratz''s fist. Everything, including the entirety of the field spell''s gathered energy.

    Sun.

    The concentrated power burned like a miniature sun, radiating heat and light that forced the

    others to shield their eyes.

    In an instant, Eratz disappeared. He reappeared behind Arvad, his lightning speed unmatched. Arvad moved to counter, but Eratz anticipated his trajectory with his spiritual

    training.

    A localized earthquake erupted beneath Arvad, shattering the ground and throwing him off

    balance.

    With a roar, Eratz unleashed the full force of the concentrated field spell in a devastating

    punch.

    The impact was cataclysmic. The arena shook violently as the fiery explosion consumed everything in its path, beasts, fighters, everyone was blown away.

    Colors shifted in a dazzling display, the blast tearing through the magical labyrinth and

    scattering the World Star fighters.

    When the dust settled, Eratz stood far beyond the blast''s epicenter. Arvad fell on the ground, his body battered, struggling to rise in the destruction.

    His teammates watched him almost neutralized after such a terrifying attack, but the man''s resilience was from another world.

    Victor rushed to him, but before he could reach him, Eratz appeared above. His foot descended like a whip right on his head, the impact producing an explosive burst of energy

    that exploded in white and black waves.

    The ground split further as flames erupted anew, consuming the battlefield in an inferno.

    [World Star 4-2 Golden Cosmos]

 Chapter 228: Red Zone

    Chapter 228: Red ZoneThe battlefield was silent, save for the crackling flames of Eratz''s fire field spell. Arvad lay beneath him, his head pinned under Eratz''s foot, the flames dancing ominously around them.

    The crowd, and even the remaining World Star fighters, stood stunned, their breath stolen by the devastating display of power.

    Eratz''s gaze dropped to Arvad, his expression surprisingly calm. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

    "Sorry, brother," he said, his voice low. "But you looked easier to get."

    He pressed down slightly, emphasizing his dominance, before lifting his head to look forward.

    His glowing yellow eyes fixed on the remaining three World Star members, their stunned expressions revealing their disbelief.

    Fredrin''s jaw tightened, his fists clenching. Morgiana''s narrowed eyes flickered with uncertainty, her usually measured composure shaken.

    Moses, however, was the first to move. His teeth ground audibly as his hands balled into fists.

    "This motherfucker," he growled, his voice dripping with venom.

    With a forceful stomp, the ground trembled, cracks spiderwebbing outward.

    A surge of energy rippled through the arena as a water field spell erupted, its waves spreading rapidly and swallowing the remnants of the fire field spell.

    The crackling flames were snuffed out, replaced by the rushing sound of cascading water.

    Fredrin and Morgiana sprang into action. Their beastifications activated mid-air, their forms twisting and shifting.

    Fredrin''s body became encased in a crustacean-like armor, sharp spikes jutting from his limbs, his claws gleaming with an iridescent sheen.

    Morgiana transformed into a reptilian beast, her jagged limbs rippling with grace, a tail emerged, snapping like a whip behind her.

    Kaida, positioned in front of Colin and Milo, felt the water rush past through them.

    She extended her hands, attempting to counter the encroaching field spell with her own, but the overwhelming force of the water consumed her efforts, reducing her efforts to a minuscule ball of fire covering them.

    It looked like a pathetic attempt, but she had seen further beyond anyone there.

    "Milo! Colin! Heal!" she screamed, her voice sharp and desperate.

    On the World Star bench, Tamara''s eyes widened instantly.

    "You idiots! Not water!"

    But her warning came too late.

    Fredrin and Morgiana closed the distance in an instant, their beastified forms bearing down on Eratz, their claws glinting in the light.

    They were centimeters away from his smiling face when his body shimmered, and turned yellow.

    "Bad move."

    A deafening crack split the air.

    The entire battlefield was consumed by a yellow dome of lightning, the sparks cascading outward in violent arcs.

    The crowd gasped as the arena was illuminated, the electric charge reaching every corner. The dome pulsed with energy, its surface crackling and sparking like a living entity.

    Fredrin and Morgiana''s momentum was halted mid-air, their bodies convulsing as the lightning coursed through them.

    Their teeth clenched tightly, their eyes wide with pain as the searing energy consumed them.

    Moses, still rooted to the ground, was struck by a massive bolt, his body stiffening as his eyes turned white from the surge.

    Even Kaida wasn''t spared. The edges of the dome reached her, and though she managed to form a faint protective barrier around herself and the kids, the strain was evident.

    Her knees buckled slightly, her breath hitching as the electricity cracked against her barrier and coursed her body.

    "Fir," she gasped, her voice trembling. "F... FIRE!!!"

    Colin flinched. Without hesitation, she raised her hands, her healing fire spreading on Kaida.

    The warm, golden flames licked at Kaida''s body, easing her pain, and worked as a support to help strengthening the minuscule field spell.

    Milo, his face pale and his hands shaking, summoned a healing mist that enveloped all three of them.

    The cool, soothing vapor mingled with Colin''s flames, creating a strange but effective blend of protection and recovery.

    The battlefield roared with the chaotic symphony of lightning and the situation kept worsening as Raijinara materialized above Eratz, its screech splitting the air like thunder.

    A web of electricity crackled outward, painting the arena in stark yellow light. Sparks danced wildly as Eratz conjured two orbs of lightning in his hands, the energy pulsing, ready to attack harder.

    But then, he flinched.

    A devastating knee struck him squarely in the face, another knee crashed into his neck.

    Fredrin and Morgiana had struck simultaneously, pinning Eratz''s head between their jagged knees.

    The public gasped, many shielding their eyes from the brutal sight.

    "Eratz!" Mercury''s voice cut through the tension as she stood abruptly.

    Victoria briefly stopped breathing.

    Fredrin and Morgiana, their bodies now coursing with electric energy from another beastification making them immune, launched into a merciless flurry of blows.

    Eratz was battered across the battlefield, each strike more savage than the last.

    The crowd winced as Morgiana soared high and plummeted down, her knee aimed at Eratz''s

    head to finish him off.

    But she passed through his body.

    Her knee smashed into the earth, splintering the ground. Eratz had turned into a shadow, with the Thunder lycaon''s passive.

    Morgiana barely had time to recover before she was met with a devastating one-two combo: Eratz''s foot smashing into one side of her head, and Cinderblaze''s fiery paw striking the

    other.

    Another shockwave rippled the arena.

    Blood dripped from Eratz''s nose, but his eyes gleamed with fury. Behind him, Kaida''s aura

    surged in panic.

    She spread her arms to shield Colin and Milo, pushing her body to use the beastification further. Dragon wings spread on her back.

    Her field spell reignited, flames licking hungrily at the edges of the battlefield. But Moses''s sharp gaze caught her movement.

    He slammed his fist into the ground, sending a shockwave across the arena.

    Kaida leaped back, pulling Colin and Milo with her. A massive worm-like beast erupted from the earth, its serpentine body coiling menacingly above them before it descended with

    terrifying speed.

    Kaida braced herself, teeth clenched, but just as the worm''s head neared, a seismic impact shook the arena. The worm''s head slammed into the ground, lifeless.

    Eratz stood in front of Kaida, his fist still pressed against the beast''s skull, cracks spider- webbing outward from the point of impact. He turned to Kaida, his expression resolute.

    Kaida blinked in surprise before nodding. She inhaled deeply and unleashed a torrent of fire breath onto Eratz.

    The flames engulfed him, merging with the remnants of her field spell, turning him into a

    living inferno.

    Eratz''s eyes gleamed like molten gold as his aura erupted. With Rockbound Fury, Sun, and Raijinara''s beastification active, his body became a zigzagging bolt of destructive lightning. Fredrin shouted for defensive beastifications, but Morgiana growled in frustration. "What element can stop him now?!" she snapped, dodging a searing streak of lightning that

    tore through the air.

    Eratz moved faster than ever, his strikes landing with surgical precision. Fredrin and Morgiana struggled to keep up, their movements growing increasingly frantic.

    Morgiana snarled, her jagged limbs trembling with energy.

    "Enough! Let''s just end this match!"

    Her thighs doubled in size, and with a deafening crack, she burst forward in a flash, aiming

    directly for Kaida and the kids.

    Gasps rippled through the audience as the monstrous form closed the distance in an instant.

    Kaida spread her wings wide, shielding Colin and Milo with her body, prepared to take the full brunt of the attack, and then, Eratz descended from above, his fist slamming into Morgiana''s

    head.

    A thunderous impact reverberated across the arena.

    The shockwave from the impact rippled outward, shattering the ground and distorting the air.

    Dust and debris exploded into the sky, and the sheer force sent Kaida tumbling backward, but she remained unscathed within the protective glow of the Aetheri''s shield materializing.

    As the dust settled, Eratz stood, his fist pinned on Morgiana''s head, the woman laying in the rubble, her body battered but still conscious.

    She struggled to rise, her limbs trembling from the devastating blow. Fredrin and Moses stared, their wide eyes betraying their disbelief.

    Even Kaida, still catching her breath, couldn''t hide her astonishment.

    Eratz slowly pulled his fist from the ground, his expression unreadable as he stared at Kaida.

    Kaida caught the situation and shouted.

    "Heal!" snapping Milo out of his daze and prompting him to cast a healing mist over her and

    Colin.

    Kaida''s aura flared as she unleashed another violent wave of her fire field spell. Flames surged across the battlefield, forcing Fredrin and Moses to shield themselves.

    But the fire didn''t last long, converging once more onto Eratz''s body, gathering into his

    clenched fist rising above Morgiana.

    Fredrin lunged to save her, his instincts taking over, but Moses shouted after him.

    "It''s a trap!"

    Fredrin reached them as Eratz''s fist descended with unrelenting force, too high to reach Morgiana, but on the perfect area to touch Fredrin, but the man wasn''t a novice.

    Fredrin''s sharp eyes tracked Eratz''s movements, and in a flash, he realized the attack wasn''t

    meant for Morgiana.

    He leapt back just as Eratz pivoted mid-motion, redirecting his punch toward him with

    lightning speed.

    The ground where Fredrin had stood exploded in a shower of debris, but the warrior had evaded, while the momentum of the maneuver caused Eratz''s entire body to spin, Morgiana, unaware of Fredrin''s quick maneuvering, saw the opening Eratz''s feint had

    created. Gathering all her forces, she surged upward, her jagged limbs poised to strike him from below.

    But before she could land her blow, Kaida''s instincts took over.

    Seeing the danger, she reacted without thinking. She twisted her body, her right leg swinging

    upward with desperate force.

    Her foot struck Morgiana under the chin, propelling her upward and directly into the path of

    Eratz''s swirling punch.

    The jagged energy from his attack collided with her head, the impact so intense that a

    deafening shockwave rippled outward, taking both Morgiana''s head, and Kaida''s foot.

    The instant the light exploded around them, Kaida screamed in pain, the bright, fiery energy swallowing them in a blinding flash that illuminated the entire arena.

    The arena quaked as the shockwave rippled outward, sending tremors through the earth and

    distorting the air. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Dust and debris swirled in the wake of the impact, masking the center of the destruction in a

    veil of smoke and firelight.

    The crowd erupted into a cacophony of gasps, shouts, and frantic murmurs. People in the

    stands covered their mouths in disbelief, their eyes fixed on the battlefield. When the smoke subdued, the scene left everyone speechless.

    Colin held her hands trembling as she summoned her fire healing. The golden flames spread

    over Kaida''s injured leg, while Milo knelt beside her, his hands glowing with a soft, greenish

    mist that enveloped Kaida''s body.

    Next to them, Eratz stood like a guard, his eyes scanning her condition.

    [World Star 4-3 Golden Cosmos]

 Chapter 229: Hope and Broken Chains

    Chapter 229: Hope and Broken ChainsThe arena thundered with the crowd''s roar, a wave of exhilaration sweeping through the audience as the impossible seemed to inch closer.

    The scoreboard displayed 4-3, and the unthinkable comeback was now within reach. Just one more point to equalize, two to secure a victory that defied every expectation. And on the field, Eratz was still in shape, his body glowing faintly with the remnants of Kaida''s fire field spell.

    On the World Star bench, Tamara uncrossed her arms for the first time. Her sharp gaze, unreadable until now, carried a glimmer of disbelief as she leaned forward slightly, watching intently.

    Up in the Infinite Twilight booth, Kallistra sat wide-eyed. Her serene smile had been replaced by an expression of awe an euphoria.

    Sia''s lips parted in shock, her usual icy demeanor cracking. Rex leaned forward, his sharp eyes fixed on the battlefield, while Arin''s fingers froze mid-motion, hovering above the rim of her glasses. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The rest of Infinite Twilight''s team sat in stunned silence, the tension gripping them as tightly as the crowd. This wasn''t supposed to happen. It wasn''t possible. Yet, Golden Cosmos was clawing its way back, defying the odds with every battle.

    Colin and Milo worked quickly, their hands glowing as they poured energy into Kaida. She struggled to her feet, her body trembling as she tested her healed leg. Her foot tapped against the ground, then stomped firmly.

    "It''s okay," she said with a small grin. But as she shifted her weight, the pain struck again, and she stumbled.

    Eratz''s eyes darted to her, then back to Moses and Fredrin. His lips curved into a faint smile. "Good call," he said, his voice steady despite the chaos. "And sorry about that."

    Kaida chuckled softly, waving him off.

    "Tranquilo. I''m glad to not be the one who need a new face," she replied, her tone matching

    his.

    The fire surrounding Eratz began mending his wounds, the glow intensifying as bruises faded and cuts sealed themselves.

    The two exchanged a glance, then turned their attention to the remaining fighters of World Star.

    "We''re so close, you know?" Kaida said, her voice quieter. "Just one more and we can tie. Two and... we can actually win... against the strongest agency." Her words hung in the air, hope glimmering in her eyes.

    Eratz smirked.

    "Yeah. But your job''s not done. Keep Milo and Colin safe. If you''re not doing it, I can''t freestyle."

    Kaida opened her mouth to protest, she wanted to do more, to be more useful, but once she saw his face, she stopped.

    At this moment, what they needed most wasn''t teamwork, it was trust in each other''s roles. She observed him for a moment, then sighed and smiled instead.

    "Got it, boss," she said, bumping her fist lightly against his arm.

    As she stepped back, she noticed the faintest imperfection in his grin.

    "Hey... Is that... When did you lose a tooth?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, running his tongue over the gap.

    "Huh. Damn. They really got me," he said with a laugh. "What a joke. Now I''m really ugly, right, Colin?"

    He only meant to ease the tension, but Colin flinched, her fists clenching tightly.

    "You... You''ve never been ugly! Not even a little bit," she shouted, her voice trembling. Before she could say more, Milo straightened his back, speaking up.

    "Yes! Even without all your teeth... You''re the most handsome! If I was Mercury, I would marry you! If I was you... I would cheat on her with me!" he added, his voice earnest. "L-let me do it. I can regrow your tooth! I''ll unugly you!"

    Colin looked at him, her determination rekindled.

    "He''s not ugly! But I can do it too! Open your mouth," she said, her fire blazing in her hands.

    Eratz stifled a laugh, stepping back from the two kids who seemed ready to finish what World Star had started.

    "Appreciate it," he said. "But I need to look like a beast for this one. And I prefer to believe in inner beauty."

    "But we don''t walk with X-rays," Milo protested.

    The group fell silent, turning slowly to stare at Milo. Kaida''s eyebrow arched, Colin blinked in disbelief, and Eratz tilted his head with a smirk.

    Milo seemed unaware of what he said, so they just ignored it. Kaida grinned, glancing between the two and back at Eratz.

    "Anyway, you''ve got the idea, Mr. MVP. We need a monster for what''s coming next."

    Colin frowned, wanting to argue, but Milo gently held her arm.

    "Maybe... maybe we should let them do their job?" he said quietly. "I... I can''t do much except heal, but I can do that for them."

    Colin''s shoulders slumped, surprised by Milo''s rare wisdom. Deep down, she knew he was right.

    Up on the Golden Cosmos bench, Victoria leaned against the railing, her breath shallow as she watched the scene unfold. Her eyes glistened with a mixture of pride and overwhelming emotion.

    Beside her, Zara''s hands covered her mouth, her usual composure replaced by wide-eyed hope.

    Mercury leaned forward, her expression shifted from disbelief to a faint, cautious smile. Catarina and Raya exchanged glances, their exhaustion giving way to a shared understanding:

    they might actually win.

    But their joy was short-lived. A movement on the battlefield drew their attention.

    "Damn it..." Mercury murmured, her voice tinged with apprehension.

    On the field, Fredrin''s frustration was palpable. His hands balled into fists, his jaw clenched tightly. His confidence wavered as he watched the Golden Cosmos fighters regroup.

    Before despair could take hold, a shadow moved past him, heavy footsteps reverberating through the ground.

    The air seemed to shimmer as Moses walked forward, steam rising from his body. His muscles tensed, his expression dark and menacing. He no longer focused on maintaining a countering field spell; his full attention was on the Golden Cosmos fighters.

    "I''m tired of this shit," he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "I''ll end them myself."

    Fredrin snapped out of his frustration, his focus sharpening as he fell in line behind Moses. Eratz''s eyes narrowed, his body tensing as he felt the weight of Moses''s presence spreading across the battlefield.

    "Kaida," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Get ready."

    Kaida nodded, straightening herself. Behind them, Colin and Milo exchanged a worried glance. The air grew heavy with anticipation as the final act of the match was about to begin.

 Chapter 230: Titans

    Chapter 230: TitansThe battlefield was terribly quiet as Moses moved forward. Steam rose from his muscles, curling into the air like smoke from a roaring furnace.

    His body seemed to grow bulkier with each step, veins bulging against his skin as his immense power became more apparent. Every step he took echoed across the arena, a deep, resonant sound like a giant marching to war.

    He growled, his voice guttural and low. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "This was a mistake... trying to do this as a team. I''ll finish you myself."

    Kaida''s expression tightened, her concern growing as she instinctively moved closer to Colin and Milo. The two young fighters trembled, their fear palpable as they clung to their positions, their resolve wavering against the pressure Moses exuded.

    In the stands, the tension was unbearable. Everyone''s attention was fixed on the approaching ishtarian, his steps growing heavier and louder, shaking the ground beneath him. His presence was overwhelming, a force of nature intent on destruction.

    Then the camera shifted to Eratz.

    A sharp silence fell over the crowd. For a moment, even Moses''s thundering steps seemed distant.

    Eratz leaned forward, his hands resting on his knees, his shoulders rising and falling as if catching his breath. His white hair clung to his forehead, streaked with faint traces of blood, dirt, and sweat.

    Yet, his face betrayed none of the worry or fear that rippled through the crowd or his team. His crimson eyes locked onto Moses with a calm focus... and then, he smiled.

    The grin wasn''t forced or pained; it was genuine, confident, and simple. It seemed like he was accepting whatever was about to happen.

    The world seemed to hold its breath.

    The audience froze, transfixed by Eratz''s reaction. Victoria gripped the rail tighter, her lips parted slightly. Zara clenched her arms, her eyes wide. Even Tamara straightened, her arms dropping. Everyone was sitting in stunned silence, unable to look away.

    Eratz pushed off his knees and straightened, his movements eerily slow. He began walking toward Moses. His steps were steady, each one resonating like a drumbeat in the quiet arena. Moses noticed the change and quickened his pace, his jaw tightening as his anger flared. The ground cracked beneath him as his pace turned into a determined stride.

    Eratz''s smile widened as he matched Moses''s speed, his crimson eyes glinting. The audience''s anticipation built with every step they took, their movement almost mirroring each other''s rhythm.

    And then, they ran.

    Moses''s massive frame barreled forward, steam pouring off him like a locomotive, his fists clenched tightly, ready to strike. His teeth ground as his eyes burned with fury.

    Eratz charged with equal intensity, his lithe frame glowing faintly from his beastification. His grin grew wider, baring his teeth. Energy crackled around him, the faintest sparks of lightning flickering at his fingertips.

    Finally, they clashed.

    The impact was cataclysmic. A shockwave exploded outward, the sheer force shaking the entire arena. The ground beneath them cracked and splintered, chunks of debris launching into the air.

    Eratz and Moses locked their hands together, muscles straining, as they pushed against one another. Sparks of lightning danced around Eratz, while steam hissed and curled off Moses''s bulking frame.

    Their feet dug into the cracked arena floor, the sheer energy of their contest sending ripples through the battlefield.

    With a guttural roar, Moses broke the stalemate. Using his immense strength, he lifted Eratz effortlessly off the ground and spun him into the air with a powerful kick. The motion was fluid and brutal, sending Eratz rocketing high above the battlefield in a spinning arc.

    Kaida instinctively braced herself, her flames flaring as she prepared to intercept Moses. But the massive fighter paid her no mind. With a tremendous leap, Moses launched himself skyward, his fist raised, ready to crush Eratz mid-air.

    The crowd gasped, their eyes wide as the colossal figure ascended like a missile.

    Eratz''s body sparked with Raijinara''s lightning. In a sudden burst of speed, he vanished in a flash of yellow light, narrowly evading Moses''s devastating strike.

    Before Moses could react, Eratz reappeared behind him, delivering a flurry of electrified punches. Each blow crackled with energy, forcing Moses to grunt in pain as the strikes reverberated through his body.

    With a final, electrifying blast, Eratz propelled Moses downward, sending him crashing into the arena floor. The impact created a massive crater, chunks of stone and dirt flying into the

    air.

    For a moment, silence hung over the arena. Then Moses rose.

    Steam erupted from his body in violent bursts, hissing like a geyser. His aura intensified, shimmering with unbearable heat. His muscles bulged further, veins glowing faintly as his beastification took hold.

    The heat emanating from his body distorted the air around him, making it shimmer like a desert mirage.

    Eratz landed lightly on the cracked ground, his grin widening as his own aura surged. He entered his beastification fully, channeling the powers of all his beasts.

    His body glowed with elemental energy, streaks of lightning, fire, and shadow intertwining. The two warriors lunged at each other again, their movements a blur. The sheer force of their collision created another shockwave that rippled through the arena.

    They exchanged blows with a ferocity that left the audience breathless. Each strike seemed to carry the weight of a mountain, yet both fighters refused to yield.

    Moses swung his steam-covered arm in a wide arc, releasing a burst of scalding energy. Eratz ducked and countered with a lightning-infused uppercut, the crackling energy exploding on impact.

    Using the momentum of Moses''s retaliation, Eratz twisted mid-air, delivering a flaming kick powered by Cinderblaze''s energy.

    Moses stumbled back, his feet digging trenches into the arena floor. But instead of retreating, he used the recoil to propel himself forward, his fist colliding with Eratz''s chest like a

    cannonball.

    The impact sent Eratz flying, but he twisted mid-air, landing gracefully and retaliating with a surge of lightning.

    Beasts began materializing around them, joining the fray. The terrakrus roared as it slammed into one of Moses''s summoned beasts, a towering salamander-like creature radiating molten

    heat.

    The ground trembled as the two creatures clashed, The terrakrus quickly overpowering the salamander''s fire.

    From the shadows, the Thunder Lycaon darted into the battle, its speed unmatched. It tore through Moses''s defensive beasts, its claws crackling with electricity as it left trails of

    destruction in its wake.

    The Aetheri materialized above, glowing with spiritual energy. It created translucent bubbles that confined Moses''s beasts, then shot them with light beams.

    But Moses was an alpha among monsters. His beasts reappeared in greater numbers, each one radiating the heat of his aura. A massive bear-like creature slammed into the Thunder Lycaon, forcing it to retreat momentarily. Meanwhile, Moses''s molten aura was a challenge for the Aetheri''s barriers, and his beasts kept coming in number.

    For a moment, it seemed like the tables were turned... until Cinderblaze and Raijinara joined

    the battle.

    Cinderblaze leaped onto the field, its sleek, fiery body streaking across the battlefield like a comet. With a feral snarl, it tore through Moses''s defenses, its ember-red flames leaving trails of ash in its wake. Raijinara followed, its screech splitting the air as it summoned a storm of lightning bolts that rained down upon Moses''s beasts.

    The tide of the battle shifted again.

    Moses grunted as his beasts were systematically overwhelmed by Eratz''s army. The thunder lycaon darted in and out, striking with surgical precision, while the terrakrus crushed its opponents with devastating seismic attacks. The Aetheri''s spiritual power created openings that Eratz exploited with brutal efficiency.

    Moses roared, summoning more power from his beastification. His movements became

    wilder, his strikes heavier. He launched himself at Eratz, fists blazing with molten energy. But Eratz matched him, using the combined speed of Raijinara and the ferocity of Cinderblaze to

    counter every blow.

    The battlefield became a chaotic storm of fire, lightning, and raw power. Both fighters used the hits they received as trampolines for their next moves, each counterattack more ferocious than the last. Moses''s geyser-like aura erupted violently, while Eratz''s combined beast energies created a dazzling display of destructive synergy.

    With a roar, Moses lunged at Eratz, his molten fist aimed straight at his chest. But Eratz, now a blur of fire and lightning, sidestepped effortlessly and countered with a spinning kick that

    sent Moses sprawling.

    The crowd was spellbound, unable to tear their eyes away from the ferocious clash unfolding before them. Cheers and gasps filled the arena, a wave of awe spreading through the stands as the spectacle of the battle surpassed anything they had ever witnessed.

    This wasn''t just a fight; it was a display of power, resilience, and mastery, a moment destined

    to become legend.

    And then, in the chaos, it happened. A punch couldn''t be returned. A beast couldn''t be interrupted. Moses''s strength was overwhelming, then suddenly not enough. He was fast, but could never touch. He was resilient, but the pain kept building.

    His eyes widened as he witnessed Eratz ascend, the battle tipping irreversibly in his favor.

 Chapter 231: Beyond the Best: A World-Tier Awakens

    Chapter 231: Beyond the Best: A World-Tier AwakensThe battlefield lay before Eratz as a chaotic yet beautiful symphony of motion, energy, and intent.

    The roar of the crowd faded into the background as he focused on the moment, his mind clearer than it had ever been. The world felt sharp, and vivid, as if every movement, every detail had slowed just for him.

    His breathing was steady, his heart pounding in rhythm with the pulsating energy surging through his body.

    He could feel everything across the arena. He could see Kaida, her flames flickering as she shielded Milo and Colin with a determined expression. Her fiery aura danced like a protective barrier around the two younger fighters. Milo''s small hands glowed faintly with healing energy, Colin stood rigid, her fiery fingers trembling.

    Maybe they expected an attack, maybe they couldn''t even see what was happening. Only Kaida showed less anxiety and more determination.

    Fredrin lingered near the edges of the arena, his stance uncertain as he assessed the escalating chaos, his heart seemed hesitant, maybe willing to attack, yet fearing the same fate as Morgiana.

    Eratz felt an uncanny sense of control. It wasn''t arrogance but a calm certainty that he could guide the battle wherever it needed to go. The flow of energy around him, the movements of his opponents, the presence of his allies, everything seemed to align in perfect clarity.

    He was at the center, the maestro of this storm.

    Moses charged, his massive form barreling toward Eratz with steam pouring from his skin. His movements were powerful, deliberate, and intimidating, but Eratz''s smile widened.

    He felt no fear, only a growing exhilaration. As Moses swung a crushing fist, Eratz leaned into his momentum, pivoting gracefully to deliver a spinning kick to Moses''s jaw.

    The strike landed cleanly, sending a ripple through the air, but Moses barely flinched. His towering form absorbed the impact like a mountain enduring a gale.

    Eratz''s grin didn''t waver.

    ''Need more power,'' he thought.

    He saw Moses shift his weight, the intent to retaliate, and the path his attack would follow. Slowing his movement deliberately, Eratz tried to maneuver into the perfect angle, he could dodge, he had the speed and anticipation, but Moses reached him.

    A powerful kick slammed into Eratz''s face, the force of it snapping his head back. His skull rattled with the shock, but his smile grew bigger.

    Rockbound fury.

    A deep roar built within him as his energy exploded outward, his aura surging like an uncontained storm. The power coursed through his veins, amplifying his strength to new levels. He could feel the damage he had taken transforming into raw energy, fueling his every

    move.

    His speed blurred the air around him. With devastating precision, he drove his knee upward into Moses''s chin. The impact was thunderous, snapping Moses''s head back and sending him flying backward.

    This time, the damage was perfect.

    Moses''s intent to strike resurfaced. Eratz saw the path clearly, a punch aimed at his stomach. Once again, he had all the weapons to dodge, but another idea flickered in his mind.

    He used the thunder lycaon''s passive ability and Moses''s fist passed harmlessly through him. The moment of surprise in Moses''s eyes was all Eratz needed.

    "Now," he whispered.

    Summoning his beasts, he called forth Cinderblaze and the Thunder Lycaon, both materializing in flashes of fire and lightning. In perfect synchronization, the three of them launched into a devastating combo.

    Cinderblaze struck with devastating attacks leaving a burn on impact. The Thunder Lycaon followed, faster, more violent, its claws crackling with electricity that often paralysed Moses.

    Eratz completed the combo, his fists surging with an explosive raw power, delivering blow after blow, destroying Moses.

    The battlefield erupted into chaos as fire and electricity intertwined, creating a maelstrom of destruction centered on Moses.

    Eratz and his beasts were juggling Moses high above the battlefield. The massive fighter''s body was caught in an unrelenting storm of fire and lightning.

    Cinderblaze''s fiery claws scorched Moses at every opportunity, while the Thunder Lycaon''s crackling strikes paralyzed his attempts to retaliate.

    Eratz himself darted in and out with explosive punches, each one sending shockwaves rippling through the air.

    Together, they created a relentless rhythm, a brutal dance that left the audience breathless.

    Fredrin, standing on the edge of the chaos, clenched his fists. His jaw tightened as he watched Moses, the pillar of their team, being overwhelmed.

    For the first time, the unshakable fighter felt a pang of fear. If Moses couldn''t match Eratz''s fury, there was no hope. None of them could stand a chance, and they would do the most memorable event of their career.

    With a growl of determination, Fredrin pressed his foot against the cracked earth, readying himself to leap on Kaida and the kids, their only chance of winning.

    The ground cracked beneath him, his powerful legs readying, but Eratz and Moses landed in front of him with a deafening crash before he could jump.

    The ground quaked under their combined weight, debris flying in all directions. The sheer force of their clash sent a shockwave through the arena, momentarily stunning Fredrin mid-

    motion.

    It lasted barely a second. But in that fleeting moment, Fredrin froze.

    Eratz''s burning crimson eyes were locked on him.

    They glowed with a feral intensity, daring him... or rather not... anticipating too much, too far in advance, and missing a chance. Fredrin could feel it, one second too early, and he would have been under Eratz''s feet.

    Eratz could see everything. Not just him, but the entire battlefield. Every movement, every intent, every possibility, it was all within his grasp.

    Face to this display of mastery, the arena was steeped in awe. The reactions from those watching were as varied as they were intense.

    Sia''s eyes shook as she struggled to comprehend what she was witnessing. Rex''s jaw dropped. Aryn leaned forward as if trying to get closer to the action, her mouth moving silently,

    searching for words.

    Leonidas was stunned, frozen in his seat, his usually sharp gaze wide with shock. A little farther away, Eliza slowly removed her glasses, her hands trembling slightly as she stared at the scene, her lips parted in astonishment.

    On Golden Cosmos'' bench, Mercury''s wide eyes followed every move Eratz made. She clutched the railing tightly, her breath hitching as she watched. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Raya was utterly still, her blind gaze fixated in her own way, as though she could feel the awe that the others could only perceive. Ryder and Catarina sat petrified.

    Catarina''s tail flicked once before going still, her ears flat against her head. Zara, standing at the back, had her arms drop to her sides. She had been too stunned even to realize it.

    But it didn''t stop there. In countless homes, the shock echoed.

    Kian and Lila sat motionless on the couch. Kian''s fingers gripped the edge of his seat while Lila covered her mouth with her hand, her expression unreadable except for the clear surprise

    in her wide eyes.

    Further away, Lisa''s face paled. Her hands clasped tightly in front of her as she leaned closer

    to the screen, unable to look away.

    "Eratz..." she whispered, almost inaudibly.

    Rowan, in his own space, shook his head slowly, his eyes narrowing as he tried to process the

    level of Eratz''s display.

    Yet amid the collective awe, three figures reacted differently.

    Victoria straightened her posture, her usual reserved demeanor melting away into something warmer. Her heart swelled with admiration, her lips curling into a small, proud smile. Her blue eyes gleamed as she leaned over the railing, unable to suppress the emotion rising

    within her. She clapped loudly, cheering Eratz with a rare fervor.

    "Yes! That''s it! You''ve got it! Keep going Eratz! You''re amazing!"

    Tamara, on the World Star bench, had her arms crossed again, her expression now softened. Her shoulders relaxed as all her anger melted into pure admiration.

    For the first time, she forgot how played she had been but focused on someone brimming with limitless potential, someone she wished to see grow even stronger. Her lips parted as

    she whispered to herself.

    "Perfect... just perfect." A faint smile crossed her lips, though she didn''t cheer like Victoria, her admiration burned quietly but intensely.

    Kallistra, in the middle of Infinite Twilight''s shock, was euphoric. She leaned back, her arms

    raised in an excited clap. Her excitement was almost childlike, her regal composure giving way to unrestrained delight.

    She saw in Eratz an equal, a rival worthy of her attention on the same table as Victoria,

    Tamara, and herself.

    "Magnificent!" she exclaimed, her voice carrying across the room. "This is what I wanted to

    see. Bravo, Eratz, bravo!"

    Her applause was rhythmic and so genuine that many of Infinite Twilight''s members looked

    at her in confusion.

    The emotions swirling around the arena painted a vivid tapestry of awe, admiration, and

    hope.

    There were a few occasions when one could show talent, a few could confirm it, and even fewer could improve. This was what made the best specials, and at that moment, no one

    doubted it.

    This was the birth of a legend.

    It wasn''t a rookie match anymore, it wasn''t any opponent, maybe they weren''t the best in this

    field, but what mattered was that Eratz surpassed them, he made it look too easy for him.

    There was only a league for people like him, for people able to toy with the continental level. This was the level of a world-tier fighters.

 Chapter 232: Red: Blood and Steel

    Chapter 232: Red: Blood and SteelMoses''s breathing grew ragged, his chest heaving as his body started to give out. His muscles burned, his vision blurred, and yet he refused to fall.

    Summoning every ounce of his power, he kept conjuring beasts, one after another, their forms materializing in a desperate attempt to overwhelm Eratz and his relentless aces.

    But it was futile.

    The Terrakrus dashed across the battlefield, its massive frame crashing into the summoned monsters, each swipe of its tail sending creatures flying.

    The Thunder Lycaon darted through the chaos, its electrified claws ripping through flesh with terrifying speed. Above, the Aetheri floated like a guardian, its translucent glow creating barriers that trapped and crushed Moses''s beasts.

    From the skies, Raijinara rained down devastating bolts of lightning, incinerating clusters of creatures as soon as they appeared.

    In the air, Cinderblaze and Eratz fought Moses, their movements synchronized as if they shared a single mind. Moses was overwhelmed by their combined assault, each blow driving him closer to the edge of unconsciousness.

    "N-No..." he muttered, his voice trembling with desperation. His body swayed, his vision darkening. He could feel his strength slipping away. "I won''t lose... I can''t lose..."

    Then, with a guttural roar, Moses made a decision. It was all or nothing.

    He clenched his teeth, his eyes blazing with determination as he crouched mid-air. His body began to glow, a pulsating light emanating from within.

    Eratz flinched, his instincts screaming danger. Without hesitation, he activated Raijinara''s beastification, lightning wings spreading wide as he flew away.

    Moses''s body exploded with energy. A massive orb of raw power burst outward, a shockwave of destruction that obliterated everything in its radius.

    The ground split apart, debris launched into the air, and a deafening boom shook the entire arena. The audience gasped as the colossal force sent a ripple of terror through the battlefield.

    Fredrin''s eyes gleamed.

    "Now..." he whispered, his body moving in a blur. Using the chaos as his opportunity, he closed the distance between himself and Colin in an instant, his hand outstretched, reaching for her face.

    And then... Kaida intervened.

    With a fierce cry, Kaida shoved Colin aside, her wings flaring as she placed herself between Fredrin and the young fighter. Fredrin''s hand grabbed her face instead, his grip tightening as he snarled.

    Behind them, Moses''s body transformed. His figure grew larger, his muscles bulging grotesquely as he morphed into a half-giant minotaur. Steam hissed from his body as he roared, his monstrous voice echoing across the arena.

    Eratz gritted his teeth, his crimson eyes narrowing as he prepared to charge. But then he flinched, his attention drawn to Kaida.

    Fredrin slammed Kaida into the ground with brutal force, his intent clear as his body glowed with energy. Determined to destroy them, here and now, he unleashed an explosive field spell, the energy radiating outward in a destructive wave, but at the same time, Kaida''s face twisted in rage beneath his hand, and with a defiant roar, she activated her own field spell. Two opposing forces collided.

    Fredrin''s explosion met Kaida''s fire, the two energies clashing violently. The resulting blast ripped through the battlefield, a devastating surge of destruction and flame. Colin and Milo, caught in the shockwave, were blown away, their screams of pain lost in the cacophony. Then, something shielded them.

    Large, crimson wings spread wide, enveloping Colin and Milo in protective warmth. The heat of the battle dissipated around them, replaced by an overwhelming presence that commanded attention.

    Everyone froze, their eyes drawn to the source of the wings.

    A giant dragon stood tall amidst the chaos, its scales gleaming like molten lava. Its massive form radiated an aura of primal power, its amber eyes burning. Smoke curled from its nostrils as it opened its maw, unleashing a torrent of fire that consumed Kaida and Fredrin.

    The flames roared like a living entity, their intensity unmatched as they surged forward. Fredrin''s explosion wavered, the fire overpowering his energy as it engulfed him. Kaida''s own flames seemed to merge with the dragon''s, creating a blaze so fierce it lit up the entire arena. The dragon''s presence was mesmerizing, its sheer size and power a terrifying spectacle. It reared back, its wings stretching wide as it roared, the sound reverberating like an earthquake. The battlefield trembled beneath its might, the ground scorched by its fiery breath.

    Moses lifted his gaze, his monstrous form dwarfed by the beast. For the first time, fear flickered in his eyes as he stared at the creature towering above him.

    [Name: Ignis, The Wildfire]

    The battlefield was a scene of chaos and raw destruction. The fire consumed everything, leaving no corner untouched by its blazing wrath.

    Flames replaced the air, creating an inferno that illuminated the arena in a hellish red glow. Smoke billowed upward, choking the air with ash and embers, as the earth beneath trembled with the force of the destruction.

    In the heart of the blaze, Colin screamed in agony. Her hands glowed fiercely as she pushed her fire healing to its absolute limit, desperately trying to counteract the overwhelming devastation around her.

    Tears streamed down her face but never reached her chin, evaporating before as the relentless heat bore down on her. But the fire was too strong, the force threatening to obliterate her

    efforts.

    "Please..." she whispered through gritted teeth, her voice hoarse from the strain. She clenched her fists, channeling every ounce of her energy, but the flames only seemed to grow fiercer, mocking her struggle.

    Moses felt the searing heat as well. His massive form trembled as he shielded himself with his forearms, his skin blistering under the relentless blaze. In his current form, the heat was an unbearable weakness.

    He needed to take another form to adapt, but he was already in his strongest mode, how could he take a weaker form when his opponent was more dangerous in the fire?

    He roared in frustration, realizing he had no choice but to endure, but every second in this inferno pushed him closer to his limits.

    Fredrin, however, made his decision quickly. In a burst of panic, he shifted his beastification to one of fire, his body adapting to the flames as much as possible. His body shifted, turning red-hot and smoother, resembling molten rock.

    His heart pounded furiously as his gaze darted upward. The giant fire dragon loomed above, its maw glowing ominously as it charged another devastating blast.

    But Fredrin''s focus was not on the dragon. It was on Kaida, the girl pinned beneath him, her face clenched in pain as he gripped her tightly. He had finally gotten his hands on her, and he knew this was his only chance.

    If the Pharaoh returned now, he wouldn''t stand, it would happen anyway, so now was the time to take one point. His fingers dug into her skin as he pinned her harder against the ground, his desperation palpable.

    With a guttural roar, he lifted Kaida''s head and slammed it back down with a sickening thud, delivering a brutal headbutt. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her skull cracked audibly, and blood trickled from her nose, but Fredrin didn''t stop. Again and again, he drove his forehead into hers, each impact more savage than the last.

    "No time... no time..." he growled, his panic mounting as the seconds slipped away.

    Kaida''s fingers twitched, then tightened around Fredrin''s wrists. Her grip was ironclad,

    belying the damage she had sustained. Slowly, she lifted her gaze to meet his, her expression

    shifting.

    There was no pain, no anger, no frustration... only mockery.

    A faint smirk tugged at her bloodied lips as she raised her middle finger right at his face, her

    body shining with a faint, fiery glow.

    Fredrin''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    "What the..."

    And then the fire vanished.

    Fredrin froze mid-motion, his instincts screaming at him to look up. His head tilted back, and

    his eyes widened in horror.

    Above them, all the fire in the battlefield had converged into a single, brilliant point. It

    swirled and crackled, a molten sphere of destruction gathered around Eratz''s clenched fist.

    He hovered in the air, his silhouette framed by the blazing inferno as his crimson eyes burned

    with unrelenting focus.

    "Ah..." Fredrin whispered, his voice barely audible.

    He scrambled to stand, releasing Kaida as panic overtook him. But before he could fully rise, Kaida''s hand shot out, gripping his arm with surprising strength.

    "Get your ass..." she rasped, her voice raw. Then, with every ounce of strength left in her

    battered body, she drove her head upward. "Back here!!!" The headbutt landed with a resounding, bone-cracking thud, like a thunderclap in the chaos.

    The sheer force shattered Fredrin''s nose, a violent spray of blood painting the air as he staggered back, his face contorted in shock and pain.

    Kaida''s body shone brighter and unleashed a burning wave of aura, while Eratz''s fist landed

    squarely on Fredrin''s neck.

    The explosion that followed the two attacks was cataclysmic. Fire and energy erupted outward, a blinding wave of destruction that shook the entire arena.

    The ground shattered beneath them, and the air itself seemed to ripple from the force of the impact. Fredrin''s body crumpled under the blow, the sheer power severing his consciousness through a slow, long, and painful process of destruction.

 Chapter 233: The Dance of Giants

    Chapter 233: The Dance of GiantsThe explosion ripped through the battlefield with the force of a meteor crashing to earth.

    Fire erupted in all directions, a feral and uncontrollable beast that consumed everything in its path. The ground quaked, and a deafening roar tore through the air as the blast spread outward. The heat was unbearable, the light blinding, an apocalyptic scene that swallowed the entire arena in its blazing wrath.

    Colin''s eyes widened, and her breath hitched as the fiery wave surged toward her and Milo. The flames roared like an unrelenting wave, ready to incinerate everything.

    Her body moved before her mind caught up.

    She stepped forward, trembling but resolute, and spread her arms wide, standing between the blast and Milo.

    "No... not now," she whispered, her voice trembling, then screamed, "NOT NOW!"

    Her hands ignited, fire pouring from her palms as she summoned every ounce of her power. She forced the raging inferno into healing flames, trying to counteract its destruction, but the fire was too much.

    It seared her hands, her arms, her entire body. Her clothes burned away in patches, exposing blistered and reddened skin. Smoke rose from her frame as the heat enveloped her, yet she held her ground.

    The pain was excruciating, a searing agony that threatened to break her. Her knees buckled, her screams of torment muffled by the roar of the blast. Tears evaporated before they could fall, and her vision blurred with sweat and ash. But in this hell, Colin gave everything. She refused to fall. She refused to waste the efforts of her team.

    Her thoughts were a chaotic storm, each one sharper than the pain consuming her body. They''ve fought so hard... I can''t let this be in vain.

    If I stand... Milo will... Keep going... keep... hurt... it hurts!

    She screamed again, her voice raw and unyielding as she forced the fire around her to submit. Her flames intertwined with the raging inferno, turning it into a fiery healing wave that swept behind her.

    In the stands, Cassie clutched Roger''s arm, her hands trembling, tears streaming down her face.

    "Colin... oh, Colin," she whispered, her voice trembling with both fear and awe.

    Roger''s jaw tightened, his eyes red-rimmed as he tried to steady his wife, but his own tears betrayed him.

    "Our little girl," he murmured, his voice cracking.

    They clung to each other, powerless to intervene but overwhelmed with both pride and anguish at the sight of their daughter enduring such unimaginable pain.

    Meanwhile, Kian and Lila sat frozen, their earlier jealousy evaporating in the heat of the moment. Kian''s nails dug into his thighs, his lips pressed into a thin line. "How... how can she do this?" he whispered. Lila, in shock, could only shake her head.

    The audience could only watch, stunned, as Colin transformed destruction into salvation.

    Don''t stop. Don''t stop.

    The fire spread across the battlefield, but behind Colin, instead of consuming it, the flames coated everything in a layer of raging, golden light. A new fire field spell enveloped Colin and Milo, not one of destruction but of relentless, churning flames.

    At the center of the chaos, the crater where Eratz, Kaida, and Fredrin had clashed was a smoldering inferno. The ground glowed molten red, like the heart of an erupting volcano. The air shimmered with heat waves, but the three combatants were nowhere to be seen.

    Moses''s roar broke through the fiery haze, his body trembling as he struggled to endure. The sheer size of his form now betrayed him; the fire scorched his massive frame, his imposing stature becoming a prison of agony.

    Blisters erupted across his skin, and his muscles twitched uncontrollably as he fought against the unrelenting heat.

    "ENOUGH!" he bellowed, his voice hoarse and raw. He couldn''t take it anymore.

    Desperation turned into fury, and he charged forward, his massive legs pounding against the scorched earth.

    In his frantic sprint, he felt two presences. His bloodshot eyes locked onto Colin, her head bowed, her hair falling over her face. She stood in the center of the flames, her arms still spread wide, unmoving. Behind her, Milo was encased in a shimmering pinkish bubble, his small hands glowing with a faint light.

    Moses''s mind raced. He would crush them, eliminate them, and end this infernal nightmare. He changed direction, veering toward them. His massive frame barreled forward like a runaway train, the ground quaking beneath his weight.

    Milo''s eyes narrowed as the monstrous figure loomed closer. In a flash, he vanished, disappearing into the fiery haze. But Colin didn''t move.

    She stood her ground, her head still bowed, her arms still outstretched. The fire around her raged like a living thing, her silhouette framed by the golden inferno.

    Moses reached Colin, his massive fist descending like a hammer of doom. The flames illuminated his monstrous form, casting a horrifying shadow that seemed to swallow the battlefield.

    The crowd gasped, some shielding their faces, unable to look away from the impending devastation.

    Then, a piercing, haunting cry echoed across the arena.

    Milo appeared behind Moses, his hands raised and trembling, releasing a loud and chilling wail, one of his calamity beast''s powers. The sound reverberated through the battlefield, an unearthly, disorienting noise that seemed to pierce directly into the mind.

    Moses''s vision blurred, his balance faltering. His fist missed Colin, slamming into the ground instead. The force of the blow caused the earth to shatter, but his hand was caught in thick, twisting vines that emerged from the ground.

    A second vine shot out, wrapping gently around Colin''s waist and pulling her away from the danger.

    Milo seized the opportunity, using the roots, he began to sap Moses''s strength, draining his energy and transferring it to Colin.

    Colin gasped, her body weak but slowly rejuvenating as the force stolen from Moses flowed into her. Yet, the reprieve was brief.

    Moses roared in fury, his raw strength erupting in a blast that obliterated the vines. His fist emerged, bigger, way bigger, and bulky, swinging in a brutal semi-arc, aimed at both Milo and Colin with deadly precision.

    Milo''s eyes widened in panic. The speed and power were too much; he couldn''t react in time. The world seemed to slow as the massive fist closed in.

    Then, Kaida appeared.

    Her battered body moved like a blur, her draconic legs propelling her forward. She intercepted Moses''s fist with a fierce kick, redirecting it downward with a thunderous clash. The ground cracked beneath the force, and Kaida landed lightly on the giant fist.

    Time seemed to freeze as Milo stared at her, his young eyes wide with awe. Kaida turned her bloodied face toward him, her grin defiant despite the missing teeth.

    Before he could react, Kaida was on the move. She sprinted up Moses''s massive arm with the agility of a predator, her draconic claws glinting in the fiery light. Reaching his face, she slashed across his cheek, leaving a vivid red mark that pulsed with energy.

    The mark ignited, exploding violently and forcing Moses to stagger back. He growled in pain, clutching his face.

    Kaida immediately unleashed a fire field spell that swept across the battlefield, but this time, the flames did not linger, they converged, spiraling upward into a blazing vortex that gathered above Eratz''s raised fist.

    With a roar, Eratz descended from the heavens, his fist glowing with the concentrated energy of the fire field spell. The impact was cataclysmic, a blast that rippled across the battlefield, sending shockwaves through the arena. Moses was sent sprawling, his massive form shaking

    under the force of the attack.

    But it wasn''t over.

    Kaida dashed forward again, her body igniting again. She leaped onto Moses''s arm as he tried

    to rise, slashing deeply across his head. Another red mark erupted, glowing ominously before

    detonating in a fiery burst.

    Moses roared, reeling from the pain, but Kaida was relentless.

    Once more, she released a fire field spell, the flames rushing upward in a focused stream toward Eratz. The golden-red light of the fire wrapped around his fist as he readied another strike and delivered the second punch.

    The explosion was even more devastating than the first, a blinding flash of fire and energy

    that left the crowd gasping.

    Moses struggled to stand, his breath labored and his movements sluggish. Yet Kaida pressed on, her blood dripping over her wide grin. She lunged at him one last time, slashing across his neck with her draconic hand.

    The red mark she left pulsed brighter than before, and the explosion that followed shook the

    very ground they stood on.

    Her final fire field spell enveloped the battlefield, the flames roaring as they spiraled into the sky. The arena fell silent as the blazing energy condensed around Eratz''s fist again.

    Eratz hovered above, his crimson eyes burning, under him, the firelight reflected on Moses'' white eyes.

    With a burst of speed, he shot downward, his fist descending like a meteor.

    The final impact was cataclysmic.

    A black-and-white blast erupted, consuming Moses in a surge of fire and energy that obliterated everything in its radius. The ground shattered, and a wave of raw power rippled outward, silencing the arena.

    For a moment, there was nothing but blinding light and deafening silence. The air trembled

    with the aftermath, the sheer power of the blast creating a moment of stillness that held the

    audience captive.

    The crowd was frozen in place, their faces pale with shock. Breathless whispers passed through the stands, but no one dared to speak aloud.

    Victoria stood rigid, her fingers white-knuckled on the railing, her wide eyes trembling.

    Tamara had taken an unconscious step forward, her expression a mix of disbelief and awe, her lips parted in a silent gasp. Kallistra clapped slowly, her face split into an incredulous smile as her laughter, half-disbelieving, broke the silence.

    As the smoke began to clear, the world held its breath.

    The fiery glow dimmed, revealing a smoldering crater at the center of the battlefield. The

    ground was charred black, red veins glowing faintly beneath the surface, a testament to the

    sheer devastation.

    All eyes fixed on the center, the crowd waiting, hoping for a sign.

    And then they emerged.

    Eratz and Kaida stood at the center of the crater, their bodies battered and bloodied, yet

    unbroken. Their body were illuminated by the faint glow of lingering embers, and at their feet lay Moses, unconscious and defeated, back to his normal appearance.

    For a heartbeat, the arena was silent, the collective disbelief almost suffocating. And then the

    dam broke.

    The crowd erupted into a tidal wave of cheers and applause, their voices shaking the very air. The roar was deafening, a symphony of awe and admiration that echoed through the night. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    [World Star 4-5 Golden Cosmos]

 Chapter 234: Blood and Glory

    Chapter 234: Blood and GloryUnder the roar of the world, the battlefield lay quiet for a moment. Smoke curled upward from the smoldering crater, and the faint glow of embers illuminated the battered figures at its center.

    Colin stood shakily, her body trembling as Milo supported her. Her clothes were torn, reduced to barely enough fabric to cover her modesty. Her skin was marred with burns, her hair singed, but her spirit held firm. Milo''s small hands glowed with healing energy, his face etched with worry as he tried to keep her conscious.

    "Colin, it''s over, just a little more," Milo said, his voice cracking, fearing to waste everything by letting her down now.

    In the crater, Eratz and Kaida stood battered but victorious. Kaida''s face was a mask of blood, streaked across her face and chin, while Eratz''s nose and mouth dripped crimson. Despite their battered state, their eyes burned with an indomitable fire. They turned to each other, their movements quick and sharp.

    Their hands slapped together in a firm, loud clap, their gazes fixing on the crowd as they grinned through their pain.

    "Hell yeah," Kaida exclaimed.,

    "Damn right," Eratz replied.

    Above, the announcer''s voice cracked as he struggled to contain his emotion. His words echoed through the arena, trembling with disbelief and awe.

    "Ladies and gentlemen..." he began, his voice rising, "the miracle has been achieved! Golden Cosmos has done it! They are the winners of this night of legends!"

    The announcement sent a shockwave through the crowd.

    The arena erupted.

    Rylas and Braun sat frozen on their bench, their expressions pale and disbelieving. Rylas''s mouth hung open slightly, his eyes darting between the crater and the scoreboard. Braun could only clench his fists, his knuckles trembling. Neither could process the reality that they, the top agency, had been bested.

    Zara''s knees buckled as the weight of the victory struck her. She fainted, collapsing into the arms of a nearby staff member, her emotions overwhelming her. Ryder fell to his knees, his hands covering his face as tears streamed freely.

    "They... they really did it," he whispered.

    Catarina''s hands shot to her head in disbelief.

    "No way... no fucking way!" she exclaimed, spinning around before grabbing Raya and lifting her off the ground like the humblest bag she ever grabbed. "Raya! We won!"

    Raya''s mouth opened with joy, but her breath was crushed out of her by Catarina''s exuberant embrace. She managed a faint laugh, her arms flailing slightly.

    "We... really... did," she murmured, her voice shaky.

    Mercury jumped from her seat, a wild grin on her face, but her celebration was cut short by a sharp gasp of pain as she clutched her ribs.

    "Ah! Damn it... we did it! We did it!!!" she shouted, still laughing through the pain.

    The staff of Golden Cosmos erupted in pandemonium. Some screamed, others jumped into each other''s arms, while a few simply sat down, stunned and overwhelmed. Relief and exhilaration spread like wildfire as they celebrated the impossible.

    Victoria remained standing at the edge of the arena, her hands gripping the railing. Her chest rose and fell heavily, her breath unsteady. She was pushed beyond her limit, and tears welled in her eyes.

    For a long moment, she said nothing, her gaze fixed on the victorious team on the battlefield, but also on those who fought and made this result possible on the sideline.

    The emotions swirled within her: disbelief, awe, and a deep, profound relief.

    She thought of so many reasons why she had retired, the belief that her time had passed, that she couldn''t do it anymore, and only hope for the new generation to carry the mantle.

    And now, before her, that hope was realized. The new generation had proven itself, with Eratz standing as the crown jewel of that future.

    "They did it," she whispered, her voice trembling. "The future is here."

    She clapped a slow and deliberate applause, her face shining with pride and joy. "Thank you..." she shouted, her voice cracking with emotion. "Thank you so much everyone..."

    Her gaze shifted to Tamara, who stood silent, her hands hanging limply at her sides. Tamara''s eyes scanned the battlefield, her expression unreadable. The two locked eyes briefly. Victoria nodded, almost as an apology, but Tamara didn''t react, only raising her eyebrows, then looked away, hiding a smile.

    In the Infinite Twilight section, the air was thick with tension and disbelief. Leonidas sat rigid, his face pale. He seemed completely lost, searching for some explanation for what he had just witnessed.

    Next to him, a sudden noise drew his attention. Kallistra''s hands clapped together, each sound sharp and animated. She stood, her expression euphoric, her body nearly vibrating with

    excitement.

    "Magnificent!" she declared, her voice ringing out above the murmurs of her stunned teammates. She turned, her eyes alight with amusement. "Congratulations, Cosmos! Truly, well done! Oh, Tamara..." She smirked. "Looks like your team wasn''t quite ready for this, huh? That''s for always ruining my plans, you oldy!"

    The rest of Infinite Twilight''s team sat frozen, unable to muster a response to her energy.

    The impact of Golden Cosmos''s victory was immediate and monumental.

    Across the globe, social media exploded with reactions to the upset of the century. Fans debated the win, splitting between praising Golden Cosmos''s brilliance and criticizing World Star''s missteps.

    World Star''s key errors became a hot topic: placing Tamara in the 1v1 instead of Fredrin or Rylas, and Braun''s absence in the decisive 4v4.

    These decisions, seen as either arrogance or overconfidence, sparked heated discussions. Yet, for most, these details faded next to Golden Cosmos''s incredible display of skill and heart. The rising agency transformed overnight. From special to reference, Golden Cosmos now stood as a major force in the competitive scene, their victory heralding a new era and cementing their stars as the future of the sport.

    As the crowd continued to roar, the members of Golden Cosmos began to gather in the center of the battlefield.

    The team, battered and bruised, embraced one another with unfiltered joy. At the heart of it was Eratz, the hero of the 4v4, standing tall despite his injuries.

    On his back, Colin clung to him, her small frame leaning heavily against him as tiredness finally sent her to the world of dreams. Her singed clothes and burn marks told the story of her bravery, but now, in the safety of her team, she could rest.

    Mercury was the first to reach Eratz, her face lighting up with a mixture of pride and relief.

    She threw her arms around him, her ribs attacking her, but ignored in the moment.

    "You did it," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "You really did it."

    Milo followed, his small arms wrapping tightly around Eratz''s leg, tears streaming down his

    cheeks.

    Catarina was next, bounding over with a feline grace that ended in a fierce hug for Kaida, Catarina''s head bumping into Kaida''s face, making her let out a yelp of pain.

    "I can''t believe it! We actually won!" Catarina exclaimed, her tail flicking wildly as she clung

    to Kaida.

    Ryder and Raya joined the huddle, their faces flushed with excitement. Ryder slapped Eratz on

    the arm, grinning ear to ear.

    "You''re a legend, my guy," he said, his voice brimming with pride.

    Raya stood beside him, her usually calm demeanor softened by a small, genuine smile. She

    reached out, her hand brushing Colin''s hair gently.

    Victoria finally made her way to the group, her composure faltering as she wiped at the tears

    streaming down her face.

    Her voice trembled as she spoke.

    "You''ve done it. You''ve made history. I couldn''t be prouder of all of you."

    Her gaze swept over the team, taking in their battered yet triumphant faces. "Thank you for proving that the future of Golden Cosmos is brighter than I ever dared to hope. You''re all...

    oh..."

    Before she could say more, a figure approached, cutting through the celebration like a blade through silk. Tamara.

    Her expression unreadable as she stopped just short of the group. The atmosphere shifted, the celebratory chatter fading into an uneasy silence.

    Victoria''s tears halted as she turned to face her old friend, her back straightening

    instinctively.

    Tamara''s eyes flicked over each member of Golden Cosmos, her gaze lingering on her.

    "You know," she began. "everyone''s been calling this the Night of Stars. I came here expecting to be entertained, maybe even a little injured too. But now?"

    She crossed her arms, a wry smile forming.

    "I feel robbed. Don''t get me wrong," she said, her eyes scanning the group. "You played me perfectly. Every move. Every setup. I''ll give it to you, genius, really. Especially you." Her gaze settled on Ryder. "The mascot who had the played the beast master just to make me waste a

    point, you''re very brillant."

    Before Ryder could respond, Catarina stepped forward, her arms flailing dramatically.

    "Hey! Ryder''s not just a mascot! He''s OUR mascot!"

    Everyone groaned and shot her tired looks. Tamara laughed, a genuine sound that broke the

    tension.

    "Don''t worry," she said, her tone lighter now. "It''s a shame, but I know we''ll get our real match one day, Eratz." Her eyes locked onto his. "No teams, no restraints. Just you and me. All

    out. And now I have a huge grudge against you."

    Eratz grinned, his crimson eyes glinting.

    "Looking forward to it."

    Tamara''s smile softened for a moment, almost genuine, before she tilted her head slightly.

    "You know, you''re really good. Too good, in fact. Maybe you should consider joining my

    agency. Just a thought."

    Victoria''s voice cut through the air.

    "Tamara."

    Tamara raised a hand as if to ward off the inevitable reprimand.

    "Girl, come on, you already have the water girl, the fire girl, and that blue dragon girl. You

    don''t need him."

    Her tone was teasing, but there was a flicker of sincerity in her eyes as she glanced back at

    Victoria.

    The two locked eyes for a beat before they both burst into laughter, the sound ringing out amidst the fading fireworks.

    Tamara turned on her heel, her back now to the team.

    "Well, I lost. And I''m not a liar." She glanced over her shoulder at Eratz. "You know what''s

    left now."

    Eratz''s eyes widened slightly as he realized. He nodded, his expression turning serious.

    Tamara''s voice dropped to a murmur, audible only to those nearest. "Backstage. You''ll get what you''ve been waiting for." With that, she strode off, disappearing into the shadows of the

    arena.

    The team stood in silence, the weight of her words settling over them. Fireworks continued to burst overhead, casting fleeting light on their faces.

    "This is it," Kaida finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "The moment we''ve been

    waiting for."

    Eratz glanced at Mercury, who nodded. Catarina''s usual playfulness was replaced by a rare seriousness. Ryder''s hands clenched into fists, his excitement barely contained, while Milo still processed the monumental battle they''d just survived.

    Above them, the fireworks reached their crescendo, painting the night in a symphony of

    colors.

    A little later, the arena had started to empty.

    The public filed out slowly, their conversations a mixture of awe and exhaustion after the

    unforgettable battle.

    The fireworks had faded, leaving only faint traces of smoke drifting across the night sky. The energy of the night lingered, but the spectacle had concluded.

    Backstage, the Golden Cosmos team was scattered. Most of them were in the infirmary, resting and receiving treatment for their injuries.

    Eratz had left with Victoria to retrieve the orb, the prize they had fought so hard to obtain.

    Meanwhile, Mercury stood alone in the bathroom, her hand pressed against the wall as she steadied herself.

    Her other hand gingerly held her ribs, the sharp ache from her earlier injuries refusing to

    subside. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She took a deep breath, closing her eyes as she tried to control her respiration.

    Her reflection stared back at her from the mirror. Sweat glistened on her brow, and her

    expression was marred by exhaustion.

    A sense of unease crept over her, despite the damages received, it wasn''t her first battle, she

    should have been able to endure it, especially now that it was over.

    But then, a sudden wave of dizziness hit her, and her stomach churned violently.

    Her breath hitched as she stumbled toward the sink, gripping its edges tightly.

    Without warning, she doubled over and retched, the sound echoing in the empty space.

    She clutched her stomach, a cold sweat breaking out across her skin as the nausea overwhelmed her.

    Her gaze shifted to the sink as she rinsed her mouth, her fingers trembling.

    The room felt heavier now, a quiet moment filled with uncertainty. Mercury straightened, her eyes lingering on her reflection for a moment longer.

    With a sigh, she pushed herself away from the sink and exited the bathroom, her steps slower than usual as she rejoined the emptying halls of the arena.

 Chapter 235: The World I Want

    Chapter 235: The World I WantOutside the arena, under the pale glow of scattered lights, Eratz stood with Victoria, facing Tamara.

    "You came here before even seeing the medics. Guess you really are impatient," Tamara began, her tone calm but her eyes scanning their faces thoroughly. She sighed, folding her

    arms. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "I''ve seen what you can do, and since you won, I''ll give you the black orb as promised. But listen to me for a moment."

    Victoria''s gaze shifted to Eratz. He nodded silently, his crimson eyes locked on Tamara.

    Tamara continued.

    "Your potential is undeniable. But this path you''re walking... it''s not just about you. It''s about everyone. The world as it is, it works. Is it perfect? Never. But it''s balanced. Humans coexist with beasts. We, beast masters, maintain a fragile peace by integrating our powers without overshadowing the lives of those around us. That balance took centuries to build. Do you really want to risk breaking it? That doesn''t sound like you."

    Her gaze bore into him, searching for a response. Eratz only raised an eyebrow, but because he wondered if she was still on the subject. Tamara pressed on, her voice quieter now.

    "You''re chasing something you might not fully understand. The legendary beasts... they''re not just unique creatures. They''re living concepts. Tampering with them could undo everything. The world doesn''t need more power, Eratz. It needs stability. Safety. What you''re seeking could unravel it all."

    Victoria shifted, her voice breaking the silence. It was steady, almost contemplative.

    "You''re not wrong, Tammy. The risks are real. But forcing someone to follow a path they didn''t choose? That''s exactly the part of you that makes you look like Kallistra. I trust Eratz, so I''ll stand by whatever he chooses."

    Tamara''s gaze snapped to Victoria, her voice firm but not defensive.

    "I''m not forcing him, Vicky. I trust him too, but I also know the risks. I''m trying to make him see reason before he dooms us."

    Victoria shook her head slightly, a faint smile playing on her lips.

    "I feel like depending on what you hear next, you might just change your opinion."

    Eratz finally shifted, his gaze flickering between the two women. He took a deep breath, his voice calm and measured as he broke the tension.

    "Well, I was expecting a lesson about how dangerous the legendary beast were, not that you would literally say an apocalyptic plot... But... Tamara, I understand your concern, and I can''t promise you anything. Not because I don''t want to, but because you can only ever know yourself. I can''t say I''ll do or won''t do something, and you''re right to doubt me... even to refuse what I''m chasing."

    Victoria murmured his name softly, but Eratz gave her a reassuring nod. His gaze steadied as The turned back to Tamara.

    "The truth is, the more time passes, the more I feel... new things. I like many things, actually. And I want to preserve them. I''m also a beast master, and I wish to see these things if they exist. The legendaries are one part of my world; this life I''ve built is another. In the end, it''s the same world, and maybe that''s enough of a reason to keep walking this path, even if I don''t know where it leads."

    Tamara studied him, her expression contemplative. Finally, she let out a faint chuckle, shaking her head.

    "I didn''t last long in school, young man. My brain is binary. I''m asking you for a no, I''m evil, or a yes, I understand."

    A faint smile touched Eratz''s lips.

    "Well, sadly for you, my mind isn''t as binary as your two orbs. But maybe it''ll make more sense after I hear the other version."

    Before Tamara could understand the meaning, the sharp clack of heels echoed through the night.

    The sound was piercing, each step resonating in the stillness. Both Victoria and Tamara turned, their gazes locking onto the figure emerging from the shadows.

    Victoria''s expression flickered with surprise, while Tamara''s eyes narrowed.

    Out of the darkness strode Kallistra, her silver-gray hair shimmering under the scattered lights.

    Her posture was regal, her movements slow, as though the little reunion had waited just for her presence.

    Behind her, Leonidas loomed, his expression slightly irritated.

    "Well, well," Kallistra said with a playful lilt, a sly smile curling her lips. "The voices of

    reason convened for a midnight sermon."

    Tamara crossed her arms, her tone dry.

    "Who let the dog out?"

    Kallistra chuckled, tilting her head.

    "Oh, how vulgar. But don''t worry, dear. I never waste my wit on losers. I''m here to listen to someone worth my time... a wise man who doesn''t lose like an idiot." Her sharp eyes shifted to Eratz. "You wanted to meet me? I must say, I''m pleased by the invitation."

    Tamara''s gaze darted to Eratz, questioning. He met her eyes and gave a small nod before speaking.

    "Kallistra, what''s your real goal in all of this? Why are you looking for the legendary beasts?" Kallistra froze for a moment, wondering if she had heard that right, then as Eratz said nothing more, she chuckled.

    "My, my... Wait... for real? What is this?"

    Kallistra''s laughter was soft, almost amused, as she stepped closer.

    "That''s a ridiculous question. Eratz, you''re pretty smart, how could you ask something so na?ve? You expect me to tell you that I''m evil so don''t listen to me?"

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed, his tone sharpening.

    "If you can''t be honest, then there''s no point in continuing this. I''ll never follow you ever again. This is your only chance to bring me to your side... without manipulating me."

    Tamara and Victoria both stiffened, their surprise evident. Kallistra''s smile faded, her gaze locking on Eratz with sudden intensity.

    A tense silence followed, the air crackling with unspoken tension. Behind her, Leonidas shifted uncomfortably before speaking.

    "Kallistra, are you really going to tell him? It''s insane. You shouldn''t..."

    Kallistra raised a single finger, silencing him. Her eyes remained fixed on Eratz, her

    expression unreadable.

    "Hmm so you mean I won''t have to shake the world to convince you?" she finally said, her

    voice as smooth as glass.

    She smirked, folding her arms as she turned to Leonidas with an exaggerated wave.

    "Well, what''s my goal, what''s my goal? Leo, why don''t you enlighten us with your more

    passionate explanations?"

    Leonidas folded his arms, his expression darkening.

    "Why should I? He hasn''t accepted anything. What''s the point in sharing our plan if he''s not

    even committed?"

    Kallistra''s gaze turned icy, her voice sharp enough to cut through the growing tension.

    "You should because you''re not in your territory anymore, deary," she commanded, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You don''t want to see me stop smiling, right?"

    Her words sliced through the air, silencing even the faint hum of background noise.

    Victoria''s eyes widened slightly and Tamara arched an eyebrow, both surprised to see her

    showing something else than annoying joy for once.

    The air seemed to shift, as though something rippled through the space, too faint to grasp but impossible to ignore.

    Leonidas''s jaw tightened, his irritation visible as he glared at Kallistra. But he relented, his

    voice a low rumble as he began.

    "What''s our goal? Well, our goal is to fix a broken world. You''re sitting here, living in a

    system that treats us as less than what we are. Beast masters are the backbone of this world. We''re the ones who keep it from falling into chaos, who tame the beasts and hold the line. Yet, how are we treated? Like common people. Disposable. Laws bind us, ignorance restrains us, and society keeps us in cages while we''re the ones protecting it. It''s pathetic." Tamara, Victoria and Eratz had different facial expressions, but mostly intrigue. What was he

    talking about?

    Leonidas took a step closer, his towering presence amplifying the weight of his words.

    "Tamara, you paint such a beautiful picture of balance, a harmonious world where beast masters like us quietly tend the threads of chaos, unrecognized, unthanked. Is that what you''re calling balance? A world that chains its strongest protectors, that enforces its laws on those who''ve already sacrificed their freedom to keep it safe?" His lips twisted into a bitter smile. "That''s not balance. That''s servitude."

    Tamara''s eyes narrowed, her voice cold.

    "And who''re you? The dog''s dog?"

    Leonidas''s gaze hardened.

    "I am someone who wonders how, in a world where a beast could destroy a town, the people who can stop them aren''t treated like real heroes, instead of faceless celebrities. We should be free to do anything. Free to act without the fear of being caged by those too weak to wield the power we command. We are the foundation of this world, Tamara. Without us, everything would fall apart. And yet, they treat us as expendable. I understand you have no vision, that might explain why you lost to them, but in my case..."

    "Careful with your mouth. Talk to me like that again, and I''ll show you why you shouldn''t want a free world for me, boy," Tamara interrupted, her tone cutting.

    Leonidas clenched his jaw, visibly holding back a retort. Kallistra''s laughter cut through the

    tension like a blade.

    "Oh, Tamara, must you always be so harsh?" Kallistra said, waving a hand lazily. "Leonidas may be an ant, but he''s my ant, and he has a ridiculous dream but at least he believes in it." Leonidas frowned deeply, the muscles in his jaw tightening.

    "Are you seriously saying that?" he snapped, his voice laced with disbelief. "We''re on the same side, you''re supposed to support me."

    Kallistra turned to him, her sly smile widening as she folded her arms, her posture radiating

    ease and mischief.

    "Oh, Leonidas, dear, we''re on the same side," she said, her tone light and mocking. "But as

    business partners. Partners, yes, but not allies. We have shared interests, not shared goals." Leonidas''s brows furrowed further. "That''s ridiculous. We''re working toward the same thing, a world where beast masters can finally rise above the restrictions this society places on us."

    Kallistra''s eyes gleamed, and her laughter subsided into a quiet, almost intimate chuckle. She leaned forward slightly, her voice dropping as if sharing a secret.

    "Leonidas, my poor, passionate friend, you''ve always had such lofty dreams of liberation and equality. But me?" She placed a hand lightly on her chest, her grin softening into something far more dangerous. "I''ve never cared about any of that. The world you want? I couldn''t care less. It''s just a consequence. I joined you first because because you had that half breed ishtarian, then we made an alliance since your dream was accessible with my goal."

    Leonidas''s mouth fell open slightly, his shock evident.

    "Then what the hell are you doing here?"

    There was a moment of silence where every gaze was on Kallistra, and then, her smile appeared under the light.

 Chapter 236: A Table For the Insanes

    Chapter 236: A Table For the InsanesKallistra straightened, brushing imaginary dust from her sleeve.

    "Simple. I want one thing and one thing only: unique beasts. The stronger, the rarer, the more calamitous, the better. I dream of a world where every single beast is a masterpiece of chaos and beauty, a world teeming with living calamities."

    Her voice rose slightly, her words carrying a fervor that bordered on madness.

    "Imagine it. A world where no two beasts are the same. No mundane creatures, no boring repetitions. Every beast, a force of nature, a singularity unto itself."

    "That''s insane," Victoria muttered, taking a step back. "You''re crazy."

    "Am I?" Kallistra countered, her tone sharp but playful. "Is it so wrong to want to create? To add to the tapestry of life rather than diminish it? What''s evil about that?" She turned her gaze to Eratz, her expression shifting to something softer, almost reverent.

    "Evil is what they call people like us, Eratz. People like you, Ishtarians. They look at your kind and see monsters. But I? I see gifts of nature. And you, Eratz, you''re the finest gift of all. A hunter of unique beasts. My dream boy, and the key to my fantasy. We''re soulmates, Eratz, whether you''ve realized it or not. You and I? We share something no one else understands. The thrill of the hunt, the passion for discovery, the desire to uncover what lies beyond the ordinary. Look at the beasts you''ve hunted, the numbers, the power. You and I are the same." She spread her arms wide, her voice swelling with enthusiasm.

    "So let''s not waste time pretending otherwise. Let''s team up. Let''s find the legendaries together. And let''s create a world where we''ll never be able to catch every unique beast because there will always be more. A world where every step is a new discovery, every hunt a new masterpiece. And if we ever reach the end?" Her grin turned feral. "Then we''ll create more. And more. And more. Until our last breath, Eratz. Until the very end."

    A heavy silence hung in the air after Kallistra''s impassioned speech.

    She stood motionless, her chest rising and falling with each breath, her wide smile still spread across her face.

    Her arms remained outstretched, as if inviting everyone to embrace her vision.

    Tamara''s voice broke the silence, barely above a whisper.

    "You''re insane."

    Kallistra''s smile faltered for a moment before she closed her mouth and nodded, her expression unfazed.

    "Yeah. So what?"

    Leonidas stared at her, his face twisted with disgust.

    "I was right to doubt you," he muttered.

    Kallistra turned her head toward him, her tone light yet sharp.

    "Oh, Leonidas, don''t act so righteous. You had no choice back then, and you still don''t. You''ll help me anyway, because I''m the one with the white orb."

    Leonidas''s jaw tightened, his anger barely restrained. He looked away, his hands clenched into fists.

    Eratz''s soft laugh broke the tension.

    "I knew something was off about you, Kallistra. But not to this extent."

    Kallistra raised an eyebrow, tilting her head.

    "And?"

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to Tamara.

    "I think I get it now. You want constancy, a world where everything stays balanced. That''s noble."

    Kallistra''s triumphant laughter interrupted him.

    "And yet you''ll find my way more..."

    "But you''re insane," Eratz cut her off, his tone firm.

    Kallistra''s laughter stopped abruptly.

    "Excuse me?"

    Eratz nodded.

    "You are crazy. Insane. What you want is absurd, especially since you understand that it would put everyone in danger."

    Kallistra crossed her arms, her smile fading into a somber expression.

    "I see," she said with a sad smile. "Go on, then. Let''s hear your brilliant understanding."

    Eratz''s voice softened.

    "I don''t condemn you. I understand you more now. You''re not evil. You are just on something.

    I don''t want a world where my family is in danger for my hobby."

    Kallistra''s eyes narrowed slightly.

    "Think about it, Eratz. In the end, you''d get everything you''ve ever wanted. A world filled with unique beasts, battles worth your strength. Isn''t that what you''re chasing too?"

    Eratz shook his head.

    "Maybe you don''t know me as well as you think. You''re not entirely wrong. I would love a world of unique beasts, intense battles. But I want that world with my people. With what we have, at our own pace. I don''t see that in your eyes."

    Tamara''s voice was low, questioning.

    "So then... what''s your decision?"

    Eratz exhaled, his tone calm but resolute.

    "I can''t guarantee I won''t seek the legendaries later for your pleasure. But as of today, I''m not ready. And if I do, it will be on my terms. No pacts, no alliances."

    Kallistra and Eratz locked eyes, a long moment of understanding passing between them. Finally, she sighed, shaking her head.

    "Boring," she said, turning away. "You''re just saying I''m right but you''re too scared to do anything." She began to walk off, her voice drifting back. "Think about it, though. Before the choice imposes itself. Come on, Doggy, we leave."

    Leonidas clenched his fists, hesitating, looking between Eratz and Kallistra with a conflicted

    expression.

    "Ignore her," he muttered to Eratz. "Think about what I said. About what we deserve."

    Tamara''s voice cut through his words.

    "What''s this minion still doing here? Get out."

    Leonidas''s face twisted with anger, but he turned and followed Kallistra into the darkness.

    Left alone, Tamara''s shoulders relaxed slightly. She glanced at Eratz, her expression

    softening.

    "You did well," she said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "You''ve got my pass for

    anything now."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "I never took a side."

    Tamara smirked. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Exactly. And that''s exactly why I trust you."

    She raised her hand, dark energy beginning to pulse and gather in her palm. The air around them grew heavy, shadows converging into a swirling mass of power.

    "I also have a dream, Eratz," she said, her tone wistful. "My dream now is to finally get some

    rest and enjoy life."

    The orb pulsed one last time before solidifying, its dark surface reflecting the dim lights

    around them. She extended it to Eratz, her gaze steady.

    "Take it. And when you''re ready, come take my crown."

 Chapter 237: Schrodingers Ishtarian

    Chapter 237: Schrodinger''s IshtarianSeveral days had passed since the battle against World Star. The sun was rising, coloring the hotel garden with shades of orange and gold. The air was cool and quiet, carrying the fresh smell of morning dew.

    Eratz leaned back on the bench, resting his arms on its wooden frame. He looked at the neat hedges and the small pond reflecting the sunlight. After all the action and stress, it felt good to have a peaceful moment.

    He started thinking about everything that had happened. He came to this town to relax, but it turned into so much more.

    Kenny had lost his beast-taming ability, the academy''s director resigned, and Golden Cosmos became famous everywhere. They''d defeated the top agency with their top fighter. On top of that, he now had a lead on the legendary beasts.

    So much had changed so quickly.

    Eratz smiled a little. He felt calm and happy about how it all turned out. But a part of him wished he could enjoy this moment with his team more.

    "Eratz!" A familiar voice called out, pulling him from his thoughts.

    He turned to see Mercury standing a few steps away, dressed in a sleek tracker outfit that emphasized her athletic build. Her short blue hair glinted in the sunlight, and her expression carried a mix of ease and playful determination. She waved before walking toward him.

    "Hey, slowpoke," she greeted with a smirk.

    "Morning, slacker," Eratz replied, a grin tugging at his lips. "Didn''t think you''d be out already."

    Mercury rolled her eyes.

    "It was just a scratch on my bones. Don''t make it sound like I''m made of cotton."

    "A scratch? That''s not what I saw these days when you kept running to the bathroom to show your guts."

    She crossed her arms and shot him a playful glare.

    "Break a leg, I''m fine now. Stop worrying."

    Eratz chuckled.

    "If you say so, boss."

    Mercury sat down beside him, stretching her legs out. After a moment of silence, her tone softened.

    "What''s on your mind? You''ve got that look again."

    Eratz''s smile faded slightly as he glanced back at the garden.

    "Just thinking about how fast everything''s changed. I came here expecting nothing more than

    a chance to rest, but... everything happened so quickly. Genova, Golden Cosmos... and now that black orb. It''s a lot to process."

    Mercury leaned back, looking up at the sky.

    "Yeah, it''s been a whirlwind. But you know what? You handled it better than anyone else could. It''s even annoying, now no one can oppose you in a debate, you''re always right."

    "... Could you say that again while I record it? Just in case," he chuckled, his voice quiet. "But joke aside, yeah, it just feels surreal sometimes. I feel like it''s going too fast. I really enjoy the time we spend all together, and I wouldn''t want it to stop."

    She nudged him lightly with her elbow.

    "Well, lucky for you, we''re all still here. There''s plenty of time to enjoy it."

    He smiled at her words.

    "How''s the situation with Milo?"

    Mercury''s expression brightened.

    "It''s going pretty well," Mercury said, her tone light, but with an edge of relief. "The court process is exhausting, but it''s looking good for us. His claims about me keeping Milo out of school to ruin him are falling apart with his records of him abandoning us for years. And with Victoria''s influence and the stability with Cassie and Roger, Milo''s life can''t be better than with us. And now they''re close to issuing a restraining order against him."

    "Good," Eratz said firmly. "You did a good job with that."

    Mercury nodded, a determined look crossing her face.

    "Thanks. The court''s starting to see that he''s only coming back to control Milo, not to help him. With everything we''ve shown, there''s no way he''s getting anything from us."

    Eratz smiled, leaning back slightly.

    "You handled all of that without punching him? Impressive."

    She smirked, a playful glint in her eyes.

    "It''s still on the table, I really want to give him the proper goodbye he deserves."

    After a moment of comfortable silence, she stood up and stretched.

    "Alright, enough sitting around. I feel like training today," Mercury said, a spark of excitement in her voice. "Let''s have a good competition, like old times. I want to see if the almighty Pharaoh can force me on my knees."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, a sly smile spreading across his face. Mercury flinched, her cheeks tinting red as she waved her hands quickly.

    "I-I meant a stamina contest! A contest of who lasts longer!"

    Eratz couldn''t hold his laugh anymore and burst.

    "This is worse."

    Mercury groaned, covering her face with one hand.

    "Just shut up and let''s go already."

    He stood, still chuckling, and gestured for her to lead the way.

    "Alright, let''s see what you''ve got."

    They set off jogging through the quiet streets and into a nearby park. The morning air was crisp, and their steady rhythm made the chill less noticeable.

    For the first hour, the training felt almost like old times, with Mercury teasing Eratz about keeping up and him throwing back playful challenges. But soon, Mercury started to slow, her

    breathing heavier, and her steps faltering.

    "Hey," Eratz said, stopping as she leaned against a park bench, looking pale. "We''re stopping

    here. This isn''t normal. We''re going to see a doctor."

    Mercury waved him off, though her face betrayed unease.

    "It''s fine. Just a little nausea. I''ll be okay in a minute."

    Eratz frowned.

    "You''ve been saying that a lot lately. It might be more serious than you think."

    Mercury sighed but didn''t argue further. Instead, she reached into her small sports bag,

    pulling out a container of sliced fruit. She handed one piece to him and popped another into

    her mouth.

    "Here, this helps."

    Eratz accepted the slice hesitantly, biting into it before immediately grimacing.

    "What is this? It''s like chewing on pure acid."

    Mercury chuckled softly, eating another piece with ease.

    "What? It''s good. I take it when I feel weird."

    He raised an eyebrow, his tone playful.

    "So you admit it''s happening very often. Should I be worried? You''re not planning on making

    me a lone soldier, are you?"

    She shrugged, her grin teasing.

    "Come on, it''s nothing. Just enjoy it."

    Eratz shook his head, tossing the rest of the slice back in his mouth.

    "Nah, we''re going to the doctor. No question."

    Mercury rolled her eyes but sighed, finally relenting. "Fine, if it''ll make you stop worrying so

    much. But I''m counting this as your forfeit."

    "My forfeit?" Eratz asked, raising a brow.

    "Yeah. It''s dangerous for you," she said with mock seriousness, then glanced at him, trying

    not to laugh. "You might... bite off more than you can chew."

    Eratz winced, laughing softly.

    "Don''t make me laugh, my ribs hurt."

    They both laughed lightly and after a moment, they stood and started walking back. Despite

    the unease, the light banter kept the mood warm as they left the park together. Later that day, the two made their way to a local medical clinic. Mercury was inside a consultation room with a specialist, while Eratz waited in the lounge area.

    The place was empty, allowing Eratz to take off his hoodie without being recognized.

    He leaned back in his chair, scrolling through his phone. Headlines filled the screen.

    "Golden Cosmos: From Rising Stars to Global Icons"

    "Genova Academy''s Collapse: What''s Next for Its Students?" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His lips pressed into a thin line as he read about Genova''s tarnished reputation.

    The academy was now synonymous with scandal and failure.

    Eratz''s thoughts drifted to his younger siblings. How are Kian and Lila handling this? he

    wondered.

    They wanted so much to be part of Genova. This must have been hard for them. A wave of worry crept in, but he pushed it aside. He would deal with that later.

    The door to the consultation room opened, pulling him from his thoughts.

    Mercury stepped out slowly, her movements stiff. Her usually confident demeanor was gone,

    replaced by an expression of wide-eyed shock. She looked lost.

    Eratz immediately stood, his heart skipping a beat.

    "Mercury? Are you okay? What did the doctor say?"

    She didn''t respond right away, her gaze unfocused. Then, as if moving through molasses, she

    turned her head to look at him.

    Her eyes seemed to search his face for something, and he felt a pang of unease.

    "Hey, talk to me," he urged, stepping closer. "What''s wrong?"

    Mercury''s lips parted slightly, but no words came at first. She blinked, then spoke softly,

    almost as if she were in a daze.

    "Do you remember those times we really, really loved each other?"

    Eratz frowned, confused by the question.

    "... Uh? Of course I do. We still do, right?" he said gently, his tone steady but worried.

    She nodded slowly, her gaze dropping for a moment before meeting his again. "And do you remember all those times we... expressed it... passionately almost every night?"

    Eratz cought slightly, then cleared his throat.

    "Uh, yeah... Um... this doctor... is this some kind of psychologist or what?" Mercury''s voice dropped to a whisper as she continued, her eyes wide open on him.

    "And do you remember that time I bought these pills and completely forgot to take them the

    next day... Every single time?"

    There was a moment of silence, then slowly, Eratz''s eyes widened.

    "Wait... what pill?"

 Chapter 238: Slap

    Chapter 238: SlapDuring the evening at the Pandora household, Rowan had a heated debate with Marcus and Liora.

    "I''m only here to give Kian and Lila some advice before they start their new journey," Rowan said evenly, his hands on the table. "That''s all. I want to help them."

    Marcus sneered.

    "Help them? Or manipulate them? What, are you planning to drag them down with Genova''s mess?" He crossed his arms, his voice dripping with disdain. "They don''t need your so-called help. Their talent got them scouted by a famous agency. They''re going to be celebrities, Rowan. They''ve got no time to waste on someone like you."

    Rowan''s eyes flicked to Liora, who sat in the corner, her hands clasped loosely in her lap. She hadn''t said a word since the argument started, her expression distant and drained.

    Rowan''s voice softened as he addressed her.

    "Do you still think like that, Madam Liora? After everything?"

    Liora stirred slightly, looking at him with tired eyes. There was a faint flicker of something in

    her gaze, a crack in the icy wall she had built around herself. But she said nothing.

    Marcus scoffed.

    "Don''t bother. She''s not interested in your pity party."

    Rowan ignored him, looking only at Liora.

    "Please. For Kian and Lila''s sake. Listen to me."

    "I''m tired," Liora murmured, standing slowly. "I think I''ll go to bed."

    Rowan''s jaw tightened.

    "Madam Liora, this is important. You''ve made mistakes before. Don''t let those same mistakes affect Kian and Lila."

    Marcus''s face turned red with anger.

    "Enough! You don''t get to lecture us. You''re not family, Rowan. You don''t belong here anymore."

    Unbeknownst to the adults, Kian and Lila were pressed against the door, listening intently. They exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of what to make of the heated exchange.

    Rowan let out a slow breath.

    "I''ve only ever wanted to guide them, protect them while they were at Genova. Now that they''re leaving, I can''t do that anymore. The least I can do is make sure they start off right. But that depends on you." He looked between Marcus and Liora. "The attitude of parents shapes the future of their children. It''s your responsibility to support them without dragging them down with your bitterness. Don''t put them on the same tourments as Eratz."

    Marcus rolled his eyes.

    "Bitterness? You''re talking about responsibility? Don''t make me laugh. That Eratz said it himself. His parents are Cassie and Roger, right? He''s not related to us anymore."

    Rowan flinched, visibly hesitating. He opened his mouth, stammered, and closed it again, struggling with the weight of what he couldn''t say.

    "I... you have no idea..."

    Marcus smirked.

    "What? Cat got your tongue suddenly? What could you possibly say that matters here? You can go to Hell now, and bring that guy with you too. The Pandoras are the people in this house who worked hard for our life. We don''t accept strangers."

    Rowan''s patience snapped like a taut wire. His voice rose, booming through the room.

    "And you think you''ve done more than him, Marcus? You think?"

    Marcus froze, taken aback by the sudden outburst.

    Rowan''s voice shook with anger as he continued.

    "Eratz is the reason your precious Kian and Lila even have this opportunity. He''s the one who pulled strings to get them into Genova in the first place. He''s the one who asked us to enroll them! And This famous agency? They''re only interested in two rookies because they are his siblings, HIS siblings, you understand that? Everything you have now is because of him! All your hope is thanks to him! You think you''ve done more than him?"

    The room fell into a suffocating silence. Rowan''s words hung in the air like a hammer, the weight of the truth bearing down on everyone present.

    For a moment, it seemed no one could breathe, let alone speak. Only big eyes fixed on the old

    man. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Marcus stood frozen, his face pale and twisted in a mix of disbelief and fury. His hands trembled at his sides, clenched into tight fists as if holding back an explosion.

    "You... you''re lying," he managed to choke out, his voice weak and unconvincing. "That''s not true. It can''t be true."

    Rowan didn''t back down. His eyes burned with frustration and disappointment.

    "Why would I lie about this, Marcus? To hurt you? To humiliate you? No. I''m saying this because someone has to wake you up! You''ve been blind to everything Eratz has done for this family. You pushed him away, and still, he cared enough to ensure his siblings had a chance at a better future. He sacrificed his pride for them, for you! The parents who abandoned him!"

    Marcus stumbled back a step, shaking his head violently.

    "No! That''s a lie! I don''t buy it! He''s not family. He said it himself! He made his choice. Don''t twist everything in your favor!"

    "Enough!" Rowan roared, his voice echoing through the room.

    "This isn''t about your pride, Marcus! This is about Kian and Lila! They deserve better than the bitterness and neglect that pushed Eratz away. You want to deny him? Fine. But don''t you dare deny the truth of what he''s done for them. For you."

    A sudden, sharp gasp broke the silence, and all eyes turned toward Liora.

    Her hands flew to her mouth, trembling as if they were struggling to contain the raw, overwhelming emotions surging through her.

    For a moment, she simply stood there, her wide eyes darting between Rowan and Marcus, her

    shock palpable.

    Then, as the weight of Rowan''s words truly sank in, her knees seemed to buckle beneath her, and she collapsed into the chair behind her.

    Her hands remained over her mouth, muffling the anguished sobs that began to spill out. Her shoulders shook violently, each breath a struggle as the tears flowed freely down her face. "W... What?" she gasped, her voice breaking into a desperate cry as she swayed on her feet. "He did... He... still there for us? I thought... he... I thought he didn''t..."

    Her knees trembled, clutching the armrests as if her body might give out entirely. Her breath came in ragged, uneven sobs, each one heavier than the last.

    "Marcus..." she whimpered, turning to her husband with pleading eyes. "Marcus, what did we do? What did we do?"

    Her voice cracked again, and her gaze shifted back to Rowan, tears streaming down her face.

    "Eratz... Marcus... Eratz!"

    She doubled over, as though the weight of her own grief might crush her, her hands clawing at the edge of the chair.

    Her words dissolved into incoherent sobs as she buried her face in her hands, her body

    shaking uncontrollably.

    Marcus''s bravado faltered as he glanced at his wife. Her reaction shook him, but his own stubborn pride refused to let him process the truth fully.

    He turned back to Rowan, his face hardening again, but his voice lacked its previous venom.

    "Even if it''s true... what does it matter? He... he''s gone. He chose to leave."

    Rowan stepped forward, his tone cold.

    "I see somehow why this family is such a mess. You abandoned him, Marcus. You and Liora. And now you''re at risk of doing the same to Kian and Lila. Is that what you want?" Behind the door, Kian and Lila stood motionless, their faces pale. Kian''s fists were clenched at his sides, his mind racing with the revelation.

    Lila''s hands covered her mouth, her eyes wide and filled with tears. Both of them felt as if the

    ground had been ripped out from under them.

    "W... What?" Lila whispered, her voice trembling.

    She couldn''t finish the sentence, the confusion too overwhelming.

    She looked at Kian as to confirm what she heard, but her brother had entered a new world.

    Kian swallowed hard, his jaw tightening. His eyes were intense, but he said nothing and he turned away, unable to face the door or his sister.

    The sound of Liora''s sobbing grew louder, filling the room with a haunting sense of regret.

    Rowan stood tall, his shoulders heaving from the emotional weight of what he''d said. "This family doesn''t need more division," he said quietly but firmly. "You''re the only one who lost the meaning of a real family, and despite the distance your son is still doing a bigger service to his siblings than you. You have a chance to make things right. Don''t waste it." Marcus said nothing, his gaze fixed on the floor. The boastful man looked small and broken, his pride unable to shield him from the truth any longer.

    Rowan''s words had left a mark, and though he would never admit it aloud, they had struck

    deep.

    Kian and Lila stepped back from the door, their hearts heavy with conflicting emotions.

    The truth had shaken them to their cores, leaving them unsure of what to feel or how to move

    forward.

    For the first time in years, they questioned everything they thought they knew about their family, and themselves.

 Chapter 239: Big News

    Chapter 239: Big NewsThe walk home felt like a dream, or more accurately, a waking nightmare. Eratz and Mercury walked side by side, their usual banter replaced by stunned silence.

    The world seemed oddly quieter as if the universe had decided to acknowledge their situation by shrouding everything in an eerie calm. The moon hung low, casting a pale glow over them.

    Finally, Mercury broke the silence.

    "So, uh..." she started, her voice unusually small. "We''re gonna have a baby."

    Eratz nodded slowly, his eyes fixed on the pavement.

    "Yup," he said, the word coming out with the weight of someone trying to process a cosmic revelation. "A real, actual baby. Like... a human one."

    Mercury stopped and turned to him, her hands on her hips.

    "What other kind of baby did you think it would be? A Vulpan cub?"

    Eratz blinked, his mind visibly stalling.

    "Is there a possibility that a gene gets passed from our beasts to..."

    "Nah, don''t finish this sentence." Mercury interrupted.

    She rolled her eyes, then groaned, throwing her head back dramatically.

    "This is insane! Do you know what this means? My belly is going to get huge... I''m going to waddle around like a freaking balloon! And the pain! The pain of giving birth! It''s going to be like... holy shit!"

    Eratz scratched the back of his head, his expression a mix of sympathy and awkwardness.

    "Yeah, too bad you don''t have a Terrakrus, if you used Rockbound Fury you would be unstoppable."

    Mercury stared at him, her mouth slightly open. Then, suppressing a laugh, she slightly punched his arm.

    "You''re an idiot," she muttered, but a faint smile tugged at her lips.

    Eratz rubbed his arm, grinning sheepishly.

    "Hey, you have to admit it''s a good idea."

    They walked a few more steps in silence before Eratz let out a low whistle.

    "I''m going to be a dad. First Milo, now a freaking miniature... Damn..."

    Mercury glanced at him, her eyebrows raised.

    "Yeah, but this time, it''s not a joke. This is your actual son."

    Eratz stopped mid-step, frowning.

    "Real?" he asked, genuinely confused.

    Mercury gave him a look, then hesitated.

    "Well, uh... I mean, Milo isn''t your real son, so..."

    Eratz''s jaw dropped.

    "What are you... oh... I see, so my son isn''t your son... I didn''t know you were on that side."

    Mercury groaned, smacking his arm again, harder this time.

    "Stop teasing me, Eratz! You know what I mean! This one is... different."

    Eratz winced, rubbing his arm again.

    "Alright, alright... I get it. Now it''s a different kind of child."

    Mercury''s expression softened, her usual bravado fading into something more vulnerable.

    "I know," she said quietly. "I''m scared, Eratz. What if I''m terrible at this? What if I screw it up? What if the kid hates me?"

    Eratz stopped walking and turned to face her.

    "Mercury, you''re the one who raised Milo, right? You kept him safe, taught him everything he knows, and made him feel loved. If you can do that for him, you can do it for this one kid too."

    She looked at him, her blue eyes glistening slightly. Then, she sighed, her hands dropping to her sides.

    "The same Milo I couldn''t help graduating from primary school? But thanks... you better not mock me or anything when I''ll fail. Be prepared to do everything."

    Eratz grinned, nodding firmly.

    "Well, I''ve got enough tutoring from my parents to know what not to do. But I''m not the best either. It''s so early.."

    Mercury smirked faintly, crossing her arms.

    "Well, you''re way better at handling kids than me, I trust you."

    They both laughed, though it was tinged with nervous energy. After a moment, Mercury''s expression turned thoughtful.

    "You know," she said slowly, "there''s one thing we should do."

    Eratz tilted his head.

    "What''s that?"

    She looked at him, her expression serious.

    "We need real advice. From real parents."

    Eratz raised an eyebrow.

    "You mean... mine and Colin''s?"

    Mercury nodded, then sighed deeply. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Yeah. They''ve been through this before. If anyone can help us figure this out, it''s them." She groaned, rubbing her temples. "But Cassie... oh man, she''s going to kill me."

    Eratz looked defeated, running a hand down his face.

    "This is going to be so bad."

    Mercury huffed out a laugh, her nerves evident.

    "Yup. But we''re doing it together, so let''s get it over with."

    Eratz let out a long breath, then nodded.

    "Alright. Let''s go see them."

    Mercury smiled faintly, the weight of the situation still heavy but now shared between them.

    Together, they turned toward the path leading home, the prospect of parenthood no less

    daunting but a little less lonely.

    Later that evening, Eratz and Mercury nervously sat across from Cassie and Roger, ready to

    share their big news.

    Cassie and Roger, however, seemed in a very light mood, already assuming the announcement, and kept teasing the couple with smiles and cheerful remarks about how they had been expecting this moment.

    They offered enthusiastic support, already talking about wedding plans and suggesting honeymoon ideas.

    Eratz and Mercury were surprised by how easily Cassie and Roger accepted the news, but they welcomed it. Their biggest concern was now behind and they could get the support of both

    parents.

    "Hm... maybe we could wait until the baby is born before the wedding stuff, right? Mercury isn''t really feeling great, so... no stress?" Eratz said.

    Mercury rolled her eyes.

    "If I can''t do anything for nine months because of this baby, we''re going to have big

    problems."

    They smiled at each other, then looked at Cassie and Roger, and realized why it was important

    to get straight to the point from the beginning.

    Cassie and Roger froze in shock, their cheerful expressions replaced with stunned disbelief as Eratz and Mercury''s relief disappeared.

    Cassie blinked.

    "... Baby?" Roger''s jaw dropped.

    "... Nine months?"

    They exchanged puzzled glances, their smiles fading slightly. Cassie tilted her head.

    "Eratz? What''s going on?"

    Eratz gulped, his voice calm but carrying the weight of the revelation.

    "Re...member that time you said that Milo would be your son so I''d have to make mine."

    Once the realization set in, Cassie and Roger reacted emotionally. Their initial reaction was a flurry of concern as they lightly scolded the couple for their recklessness.

    Then, both quickly embraced the news. Cassie grew emotional, realizing she was going to be a sort of grandmother, and Roger offered his full support, acknowledging that this was a natural continuation of Eratz and Mercury''s relationship. make it a little more emotional. They reassured the couple that they would be there every step of the way, providing guidance

    and help as needed.

    The following day, Eratz and Mercury gathered the team in the hotel''s lounge to share their news. The mood was warm and cheerful as the team cheered for both of them upon hearing

    the announcement.

    Milo and Colin exchanged glances, processing the fact that they were now, in a way, in-laws. Colin looked shyly at Mercury and Eratz, while Milo dramatically crossed his arms, muttering about the arrival of his very first rival.

    Victoria warmly congratulated them, offering a few heartfelt words about their journey as a couple. Zara, however, had a much louder reaction. She brought her hands to her head and

    screamed in despair.

    "Eratz!" Zara exclaimed, storming over to him. "Why do you keep playing against us? First Milo and Ryder, and now you''ve taken out Mercury for the season and all team battles! You

    damn monster!"

    Eratz raised his hands defensively, chuckling nervously.

    "Do you forgive me if I train this child to join the agency?"

    Mercury leaned back casually, arms crossed.

    "It''s ok, the finals are coming soon. I should be able to fight before I resemble a water tank."

    Zara groaned, dramatically throwing her hands in the air.

    "Reckless! Absolutely reckless! Your year is over, Mercury! You won''t fight with that in you!"

    Mercury shrugged.

    "I''ll manage. You''ll see."

    Zara''s face crumpled, and she buried it in her hands.

    "You idiot... And in all of that, I''m still single!" she wailed, her despair shifting to her own

    woes.

    Mercury and Eratz patted her back sympathetically, while the rest of the team tried not to laugh. Despite Zara''s melodrama, the mood remained celebratory, with everyone offering their support to the couple.

    Meanwhile, in the headquarters of Infinite Twilight, the atmosphere was markedly different.

    Leonidas sat behind his imposing desk, his steely gaze fixed on Kallistra, who stood by the window, watching the city below. The room was tense, the silence punctuated only by the distant hum of activity beyond the door.

    "Your hope has crumbled again," Leonidas growled, leaning back in his chair. "The Pharaoh''s siblings aren''t real Ishtarians. They''re half-breeds. Useful, sure, but not what we needed." He groaned, rubbing his temple. "At least they''ll make good talents. Their value lies elsewhere."

    He leaned forward, his voice lowering.

    "They could be valuable leverage. The Pharaoh should care about them. They might be just

    what we need to bring him to heel."

    Kallistra''s expression didn''t change. She remained at the window, her hair glinting faintly in

    the light. Without looking back, she said.

    "I couldn''t care less about his siblings."

    Leonidas''s eyes narrowed.

    "I don''t understand you anymore," he snapped. "What''s exactly the plan now? You''re not

    planning to give up, are you?"

    Finally, Kallistra turned to face him, her gaze calm and unyielding.

    "The problem with you, Leonidas, is that you can''t see farther than you can touch. That''s why

    you have no name where it matters."

    Leonidas''s jaw tightened, but before he could respond, Kallistra turned back to the window,

    her tone dismissive.

    "I haven''t lost anything. It''s just more complicated now. We''ll proceed with Plan B."

    The sound of the door opening drew both of their attention. Leonidas turned sharply, his

    brow furrowed in irritation.

    "What are you doing here?" he barked.

    Kallistra smiled faintly, her gaze fixed on the figure in the doorway.

    "He''s here for Plan B."

    Standing in the doorway, a worried expression on his face, was Rex.

 Chapter 240: Last Closing of the Doors

    Chapter 240: Last Closing of the DoorsRex stood near the doorway, his hands clasped tightly together, fidgeting like a child caught doing something wrong. His eyes darted between Leonidas and Kallistra, his nervous energy almost tangible. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kallistra turned slowly from the window, her steps deliberate as she walked toward him. Her arms stretched wide, an exaggerated gesture of welcome that seemed almost theatrical. A sly smile played on her lips as she spoke, her voice dripping with honeyed sarcasm.

    "Ah, the brightest light of this entire building has arrived," she said, her tone a mixture of mockery and admiration.

    Rex''s fingers twitched nervously, rubbing against each other as he muttered.

    "A pathetic worm like me? A light?"

    Kallistra''s pace quickened as she closed the distance between them, her gaze locked onto him with unnerving intensity. She stopped just inches away, reaching out to cup his cheek with a hand that felt both tender and commanding.

    "Yes," she whispered, her voice soft and almost reverent. "And the purest."

    Rex''s cheeks flushed a deep red, his embarrassment evident as he looked away, unable to meet her gaze. Leonidas, who had been watching the exchange with a growing frown, finally broke the silence.

    "Why is he here?" Leonidas asked, his voice sharp and impatient.

    Kallistra straightened, her hand falling from Rex''s face. She turned her head slightly toward Leonidas but kept her eyes on Rex, a playful glint dancing in them.

    "Why should someone as strong as him need a reason to come here?" she replied smoothly. "Strength like his is rare, Leonidas. It''s a treasure, a rare mix of good nature, an untarnished heart, and unparalleled behavior."

    She gestured toward Rex, her tone turning almost lyrical.

    "Plus, he''s your only chance to face the Pharaoh in any competition."

    Leonidas''s frown deepened, his irritation bubbling to the surface.

    "And what does that have to do with this so-called Plan B?" he demanded. "How does the Pharaoh even factor into this?"

    Kallistra''s laughter echoed through the room, a sound that seemed to grow louder and more unsettling as it filled the space. She turned fully to face Leonidas, her smile widening.

    "Oh, Leonidas, you''re so charmingly direct. You''re starting to get it, half of it actually," she said, her voice light but with a dangerous undertone. "You see, Rex... is... a key."

    The room grew still. Even the noise of distant activity beyond the door seemed to fade into silence. Rex blinked, his brow furrowing in confusion, while Leonidas''s eyes narrowed. "A key to what?" Leonidas asked, his voice low.

    Kallistra turned back to Rex, her smile softening, almost melancholic.

    "I once told you I had a feud with Tamara, didn''t I?" she began, her voice taking on an introspective quality. "And things didn''t go as I expected. Not because I failed to defeat her, I wasn''t aiming for that, but because I couldn''t force an event."

    As she spoke, a faint ripple of energy began to gather in the room. It was subtle at first, like the static charge before a storm, but it quickly grew in intensity.

    The light increased slightly, and an unnatural chill seeped into the air. Threads of energy, shimmering began converging toward Kallistra''s outstretched hand. She raised it in front of her face, her fingers curling as the energy coalesced into a glowing white sphere.

    The light from the white orb cast eerie shadows across her face, making her expression unreadable.

    She raised her gaze to Rex, her eyes glowing faintly with an unnatural light.

    "I failed," she said quietly, her voice almost mournful. "Because I couldn''t fit the second half of all the conditions."

    Days later, Eratz wandered through the streets of Grushia, his footsteps soft against the cobblestone. This was his last day in the town, a place filled with both fond memories and painful turning points.

    Soon, Golden Cosmos would leave for Lugina, returning to their busy schedule, but for now, Eratz allowed himself this moment of reflection.

    The forest where he used to play as a child stretched endlessly before him. The canopy of leaves cast dappled shadows on the ground, their swaying branches murmuring stories of his youth.

    He could almost hear the laughter of a younger version of himself, running around with some children, among them Lisa. The air smelled of pine and earth, grounding him in the present while pulling him into the past.

    His steps led him to the park where he used to sit after school. The benches were weathered but familiar, and the playground, though empty now, held echoes of childhood joy.

    The swing creaked as the wind pushed it gently, and Eratz smiled faintly, remembering how he''d once pushed other kids there, back when things were simpler. He couldn''t help but wonder what they had become since then, could they even recognize him now?

    Next, the river came into view. Its gentle flow glistened under the afternoon sun, whispering secrets as it had for years. This was where he''d come to clear his head, to think about life and what lay ahead.

    He crouched by the bank, letting the cool water run over his fingertips, the sensation grounding him as the memories rose unbidden. He had been here on so many occasions, he was only having fun, he didn''t know he was making memories.

    His walk finally brought him to the place where everything had changed: the towering gates of Genova Academy. The building loomed ahead, its facade now marred by time and scandal.

    Eratz stood silently, the weight of the moment pressing down on him. This was the place where his life had broken apart, only to be rebuilt stronger.

    He stared at his hand, turning it palm up as if to grasp the intangible threads of his memories. In his mind''s eye, he saw his past self nearly two years ago, filled with anger and betrayal but also a fiery determination.

    Back then, there was a fire leading him to the path to follow. Now, looking at the sky, he saw a vast expanse of calm blues and soft clouds. Everything was different, yet some part of him felt

    oddly at peace.

    With a small smile, he spoke.

    "It''s nothing special. I just have a good memory. Sometimes, it makes me nostalgic."

    He looked aside, smiling at Rowan standing there, his hands tucked into his pockets, his gaze distant yet warm. The older man''s eyes carried a reflective sheen as they lingered on the

    academy''s gates.

    "This place is too dark for someone like you," Rowan said, his voice low but steady.

    Eratz nodded, his gaze drifting back to the building.

    "You''re right. But I think it helps me appreciate what I have now." He looked at Rowan, his expression thoughtful. "Do we have to go there, or...?"

    Rowan''s lips curved into a bittersweet smile.

    "I would have appreciated it if you did. Maybe one day you will." His eyes shifted to the side, his voice softening. "But I respect that it''s not my decision to make."

    Following Rowan''s gaze, Eratz turned and smiled. In the distance, Kian and Lila stood at the end of the street, both flustered and breathing hard as if they had been running. Their wide eyes fixed on Eratz, their emotion building like a volcano.

 Chapter 241: Siblings

    Chapter 241: SiblingsThe late afternoon sun cast a warm, golden hue over the quiet street in Grushia, but the air between the three figures standing there was cold, tense.

    Eratz walked slowly toward Kian and Lila, his hands buried deep in his pockets. His white hair caught the fading light, but his crimson eyes remained shadowed, unreadable. Kian and Lila flinched at his approach, exchanging hesitant glances. Their breaths were shaky, their

    postures stiff, as if they were bracing for a storm.

    Eratz stopped a few feet away, tilting his head slightly as he looked at them. The silence stretched painfully long before he spoke, his tone casual.

    "Well, where to begin?" he said, his voice steady, almost too calm. "Congratulations on being recruited by Infinite Twilight. You''re reaching a big agency so early. It''s impressive, really. Makes me a little annoyed since they''re our main rival, but that just means you''re doing great. Good job."

    The words hung in the air, but before Eratz could continue, Lila''s voice cracked through the tension like a whip.

    "Stop it!" she shouted, her fists clenched so tightly her knuckles were trembling. Her voice was shaking, a mix of anger and anguish. "Stop pretending like everything''s fine! We know... we know we only got this chance because of you! Why are you like this?"

    Kian''s s jaw clenched, and he stepped forward, his eyes blazing with unfiltered rage and pain.

    "You abandoned us," he said, his voice low and venomous. "You humiliated our family. Do you have any idea how much we hated you for that? You made us feel like we were nothing! And then... and then we find out you''ve been doing things for us behind our backs? Why?"

    Lila''s voice cracked as she added.

    "You''ve ignored us for so long! You left us, and we... we... we were so angry at you. But now, knowing what you''ve done... it makes it worse! Why didn''t you just tell us? Why didn''t you care enough to stay?"

    Their voices overlapped, their emotions spilling out like a dam breaking. The street seemed to hold its breath as the two poured out two years of resentment, confusion, and pain. Eratz listened silently, his hands still in his pockets, his gaze steady but heavy with something else.

    When their voices finally faltered, leaving only the sound of their ragged breathing, Eratz spoke.

    "Do you really believe I abandoned you?" he asked quietly.

    The question hit like a blow. Kian and Lila froze, their eyes trembling as they looked at him but said nothing. Their silence was answer enough.

    Eratz''s lips curved into a small, bittersweet smile.

    "That''s already a beginning," he said softly. "We''ll talk about this again when you''re mature enough to say what''s in front of you."

    Lila''s voice cracked as she protested.

    "We are mature enough! We... we just don''t understand why you''re doing this. Why did you... why?" Her voice grew smaller as she continued, her tears finally breaking through. "Why did you make us feel so miserable? Why do I feel like I deserve nothing... always because of you? Why don''t you just talk to Mom and Dad?"

    Kian''s gaze snapped to Eratz, his eyes pleading silently for an answer.

    Eratz sighed, looking up at the sky for a moment before returning his gaze to them.

    "This is why you should never make children take part in adult matters," he said quietly. He stepped closer, placing a hand gently on both of their heads. His touch was warm, and reassuring, even as his words carried the weight of his own guilt.

    "I can''t talk to them," he said simply. "Because I''m an idiot. I made a mistake before, and now I can''t force myself to call them my parents again. It''s on me. And it''s on them." He paused, his voice softening. "I''m sorry we put you through that."

    Kian pushed his hand away, tears streaming down his face as he shouted.

    "I don''t want an apology! You said we were not your family! You... you''re a stranger! You left us!" His voice broke as he continued, trembling with raw emotion. "I''ll make them forget you. I''ll become the strongest beast master, and I''ll make our family happy. They won''t need you! We won''t need you!" S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Lila''s tears flowed freely as she watched her brother break down, her own emotions a tangled mess of anger, regret, and longing. Eratz listened to Kian''s outburst, his expression calm but tinged with sorrow.

    He reached out and gently bumped Kian''s head with his fist, a gesture so familiar it momentarily silenced the younger boy.

    "That''s the spirit," Eratz said with a faint smile. "I''ve been a failure as a brother, so I''m glad to see the house in the hands of such a hothead. I know I can trust you to take care of it better than the other idiot."

    Kian blinked, his tears still falling, but his anger seemed to waver.

    Eratz continued, his tone steady.

    "But Kian, becoming the strongest is better when you really try, even if you fail. It''s about being the best version of yourself every day. You have time to get better, so be a man now. And Lila..." He turned to her, his smile softening. "Speak up more. Be your own person. You''re not just someone''s sibling. You''re Lila. And that''s enough."

    He stepped back, his crimson eyes meeting both of theirs.

    "I''ll be waiting for you at the top," he said firmly. "When you''re ready for your revenge."

    Kian and Lila trembled, their emotions boiling over. They rushed toward him, throwing their arms around him as they sobbed.

    "I''m sorry," Lila cried, her voice muffled against his chest. "I''m so sorry for everything I said..."

    Kian''s voice cracked as he sobbed uncontrollably, gently beating Eratz''s shoulder.

    "Why can''t you just fix it? Why can''t you just talk to mom and dad and make everything okay? Why does it have to be this way? You could fix everything!"

    Eratz hugged them tightly.

    "Now you''re looking a little more mature," he whispered.

 Chapter 242: The Life We Built

    Chapter 242: The Life We BuiltTime passed by and life kept its path. Golden Cosmos bid farewell to Grushia amid the cheers and applause of their growing fanbase.

    The airport was abuzz with excitement, the energy palpable as Eratz and his team waved to their supporters. In the distance, Rowan watched silently, waving at them among the faces.

    Elsewhere in Grushia, life continued.

    Inside the Pandora home, the atmosphere was heavy yet cathartic. Liora sobbed openly, holding Kian and Lila tightly as they finished recounting their emotional conversation with Eratz.

    The truth of her estranged son''s efforts to support his siblings had finally achieved the breaking of her emotional wall. Her cries were filled with both regret and a bittersweet sense of hope.

    On the sofa, Marcus sat rigidly, a newspaper in his hands. Though his eyes were fixed on the pages, they didn''t move; the words meant nothing to him. His mind was far away, grappling with the weight of his family''s fractured relationships. The newspaper he held featured a special article, its headline glaring:

    "Scandal in the Spotlight: Controversial Relationship Sparks Outrage"

    The article detailed the public backlash Crystal faced after rumors of her relationship with Gabriel, still a minor, surfaced.

    Gabriel''s fanbase, deeply devoted to him, turned on Crystal as soon as the rumors began to circulate. Fans began digging into her past, unearthing damaging details. They revived the story of her role in falsely accusing Eratz, painting her as a manipulator and dangerous influence. They highlighted her proximity to famous individuals, accusing her of being a gold digger exploiting connections for personal gain. The age difference between her and Gabriel further fueled the scandal, with many accusing her of predatory behavior. Social media erupted with accusations of pedophilia, and Crystal found herself relentlessly scrutinized and vilified. The intense backlash left her isolated, her ambition now reduced to ashes as public opinion turned against her.

    Meanwhile, Lisa had begun to carve out a new life for herself. Remaining in Genova, she focused on her studies, preparing for the upcoming end-term exams.

    Her days were filled with a newfound sense of purpose, and she was already considering running for the position of student council president again.

    Her peers admired her resilience and commitment, and she had learned to cherish the simplicity of everyday moments.

    In stark contrast, Kenny''s life had unraveled completely. He walked through the sterile halls of a hospital, his eyes empty and distant. Today was the day he would be discharged. A doctor escorted him to the exit, her voice hesitant as she spoke.

    "You''ll need to come back regularly for observation," she said gently, her words careful. "Your parents... well, they''re busy and couldn''t make it today."

    Kenny barely reacted, his expression unchanging. He already knew they wouldn''t come. They already told him everything he needed to know before leaving. He was on his own now.

    He had nowhere to go. No home. No family. No future. Once a beast master, once a student, now he was nothing. His name had become infamous, synonymous with cheating, scandal, and humiliation. The world had moved on, leaving him behind.

    As he stepped outside, the sunlight blinded him momentarily. He blinked, his vision swimming, and when he looked again, he was on the street. He couldn''t recall how he had gotten there. His feet seemed to have led him somewhere, though he didn''t know where or why. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Looking down, he saw his own shadow stretching before him. An incredulous smile crept onto his lips, a bitter, hollow expression. He raised his head, and his gaze fell to his left.

    There, standing a few feet away, was Julian.

    Julian was calm, but the tension in the air was suffocating. He waited, his posture deceptively relaxed but his eyes sharp, watching Kenny closely. He had been discharged before and made sure to always keep an eye on that particular day.

    Kenny''s smile never left, but his chest tightened. He understood now. There was no escaping the past.

    What awaited him was uncertain, but he learned too well one important rule of the universe: he would have to face the consequences of his actions.

    The cycle of pain he had inflicted on others was once again circling back to him.

    It was life, and life, as it always does, kept moving forward, carrying everyone along their own paths. Months passed, and the sight of evolution became clear in the lives of many.

    After the formidable match against World Star, Golden Cosmos experienced an unprecedented rise in fame, becoming a globally recognized agency. Their victory brought a flood of sponsors, multiplying their revenue exponentially.

    The agency''s structure expanded, now the largest in the town, a testament to their success. The interior too underwent a transformation, Zara, promoted to assistant director, led with renewed vigor.

    Scouts from Golden Cosmos now traveled the world, searching for the next big talents. On a personal level, Zara began to embrace fashion and makeup, spurred by Mercury''s situation to reflect on her own life.

    "I will multiply!" Zara''s now-famous declaration had become a running joke among her friends.

    Meanwhile, the aces of Golden Cosmos saw meteoric growth in their careers. Milo and Colin excelled in city-level competitions, quickly earning promotions to the regional league.

    Ryder dominated the national league, with experts predicting his advancement to the continental tier should he perform well in the upcoming finals.

    Catarina became a force to be reckoned with in the continental league, her beast Mystimara''s ability to always connect with her targets making her nearly unstoppable, completing the list with Kaida.

    Mercury and Raya, on the other hand, stood on the brink of entering the world tier, their performances in the finals holding the key to their elevation.

    And finally, Eratz, already assured of his promotion, found his ascension delayed until the next season due to the timing of the finals.

    The entire team became famous figures, balancing their lives as beast masters with their dominating presence in team battles. Their achievements positioned them as favorite contenders for the finals, embodying the hopes and aspirations of their agency.

    One morning, Eratz stretched as he rose from his bed, the sunlight filtering through the curtains hinting at the start of another peaceful day. Rubbing his eyes, he noticed that Mercury was already up and gone. He yawned and shuffled toward the bathroom.

    The sound of running water greeted him as he stepped inside. He grabbed his toothbrush, squeezed on some paste, and started brushing his teeth. Halfway through, his eyes darted to the side, and his toothbrush froze mid-stroke.

    Raya stood beside him, also brushing her teeth. She turned her head slightly, gave him a quick wave, and continued brushing as if nothing was out of the ordinary.

    Eratz blinked, waving back hesitantly. For a moment, he continued brushing, his mind struggling to process the situation. Then, his brows furrowed, and he paused.

    "Wait... what?" he muttered through a mouthful of toothpaste.

    Shaking his head in confusion, Eratz rinsed his mouth, dried off, and headed toward the living room. The sound of chatter and laughter reached his ears as he approached the breakfast

    table.

    Cassie, Zara, Victoria, and Tamara sat around the table, surrounded by several empty bottles of wine, glasses of wine in hand, engaged in what appeared to be a deep and animated conversation about their love lives. Zara was mid-sob, her hands clutching her glass tightly. "It''s just so hard being single at this age!" Zara wailed, her voice breaking into a dramatic

    sniffle.

    Cassie leaned over, patting her back with a mix of genuine sympathy.

    "Oh, sweetie, you''ll find someone. You''re a catch! It''s just a matter of time... and maybe fewer

    tears."

    Victoria and Tamara exchanged wide-eyed glances, their expressions slowly shifting as they both realized, with an air of tipsy resignation, that they were single too.

    Eratz stopped in his tracks, blinking as he absorbed the scene.

    "What is..."

    He turned to the left and spotted Ryder sitting on the couch with Roger, both engrossed in a

    conversation.

    Milo and Cinderblaze were sprawled on the floor in front of the TV, watching the news. The pair occasionally made comments about the broadcast, their remarks growing stranger by the

    second.

    "The news says prices are rising," Ryder said hesitantly. "That''s so bad."

    Roger promptly agreed.

    "Oh, definitely. Bad thing."

    Both nodded in unison, then fell silent, glancing awkwardly at each other as if searching for

    the next topic.

    Milo hesitantly broke the quiet.

    "Hey... doesn''t that news reporter look like that lady I saw yesterday?"

    Cinderblaze made a small noise, as if in agreement. Roger and Ryder exchanged glances, then

    nodded solemnly.

    "Yeah," Roger said.

    "Definitely," Ryder added.

    Another silence settled over the room, their eyes widening slightly as each struggled to think

    of something else to say.

    Eratz raised a brow, quietly backing out of the room before he got dragged into the awkward exchange. He glanced toward the front door and noticed the open space outside. There, Mercury was on the ground, doing an intense set of ab exercises. Her determination

    shone through her gritted teeth as Kaida and Catarina stood nearby, cheering her on with

    exaggerated enthusiasm.

    "Come on, Sis! You got this!" Kaida cheered.

    "Baby jacked! Baby jacked! Nyah!" Catarina added.

    A few steps away, Colin stood with her hands covering her face, her expression torn between

    fear and deep concern.

    Eratz leaned against the doorframe, scanning the chaotic scene in front of him. A slow

    realization washed over him as he muttered under his breath.

    "What the hell is going on here?"

 Chapter 243: The Final Draws

    Chapter 243: The Final DrawsTo understand the current situation, it''s essential to look back to the previous day.

    The announcement of the finals for the team battles was imminent, and with Mercury''s condition raising concerns despite her insistence that she was fine, Eratz, Cassie, and Roger had decided to watch the event from home to keep things stress-free.

    However, things didn''t quite go as planned.

    Kaida, learning that neither Eratz nor Mercury would come to the agency, had feared Mercury''s health might be worsening. She decided to visit, dragging Catarina with her for moral support.

    Zara and Victoria, hearing that the group was gathering, decided they couldn''t miss the opportunity for some bonding time.

    Victoria''s plans took an unexpected twist when Tamara, eager to celebrate the announcement of the finals with her, heard the news of Eratz becoming a father soon and declared she had to mock him personally, so she pulled up.

    Meanwhile, Ryder, during a video call with Milo, realized that nearly everyone he knew was at the Pandora house. Feeling deeply left out, he decided to join the gathering.

    On his way, he spotted Raya wandering aimlessly in the nearby streets, and without hesitation, he brought her along as well.

    Thus, what was meant to be a quiet day at home had transformed into a full-blown gathering. The living room now buzzed with life as everyone crowded in, their voices overlapping in a cacophony of chatter, laughter.

    Eratz sat in the middle of it all, the TV in front of him droned on about the latest local news, but his attention was more on the commotion around the room.

    Behind him, Victoria and Cassie were deep in discussion.

    "Raising a child isn''t that different from managing agents," Victoria said with a thoughtful tone, twirling a glass of wine in her hand. "Both require discipline, clear expectations, and the occasional bribe."

    Cassie chuckled, shaking her head.

    "You''re forgetting the part where children don''t come with a resignation option when things get tough."

    The bathroom door creaked open, and Tamara emerged, looking pale but triumphant.

    "Ah, that''s better," she announced dramatically, holding her stomach. "Now I''m ready for round two!" Without hesitation, she grabbed another bottle of wine from the counter and plopped herself down beside Victoria.

    "You''re incorrigible," Victoria muttered, though a small smile betrayed her amusement. From the kitchen, Raya appeared holding a glass of milk, her head tilted slightly.

    "Should I make some snacks?" she asked, her soft voice cutting through the hum of conversation.

    Roger, who had been sitting with Ryder, Milo, and Cinderblaze in an awkward silence, seized the opportunity to escape. He leapt to his feet, almost too eagerly.

    "I''ll help you," he said, his voice a little too quick to be casual.

    Raya blinked but nodded, heading back to the kitchen as Roger trailed behind her, muttering about "dangerous zone."

    In the corner, Milo and Cinderblaze sat cross-legged on the floor, engaged in an intense game of rock-paper-scissors. Every win or loss was punctuated by exaggerated groans or cheers, though the stakes were unclear.

    Mercury wandered over to Eratz and plopped down beside him. Her gaze locked onto his croissant, her eyes lingering hungrily.

    "You want some?" Eratz asked, holding out a piece.

    She hesitated, then shook her head firmly.

    "No. I''m on a diet."

    Eratz froze mid-bite, looking at her in disbelief.

    "Wait, that''s why you''ve been training like crazy lately? You''re... dieting?"

    Mercury gave him a sidelong glance.

    "What''s wrong with that? I''m just making sure to stay the same after this child turns me into a well-nourished nun."

    Across the room, Catarina clapped her hands together loudly, summoning Mystimara to challenge anyone in arm wrestling. Kaida immediately jumped in, slamming some coins onto the table, and starting a terrible game of bets.

    Everyone began to gather around, the atmosphere buzzing with laughter and playful banter. Ryder cheered Kaida on, while Milo whispered strategies to Mystimara, earning teasing jeers from Kaida about "siding with the enemy." Even Roger peeked out from the kitchen, offering commentary with an amused grin.

    As the room swelled with camaraderie, the TV suddenly shifted to a bold graphic accompanied by a dramatic drumroll. The announcer''s voice cut through the chatter,

    commanding attention.

    "And now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you''ve been waiting for, the announcement of the Team Battle Finals!"

    The room fell silent almost instantly. Everyone scrambled to find a seat, crowding around the TV with eager anticipation.

    The screen flashed with images of roaring crowds, dramatic battle highlights, and finally, the logo of the finals, a gleaming golden emblem that made the room buzz with excitement.

    The stage was set with dramatic lighting and a roaring crowd, the energy in the arena palpable. The host, a charismatic figure in a sharp suit, stood at the center of the stage, microphone in hand. His voice boomed through the speakers, silencing the chatter of

    anticipation.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the announcement of the Team Battle Finals! This season has been extraordinary in many ways. From fierce rivalries to underdog stories, from raw talents to inspiring moments, you''ve witnessed it all! We''ve seen rising stars defy the odds and established veterans remind us why they dominate this sport."

    The crowd erupted into cheers, their voices echoing through the grand hall.

    The host gestured toward the large screen behind him, which lit up with the names of participating organizations.

    "This season featured several incredible organizations, each bringing their unique flair and strength to the arena. And now, after months of battles, strategies, and unforgettable displays of beast mastery, we present to you the eight who have earned their place in the Final

    8!"

    The screen flashed brightly as the names were revealed one by one:

    Infinite Twilight

    Golden Cosmos

    Crimson Vanguard

    Steel Apex

    Azure Blades

    Verdant Dominion

    Shadow Strikers

    Blazing Horizons

    The crowd roared louder with each name, fans cheering for their favorite agencies. The host let the excitement simmer before continuing.

    "These eight have fought tooth and nail to dominate the schedules and claim their spots. But now, the real challenge begins! The draw will decide their paths, setting the stage for battles that will go down in history. Let''s begin the draw!"

    A mechanical device filled with glowing orbs spun on stage, each orb representing one of the

    teams. The host reached in and pulled out the first orb. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "In the first slot of Group A: Infinite Twilight!"

    The screen displayed their name boldly as the crowd erupted.

    "Joining them in Group A... Verdant Dominion!"

    The draw continued:

    Group A:

    Infinite Twilight

    Verdant Dominion

    Shadow Strikers

    Blazing Horizons

    Group B:

    Golden Cosmos

    Crimson Vanguard

    Steel Apex

    Azure Blades

    The final draw results were met with a mix of cheers and gasps from the crowd. The tension in

    the Eratz''s house grew thick as they watched the announcement live.

    Catarina leaned back with a groan, crossing her arms.

    "Nyah... these draws are rigged for the spectacle," she mewed, her tail flicking irritably.

    Kaida nodded emphatically. "Yeah, of course they are. Look at this setup. They''re clearly

    hoping for a clash between us and Infinite Twilight in the finals."

    Ryder scratched his head.

    "I mean, it''s not like we didn''t expect it, but still..." Victoria leaned forward, her voice cutting through the room like a blade.

    "The result is what matters. Don''t waste energy looking at your opponents. Focus on

    yourselves. We fight for our team and our goals."

    Tamara, sitting with a relaxed posture but sharp eyes, nodded.

    "She''s right. Besides, I believe in you all. You''d better be prepared to give it everything you''ve

    got. And trust me, that snake won''t fall that easily."

    The team nodded, the weight of the draw settled, but so did their resolve. The path to the

    finals was clear, and Golden Cosmos knew that every step forward was theirs to claim. The stakes were higher than ever, and the final journey was about to begin.

 Chapter 244: Shining Stars

    Chapter 244: Shining StarsThe anticipation for the finals grew with each passing day. The first round of the team battles was imminent, and Golden Cosmos prepared tirelessly to face the challenges ahead.

    Eratz stood on a cliff overlooking the expanse, the wind tugging at his hair as he conducted his traditional pre-competition meeting with his aces.

    Surrounding him were his aces, the Thunder Lycaon, the Aetheri, the Terrakrus, Raijinara, and Cinderblaze. The atmosphere buzzed with unspoken energy, the bond between master and beasts evident.

    Eratz spoke casually, his tone light but focused.

    "Alright, team. We''ve got a lot to cover before the finals. I''ve been thinking about some new combinations we could try. What about learning one-on-one combos to gang up on opponents?"

    The Thunder Lycaon let out a low rumble as it sprawled lazily on the ground. In contrast, Cinderblaze''s ears perked up, and it emitted an enthusiastic chirp, its ember-tipped ears flickering with excitement. Eratz chuckled.

    "Of course, you''re into it, Cinderblaze. And you," he looked at the Lycaon, "We have to work first on your resilience, you know that, right?"

    The Lycaon''s tail flicked lazily, as if in agreement.

    Eratz rubbed his chin, his gaze thoughtful.

    "What about adapting to field spells like those fighters from World Star? Their synergy was next level. I want to adapt like that."

    The Terrakrus growled softly, its stony exterior reflecting its steadfast demeanor. Eratz noted its reaction with a nod.

    "You''re right. It''ll take time, but we''ve got to figure that out too."

    He paced a little, his hands tucked in his pockets.

    "Hm... We might need more firepower... literally. Each element needs a strong partner. And we''ll need a beast that can hold its own against multiple opponents." He turned to his team. "Hey, what''s about a decoy?"

    The group remained silent, save for the faint sounds of the wind and distant waves. None of the beasts reacted, except the Aetheri. It leaned forward, its ethereal form shimmering faintly.

    Eratz sighed.

    "Of course, you would volunteer to be a sacrifice..."

    The Aetheri tilted its head, gently placing a hand on its chest area as if making a speech. Eratz shook his head and waved.

    "We''ll think this through. I''m not making that call yet."

    A voice interrupted his musings.

    "What about adapting to opposing field spells?"

    Eratz turned, a smile spreading across his face as he saw Mercury approaching. Her short blue

    hair shimmered under the sunlight, and her confident stride belied her condition.

    "Well, well, well, my better half who should definitely stick to home," he teased warmly. "What do you mean by that?"

    Mercury came to stand beside him, her gaze meeting his.

    "If you''re up against someone who can counter your field spell, why not train to adapt without countering it? For example, what if someone use a stronger field spell and you can''t use the fire field? Learning to counter it might force them to focus more on their field control, giving you an opening."

    Eratz''s eyes lit up with understanding.

    "Like you did against this lightning user? It''ll definitely throw them off balance. But... you feel like training?" He gave her a concerned look. "You sure you''re up for it? You know... given..."

    Mercury waved off his concern with a dismissive hand.

    "Don''t start with that. I don''t want this pregnancy to hold me back. I''ve already decided: I''m not participating in the finals of the continental league. I''ll give my all for the team battles."

    Her declaration caught Eratz off guard.

    "Wait, what?"

    She placed a hand on his arm, her gaze steady. Her voice softened, carrying a depth of emotion he hadn''t expected.

    "Eratz, this team has worked so hard to get here. Every battle, every sacrifice, it''s all led to this moment. I know I had the chance to go to the world tier, but... I can''t leave this unfinished. I want to fight with this team, with you, and everyone else. Just this once, I want to give everything I have. Don''t cast me out."

    Eratz''s brows furrowed as he absorbed her words. There was a determination in her eyes that left him both moved and conflicted. He sighed, running a hand through his hair, a mix of exasperation and admiration crossing his face.

    Finally, he smiled, his hand brushing her shoulder lightly.

    "Fine. But only if you promise not to push yourself too hard. That''s my selfish condition."

    Mercury''s grin widened, relief and excitement radiating from her expression. She bounced on her toes, the tension in her body replaced with a playful energy.

    "Deal," she declared with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Now, let''s start with some sparring. Physical. Sweaty. No clothes!"

    Eratz froze mid-thought, his croissant halfway to his mouth. He blinked, processing her

    words.

    "Mercury..."

    Mercury smirked and grabbed the hem of her shirt.

    "What? Afraid you''ll lose?"

    Before he could answer anything, Mercury took off her shirt and waved it playfully. Eratz raised an eyebrow, staying silent for seconds, then glanced briefly at his beasts. "Alright, you all can leave now," Eratz said, waving a hand. "The meeting is dismissed." The beasts lingered for a moment, their gazes lingering on him as if to say, "Really?" before one yone, they turned and sauntered away. Cinderblaze gave one last amused snort before disappearing into the cliff.

    Mercury watched the scene unfold with a sly grin, her arms crossed.

    "Only because the wife wants to spar, huh?" she teased, her tone dripping with amusement.

    Eratz groaned, rubbing the back of his neck.

    "... Yeah... gotta keep you happy."

    Mercury raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eyes.

    As the sun dipped below the horizon, the laughter and energy on the cliff mirrored the fiery determination of Golden Cosmos as they prepared for the approaching finals.

    The next day promised more than just routine; it marked the unveiling of the first fixture for the finals of the team battles.

    The journey to qualify for the final four in the team battles began with fierce matchups, as each team had to face off in three grueling battles.

    The top two teams from each group would earn their spot in the semifinals.

    For Golden Cosmos, the stakes were clear, and the team was ready to rise to the challenge.

    The opening fixture between Golden Cosmos and Crimson Vanguard was a stunning display of

    strategy and skill.

    Crimson Vanguard, expecting the Cosmos to rely on their established lineup of Eratz, Kaida, and Colin for the 4v4, placed their strongest fighters in the 1v1 and 3v3 matches. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    However, they underestimated the depth of Cosmos'' aces.

    Catarina stepped up to face a formidable continental-ranked opponent.

    After a hard-fought battle filled with her trademark agility and mystic field spell tactics, she

    secured the first point for Cosmos.

    Raya, Kaida, and Colin dominated the field with seamless teamwork.

    Colin''s unique ability to turn Kaida''s field spell into healing for Raya created an unbeatable

    synergy, overwhelming their opponents and claiming another victory.

    By the time Eratz and Mercury entered the arena, Crimson Vanguard had no choice but to fight

    without their strongest fighters, who had already been defeated.

    The Cosmos aces secured a decisive win, achieving a perfect score of 8-0.

    This explosive start sent a clear message to their challengers, and on the opposite side of the bracket, Infinite Twilight delivered an equally dominant 8-0 victory in their opening match, setting the stage for a potential clash of titans.

    The second fixture against Azure Blades proved to be a tougher challenge.

    Known for their powerful continental-ranked fighters, Azure Blades pushed Cosmos to their

    limits.

    Ryder took the stage and delivered a decisive victory, using his multiple beastifications to counter his opponent''s attacks with precision.

    Mercury, Milo and Catarina faced off against three highly skilled continental-ranked fighters

    but Catarina and Milo were ultimately defeated.

    Despite their loss, Mercury stepped in and single-handedly turned the tide, defeating all three opponents to secure the score for Cosmos.

    The quarter of monsters, Eratz, Raya, Kaida, and Colin, engaged in a breathtaking battle.

    The match, watched by audiences worldwide, was a showcase of beastification, field spells,

    and calamity-ranked beasts.

    After an intense battle, Cosmos emerged victorious, earning an 8-2 score.

    This victory, coupled with Crimson Vanguard''s loss to Steel Apex, sealed Golden Cosmos'' qualification for the semifinals.

    In the locker room, the team celebrated their qualification in style.

    Drinks were poured, laughter echoed, and the room was filled with the camaraderie of

    champions.

    Towels were tossed around, and the staff joined in the festivities, congratulating each member for their incredible performance.

    For the team, the dream of becoming champions together no longer felt like a distant hope, it

    was within reach.

    Later, the team met their adoring fans outside the stadium.

    Cheers erupted as they signed autographs and posed for pictures, basking in the love and

    support of their growing fanbase.

    Each member took time to thank their supporters, sharing smiles and moments of gratitude.

    As Milo signed autographs, he picked up a photo handed to him by a fan.

    He started to sign it but froze mid-motion, his eyes locked onto the image.

    His hands trembled slightly, and his voice dropped to a whisper.

    "...Mom?"

 Chapter 245: Clash

    Chapter 245: ClashMilo stared at the picture in his hands, his fingers trembling as he traced the faint image of a woman who bore a striking resemblance to himself. The edges of the photo were worn, as if time had tried to erase her face, but it hadn''t succeeded. To Milo, the image felt as vivid as his memories, fragmented, yet impossibly clear.

    It wasn''t a stranger. It was a face he had clung to in his mind for as long as he could remember: his mother. Despite the years and the haze of childhood, he had never let go of her image. But now, seeing her face staring back at him, the memory that had felt so distant was alarmingly sharp.

    "So, you recognize her?" a voice drawled.

    Milo''s head snapped up, his wide eyes locking onto the man who had handed him the picture. The stranger loomed over him, tall and imposing, with a sharp jawline and a grin that never quite reached his cold eyes.

    "Considering she left you so young, I''m surprised you still remember her," the man continued, his tone disturbingly indifferent, as if he were discussing the weather.

    Milo''s grip tightened on the photo, his mind spinning. His voice, small and shaking, barely escaped his lips.

    "Who... who are you?"

    The man''s grin widened, and he leaned in slightly.

    "Ah, you don''t recognize me? That''s so sad, but it''s not your fault. So, you see, I''m your father, Milo."

    The words hit Milo like a sudden, crashing wave, leaving him breathless. His chest felt heavy, the weight of the revelation pressing down on him like an immovable force. His legs trembled, the world around him tipping off balance as he tried to process what he''d just heard. The absurdity of it clashed violently with the casual tone of the man in front of him.

    He clutched the photograph tightly, his trembling hands betraying the shock rippling through him. His gaze darted between the picture and the man, as if trying to find some missing piece that could make sense of this moment. The casual grin on the man''s face only deepened the ache inside him, a cruel contrast to the gravity of the claim.

    "M-My father?" Milo stammered, his voice barely a whisper as he stumbled backward, his legs faltering.

    "Don''t look so shocked. I know it''s been a while, but hey, life''s busy. You understand, don''t you?"

    The nonchalance in the man''s voice felt like a slap. Tears welled in Milo''s eyes, but instead of running, he froze, clutching the photograph as though it might shield him from the man''s words. His small frame shook, and his breath came in short, panicked bursts.

    Mercury had been signing autographs, her gaze drifting to Milo now and then to make sure he was alright. But when she noticed he had gone utterly still, she frowned. She saw his pale face and the tears spilling over his cheeks, and her pen slipped from her fingers.

    "Milo?" she called, her voice tight with worry. She stepped away from the table, her sharp eyes darting to the man standing near him, and instantly, she recognized him, and for a moment, she couldn''t breathe.

    "Mercury," Milo choked, stumbling toward her and clutching at her arm like a lifeline. "It''s him. He... he says he''s our dad."

    Mercury''s body stiffened, and her stomach dropped. The name she had fought to keep out of Milo''s life, the person she had worked so hard to protect him from, was now standing right in front of her.

    Her eyes snapped back to the man, and fury surged through her, hot and uncontrollable. Her hand instinctively went to Milo''s shoulder, holding him close, as though her touch could shield him from the moment.

    "What the hell are you doing here?" she spat, stepping in front of Milo as he clung tightly to her shirt, burying his face against her arm.

    The man shrugged, his smirk as infuriatingly casual as ever.

    "Just saying hello to my son," he said smoothly, as though the situation were perfectly normal. "I thought it was about time Milo learned the truth. He deserves to know how much you''ve been trying to keep me out of his life."

    Mercury''s fists clenched so tightly her nails dug into her palms. Her entire body trembled, torn between shielding Milo and tearing into the man who had just shattered their carefully guarded secret.

    "Keep you out of his life?" she said, her voice trembling with controlled fury. "You weren''t allowed to approach us. The lawsuit was clear, and you know it! If you think this stunt will go unnoticed, think again. I''ll make sure this is reported, and you will regret breaking the terms."

    Mercury''s fists clenched at her sides, but she didn''t dare lash out physically. Her gaze darted to the crowd of onlookers, their phones and cameras pointed toward the scene. The last thing she wanted was for this private nightmare to become a public scandal. She took a steadying breath, her voice low and firm as she stepped forward.

    "Leave," she ordered, her eyes blazing with unrelenting fury. "Right now, before this gets even worse for you."

    The escalating argument drew the immediate attention of the team and even the surrounding fans. Kaida pushed her way through the staff with a sharp, determined urgency, her eyes narrowing as she took in the scene. The sight of Milo trembling and Mercury''s rigid posture alarmed her.

    Kaida pushed her way through the staff, her sharp eyes locking on the scene ahead. She stopped dead in her tracks, her breath catching as she processed the sight of the man standing before Mercury and Milo.

    Her fists clenched involuntarily as she noticed Milo''s tears and Mercury''s rigid posture.

    This wasn''t just anyone, this was the father Mercury had warned them about.

    "What... what is he doing here?" Kaida asked, her voice low, tense, and shaken in a way that wasn''t like her at all.

    The rest of the team began to gather, their movements hesitant as the realization dawned on them. Catarina and Ryder''s had a grim expression. Zara''s sharp eyes widened. Colin, oblivious to Milo and Mercury''s story, watched with a little worry. The room felt suffocating, the collective tension almost tangible.

    Eratz''s eyes darkened as he stepped closer. It was over, the worst case scenario had happened at the worst time.

    The man turned toward Kaida, his expression sharp and tense, his earlier casual demeanor replaced by something colder. There was no smirk this time, only a calculating gaze that met the silent accusations in the room head-on.

    For the team, his presence was a disaster; for him, it was a gamble.

    "Ah, I see you''ve heard of me," he said, his voice measured and devoid of the earlier mockery. "That''ll make this easier."

    Kaida bristled, her fists tightening so hard her knuckles turned white. She stepped closer, her

    voice dropping to a dangerous growl.

    "What the Hell are you doing here?!"

    "Aren''t I allowed to see my own son as his father?" the man replied coldly, gesturing toward

    Milo.

    Kaida''s jaw clenched, her fury barely contained as she took another step forward. "You''ve got a lot of nerve showing up here," she growled. "If you''re looking for a fight, I''ll

    give you one."

    "Kaida, stop," Ryder interrupted, stepping between her and the man, his hands raised in a placating gesture. "There are cameras everywhere. This is the last thing we need right now." Kaida''s nostrils flared, but she forced herself to step back, though her glare never wavered. Meanwhile, Eratz appeared silently at Mercury''s side. His expression was calm, but his stance

    was tense.

    Tears streamed freely down Milo''s face as he glared at his father, his small frame shaking with uncontainable emotion.

    "I don''t want to see you," he sobbed, his voice trembling but resolute. "You''re not my dad. You''re nothing to me! Stay away from us!"

    The rawness of Milo''s words cut through the air like a knife. Before anyone could respond, Milo turned and bolted, shoving past the crowd, his sobs audible as he disappeared into the

    distance.

    "Milo!" Mercury cried, her voice breaking as she immediately sprinted after him, panic and heartbreak etched into her face.

    Kaida''s fury reignited as she lunged toward the man, her fists raised, but Eratz stepped in with a single, swift motion. His hand caught her arm effortlessly, stopping her in her tracks.

    His calm, steady gaze locked onto hers.

    "Kaida, let it go. For now," Eratz said softly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

    Kaida groaned, her frustration evident, but she slowly lowered her fists. Her jaw clenched, and

    she stepped back.

    Zara appeared next, her movements swift and efficient as she began dispersing the crowd, urging fans to put away their phones and quickly ending the autograph session.

    Despite her efforts, the murmurs among the fans grew louder, their attention lingering on the

    man at the center of the turmoil.

    Some whispered in shock, others pointed discreetly, their cameras still catching the edges of

    his retreating figure.

    The man''s smirk faltered as the weight of the public gaze bore down on him. His confident demeanor cracked slightly, his movements stiff as he turned to leave.

    The whispers around him grew more pointed, and for the first time, his expression betrayed a

    flicker of unease.

    As he began walking toward the exit, Eratz''s voice cut through the tension like a blade.

    "Your funerals," Eratz said softly, not even looking at him, his tone carrying a calm finality

    that made the words land like a hammer.

    The man paused for the briefest moment, his jaw tightening, but he didn''t respond.

    Instead, he quickened his pace, his steps echoing in the now-muted space.

    The heavy atmosphere lingered long after he was gone, the confrontation hanging over

    everyone like an oppressive storm cloud.

    Zara''s firm voice and precise actions eventually managed to clear the space, but the weight of what had just transpired remained etched in everyone''s minds.

    Ryder ran a hand through his hair, his jaw tight, while Kaida stood silently, her fists clenched

    at her sides. Catarina muttered something about needing air, her usual playful demeanor entirely absent.

    Eratz stood still, his gaze distant, as though already preparing for the next inevitable S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    catastrophe.

 Chapter 246: An Eye For an Eye

    Chapter 246: An Eye For an EyeBack at the hotel room, Milo''s sobs echoed through the cozy but quiet space.

    He sat on the floor near the bed, curled into himself, clutching his knees as tears soaked his cheeks. His small shoulders trembled with every ragged breath.

    Outside, Mercury stood in the narrow corridor, her fists trembling as she knocked repeatedly on the door.

    The hallway was dimly lit, the soft hum of the fluorescent lights above doing little to ease her growing desperation.

    Her voice was strained and trembling as she called out to him.

    "Milo, please," she begged. "Let me in. Let me talk to you."

    "No!" Milo cried back, his voice cracking with the force of his distress. "Just leave me alone! I don''t want to see anyone!"

    Mercury pressed her forehead against the door, her knuckles white from how tightly she gripped the frame. The corridor felt suffocating, the weight of her own emotions pressing down on her like a storm she couldn''t escape.

    "Milo, please..." she murmured, her voice breaking. "I need to explain... he''s lying. That man... he left us. He only came back because you''re becoming famous. He doesn''t care about you, Milo. He never did."

    From behind the door, Milo''s sobbing grew louder, the sound ripping through Mercury''s heart like a blade. She pressed harder against the door, willing him to hear her.

    "I know!" he yelled suddenly, his voice filled with both anguish and frustration. "I always knew! But why did you hide he was here from me?"

    Mercury froze, her breath catching in her throat. Tears streamed down her face as her fingers trembled against the doorframe.

    "Milo..." she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    "I know he didn''t want me!" Milo sobbed. "I remember how he and Mom fought about who had to keep me. They didn''t want me. I know he''d never be interested in me."

    Mercury''s knees buckled, and she sank to the floor, her tears falling freely now. Her head rested against the door as her body shook with sobs.

    "Milo," she murmured again, her voice trembling with pain and guilt.

    "It''s true," Milo continued, his voice raw with emotion. "I''m too dumb to graduate, but I''m not dumb enough to not understand what I see. I know my parents don''t want me. But I thought I could trust you..." His voice broke completely, and he cried harder. "I don''t want you to lie to me. If I can''t trust you, I can''t trust anyone."

    Mercury''s eyes widened in shock, the words piercing through her like an arrow. Her forehead touched the door, and her shoulders shook as she cried harder than she had in years.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered, her voice raw and broken. "I''m so sorry, Milo. I never wanted this for you. I just wanted to protect you from all of it. I''m sorry for not telling you..."

    For a long moment, she said nothing else, only the sound of Milo''s sobs filling the silence.

    The warmth of the room on the other side of the door felt a world away from the cold, desolate corridor where Mercury knelt.

    Then, as her tears fell, her expression hardened. She stood up slowly, her back straight, her reddened eyes blazing with fury.

    "But I''m going to fix this," she muttered under her breath. Her fists clenched tightly as she turned away from the door, her steps echoing in the corridor.

    Later that night, Eratz, Kaida, and Raya stood on top of a building overlooking the sprawling city below. The streets glittered with the colorful glow of streetlights and neon signs weaving through the darkness like veins of light.

    The cool wind whipped through the air, but the tension between the trio was heavier than any storm.

    "I failed them," Raya said softly, her uneven eyes reflecting the city lights. "I thought my presence wasn''t needed for this kind of event, but I never imagined something like this. Milo''s pain... Mercury''s fury... I should have foreseen the need to stand by them."

    Kaida folded her arms, her gaze fixed on the horizon.

    "No one could have seen... anticipated this," Kaida said firmly, folding her arms across her chest. Her gaze lingered on the faint glow of distant apartment windows. "What matters now is showing up for them when it counts. Which is why," she added with a sharp glance at Eratz, "I''m wondering why we''re standing up here instead of being at the hotel."

    Eratz, leaning against the edge, glanced at her.

    "Catarina, Ryder, and Zara are already on standby at the hotel," Eratz replied calmly. "If they can''t stop Mercury from, then we''re better waiting for her at the splash zone."

    Kaida raised an eyebrow.

    "Stop her? Stop Mercury? From what exactly?"

    Eratz exhaled sharply, his eyes narrowing as he looked out over the city.

    "Just a precaution," Eratz said, his tone clipped. "Mercury is Mercury and I know her too well."

    Suddenly, his head snapped upward. His gaze sharpened, and a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

    "I found it," he said, his voice low but intense.

    Through the eyes of one of his flying beasts, he could see a small, dimly lit apartment nestled within a cluster of aging buildings.

    Its exterior was worn, the paint peeling away like forgotten memories.

    The beast circled lower, peering through a crack in the curtains that revealed Inside, the scene shifted seamlessly from the beautiful view of the outside to the suffocating air inside the apartment. The room reeked of whiskey and stale smoke, its dim light casting long, jagged shadows over the peeling wallpaper and cracked furniture. The floor was a minefield of empty bottles and crumpled papers, the residue of someone clinging desperately to a life spiraling out of control. The television flickered weakly in the background, its muted sounds blending with the occasional creak of the building settling around him.

    Milo and Mercury''s father sat hunched on a battered couch, his face a mask of frustration. The bottle of whiskey perched precariously on the table in front of him seemed like the centerpiece of his world. He gripped his phone tightly, his knuckles white as his voice rose, tense and laced with fury.

    "What do you mean I ruined everything?" he barked at the lawyer on the other end. "You know we''re losing this lawsuit! That''s why I had to do it! You were supposed to help me fix this, not let it get worse!"

    The response was unintelligible, but whatever the lawyer said only deepened the man''s scowl. He groaned loudly, slamming the phone down onto the couch beside him with a force that made it bounce slightly. He grabbed the whiskey glass with his other hand, draining half of its contents in one go before rubbing his temple in frustration.

    He glanced at his phone again, the screen alive with headlines and comments. The internet had turned into a roaring storm, with countless articles condemning his actions.

    The viral clip of Milo''s tearful cries had sparked outrage, and the weight of public opinion bore down on him like a vice. His lips curled into a snarl as he groaned again, slamming the glass down on the table so hard it rattled.

    A knock at the door cut through the oppressive silence. He frowned, his gaze snapping toward

    the entrance.

    "Nobody''s here!" he shouted, his voice hoarse with irritation.

    Reaching for the bottle, he poured another glass, the amber liquid sloshing messily as his

    hand shook with anger.

    The knocking resumed, louder this time, insistent and relentless.

    "Are you deaf or something?" he yelled, rising unsteadily to his feet. His frustration bubbled

    over into muttered curses as he stomped toward the door, his heavy steps echoing in the

    cramped space.

    The moment he reached it, a deafening crash shattered the tense air. The door flew off its hinges, slamming against the wall with a force that made the entire room seem to vibrate. He stumbled back, his eyes wide with shock as his breath caught in his throat.

    Mercury stepped through the broken frame, her presence suffocating in its intensity. Her eyes burned with a fury so fierce it seemed to radiate off her in waves, her slow steps making the floor creak ominously beneath her. Her clenched fists trembled, but her expression remained

    eerily calm.

    "Are you insane?" the man stammered, his earlier bravado crumbling under her unyielding gaze. He tried to mask his fear with anger. "You''re going to regret this!"

    Mercury''s voice was quiet, almost a whisper, but it carried the weight of an impending storm.

    "Yes," she said coldly. "Crazy enough to finish you off."

    Before he could react, her fist collided with his face. The sickening crack of his nose breaking echoed through the room as he crumpled to the floor, blood streaming through his fingers as he clutched his face.

    Mercury loomed over him, her shadow casting long and jagged shapes across his trembling form. She knelt on his stomach, pinning him to the ground as he screamed in pain. Her next punch knocked out a tooth, blood splattering against the worn carpet.

    "That''s for Milo," she said, her voice colder than ice. Her fists came down again. "For coming back." Another blow. "For taunting me."

    Her strikes grew faster and harder, each one carrying the weight of years of anger, fear, and

    frustration.

    His face became a bloody mess under her relentless blows, his groans of pain growing weaker

    with each hit.

    She held back just enough to avoid killing him outright, but every strike was calculated to

    leave lasting scars.

    Then, a sharp crack of thunder filled the air, not from a storm outside but from the electric

    surge of Eratz''s arrival.

    He had raced there with lightning speed, his body a blur that seemed to materialize out of

    nowhere.

    His hand caught Mercury''s fist mid-swing with a precision that stopped her cold. She froze,

    her blazing eyes snapping up to meet Eratz''s panicked gaze.

    "You idiot," he hissed, his voice trembling. "Are you crazy?!"

    "Leave me alone!" Mercury snarled, struggling against his grip. "I''m doing what I should

    have done from the beginning!"

    Eratz didn''t let go, his voice urgent and low, but tinged with exasperation.

    "This is assault! You''ll go to jail!"

    "Then let me!" Mercury snapped, her fury increasing, but Eratz''s hand didn''t budge.

    Instead, his free hand curled into a fist, and before she could stop him, he swung it down,

    striking the man squarely in the face with a sickening crunch.

    Mercury froze, her blazing eyes widening in disbelief.

    "W... What are you doing?!"

    Eratz tilted his head slightly.

    "You''re pregnant. You can''t go to jail! I''ll take the blame."

    For a second, Mercury stared at him, her rage temporarily derailed, then, she shoved him

    aside with a force that made him stagger.

    Her fist came crashing down on the man''s face again.

    "You can''t go either! You''re the team''s ace! If you go to jail, you might be suspended!" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz groaned dramatically, rubbing his temples as if Mercury was the unreasonable one.

    "No kidding, you genius," He cut himself off with another punch, landing squarely on the father''s jaw. Mercury grabbed his arm, pulling him back with an impressive yank.

    "We will lose if you go to jail, you idiot!" she hissed before delivering another blow of her

    own.

    Eratz stumbled slightly but turned back with a glare, his voice raising.

    "If you go to jail, we''ll definitely lose too, you fool!"

    They began an absurd tug-of-war over the battered man, shoving each other aside with one

    hand while taking turns delivering brutal punches with the other.

    The father''s face was a crimson mess, his groans of pain weakening with every strike.

    By the time Kaida arrived at the doorway, she was greeted with a scene so chaotic it left her

    speechless. Her hand gripped the frame tightly as she gawked, her jaw dropping in disbelief. Meanwhile, in a different street, Raya, left alone, was politely asking a fan for directions.

 Chapter 247: Family

    Chapter 247: FamilySeveral hours after the assault, the police station was alive with tension. Mercury and Eratz sat side by side at a long table, their faces grim but composed.

    Across from them sat a disfigured man, his face swollen and bruised beyond recognition. He glared at them through puffy eyes, a cold compress held weakly against his cheek.

    Kaida and Raya leaned back in their chair next to them, Kaida looking around, and Raya sniffing the air as if she had no connection to the chaos.

    An officer loomed over them, a thick file of papers in hand, his expression a mixture of annoyance and disbelief.

    The door to the waiting area swung open with a bang. Victoria, Cassie, and Roger hurried in, their expressions a mixture of concern and exasperation.

    Victoria''s sharp eyes scanned the room, quickly landing on Mercury and Eratz.

    "Are you alright?" Cassie asked, her voice high-pitched with worry.

    "Facially, better," Eratz said calmly.

    Victoria''s gaze shifted to the other side of the table. Her lips tightened as she took in the man''s grotesque appearance.

    "You couldn''t control yourself, could you?" she said with a resigned sigh.

    Mercury flushed, her head lowering slightly.

    "I did control myself," she muttered. "He''s still alive."

    Kaida let out a small, sympathetic chuckle.

    "Sadly for him. This dude''s gonna look like porridge."

    Cassie''s gaze darted to the father, her eyes narrowing. She pointed an accusing finger at him.

    "This... This thing... is that..."

    Roger murmured dryly.

    "Obviously."

    Without hesitation, Cassie took a step forward, her hand already raising. Roger and Victoria grabbed her shoulders simultaneously, pulling her back before she could get any closer.

    "Unhand me! I''m just going to fix his face... with my fists!"

    "Stop," Roger muttered under his breath. "You''re making it worse."

    The officer cleared his throat loudly, silencing the room. His stern gaze swept over the group as he set the file down on the table with a sharp thud.

    "This is a disaster," he began, his voice heavy with frustration. "What you did was assault, plain and simple. You''ve caused grievous bodily harm, destruction of property, and

    endangerment. You''re lucky this man is even alive."

    Mercury''s shoulders tensed, and Eratz''s jaw tightened, but they both stayed silent. The officer''s voice rose as he continued.

    "Do you know how many charges could be filed here? We''re looking at physical assault, emotional damages, and even..." He paused, glancing at his notes. "A kick to the face? Did you try to kill him?"

    Both Mercury and Eratz flinched at the mention. Their eyes darted toward Kaida, who was now staring at the ceiling, whistling innocently.

    The father''s swollen mouth opened, but his voice came out garbled and incomprehensible.

    "Y''m gnnn sssuuue... mnnke y''ll payyy..."

    Victoria''s sharp sigh cut through the room as she stepped forward. She waved her hand dismissively.

    "Alright. That''s enough," she said, her voice calmer. She pulled out a chair and sat down gracefully, her piercing gaze locking onto the officer.

    "We need to talk," she said firmly. "Privately. With a minimal audience."

    The officer blinked, clearly caught off guard by her commanding tone.

    "Privately?" he repeated, incredulous.

    Victoria nodded once, sharply.

    "Yes. Just us, without your men. I need a moment to resolve this."

    The officer hesitated, glancing at his colleagues. They exchanged skeptical looks, but when he gestured for them to leave, they obeyed with murmurs of confusion.

    "Are you serious?" one of them whispered.

    "It''s fine," the officer replied, though his tone suggested he wasn''t entirely convinced.

    Once the room had cleared, he turned back to Victoria, his brow furrowed deeply.

    "I can''t believe this," he muttered. "So you''re really doing this..."

    Victoria''s lips twitched in a faint smile.

    "First time for everything, isn''t it, Halston? Besides, it''s not like I overuse it."

    "Overuse what?" Mercury asked, her confusion mirrored by the rest of the team.

    Victoria leaned back in her chair, her arms crossed.

    "Halston here was once a rookie beast master. Back then, he was a real struggling bug, with no talent nor skills. So I had to teach him to get better, and I grew proud of his results."

    Halston groaned, clearly regretting the memory.

    "You didn''t just teach me. You obliterated me. Repeatedly. I quitted because I didn''t want to deal with you ever again."

    Victoria''s smile grew slightly.

    "And look at you now. A respectable officer of the law. A life without regrets... or broken bones."

    "A life without you chasing me around an arena," Halston shot back. "Do you know how many times I had nightmares because of you? I can''t even enjoy being praised because I know how little it is compared to you."

    "And yet," Victoria countered smoothly, "you discovered your true calling, didn''t you? A life

    you''d never have found without my help."

    Halston muttered something under his breath but didn''t deny it.

    "Wait," Cassie interrupted, her brows furrowed. "So you trained this guy, and now he''s basically your... disciple?"

    "Indebted disciple," Victoria corrected, her tone casual but pointed. "Which is why Halston here is going to wipe away any charges against Mercury and Eratz. Provided, of course, that..." She turned her gaze to the disfigured man. "Mr. Ambrosius over there doesn''t complain."

    Halston sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair.

    "I can''t believe I''m doing this," he muttered.

    The father flinched and stammered, his words garbled and hard to follow as he accused Victoria of bribery. His trembling voice carried no weight, especially when faced with the chilling shift in Victoria''s demeanor.

    Her expression cooled, her eyes narrowing as her posture straightened. The warmth that had briefly graced her features vanished, replaced by a cold, calculating presence that seemed to

    fill the room.

    "Mr. Ambrosius," she began, her tone measured and devoid of sentiment, "you''re already a well-known figure for your interactions with your son. Public perception has shifted dramatically, and trust me, the tribunal will not align itself with you. If that''s not enough, let me explain the gravity of your situation."

    The father''s breathing grew heavier as her words pierced the air like knives.

    "Right now, you''re eligible for a restraining order against Milo," she continued. "The video

    alone paints a very clear picture. But let''s dig deeper, shall we?" Her smile was faint but venomous. "Because you, Mr. Ambrosius, are a man with a rather colorful history. Let''s

    review it together."

    The room fell silent. Even Officer Halston leaned forward slightly, his curiosity piqued. Victoria''s gaze locked onto the trembling father.

    "Tax evasion," she began smoothly, "for three consecutive years. Oh, and not to forget insurance fraud. A forged claim about a ''stolen vehicle'' that turned out to be in your garage

    the whole time. Charming."

    The father''s eyes widened, his protests dying in his throat. "Employment fraud... hiring undocumented workers under the table to avoid taxes," she

    continued, her tone sharper now. "And let''s not forget identity theft. You sold someone''s credit card details online, didn''t you? A little side hustle, perhaps?"

    The room''s tension grew thicker with each revelation. Eratz and Mercury exchanged stunned

    glances, while Cassie and Roger''s jaws dropped.

    Even Halston seemed in deep shock, his pen hovering over his notes, forgotten. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "It''s a wonder you''re not already behind bars," Victoria remarked, her voice a velvet blade.

    "And these are just the documented crimes. Imagine what else might surface if someone were

    to... shine a spotlight on your life."

    The father''s entire body trembled now, his face pale beneath the bruises and swelling. Victoria leaned in slightly, her smile widening ever so slightly.

    "So, Mr. Ambrosius," she said, her voice dropping to an icy whisper, "I''m sure you feel

    confident about winning this case. After all, it''s not as if it could derail your life entirely." Sweat poured down the father''s temples as his head slowly lowered. His hands clenched into weak fists on the table, but he dared not speak.

    "Oh, and one more thing," Victoria added, her tone almost playful now. "About Milo. You won''t get him. You won''t get anything. In fact, I suggest you forget about this lawsuit entirely. You see, there are plenty of planes leaving the country every day, and I imagine a busy man like you, with such a history, would want to... disappear. Especially now that everyone knows exactly where to find you."

    The silence was deafening as Victoria''s words hung in the air. She leaned back in her chair, her eyes fixed on the man who now stared at the floor, sweat dripping from his chin.

    "I didn''t hear your answer, Mr. Ambrosius," she said, her voice suddenly sharp.

    The father flinched and nodded slowly, his trembling making the motion almost imperceptible.

    Victoria''s smile returned, though it was far from kind. She turned to Halston.

    "It seems, Officer Halston, that Mr. Ambrosius is willing to not pursue this matter. Would you

    kindly release Mercury and Eratz?"

    Halston sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose.

    "You''re an evil woman, Victoria."

    "Thank you," she replied, her tone as sweet as honey.

    Following Victoria''s masterful handling of the situation, everything unfolded as she planned.

    Mercury and Eratz were released without further issues, with Officer Halston justifying their

    release by citing "fees" paid to the victim and a mutual agreement to settle the matter. The assault was kept quiet, ensuring no media fallout.

    The group returned to the hotel, their respect for Victoria deepened by her calculated

    maneuvering.

    Reuniting with Milo, the atmosphere softened as everyone took turns comforting the boy.

    Even Colin promised to be nicer and help him more with his studies.

    But tonight was also Mercury''s moment.

    The group erupted into cheers, their voices overlapping with words of admiration for

    Mercury. Roger praised her as a long-standing hero, Kaida called her an inspiration, and even Catarina, usually playful, acknowledged her strength with heartfelt sincerity.

    Eratz added his voice, commending her unwavering resilience and the weight she carried for

    everyone.

    Overwhelmed by the collective outpouring of support, Mercury blinked back tears before allowing herself a rare, genuine smile, her guard momentarily lowered as she embraced the warmth of their appreciation.

    Milo, in turn, laughed heartily when he learned that Eratz and Mercury had physically

    confronted his father.

    Amid the lighthearted exchanges, he hugged both Mercury and Eratz tightly. Looking up at

    Eratz, he spoke with quiet determination.

    "I''m proud to be your son. From now on, I don''t want to be Ambrosius anymore. I want to be

    Milo Pandora."

    Eratz''s smile was warm as he hugged the boy back.

    "If Victoria knows someone who can quickly make it official, then I''m all for it," he joked.

    Victoria, ever composed, simply nodded.

    "I know someone," she replied matter-of-factly.

    The room fell silent for a brief moment before erupting into laughter, the weight of the day

    lifting as they shared the unexpected humor.

    Their bond solidified further as they prepared to move forward together.

    The following days saw the father''s apartment deserted, his presence wiped clean from their lives. The group refocused their attention on the upcoming semifinals.

    The final group stage match saw the Cosmos face Steel Apex, ending with a dominant 8-1

    victory.

    Milo''s single loss did little to dampen their spirits as they celebrated their advancement to

    the semifinals against Blazing Horizons.

    On the opposite side of the bracket, Infinite Twilight prepared to face Azure Blades.

    The road to the finals stretched ahead, leading all teams to the remote island of Solaris Haven, where the final event awaited.

    The stage was set, and the journey to victory had begun.

 Chapter 248 Solaris Haven

    248  Solaris Haven The island of Solaris Haven stretched wide beneath the veil of thick, dark clouds, its exotic beauty untouched by time. A vast forest blanketed the landscape, its verdant expanse dotted with ancient ruins and winding paths.

    Rising from this lush greenery was a city that seemed plucked from another era. Its grand columns, intricate stone carvings, and sprawling plazas evoked the majesty of ancient civilization.

    The streets were paved with cobblestones, and towering statues loomed at every corner, whispering tales of forgotten stories. Despite the ominous clouds, the city seemed to pulse with life, as though every stone carried the spirit of the past.

    Inside a car navigating the bustling streets, Milo and Colin pressed their faces to the windows, their eyes wide with wonder. The entire team was seated casually, taking in the sights of the historic island. Zara, seated near the front, pointed toward the scenery outside.

    "This island is a treasure trove for historians and adventurers," she remarked. "It''s famous for having changed so little over the centuries. Even the beasts here are unique, you won''t find them anywhere else in the world."

    Eratz leaned forward, his interest piqued.

    "That sounds like the perfect sleep outside to explore before the matches... maybe even hunt a little," he said, a faint smirk on his lips.

    Mercury, sitting across from him, raised an eyebrow and gestured toward the window.

    "Yeah... you might want to check the weather first. I wouldn''t hunt in a place like this with this around."

    Through the glass, the dark clouds hung low, heavy with the promise of rain. The air carried an electric tension, and faint rumbles of thunder echoed in the distance.

    Raya, who had been quietly listening, spoke softly.

    "Rain is like the field spell of the sky. It changes everything, the terrain, the mood, even the fight. I quite enjoy it."

    Catarina was stunned. Her mouth opened slightly before she shook her head, glancing at Raya.

    "Where do you even come up with these ideas?" she asked, her tone a mix of disbelief and awe.

    Ryder, leaning casually against his seat, scratched his chin.

    "She has a point, though... Technically everything is a field spell."  S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The car continued its journey, winding through the ancient city. The streets were teeming with fans from across the globe, all gathered for the upcoming semifinals and final matches. The energy was palpable, an effervescent mix of excitement and anticipation. The crowd''s cheers grew louder as the car approached its destination.

    Among the throngs of people stood a woman wearing a mouth mask, casually holding a piece of exotic fruit. Beside her loomed a large man, also masked, his broad shoulders towering over the bustling crowd. The man let out a loud yawn, his tone dripping with irritation.

    "Why''s it always this crowded?" he grumbled. "I''m sleepy."

    The woman glanced at him, her eyes sharp.

    "You''ll have plenty of time to sleep before the real trouble begins."

    He crossed his arms, still annoyed.

    "Why did we have to come anyway? You could''ve handled this yourself, Mara."

    She sighed, her gaze shifting toward the clouds above.

    "Good, now I know I can''t tell you secrets. I can''t handle it for many reasons, and the most obvious one is that even someone like Vicky couldn''t stand against me when I used my calamity beasts. If Vicky was countered by calamity beasts, then if that snake succeeds, we''re definitely screwed." She smirked faintly, then looked at the cloudy sky, her voice almost a whisper. "What a nice day for the beginning of an apocalypse."

    The crowd''s excitement reached a fever pitch as the convoy of buses arrived at the luxurious hotel where the teams would stay. The building, named Aquila Aurum, stood as a testament to the city''s grandeur, its golden fa?ade shimmering even under the overcast sky.

    Fans pressed against barricades, waving banners and screaming as the first bus came to a halt.

    The Azure Blades were the first to arrive. They stepped off the bus to polite applause, their confidence tempered by the reality of their situation. As they walked into the hotel, their whispered jokes betrayed their resignation.

    "Do you think even one person in that crowd believes we can win?" one of them muttered, glancing at the cheering fans.

    "Doubt it," another replied with a bitter laugh. "We gave everything against those monsters Cosmos and got humiliated."

    "And now it''s against the Frost Empress and Goldust," the first one added, shaking his head. "This¡­ is gonna be rough."

    The second bus followed shortly after, carrying the Blazing Horizons. Their reception was warmer, though their expressions were no less resigned. They exchanged grim looks, knowing their next opponents would be the Cosmos.

    The roar of the crowd grew deafening as the next bus approached. Both Azure Blades and Blazing Horizons turned toward the commotion, their annoyance evident.

    The Infinite Twilight team disembarked like an unstoppable force. Sia led the group, her icy presence commanding silence even amid the chaos. Rex brought up the rear, his towering figure a symbol of unyielding strength, only for the watcher, for his mind wandered to the climax of his favorite TV show.

    Security struggled to keep the fans at bay as the team walked with an air of indifference. Finn glanced at the sky, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

    "A big hotel, a storm, and plenty of strangers," he said. "If there''s a blackout, this might just be my favorite night."

    Leonidas walked near the back, his eyes narrowing slightly as he glanced at Kallistra. She walked with her usual enigmatic smile, her gaze fixed on the clouds above. When the crowd''s cheers surged again, she sighed and glanced over her shoulder.

    The final bus had arrived.

    Even the members of Infinite Twilight paused to look. Every eye was on the Cosmos as their bus came to a halt. The tension among the assembled beast masters was palpable, each one keenly aware of the stakes.

    The doors opened, and Kaida stepped out first. Her fiery presence silenced the crowd momentarily before a wave of cheers rippled through the gathering. One by one, the team descended. Raya followed, her serene expression doing little to diminish the intimidating aura of her unique style.

    Mercury''s appearance drew even louder cheers, her reputation as a master of field spell and her two phenomenal beasts preceding her. Colin and Milo stepped out next, their youth a striking contrast to the seasoned fighters around them. Finally, Eratz emerged, and the atmosphere seemed to shift.

    Every beast master''s gaze locked onto him. Among all the variables, Eratz was a constant.

    A constant of victory.

    The Cosmos walked toward the hotel, their presence a force that seemed to part the crowd. The other teams quickly disappeared inside, except for one person.

    Kallistra remained outside, her enigmatic smile unwavering. Eratz noticed her immediately, his eyes narrowing slightly. Their gazes locked in a silent exchange, her smile teasing, his expression sharp.

    Victoria passed by, her stride unbroken. She caught Kallistra''s gaze, and for a brief moment, the air grew even heavier. Kallistra''s smile faltered ever so slightly before returning as the Cosmos entered the hotel.

    The stage was set. The semifinals awaited, and Solaris Haven would bear witness to the events that would shape the future.

 Chapter 249 Game of Chance

    249  Game of Chance The Solaris Coliseum stood as a monumental testament to human ingenuity, a world-tier arena built to host only the grandest events.

    From the outside, its vast circular structure, reminiscent of ancients Colosseum, rose high into the sky.

    The exterior was adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts from legends and legendary warriors, each detail telling a story of triumph and valor. Inside, it was a masterpiece of modern architecture and timeless design.

    The arena itself was vast, with rows upon rows of seating spiraling upward, stretching toward the heavens.

    Every seat was filled, the roaring crowd creating a thunderous wave of excitement that echoed through the structure.

    The battleground was a verdant expanse, lush with greenery and dotted with small terrain features designed for strategic combat.

    At each corner of the battlefield stood towering statues of ancient warriors, their stoic gazes casting shadows over the competitors who would soon fight for glory.  S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Around the world, millions tuned in to watch. In Genova, Rowan leaned forward in his seat, eyes glued to the screen. Lisa sat with her parents in their living room, her hands clenched in nervous excitement.

    Meanwhile, Kenny, bandaged and lying in a hospital bed again, glared at the screen as another patient beside him cheered for his favorite team.

    In a dimly lit bar, Adrian tried to change the channel, but the group of girls surrounding him insisted on watching, their enthusiasm infectious despite his grumbling.

    At the heart of the arena, the chairman of the league stepped forward. A man in his 50s, he exuded elegance with his tailored suit and sharp features.

    His silver-streaked hair and piercing blue eyes commanded attention as he stood before the roaring crowd.

    "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice resonating through the coliseum, "today marks the beginning of the semifinals and finals of the greatest team battle championship. To all the participants who have made it this far, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. Each of you has fought valiantly to stand on this stage."

    The crowd erupted in cheers, their energy palpable. The chairman paused, his expression shifting to one of contemplation.

    "And yet," he continued, "I cannot ignore the whispers among us. Based on the results of the group stage, the outcome of these semifinals seems¡­ predictable. Too predictable. And for an event of this magnitude, predictability is unacceptable."

    A hush fell over the audience. The competitors, watching from their respective locker rooms, exchanged puzzled glances.

    "Which is why," the chairman said, his tone growing more animated, "the league has decided to introduce something new. A surprise event that will redefine the finals of the team battles, not just for this season, but for the seasons to come."

    The crowd murmured in confusion and anticipation. The chairman raised a hand, silencing them.

    "From this point forward, the finals will no longer follow the traditional format. Instead of semifinals, we will host a tournament where all four teams will participate. Matches will feature random draws, with each battle determined by a supercomputer. Imagine, for instance, three members of Infinite Twilight facing three members of Golden Cosmos in a 3v3 right from the beginning, then for the following match, 4 members of Infinite Twilight against 4 of Azure Blades."

    The audience erupted in stunned gasps, followed by thunderous applause.

    "There is more. A fighter cannot participate in consecutive matches, and there will be two fixtures. Points will determine the ultimate champion. Additionally, every match will feature a random special condition to test our competitors'' adaptability and creativity."

    The public''s stunned silence quickly turned to euphoria, the promise of an unpredictable and thrilling final igniting their excitement.

    Fireworks burst into the dark sky above the coliseum, signaling the start of the event.

    In the Azure Blades'' locker room, the atmosphere was electric. The team erupted into cheers, their spirits lifted by the announcement. One fighter threw his arms up, grinning widely.

    "This is our chance!" he exclaimed. "We''ve got hope now!"

    Another fighter punched the air in celebration.

    "We''re not out of this yet. Random draws mean anything can happen!"

    Their captain, a woman with long blond hair standing with a slightly more reserved smile, nodded.

    "It''s true. But let''s not get ahead of ourselves. This gives us a shot, but we still need to make it count."

    In the Blazing Horizons'' room, the mood was similar but more tempered. Their leader sat on a bench, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees.

    "This changes everything," he said, a flicker of excitement in his voice. "It''s not over yet."

    One of his teammates paced back and forth, his hands running through his hair.

    "Random draws, special conditions¡­ It''s crazy."

    "But craziness is our friend," another teammate interjected, a sly grin on her face. "We thrive on adapting. This might just be what we needed. There''s chance they put the Pharaoh or Goldust in the 1v1 situation... we really can win!"

    Meanwhile, the Infinite Twilight and Golden Cosmos teams, gathered in adjacent locker rooms, reacted more calmly. Their conversations mirrored each other as though spoken in the same room.

    "What in the mew is he blabbering about?" Catarina asked, her tail twitching in confusion.

    In the Infinite Twilight room, Iris smirked.

    "It''s simple. They''re giving the people what they want, a show." She leaned back against the wall, her arms crossed casually.

    Leonidas crossed his arms, groaning.

    "Once again, normies putting their fantasies into the matters of beast masters. They treat it like it''s entertainment for their little pleasure."

    In the Cosmos'' room, Mercury leaned back against the wall, her expression thoughtful.

    "It''s not a problem if they do it for the show, Zara. It''s even welcomed. Keeps things interesting, even for us. I''m really excited now."

    Zara frowned, her arms crossed tightly.

    "Do you realize this makes it worse for you?"

    In Infinite Twilight''s room, Sia adjusted her gloves, her icy gaze fixed on the screen.

    "It doesn''t matter how much they play with the rules. In the end, the results will be the same. They''re forgetting something."

    In the Cosmos'' room, Eratz smirked, his team looking at him with similar expressions.

    "We''re the favorites because we''re the strongest. As simple as that."

    Both teams sat in silence for a moment, each group confident in their ability to dominate the new format. The roar of the public and the dazzling fireworks overhead only fueled their determination as they prepared for the biggest event of their careers.

    The public''s roar shook the coliseum as the fireworks painted the sky with vibrant colors. The new format promised unpredictability, excitement, and a chance for every team to shine.

    Solaris Haven was ready to host a final like no other, a battle that would redefine the future of team competitions.

    The stage was set, and the world watched with bated breath as the greatest event in beast mastery began.

 Chapter 250 The Show Begins

    250  The Show Begins The arena buzzed with electrifying energy, every seat filled with fans eager to witness the pinnacle of competition.

    As the giant screen above the battleground flickered to life, four emblems appeared: Golden Cosmos, Infinite Twilight, Azure Blades, and Blazing Horizons.

    The crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement building as the faces of the team members shuffled rapidly, creating a dazzling display of possibility.

    With a dramatic pause, the first team was revealed: Golden Cosmos. The emblem glowed brightly, igniting deafening cheers.

    Fans waved banners and shouted support for the powerhouse team. Among the crowd, Cassie clapped enthusiastically, beaming with pride as she nudged Roger.

    In another section, Tamara leaned back in her seat, her masked face hiding a faint smirk as her eyes followed the screen.

    The shuffle resumed, faces and emblems blurring. Moments later, the second team was revealed: Azure Blades.

    The crowd''s reaction was mixed, with cheers mingling with gasps of worry from Azure Blades'' fans.

    Catarina''s tail flicked as she smirked.

    "Nya? Didn''t we already face them before?"

    Raya''s calm voice followed.

    "Hm? What''s the result of the draw?"

    The mood in the Azure Blades room was more subdued. Zane, a short man with white hair, broke the silence, exhaling sharply.  S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Of course, it had to be them."

    Dorian Kael crossed his arms, his jaw tight.

    "Maybe this whole rule idea wasn''t great after all."

    Erynn, their ace, forced a grin.

    "Luck''s always been our ace in the hole, right? All we need is the right conditions, and this might not end as badly as it looks." She chuckled lightly.

    Zane snorted but said nothing, his fists clenched tightly.

    The screen shifted again, displaying the possible battle types: 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, 4v4. The crowd leaned forward, murmuring as the options shuffled.

    Suddenly, the screen stopped on 2v2 in bold letters. A ripple of surprise spread through the audience, this format had never been used in the finals before.

    The screen transitioned to the participant selection, names spinning rapidly before stopping one by one. The results appeared:

    Golden Cosmos:

    Mercury Banks

    Colin Alondra

    Azure Blades:

    Zane Frost

    Selene Arctis

    Colin''s eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat.

    "Me? I''m fighting first?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

    A knot of anxiety tightened in her chest, she could feel the pressure of opening the show and the eyes of the roaring crowd bearing down on her, amplifying her nerves. For a moment, she hesitated, her mind racing with self-doubt.

    Was she ready for this? Could she handle the pressure of being the first to fight on such a grand stage?

    Her hesitation didn''t go unnoticed, and the others gathered around her. Milo leaned forward, his cheerful voice breaking through her thoughts.

    "You''re so lucky to go first. You''ve got this, Colin! Show them what you''re made of," he said with a broad grin.

    Mercury stepped closer, placing a steady hand on her shoulder.

    "Stay close to me, we''ll take them down together," she said, her calm tone grounding Colin.

    Kaida smirked and gave her a light pat on the back.

    "You''ve got this, girl. Just do what you always do."

    Finally, Eratz approached, his gaze steady as he extended his fist.

    "Why are you even hesitating? It''s you."

    Colin blinked, her earlier fear dissipating under their encouragement. With a small, determined smile, she bumped her fist against his and straightened her posture.

    "I''ll do my best," she said, her voice more confident.

    On the opposite side, Azure Blades were having a less motivated reaction. Zane groaned, running a hand through his hair.

    "The Ocean Goddess... This is it. We''re screwed."

    Selene''s lips twitched into a nervous smile.

    "Seriously, why are they all so big? It''s impossible..."

    Erynn leaned back, her grin unwavering.

    "Look... on the bright side, it''s only 2 points."

    Dorian chimed in.

    "On the dark side, the Pharaoh and the Blind Swordsman aren''t picked yet. What did you say about luck?"

    Outside, the battleground shimmered as the special condition was revealed:

    [Time Limit: The match must conclude within 5 minutes.]

    Gasps rippled through the audience as the gravity of the rule sank in. A time limit meant urgency and flawless teamwork. In this kind of competition, it was a unique event.

    The announcer''s voice boomed across the coliseum.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the first battle of the finals begins now! A 2v2 clash featuring Golden Cosmos'' Mercury Banks and Colin Alondra against Azure Blades'' Zane Frost and Selene Arctis! Let''s hear it for our fighters!"

    The crowd erupted into cheers as the fighters stepped onto the battleground. Mercury exuded calm confidence, while Colin''s determined expression spoke volumes about her resolve. Across from them, Zane and Selene exchanged tense glances before taking their positions.

    "Let the greatest show of the finals begin!" the announcer declared, and with that, the battle commenced.

    The crowd''s roar reached a crescendo as the match began. Zane and Selene jumped backward, summoning their beasts with fluid motions. From Zane''s side, a towering creature emerged: a sleek, scaled serpent wreathed in frost and a massive tortoise with a rocky shell glistening with earthy dampness. Selene mirrored his actions, summoning a shimmering, misty hawk and a bulky feline crackling with static electricity.

    Selene wasted no time. Her lightning beast pulsed with energy as she activated her beastification. Lightning streaked through her body, illuminating her with a dangerous glow.

    Her goal was clear: to take advantage of Mercury''s water field spell.

    But Mercury didn''t flinch.

    Instead, she smiled with a calm, knowing expression that unnerved her opponents.

    "Colin," Mercury said, her voice steady, "you lead the way."

    Colin blinked, surprised by the directive.

    "Me?"

    Mercury nodded.

    "Yeah, it''s your stage. Show them what you''ve got. I''ll handle the rest."

    Taking a deep breath, Colin steadied herself. Her hesitation faded as she stepped forward, letting her focus take over. Her fire aura began to shimmer, a soft orange glow spreading around her. With each step, the aura intensified, and the air around her began to heat.

    From Colin''s perspective, the battlefield narrowed. The deafening cheers of the crowd faded into the background as she honed in on Selene and Zane. Their beasts shifted nervously, and for the first time, their confident expressions faltered.

    "...She''s the one using the field spell?!" Zane muttered, exchanging a glance with Selene.

    Selene''s lips tightened.

    "What the..."

    Colin''s fire aura spread wider, creating a dome-like zone of intense heat. The misty hawk''s movements became sluggish in the rising temperature, its mist evaporating. The frost serpent recoiled slightly, its icy scales losing their gleam.

    "I can do it," Colin murmured, raising her hands as flames erupted around her.

    Selene darted forward, her lightning beast crackling with energy as it pounced. Colin sidestepped, conjuring a fire pillar that intercepted the beast mid-air. It burst into sparks, momentarily stunning the creature.

    Zane''s tortoise began spewing a stream of muddy water at Colin. She reacted swiftly, twisting her fire into a spiraling shield that turned the attack into harmless steam. With a flick of her wrist, she redirected the steam toward Selene''s hawk, further disorienting it.

    Meanwhile, Mercury stayed in the background, her arms crossed and her face serene. She didn''t move or use any attacks, simply observing the battlefield with an air of detachment.

    This only heightened Zane and Selene''s unease. They weren''t the strongest of their team, so facing Mercury was a promise of losing. Yet, she was the most inoffensive of the two.

    The frost serpent hesitated, its icy eyes flicking toward Mercury as if anticipating an attack that never came.

    "Why isn''t she doing anything?" Zane muttered, his voice tight with frustration. His eyes flicked toward Mercury, who remained motionless.

    Selene''s jaw clenched as she adjusted her stance, her gaze darting between Colin and Mercury.

    "Why isn''t she moving?" Selene said under her breath. "...If we could just stall them until the time limit, we might still have a chance... We just need to survive this."

    Their unease grew as Colin continued her fiery assault, her attacks too powerful to ignore. Mercury''s silence became a looming presence, more unsettling than any attack she could have unleashed.

    Zane, Selene, and their beasts couldn''t focus on anything, all their attention on the potential world-tier beast master observing them like a predator watching her cub toying with their prey.

    Mercury glanced at the timer ticking down on the arena''s edge. The 5 minutes were soon reached. She grimaced a little; she had wanted to let Colin win by herself to grow in confidence. But with the limit nearing, it was too risky, so she decided it was time to end the match.

    "Colin, focus on long-range attacks. Let''s finish this."

    Colin''s eyes sharpened, and she nodded.

    "Got it."

    Colin''s flames surged higher, and Mercury pointed two fingers at Zane and Selene. The two synchronized their attacks effortlessly.

    Mercury unleashed a barrage of water beams, each one detonating on impact with a thunderous explosion, sending cascading waves rippling through the battlefield.

    Colin followed up with explosive fireballs, each detonation forcing Zane and Selene''s positions further apart as they scrambled to evade.

    The arena became a game of shooting, where Colin conjured a towering inferno that engulfed the area in searing heat, while Mercury''s water beams cut through the smoke, erupting into massive geysers with each hit.

    The merging elements created a chaotic burst of steam and shockwaves, the intensity shaking the ground beneath them.

    Zane and Selene''s desperate attempts to dodge proved futile. The relentless fiery blasts and explosive water beams cornered them, leaving no room for escape.

    They were caught in the heart of the assault, screaming as the force of the combined attacks destroyed them and their beasts.

    The five-minute time limit had barely been reached when the announcer''s voice echoed across the arena.

    "Match over! The winners: Golden Cosmos!"

    The crowd erupted in a thunderous roar as Mercury and Colin stood victorious. The crowd''s thunderous applause echoed like a storm, each cheer congratulating their teamwork.

    Cassie and Roger were on their feet in the stands, cheering loudly. Even Tamara, hidden behind her mask, allowed a satisfied nod.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, everyone erupted in jubilation.

    Colin, barely breaking a sweat, glanced at Mercury. The older fighter''s calm, approving nod was accompanied by a rare smile.

    "See? It''s easy, and we didn''t even need to go hard," Mercury said.

    She observed the crowd with apprehension, then placed a steady hand on Colin''s shoulder.

    "This is the level you''re at now. You need to understand that."

    Colin''s chest swelled with confidence, her earlier nerves now replaced by the thrill of victory. Together, they lifted their hands to the sky, basking in the shared triumph as the arena celebrated their resounding success.

 Chapter 251 The More, The Merrier

    251  The More, The Merrier The massive screen in the arena lit up, displaying the updated rankings after the first battle:

    Golden Cosmos: 2 points

    Infinite Twilight: 0 points

    Blazing Horizons: 0 points

    Azure Blades: 0 points

    The crowd erupted into cheers and speculation as the rankings solidified, setting the tone for the battles ahead.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the team gathered to celebrate their first victory.

    Zara leaned against the wall, her arms crossed as she studied the rankings on the screen. "This format really changes the game," she mused, her voice tinged with curiosity. "It''s interesting. Everyone has a chance with the right strategy... or rather luck."

    She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly. Then she flinched as a thought struck her.

    "Wait¡­ If we''ve already used Mercury for the 2v2, that means Eratz might be chosen for the 1v1... And we won''t have our carry for the 4v4 battle!"

    Ryder coughed.

    "Hm, I think there''s still another carry," he said, gesturing to Raya.

    The room fell silent, all eyes turning to her. Raya tilted her head slightly, feeling the switch in the air.

    "Could you... explain verbally what you mean?" she asked softly.

    The giant screen lit up again, showing the remaining teams: Infinite Twilight and Blazing Horizons. The faces and emblems blurred together in a dazzling shuffle.

    The crowd leaned forward in anticipation, murmuring excitedly.

    With a dramatic pause, the first team was revealed: Infinite Twilight.

    The crowd''s cheers reached a crescendo as the powerhouse team''s emblem glowed on the screen.

    The faces blurred again, and moments later, the second team was revealed: Blazing Horizons. The mix of cheers and gasps reflected the tension in the air.

    The screen shifted, now displaying the possible battle types, and the screen finally stopped on: 3v3.

    Gasps rippled through the crowd, and the energy in the arena grew even more intense.

    The screen transitioned to the participant selection, names spinning rapidly before stopping one by one:

    [Infinite Twilight:

    Sia Verizion

    Rex Goldust

    Devak Suran

    VS

    Blazing Horizons:  S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kaelion Ember

    Jace Ignis

    Taryn Ashfall]

    The fighters stepped into the arena, their presence commanding attention. On one side stood Sia Verizion, Rex Goldust, and Devak Suran of Infinite Twilight, their composed yet intimidating demeanor reflecting their reputation.

    On the opposite side, Kaelion Ember, Jace Ignis, and Taryn Ashfall of Blazing Horizons exchanged troubled glances.

    Kaelion ran a hand through his hair, muttering.

    "So, Rex, Sia, and Devak. Pick your killer."

    Jace shook his head, his voice tinged with frustration.

    "So this whole tournament was to humiliate us?"

    The crowd''s roar reached a fever pitch as the announcer''s voice boomed across the coliseum.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the next battle is a 3v3 clash featuring Infinite Twilight and Blazing Horizons! Let''s hear it for our fighters!"

    The arena shimmered as the special condition for the match appeared on the screen, and the result sent waves of murmurs through the audience.

    [Guest Invite: An even number of fighters from the teams in standby will join the battle]

    The fighters exchanged confused glances as the audience murmured in surprise.

    "Guest fighters?" Kaelion muttered, his brow furrowing.

    On the Infinite Twilight side, Sia''s icy blue eyes narrowed slightly, her expression calm but intrigued. Devak crossed his arms, his lips curling into a faint smirk, while Rex remained stoic, his gaze fixed on the clouds.

    The screen flickered again, spinning through the names of the standby fighters. Moments later, the additional participants were revealed:

    Guest Fighters:

    Azure Blades:

    Erynn Cassandra - Dorian Kael - Maris Vetra]

    For a brief moment, stunned silence filled the coliseum. Then, as the implications of the upcoming match sank in, the audience erupted into cheers. The energy was electric, an unparalleled anticipation for a 3v3 battle between every team all at once, a real royal rumble with two matches in one. For the fans, it was the greatest show, for the fighters, it was a another story.

    In the Golden Cosmos room, the atmosphere was far less jubilant. Zara paced back and forth as panic set in.

    "This is a disaster," she muttered, her voice tight with frustration. "No Eratz or Raya for the 3v3, and the opposing team has both Rex and Sia? How could this happen?"

    The team exchanged uneasy glances. Kaida leaned against the wall, arms crossed, her usual fire dimmed. Milo sat nervously, his legs bouncing up and down, while Catarina absently flicked her tail, her wide eyes betraying her anxiety.

    Victoria frowned, her sharp gaze scanning the room. Crossing her arms, she let out a slow breath before speaking.

    "I didn''t expect this," she admitted, her tone heavy with displeasure. "These rules are designed to limit us. It''s really like they''ve ensured that our best fighters can''t be in the matches where they''re most needed. Giving our maximum against opponents like Rex and Sia under these conditions is almost meaningless."

    The weight of her words settled over the group. Catarina looked down, her ears flattening slightly. Mercury opened her mouth to respond, but Eratz stepped forward first.

    "I disagree," he said firmly, his voice cutting through the tension.

    Everyone looked at him, hoping to find a light in this mess. He gave them a slight nod and continued.

    "Yes, we can''t control the matchups, but neither can they. That''s the point of these rules. They''re designed to force unpredictability. The challenge isn''t about having our strongest in the highest-point matches, it''s about remembering how many of us are strong."

    He glanced around the room, meeting each of their eyes in turn.

    "All of us are powerful. Each of us has a unique beast, and those beasts are what put someone like me on top of the regional league. With the training we''ve done, I know that individually, we''re strong enough to face this."

    Catarina perked up slightly, though doubt lingered in her voice.

    "You''re right, Boss, but Sia¡­ she has a unique beast too, right?"

    Eratz nodded.

    "Yes, she does. But think about this: we already have two points. There won''t be any Sia or Rex for the 4v4 battle."

    Mercury crossed her arms, her expression softening as she started to understand his point.

    "Oh, I see, even if we''re not strong enough to take them down here, we can ensure the rest of the points are secured."

    Eratz smiled faintly.

    "Exactly. We have me and Raya for the 4v4, so we can pull again what we did against World Star. This rule is just a complication."

    The tension in the room began to ease. Kaida pushed off the wall, cracking her knuckles.

    "Alright, then. We bleed like hell and get as many points as we can. Let''s show why we''re beast masters."

    The group looked at one another, a shared resolve sparking between them. They all understood the assignment now: fight to the fullest, leave nothing on the table, and set the stage for the final showdown.

    In the Infinite Twilight room, the mood was far darker. Leonidas stood near the edge of the viewing platform, his hands trembling as he clenched a glass.

    With a sharp crack, the glass shattered in his grip, shards falling to the floor.

    "This is ridiculous," he growled, his voice low but seething with anger. "They toy with us for their pleasure. We''re beast masters, not clowns." His eyes darted to Kallistra, his frustration evident. "This rule might give us an easy win now, but it''ll cost us later. Sia and Rex can''t participate in the 4v4, and that''s where the Pharaoh or the Blind Swordsman will show up."

    Kallistra, indifferent to his outburst, kept her focus on the screen.

    "Why do you panic? They lost the water girl for 2 points," she said simply, her tone icy. Her gaze didn''t waver from the image of Rex displayed prominently. "Focus on the now."

    Leonidas groaned, his frustration mounting.

    "Easy for you to say. You only care about whatever you''re planning."

    Kallistra didn''t respond, her attention unwavering as the match countdown ticked closer.

    As the teams emerged onto the battlefield, the crowd''s cheers intensified.

    Kaida, Milo, and Catarina of Golden Cosmos stepped forward alongside three members of Azure Blades.

    Across from them, Infinite Twilight''s and Blaze Horizons'' members prepared themselves for the clash.

    Each team stood at a distance, their expressions a stark contrast to one another.

    Sia stood with her eyes closed, arms crossed, exuding an air of calm confidence.

    Kaida grinned fiercely, her fiery spirit practically igniting the air around her. Devak frowned, his focus razor-sharp.

    Catarina gulped nervously, her tail flicking erratically. Rex, ever composed, tilted his head toward the sky, seemingly uninterested in the tension crackling between the teams.

    And Milo stood tense, his fists clenched as he steeled himself for the fight ahead.

    The crowd''s anticipation was palpable. This wasn''t just a battle; it was a clash of styles, strategies, and the raw power of unique beasts.

    The stage was set, and the stakes had never been higher.

 Chapter 252 Fatal 4-Way

    252  Fatal 4-Way The fighters stood still for a moment, the tension in the arena so thick it felt almost suffocating.

    Blazing Horizons glanced anxiously at Infinite Twilight, meanwhile, Azure Blades couldn''t take their eyes off the Golden Cosmos.

    Kaelion, the ace of Blazing Horizons, gave his team a subtle head gesture, signaling their next move and Erynn of Azure Blades responded with a curt nod, her own silent signal to her comrades.

    For a moment, the arena held its breath, a stillness so profound that even the roaring crowd seemed to pause. Then, the battle erupted.

    Azure Blades leapt toward Infinite Twilight, while Blazing Horizons charged Golden Cosmos. Beasts were summoned mid-air, their forms appearing in bursts of energy.

    But before they could land their attacks, Sia''s eyes snapped open, and Kaida''s grin widened. Two field spells surged forth, clashing violently in the center of the arena.

    The impact shook the ground, a deafening blast propelling fighters from Blazing Horizons and Azure Blades away.

    Only Kaelion and Erynn managed to stand amidst the chaos, their bodies trembling as they struggled to stay upright. Their resistance was short-lived, as Kaelion ignited in flames and Erynn started to freeze.

    The scoreboard updated with brutal clarity.

    [Golden Cosmos: 4

    Infinite Twilight: 2

    Blazing Horizons: 0

    Azure Blades: 0]

    Sia frowned, her field spell shimmering with icy dominance as she increased its intensity, attempting to take control of the battle.

    But Kaida was relentless, countering with her fire field spell. The clash of fire and ice created a stalemate that neither could break.

    Devak decided to intervene. He stomped the ground, his aura spreading like a shockwave as two massive wyverns materialized beside him.

    The creatures charged toward Kaida, their energy breaths poised to strike. But before they could connect, Catarina summoned Mystimara, her Calamity beast.

    With a snap of its fingers, Mystimara switched Kaida''s position with Devak, leaving him in the path of his own wyverns'' devastating blasts.

    Devak flinched as the energy beams struck him, his beasts recoiling in confusion. Meanwhile, Kaida took the opening, her body ignited, with wings spreading on her back.

    She moved in a flash, spinning in the air to deliver a powerful kick to Sia. Sia barely managed to shield herself, sliding back from the impact.

    Undeterred, Sia quickly regained her footing. She summoned shards of ice in a flurry, launching them toward Kaida.

    Yet her range was limited, and her attacks barely phased the fire warrior. Frustrated, Sia resorted to use already her trump card.

    She called forth Nivalys, the enormous feline appearing in a blizzard of ice and snow.

    Kaida''s grin widened.

    "Oh?" She muttered, unleashing her own calamity beast, Ignis, wreathed in searing flames.

    The two beasts collided, ice and fire exploding in a chaotic dance of destruction.

    While Kaida and Sia battled ferociously, Catarina focused her attention to Devak. Her chaotic fighting style, coupled with Mystimara''s tricks, overwhelmed him.

    Catarina dodged and weaved, teleporting attacks back onto Devak, who grew increasingly frustrated and battered.  S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    In the Golden Cosmos room, Ryder watched the battle with nervous anticipation.

    "They''re doing better than I expected," he said, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Kaida''s elemental control seems to match Sia''s."

    Victoria nodded thoughtfully.

    "Kaida is the perfect counter for Sia. Her fire diminishes Sia''s power, and her hand-to-hand combat with beastification is promising. Sia, on the other hand, has never excelled in melee combat."

    On the screen, Devak roared, summoning a massive snake-like beast with a dragon''s head.

    The creature unleashed a beam of violet energy, but Catarina vanished into darkness and snapped her fingers.

    The beam reappeared, redirected straight onto Devak. The resulting explosion left him coughing and disoriented in a cloud of smoke.

    Victoria continued, her tone steady but cautious.

    "Catarina might win this. The strategy is perfect. They could pull through. But¡­" She trailed off.

    Zara nodded grimly.

    "There''s only one problem."

    Milo darted through the battlefield, narrowly avoiding blasts and debris as chaos erupted around him.

    His focus shifted momentarily when he noticed something odd, Rex was still standing motionless, his gaze fixed on the sky.

    From the very beginning, he hadn''t moved an inch.

    Milo paused, unsure of what to do. Part of him wanted to rush to fight alongside his teammates, but he couldn''t ignore everyone''s warning about Rex: "You''re not ready for him" .

    Gulping, Milo decided to channel his healing abilities instead, summoning energy to restore his teammates'' stamina.

    But then, Rex''s gaze fell on him.

    Milo flinched, instinctively taking a defensive stance. The immobile fighter remained still, his narrowed eyes devoting the little boy. Both looked at each other from distance, and then, a gust of wind suddenly rushed past Milo, and an explosion erupted behind him.

    Startled, Milo stumbled forward, nearly falling.

    When he turned, he saw Erynn and Kaelion unconscious on the ground.

    The two fighters had managed to struggle their way out of the fiery clash of field spells but had shifted their attention to Milo, seeing him as the easiest target.

    They''d aimed to eliminate him for a single point but had been instantly neutralized by Rex.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, Eratz frowned deeply.

    "What the¡­?" he muttered, his eyes narrowing. Almost no one noticed the interaction.

    Most were still absorbed in the ongoing clash of titans, but Eratz''s mind raced.

    Why had Rex protected Milo?

    [Golden Cosmos: 4

    Infinite Twilight: 4

    Blazing Horizons: 0

    Azure Blades: 0]

    On the battlefield, Sia and Kaida continued their intense battle.

    Sia unleashed relentless long-range attacks, her precision honed to perfection, while Kaida closed the distance time and time again, forcing her into close combat.

    The icy warrior''s annoyance grew with each failed attempt to maintain distance.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, Victoria observed with a mix of tension and pride.

    "Kaida''s level has risen significantly," she remarked.

    "This could''ve been a massive success if we''d gone with the original plan," Zara sighed, her voice tinged with regret.

    Meanwhile, Devak exploded out of a cloud of smoke, his body battered and his aura unstable.

    Glaring behind him, he saw Catarina and Mystimara approaching like twin shadows, their chaotic movements impossible to predict.

    Rex, still motionless, glanced briefly at the cloudy sky before shifting his attention back to the battlefield.

    In the Infinite Twilight locker room, the air was thick with tension as the team watched the unfolding battle on the screen. Nyx broke the silence, her voice tinged with disbelief.

    "How is Sia not dominating?" she asked, her eyes glued to the screen.

    Arin leaned forward, readjusting her glasses.

    "It''s the elemental counter," she explained. "Sia''s power is at its peak with her field spell active, but the Red Devil''s fire is so intense that it''s nullifying it. She''s forcing Sia into melee combat, and it''s turning into a battle of resilience."

    Iris, arms crossed, tapped her finger rhythmically against her elbow. "If Sia can''t easily defeat this girl, what chance do we have against the Pharaoh?" she asked.

    The room fell into an uneasy silence as her words sank in. Worry spread across their faces as they contemplated the implications.

    Finally, Kallistra spoke. "None of you stand a chance against the Eratz, of course," she said, almost amused. "Eratz is in the world of people like me, that vulgar woman, and Victoria. He would defeat any of you easily."

    Her words hung in the air like a lead weight, silencing any protests before they could form.

    Then, unexpectedly, a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

    "The only thing that could stop him a little," she added, her tone almost wistful, "would be another fighter near that level."

    On the battlefield, Rex lowered his head and sighed. He glanced left, where Devak struggled against Catarina.

    He looked right, where Sia and Kaida remained deadlocked. Shaking his head, Rex placed his hands on his hips before spreading his arms slightly.

    His body began to glow, and then a blinding flash of light consumed the arena.

    Every fighter stopped, stunned as the light overwhelmed their senses. A violent wind ripped through the battlefield, sending debris flying in all directions.

    Kaida, momentarily blinded, raised her arms to shield her face.

    Suddenly, a hand appeared in front of her, followed by a blast that sent her hurtling backward. The impact shook the arena, leaving a crater where she had stood.

    "What''s happening?!" Catarina screamed, attempting to summon her field spell.

    But her power felt disrupted, parasitic. Another hand materialized above her, unleashing a second explosion that buried her under the ground.

    When the light finally subsided, the battlefield lay in ruins.

    The arena was reduced to rubble, with massive craters and scorched earth marking the devastation. Sia stood amidst the destruction, looking slightly surprised.

    Nearby, Devak lay sprawled on the ground, coughing as he struggled to process what had just occurred.

    On the ground, Milo blinked rapidly, his vision still obscured by spots of light. He struggled to his feet, disoriented.

    Before he could fully comprehend the scene, Rex appeared behind him. A gentle tap on his neck sent Milo crumpling unconscious to the ground.

    A deafening silence followed. The stands, the locker rooms, the battlefield, all were frozen in shock, and then the roar began.

    In the Infinite Twilight locker room, the reaction was immediate. Most erupted into cheers, their victory sealed by Rex''s unfathomable power.

    Yet, Leonidas sat in stony silence, his fists clenched tightly. Kallistra, too, remained unmoved, her gaze fixed on the screen.

    In the Golden Cosmos room, the atmosphere was the opposite. The team stared at the screen in disbelief.

    The impossible destruction, Rex''s overwhelming power, none of it seemed real.

    No one spoke, their silence a acknowledging how little they thought about their earlier speech.

    Finally, the announcer''s voice broke the stillness.

    "The match is over! Infinite Twilight takes the lead!"

    The coliseum erupted into deafening cheers as the scoreboard updated one final time.

    [Infinite Twilight: 7

    Golden Cosmos: 4

    Blazing Horizons: 0

    Azure Blades: 0]

 Chapter 253 Impass

    253  Impass The crowd outside the coliseum erupted in cheers, their voices rising in unison as they celebrated Infinite Twilight''s victory.

    Banners waved in the air, chants echoing through the streets. Amidst the jubilant chaos, Cassie and Roger exchanged worried glances.

    Nearby, Tamara seemed unphased, her arms crossed, her masked face betraying nothing.

    She knew better than anyone what kind of battle they would have once Rex was on the field.

    On the battlefield, Sia dusted herself off, brushing debris from her shoulders. Her sharp eyes scanned the scene of destruction.

    Beneath the rubble, Kaida lay buried, the aftermath of Rex''s overwhelming power. Sia''s expression remained composed, but her thoughts raced.

    For someone to handle her so well was impressive, even unsettling.

    "So there are others at this level," she murmured, her gaze lingering on the rubble.

    For a moment, she wished it wasn''t a team fight, but another thought dawned on her.

    This was the level of Kaida, someone she only knew as a name, but beyond her, there were still the three powerhouses.

    This win had a bad taste, but even so, her focus shifted to Rex, who was calmly checking on Milo''s condition.

    "The power of a world-tier beast master," she whispered, "really is something else."

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the atmosphere was heavy. The team sat in silence, troubled by their defeat.

    Not only had they lost without scoring a single point against Infinite Twilight, but they hadn''t even managed to finish off the remaining fighters from the other teams.

    The scoreboard felt like a glaring reminder of how far they had fallen behind.

    Mercury exhaled slowly, her eyes fixed on the screen showing Milo, Kaida, and Catarina being carried off the battlefield.

    The tension in her posture mirrored the unease in the room.

    "It''s narrowing our chances," she admitted, her voice steady but low. "And there''s still this damn 1v1."

    Eratz leaned forward, his brows furrowed in concern.

    "Rex¡­ took Kaida down so easily," he said.

    Among them, Kaida wasn''t the strongest, but she was very far from being weak, even better than average.

    They knew it was almost impossible against Rex, but not that she''d be defeated in a single attack.

    Mercury nodded, her tone shifting to something more optimistic.

    "True, but¡­ we''ve seen their strongest now. That means the others are likely less dangerous."

    The group remained silent, mulling over her words. After a moment, Colin nodded shyly.

    "It''s true... And... we still have Eratz, Mercury, and Raya," she said quietly, her voice growing steadier. "You three are really strong."

    The slight praise gave Mercury a faint smile, and she nodded.

    "Thanks, Colin. We''ll take this loss and learn from it."

    As they processed their loss, the announcement of the third battle echoed through the coliseum.

    The group braced themselves, trying to shake off the disappointment and focus on what lay ahead.

    Zara suddenly sat upright, a realization dawning on her.

    "Wait," she said sharply, drawing everyone''s attention. "The rules say that you can''t fight twice in a single round, but there''s only three of you left: Eratz, Raya, and Ryder. How the Hell is there going to be a 4v4?"

    Before anyone could answer, the results of the draw appeared on the screen.

    The screen lit up with the results for the next battle:

    [Infinite Twilight vs Blazing Horizons]

    4v4

    Gasps rippled through the arena as the announcement settled over the audience. Whispers of surprise and confusion filled the stands.

    In the Blazing Horizons locker room, the tension was suffocating. For them, this news was a nail in the coffin. The odds felt insurmountable, and despair was written on the faces of the team members.

    In contrast, murmurs among the crowd shifted from confusion to realization. Some began to piece together the logic behind the pairing.

    In the Infinite Twilight locker room, Kallistra tilted her head, her sharp eyes narrowing slightly. She was quick to understand the reasoning.

    "We have more fighters available than the others," she murmured, her tone neutral. "It''s not surprising, really. It also confirms that the draw isn''t entirely random. Someone''s pulling the strings to ensure a good show¡­ or perhaps rigging it to give Leonidas'' maw a better chance."

    22:10

    Leonidas groaned, rubbing his temple but said nothing. His silence, however, carried weight.

    Finally, he spoke, his voice low.

    "This might be to our advantage. We can put some distance between us and the others."

    The screen transitioned, revealing the selected fighters for the match:

    Infinite Twilight:

    Nyx

    Iris Draven

    Arin Solara

    Silver Caelum

    Blazing Horizons:

    Bastian

    Orin Flare

    Kiora Helion

    Seraphis Dawn

    The fighters gathered on the battlefield, their presence casting long shadows over the ground.

    Infinite Twilight''s team exuded an aura of intimidation, like an unstoppable force for any team.

    Across from them, Blazing Horizons seemed already accepting their fate.

    Then, the special condition for the match appeared on the screen:

    [Warrior of Steel: One Fighter from each team in standby will be selected to join the battle. After 5 minutes, the teammates will join the fighter. If the fighter is defeated before others arrive, the remaining fighters are considered defeated.]

    The announcement sent a wave of confusion and disbelief through the arena. Gasps turned to murmurs as spectators tried to make sense of the rule.

    It was abnormal, unlike anything seen in previous matches, and the implications were staggering.

    Whispers spread quickly, this wasn''t just a battle, it was an all-in gamble that meant every team would be on the battlefield simultaneously.

    "How does this make sense?" one fan exclaimed, echoing the bewilderment shared by many.

    The fighters exchanged wary glances. This wasn''t just a match anymore, it was a carefully designed spectacle with stakes higher than anyone anticipated.

    The crowd roared, anticipation building as the screen transitioned to reveal the selected fighters for the Warrior of Steel battle:

    [Golden Cosmos:

    Ryder Crow

    Azure Blades:

    Caius Storm]

    The mood shifted dramatically as the crowd processed the implications of the rule. In the Golden Cosmos locker room, panic broke out.

    Ryder froze in place, his mind spinning with the implications of the rule. If he lost, both Eratz and Raya would be disqualified without ever stepping onto the battlefield.

    His breath quickened, and the fear of wasting everyone''s efforts gnawed at him, paralyzing his thoughts.

    Zara paced back and forth, ruining her hair with the rage of her hands.

    "This tournament is absurd," she muttered. "How can everything hinge on a single fighter? It''s ridiculous! Ryder shouldn''t have to carry this."

    Eratz, who had been silent until now, took a deep breath. The room was heavy and everyone needed a good talk, even though it wasn''t useful before.

    He placed a steadying hand on Ryder''s shoulder.

    "Hey," he said with a faint smile, "it''s a good day to be crazy, isn''t it?"

    Ryder blinked, confused, but Eratz''s words carried a strange, grounding effect.

    "Look," Eratz continued, gesturing at the screen displaying their dismal score. "The score''s already bad for us. This isn''t about you. We''re here to fight, and that''s the most we have to do. Win or lose, you''re not letting anyone down."

    He gave Ryder''s shoulder a light tap before stepping back. Mercury followed, punching slightly Ryder''s arm.

    "You''ve got this," she said simply, her voice steady and reassuring.

    Colin nodded shyly, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "Fight for yourself, Ryder. You can do it."

    Raya, sitting quietly, finally spoke.

    "This is your fight, don''t worry about us," she said, her tone measured but firm. "If you fight for yourself, you''ll come out of this better, no matter the outcome."

    Ryder stayed silent, taking in the encouragement from his teammates. He nodded slowly, his resolve hardening as he straightened his posture.

    Taking a deep breath, he turned and stepped toward the corridor, his heart pounding but his steps steady.  S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    As he emerged into the light of the arena, the roar of the crowd surrounded him, but it wasn''t just the enjoyment of the public or the shimmering heat rising from the arena floor.

    It was the eyes.

    Every beast master, from each team, had their gazes fixed on him.

    At first, their expressions were unreadable, almost indifferent. Ryder wasn''t the most renowned fighter among the Golden Cosmos, nor the most intimidating presence on the field.

    To the others, he was not someone to be feared. They could have dismissed him entirely, yet with the Warrior of Steel rule in play, Ryder represented something far more profound than himself.

    He was hope. He was an opportunity. He was a stepping stone.

    For the beast masters on the battlefield, defeating Ryder wasn''t just about securing a point; it was about escaping Hell.

    A victory over him would mean dismantling the threat of Eratz and Raya before they even entered the fray.

    To them, Ryder was a symbol of something both beautiful and brutal, the chance to topple a titan without ever facing it.

    The tension was palpable. Ryder could feel the pressure in the air, heavy and unyielding.

    His task was simple yet cruel: survive.

 Chapter 254 The Great Hunt

    254  The Great Hunt Every fighter on standby, Eratz, Raya, Aelric, and Lira, had been placed in cells located in each corner of the massive battlefield.

    These cages shimmered with magical restraints, ensuring their containment until the five-minute limit was reached. If Ryder and Caius could survive, the cells would unlock, and these fighters would be unleashed, turning the tide of the battle.

    But for now, all the attention rested solely on Ryder.

    The atmosphere in the arena was suffocating. Every other fighter''s gaze was fixed on him, not with admiration or respect, but with a mixture of pity and cruel anticipation.

    To them, Ryder was the sacrificial lamb of the Golden Cosmos, a black sheep caught in the jaws of an unforgiving system.

    Ryder felt their stares, their unspoken judgments, and for a moment, it weighed on him. His chest tightened as self-doubt began to creep in.

    But then, as he stood in the center of the battlefield, his resolve steadied. A wry smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he whispered to himself.

    "This isn''t a coincidence. There''s a time to hold them, and there''s a time to fold them. Now''s the time to show why I''m in this team."

    He murmured words to convince himself, to gain confidence. It wasn''t impossible, there were no Frost Empress nor Goldust.

    The problem was that everyone wanted his head.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the mood was grim. Kaida, Catarina, and Milo had returned, their injuries patched up as they joined the others to watch the match unfold.

    Kaida, still stinging from her defeat, sat with her arms crossed and an irritated scowl.

    "How fast do you think he can run?" she muttered bitterly.

    Milo frowned at her, his worry for Ryder plain on his face. Catarina''s usual playful demeanor was absent; even her tail swished nervously as she watched the screen.

    "The good question is how long?" Mercury sighed.

    Back on the battlefield, the announcer''s voice boomed across the coliseum.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, the Warrior of Steel match is about to begin!"

    From a distance, the scene looked almost absurd. Ryder stood alone in the middle of the battlefield, while every other fighter, without exception, even Caius, turned toward him.

    Their intentions were as clear as the sun overhead: eliminate Ryder before the five-minute mark and ensure that Eratz and Raya never stepped onto the field.

    The commentator observed the scene, feeling as if his voice was the announcement of Ryder''s demise.

    "May God have mercy on him," he murmured, watching the absurdity of the scene.

    The crowd fell silent. The air was thick with tension, the kind that seemed to freeze time itself. Every spectator, fighter, and teammate held their breath, waiting for the inevitable.

    Then, with the crack of the signal, the battle began.

    The battlefield erupted into chaos as every fighter unleashed their long-range attacks simultaneously. Blades of light, torrents of energy, and streaking elemental blasts converged on Ryder''s position.

    For a moment, all he could do was blink, his eyes widening as he stared at what looked like a wall of light descending upon him.

    Then came the impact.  S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    A deafening explosion shook the arena, the shockwave rattling even the farthest corners of the coliseum. The blasts didn''t stop, a relentless barrage continued as every fighter poured their strength into ensuring that Ryder had no chance of standing again.

    The ground beneath the assault cratered and cracked, smoke and dust billowing upward in a dark, suffocating cloud. The onslaught seemed endless, a continuous roar of destruction.

    In the stands, the crowd watched in stunned silence. Cassie and Roger exchanged heavy glances before lowering their heads, their expressions a mix of resignation and sorrow. Tamara crossed her arms and sighed audibly, her masked face betraying nothing.

    "Just like that," she muttered.

    The sentiment rippled through the audience. For many, it felt less like a battle and more like an execution. Every blow seemed designed to snuff out any glimmer of hope, and the atmosphere grew darker with each successive attack.

    Finally, the fighters ceased their assault, their energy spent. The arena fell eerily quiet, the thick cloud of smoke hanging heavily in the air. Iris smirked, crossing her arms in satisfaction.

    "There," she said smugly. "No Pharaoh."

    The fighters began to turn their attention toward each other. With the Cosmos out of the way, it was time for the real battle to begin. But just as the tension began to rise between them, Arin flinched. Her sharp gaze darted backward, her instincts screaming.

    In the heart of the smoke cloud, a shadow moved. The fighters froze, their eyes narrowing as they strained to see through the haze. Slowly, a massive form began to emerge, its outline imposing and monstrous.

    "What is that?" someone whispered.

    As the dust settled, the figure became clearer. Standing amidst the devastation was a creature unlike any they''d ever seen.

    Its form resembled an enormous turtle, its shell adorned with mirror-like structures that shifted and shimmered in a mesmerizing display of colors. The mirrors reflected the light around it, their hues constantly changing, giving the impression of a creature in perpetual transformation.

    Arin''s eyes widened as her power activated, revealing the name of the beast.

    Name: Chameleona, the Shifting Veil

    Affinity: -

    Rank: Calamity Abilities:

    Shapeshifter: Gain abilities depending on the form taken

    Arin''s horrified shout cut through the tension, her voice trembling.

    "It''s a unique beast!"

    The words sent a ripple of shock through Infinite Twilight''s team. Nyx flinched, her confidence faltering for a split second, while Silver clenched his fists, his expression darkening.

    Next to them, other fighters from Azure Blades and Blazing Horizons clenched their teeth in frustration.

    "How did he resist that?" Iris spat.

    Bastian roared, his voice carrying over the battlefield.

    "Get him! Quick!"

    The fighters didn''t hesitate. They surged forward, some already summoning their beasts. Energy crackled in the air as field spells began to activate. All their attacks converged on the monstrous turtle-like beast, Chameleona.

    But as the first wave of attacks closed in, the beast''s mirrored shell shimmered brilliantly, and its form began to shift.

    In an instant, Chameleona transformed into a massive rocky serpent, its body rippling with stone-like scales. It burrowed into the ground with terrifying speed, leaving behind a swirling cloud of debris.

    The combined attacks struck the crater where it had stood moments before, reducing it to rubble, but Ryder was nowhere to be seen.

    "He''s escaping!" Bastian bellowed, slamming his fists together in frustration. "Stop him!"

    Nyx''s grin twisted into something feral. She activated her beastification, large metal claws extending from her hands, glowing faintly as she dug them into the ground.

    With a roar, she summoned a pack of underground beasts, their sleek, shadowy forms darting beneath the surface to hunt Ryder down.

    Silver followed suit, summoning a colossal plant-like beast. Its gnarled roots spread rapidly through the earth, seeking out their prey. The battlefield pulsed with energy as every fighter worked to trap Ryder.

    The ground churned and rumbled, but then¡­

    Ryder erupted from the ground, his form now resembling a massive mole, its thick, fur coursed by different colors.

    Before anyone could react, Chameleona shifted again, wings sprouting from its back as it morphed into a sleek, flying beast. Ryder soared into the air, evading the swarming roots and shadowy beasts below.

    "What the hell is that thing?" Orin growled, his eyes narrowing as he tracked Ryder''s movements.

    "A lucky bastard," Iris quipped, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "But not for long."

    She pointed her fingers toward him and shot a fire beam turning into a fire monster.

    The fire bird soared toward Ryder, flames licking at his wings, but just as it collided with Chameleona, the Calamity beast glowed and shifted, its body becoming water-like, extinguishing the flames as it dove toward the ground.

    Caius wasted no time and summoned a feline beast that bounded after Ryder''s form, agile and relentless.

    Chameleona adapted again, transforming into a long-legged bird that dashed across the battlefield with incredible speed, narrowly avoiding the feline''s pounce.

    Nyx cackled, clearly enjoying the chase. She lunged with her metal claws, aiming to strike Ryder directly.

    "You''re a slippery little thing, aren''t you?" she teased, her voice laced with excitement.

    Ryder barely avoided her attack, Chameleona shifting into a smaller, more agile reptilian form to dodge her blow.

    "Focus!" Arin snapped, her voice cutting through the chaos. She pointed sharply. "He''s heading west! Cut him off!"

    Nyx abruptly stopped mid-chase and glared at Arin, her claws digging into the dirt.

    "Where the hell is west?! He''s heading left! Stop being a smartass!"

    Arin''s eyes narrowed, her tone icy as she retorted.

    "Then stop being an idiot-ass."

    Silver shouted at Arin and Nyx, his frustration boiling over.

    "Stop playing around you idiots!" he barked.

    With a sharp motion, he activated his own field spell, unleashing a torrent of water across the battlefield. The deluge rushed toward Ryder, engulfing him and forcing Chameleona to adapt once more.

    The calamity beast shimmered and shifted into a water-based form, its fluid body gliding through the rising currents with ease.

    "Kill him!" Arin roared. "Everyone, lightning attacks, now!"

    The fighters reacted instantly. Beasts and masters alike unleashed a barrage of lightning-based attacks, the air crackling with electricity. The strikes converged on Ryder, electrocuting the water-based Chameleona with violent intensity.

    For a moment, it seemed like the assault had succeeded. But then, Chameleona glowed again, its form twisting into an electric beast that absorbed the currents coursing through the air.

    With a burst of speed, Ryder shot forward, evading another strike from Nyx''s claws and continuing his relentless escape.

    Bastian roared in frustration.

    "He''s not fighting back!"

    "Because he doesn''t need to," Iris muttered. "Slippery little coward."

    The chase continued, every fighter throwing their best at Ryder. Explosions rocked the battlefield, flames roared, and lightning crackled, but each time, Chameleona adapted.

    Against fire, it became water; against electricity, it became a grounded beast. Ryder dodged, evaded, and endured, refusing to be cornered. Beasts clawed at him, energy blasts grazed him, but he pressed on, his focus unyielding.

    Arin''s voice trembled with frustration as she barked orders.

    "Keep at it! He can''t keep this up forever!"

    But as the five-minute mark loomed closer, she began to realize the truth: Ryder might just outlast them all.

 Chapter 255 The Will of an Ant

    255  The Will of an Ant Ryder took countless attacks, each one threatening to bring him down, but he kept enduring. The relentless barrage of energy blasts, beast strikes, and elemental assaults pounded him, yet Chameleona continued to shift and adapt, carrying him forward.

    The battlefield was a maelstrom of chaos, yet Ryder''s unyielding determination turned what seemed like an execution into a performance of resilience.

    In the stands, the crowd watched in stunned silence.

    The roars of enthusiasm and taunts had quieted, replaced by a collective breath held in awe. Ryder''s struggle had transcended the brutality of the match, he wasn''t just surviving; he was inspiring.

    Cassie clutched Roger''s hand tightly, her face a mix of fear and pride. Tamara''s usual detached demeanor wavered, her masked face betraying a faint, thoughtful expression.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the tension was suffocating. Zara''s voice was barely above a whisper as she murmured.

    "Come on, Ryder¡­ you can do it." Her eyes never left the screen, willing him to push through.

    Mercury sat forward in her seat, her hands gripping her knees. Kaida paced back and forth, her fists clenched.

    "You''ve already lasted that long¡­ just a little more," she muttered through gritted teeth.

    Milo''s eyes were wide, his hands clasped tightly together.

    "Come on, Ryder¡­ keep going," he murmured under his breath.

    In their cages, Eratz and Raya also witnessed the show of their friend in different ways and feelings.  S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Raya remained eerily still. She sat on her legs, her posture rigid, her eyes closed.

    Eratz leaned forward in a tense silence. His jaw tightened as he watched Ryder narrowly evade another devastating blow, Chameleona shifting once more to counter an incoming elemental attack.

    The battlefield trembled as another round of coordinated attacks converged on Ryder. He was scorched by fire, shocked by lightning, and buffeted by howling winds, yet he kept moving.

    Chameleona''s power was unlike anything most had seen before. Its beastification allowed Ryder to take any form or size, granting him the abilities of whatever he mirrored.

    This style of combat was the very definition of adaptability, a constant evolution to counter every threat. At this moment, it wasn''t just a skill, it was his last hope.

    Arin, standing amidst the chaos, felt her heart pounding in frustration. She clenched her teeth, her eyes darting to the time of the giant screen towering above the battlefield. The numbers ticked down relentlessly.

    "The five minutes¡­" she whispered. "They''re almost over."

    The timer showed 4 minutes and 11 seconds.

    Arin trembled as her eyes darted to the cages in each corner of the battlefield, where Eratz and Raya were immobile.

    Her breath hitched as despair clawed at her thoughts. They were running out of time, and it was becoming painfully clear they might not succeed. Her gaze flicked to the scoreboard:

    [Infinite Twilight: 7

    Golden Cosmos: 4

    Blazing Horizons: 0

    She bit her lip slightly. The numbers mocked her, they were on the verge of a catastrophe.

    "Guys!" Her voice cracked but managed to cut through the chaos.

    Her teammates froze, panic evident in their eyes as they turned to her.

    "Ignore him! Attack everyone else!" she screamed.

    Bastian from Blazing Horizons halted mid-strike, his confusion mirrored on the faces of the other fighters.

    "What???" he exclaimed, his voice carrying over the battlefield.

    The fighters from all teams hesitated, their gazes snapping to Arin. Her command was counter to their common goal of eliminating Ryder. For a moment, there was only silence, broken by the distant roar of the crowd. But then, one by one, understanding dawned.

    The time limit.

    The realization hit them like a thunderclap. Less than 30 seconds remained before the cages unlocked. If Eratz and Raya were unleashed, it would mean disaster.

    Eleven fighters on the field would become nothing more than eleven free points for monsters on the level of world-tier beast masters.

    Infinite Twilight''s fighters gulped, their confidence shaken. They immediately began attacking in disorganized chaos, lashing out at anything in their path.

    Energy blasts and beasts rampaged across the battlefield as they turned their attention to their fellow competitors.

    The members of Blazing Horizons tried to reason with them at first, shouting above the cacophony, but it was futile. Desperation had consumed the battlefield. The realization of their inevitable defeat drove everyone into a frenzied state.

    The scene devolved into pure destruction. Fighters darted across the battlefield, beasts clashing and roaring as explosions and slashes tore the ground apart.

    Flames erupted, winds howled, and lightning crackled. It was chaos incarnate.

    Amidst the madness, Ryder barely managed to stay airborne, his battered form shimmering faintly as Chameleona shifted to keep him aloft. He was in terrible shape, his movements sluggish and labored.

    In a final act of desperation, Caius activated a dual beastification, his body glowing with the combined power of fire and lightning. He conjured two massive, crackling orbs of energy in his hands, his eyes blazing with determination.

    With a guttural roar, he hurled the explosive blasts at Ryder.

    Ryder coiled in mid-air, his body shimmering with Chameleona''s adaptive energy. His form began to glow brighter and brighter as he braced himself. The twin blasts collided with him, and the resulting explosion was catastrophic.

    A blinding light engulfed the battlefield, the force of the explosion sending shockwaves that rattled the arena. The ground split and cratered, debris flying in every direction.

    The crowd gasped in unison, some shielding their eyes from the intensity. In the locker rooms, Zara covered her mouth in shock, while Kaida''s pacing came to an abrupt halt. Mercury''s hands tightened into fists, her jaw dropping.

    Leonidas, watching from the Infinite Twilight booth, stood abruptly and punched the table in front of him, his face alight with triumph.

    "It''s over!" he bellowed, his voice echoing in the stunned silence of the crowd.

    On the battlefield, Ryder''s body plummeted to the ground, hitting the earth with a sickening thud. The dust began to settle, revealing his crumpled form. Chameleona had reverted, leaving Ryder in his normal state, battered.

    The fighters paused as they stared at his fallen body. The tension in the air was suffocating. Ryder had fallen, it was finally over.

    But then, as if by instinct, every fighter tensed, their hands raised. Even though Ryder was clearly defeated, they weren''t taking any chances.

    Their instincts screamed at them to finish the job.

    The announcer''s voice broke through the eerie silence, a grim, foreboding tone.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, here comes hell."

    And then¡­

    "Shinsei Kiba"

    "Raijinara."

    A sudden explosion of lightning crossed by hundreds of slashes swept across the battlefield and forced everyone to retreat. The sheer intensity of the attack created a powerful shockwave, leaving the fighters scrambling to regain their footing.

    As the dust and debris cleared, everyone stood petrified, the nightmare unfolding before their eyes.

    Eratz and Raya had been unleashed.

 Chapter 256 The Monsters Way

    256  The Monster''s Way The timer on the giant screen flickered to life, displaying the ominous countdown.

    [Time Remaining: 5m 8s]

    [Infinite Twilight: 7

    Golden Cosmos: 4

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    Amidst the rubble and chaos of the battlefield, Eratz and Raya stood tall beside Ryder, who lay on the ground, battered but alive. The scene was both a miracle, a reward for Ryder''s desperate endurance, and a nightmare for the fighters.

    Eratz knelt slightly, lightning crackling across his fingers.

    "Good job, pal."

    Raya leaned forward, her eyes and katana glowing crimson.

    "Now, rest. Leave the rest to us."

    The fighters, scattered across the battlefield, looked on in anguish. Their earlier confidence had crumbled into an uneasy silence. Each of them felt the weight of the shift, their gazes darting nervously between the towering figures of Eratz and Raya.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the team began to recover their hope. Zara''s lips trembled into a soft smile as she murmured.

    "Good job, Ryder."

    In the Infinite Twilight room, the reactions were starkly different. Leonidas was frozen in place, his eyes wide with disbelief. Sia''s jaw clenched tightly, her teeth grinding audibly. Rex, standing in the corner, slowly dragged his palm down his face, groaning softly.

    Back on the battlefield, Arin''s trembling gaze darted across the battlefield. Panic welled up in her chest as she took in the scene. The scoreboard mocked them; despite their desperate attacks and all the time they had, they hadn''t scored a single point just because they focused on an unkillable target.

    Everyone was still standing. Her voice cracked as she whispered to herself.

    "Damn it¡­"

    Eratz straightened his posture, his movements deliberate and confident. His eyes gleamed with a predatory light as he scanned the fighters.

    "You guys had a lot of fun," he said, his tone conversational, almost casual. Then his eyes glowed red. "Now, it''s praying time."

    A heavy pressure radiated from him, rippling outward like an invisible wave.

    It bore down on the fighters, leaving even the strongest among them struggling to breathe.

    The air grew thick, and every instinct in their bodies screamed danger.

    Silver groaned under the weight, his fists clenching.

    "Damn monster," he spat through gritted teeth.

    Nyx tilted her head, a crooked smile forming on her lips. She licked the edge of her claws, her demeanor playful yet edged with tension.

    "It''s less fun than chasing prey," she admitted, her voice low and teasing. "But I''ll admit¡­ I''m curious about the power of the Pharaoh."

    Without hesitation, she began advancing, her claws gleaming in the faint light.

    A flash of light split the air, so sudden and blinding that it took a moment for everyone to process what had happened.

    When the light cleared, Eratz was already in front of Caius, his hand open and pressed against Caius'' face.

    The battlefield seemed to hold its breath as Eratz spoke.

    "I heard no prayer."

    A blast of energy erupted from Eratz''s palm, engulfing Caius'' head in a blinding beam of light. The explosion was deafening, shaking the arena to its very foundation.

    Fighters scrambled to move back, shielding their faces as the shockwave rippled across the battlefield.

    Debris flew in every direction, and a thick cloud of smoke swallowed the area.

    As the dust began to settle, the battlefield revealed the aftermath.

    Eratz stood unmoving in the center of a devastated crater, his eyes glowing with an eerie brilliance. Slowly, he turned his head toward Nyx.

    "Satisfied?" he asked.

    A chill ran down Nyx''s spine.

    The fighters of Infinite Twilight scattered, their movements frantic as they leaped and dashed to create distance from the overwhelming pressure radiating from Eratz and Raya.

    Each fighter''s breath puffed out in visible vapor as if the very air had turned frigid.

    Raya''s voice broke through the stillness.

    "Hyoujin Hane." In an instant, an invisible slash tore across the battlefield, accompanied by agonized screams.

    Bastian and Kiora fell, their bodies riddled with relentless icy slashes.

    The two dropped unconscious as the remaining fighters scrambled to dodge the onslaught.

    Nyx groaned, her lips curling into a feral grin despite the chaos. Her thoughts raced, fueled by a mix of frustration and exhilaration.

    "If I can just land a hit, just one," she told herself, gripping onto the fleeting hope of turning the tide.

    She rushed at Eratz with a wild gleam in her eyes, determined to test the limits of his strength, no matter the cost.

    Their gazes locked, but in the next instant, the world spun.

    A thunderous impact exploded against her face. Her scream was muffled as her body was sent hurtling into the ground, crashing with a sickening thud.

    Eratz had moved in a flash, intercepting her mid-attack with monstrous power. As her vision blurred, he disappeared, reappearing directly in front of Silver.

    Silver barely had time to react before Eratz''s knee drove into his stomach with brutal force.

    The air left his lungs in a wheezing gasp as he doubled over, gasping and choking.

    Eratz followed up with a savage kick to Silver''s face, sending him sprawling to the ground.

    The impact was so violent that Silver''s head smacked against the earth, leaving him dazed, staring blankly at the sky above.

    On his back, Silver pained to breathe, feeling like he could puke at any moment.

    He struggled to stand, without understanding why he would want to stay on his feet, his gaze looking for an answer.

    The first thing he saw was a ghostly presence sweep past him.

    His widened eyes locked onto Raya, her katana glinting ominously as she passed.

    Before he could react, icy slashes carved through his body, frost spreading from them, encasing him completely.

    Iris attempted to unleash a field spell, her hands trembling as she summoned her energy.

    But nothing happened. Panic spread across her face.

    "What''s happening?" she muttered, her voice quivering.

    She flinched as the realization dawned on her. The air felt oppressive, cold, silent, and suffocating.

    This wasn''t an ordinary battlefield anymore. It was a field spell, way stronger than anything she could produce.

    A chill ran down her spine as Raya''s voice cut through the silence.

    "Hyouken Mai"

    Raya passed by her in an instant, her katana glinting in the dim light.

    Iris froze in place, her body paralyzed from the legs upward.

    She barely managed to whisper.

    "How¡­?" before her entire body became encased in ice, leaving her trapped and immobile.

    The frost overtook her entirely, sealing her in an icy prison.

    Amidst the carnage, Nyx stood clutching her swollen cheek. The humiliation, pain, and rage boiled within her.  sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She didn''t care about winning anymore; she didn''t care about the tournament. All that mattered was that her body had been marked.

    She charged again, her scream filled with raw emotion. Eratz was far ahead, standing in the middle of the battlefield. She lunged at full speed, her claws extended, ready to tear him apart.

    Then, in a flash, Eratz was beside her.

    His elbow crashed into her stomach with horrifying precision.

    The force drove through her body, folding her over his arm. Nyx''s breath was stolen; her scream choked into silence.

    Her eyes went blank as pain overwhelmed her senses, her claws dropping limply.

    Before she could even collapse, Eratz''s foot was above her. With a devastating stomp, he slammed her face into the dirt.

    The ground cracked beneath the impact, and Nyx''s body convulsed.

    She couldn''t think. She couldn''t breathe. The only thing she could feel was the dirt pressed against her face and the unrelenting weight of Eratz''s strength.

    The remaining fighters, desperate, began summoning every beast at their disposal.

    The battlefield erupted with snarling creatures of all sizes and elements, their roars filling the air. But Eratz''s voice cut through the chaos.

    "Rampage."

    In a blinding flash, the Terrakrus and the Thunder Lycaon emerged.

    The two beasts moved with unparalleled ferocity, tearing through the summoned creatures as though they were nothing.

    Raya moved with the same deadly precision, her katana cutting through any fighter foolish enough to stand in her way.

    Her movements were fluid, almost graceful, each slash deliberate and devastating.

    Nyx, clutching her stomach, stood trembling. Tears streamed down her face, a mix of pain, humiliation, and fury.

    Her breaths were shallow and ragged as she tried to speak, but no words came. Her anger burned brighter than her fear, consuming her completely.

    She screamed at Eratz, her voice breaking with desperation.

    "I¡­ won''t lose¡­ like this!... Y''hear that?... Pharaoh?!"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow

    "Just stay down," he said flatly.

    But Nyx refused. Her fists tightened, her teeth grinding together as frustration boiled over.

    She let out a desperate roar, charging at Eratz once more, her claws gleaming.

    Eratz sighed. With a single step, he vanished.

    Nyx felt the ground twist beneath her as Eratz reappeared above her. His hand slammed her face into the earth once more, pinning her with brutal force.

    She thrashed and screamed, clawing at the dirt, but Eratz''s strength was absolute.

    "Get¡­" Nyx choked out, tears streaming down her face. "Get away!¡­ Let me go!"

    Suddenly, she felt the weight lift. For a moment, hope reappeared very briefly in her heart as she pushed herself up, only to realize too late.

    Frost crept along her limbs, spreading on her body. Her movements slowed as the ice encased her.

    Her gaze locked onto Raya, who stood poised, her katana glowing with cold light. Nyx''s breaths quickened as despair overtook her.

    "No¡­ no, I can''t¡­ not like this!" she screamed, her voice raw and broken. "Please, not like this!"

    Raya''s movements were graceful, almost serene. She raised her katana, performing a fluid gesture that resembled a dance.

    "Yukikaze."

    The ice surged, engulfing Nyx completely. Her scream echoed across the battlefield, muffled as the frost sealed her form entirely.

    She stood frozen, a monument to the gap in their power, her anguish preserved in ice.

    Raya lowered her katana, her eyes closing briefly. The battlefield fell silent, the fight over before it had truly begun.

 Chapter 257 Game Over

    257  Game Over Arin stood alone in the middle of the battlefield''s destruction.

    To her left, Iris was frozen, her body encased in a crystalline prison of ice. To her right, Silver was equally immobile, trapped in a glacial cocoon. In front of her, Nyx stood completely frozen, her feral rage extinguished.

    Scattered among the rubble were Bastian, Seraphis, Kiora, and Aelric, all unconscious and battered from the relentless onslaught.

    A sudden blast echoed across the battlefield. Arin turned just in time to see Lira collapse to the ground, her body convulsing briefly as sparks of electricity danced over her.

    The air felt heavy, and Arin trembled as she looked down, gripping her arms to steady herself. A chilling sensation crept up her spine.

    She felt it before she saw him.

    Right behind her, Eratz stood. His crimson eyes glowed faintly, and his presence loomed like a shadow of inevitability.

    Arin turned slowly, her body trembling with fear and frustration. Her gaze met his, and in that moment, defeat seeped into her soul.

    "I was too stupid¡­" she muttered, her voice breaking. "I should have secured the points first¡­" Her words faltered, her head lowering slightly.

    She glanced behind her. Raya stood immobile, her katana pointed toward her direction. Between a rock and a hard place, Arin knew she was done for.

    She sighed and glanced back at Eratz.

    "How did you get so¡­"

    Before she could finish, a fiery blast erupted in front of her. Flames roared, and Arin screamed, shielding herself from the searing heat. Eratz had unleashed a fire field spell, the ground around them glowing red with embers and ash.

    The audience in the stands was on the edge of their seats, their collective breath caught in their throats.

    From the Infinite Twilight locker room, Rex panicked.

    "Arin!" he shouted.

    Arin pushed through the pain and fear, her resolve returning as she jumped backward, summoning several beasts in a desperate attempt to turn the tide.

    Creatures resembling puppets materialized around her, snarling and ready to attack.

    But before they could move, an icy breath swept across the battlefield, freezing them solid in an instant. Raya stepped forward, her katana''s tip touching the ground.

    Frost glinted off several slashes on the beasts'' frozen bodies and even on Arin herself.

    Arin gritted her teeth, desperate to switch her element to counter Raya. She extended her hand, preparing to summon something new, but a sharp touch on her forehead stopped her.

    Eratz''s finger pressed against her forehead. A jolt of electricity surged through her, her body convulsing violently as she screamed. Frost spread across her limbs, the icy tendrils intertwining with the electric currents.

    Her wide, terrified eyes met Eratz''s one last time.

    "You''re¡­ not¡­ normal¡­" she whispered hoarsely before her body froze completely, encased in an unyielding icy shell.

    Eratz lowered his hand, the fire dissipating as he ended his field spell. He tilted his head slightly.

    "Bold coming from someone like you."

    The battlefield fell silent. Every single fighter had been defeated.

    The public erupted into a deafening roar, the sound shaking the coliseum to its core. Cheers, gasps, and cries of disbelief filled the air as Eratz and Raya stood victorious among the ruins.

    In the Golden Cosmos locker room, the reaction was instant.

    Colin and Milo jumped into each other''s arms, shouting in joy. Mercury laughed loudly, pulling Kaida and Catarina into a group hug as they all celebrated.

    Zara grabbed Victoria and lifted her off the ground, swinging her side to side as they both laughed.

    Then, Zara froze, her eyes wide. She put Victoria down and stared at the screen. Slowly, she began calculating something in the air with her fingers, and suddenly, she screamed in stupefaction.

    "We¡­ we''ve won!" she shouted. "We''ve won the finals for sure!"

    Colin and Milo stopped jumping, their heads tilting in confusion.

    "What do you mean?" Milo asked.

    Mercury, still laughing, wiped tears from her eyes.

    "Yeah, Zara, what are you talking about? There''s still the next round."

    Zara pointed to the scoreboard on the giant screen:

    [Golden Cosmos: 17

    Infinite Twilight: 7

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    She turned back to the group, her excitement bubbling over.

    "The rules state that each fighter can only fight once. Mathematically, there''s no way Infinite Twilight can score 11 more points! And even if they somehow managed that with another 4v4 battle, we still have the weapons to secure one or two more points. It''s over! We''ve won!"

    The room fell silent for a moment as her words sank in. Then, a shared ''UH?!'' filled the space. Colin and Milo jumped up and down, hugging each other tightly once more.

    Mercury clapped Kaida on the back as they both laughed in relief. Catarina spun around, her tail flicking wildly. Zara grinned, the stress of the competition finally lifting.

    They were on the verge f losing, and now the tables had turned so much that they were already sure to be the winners.

    In the Infinite Twilight locker room, the mood was the complete opposite.

    Leonidas dropped heavily into his chair, his hands gripping the armrests as his wide eyes stared at the screen in disbelief.

    Sia stood with her arms crossed, her jaw clenched tightly. Her eyes twitched with frustration as she glared at the scoreboard.

    "Kss¡­" She muttered.

    Flinn leaned back in his seat, rolling his eyes with a resigned sigh.

    "This is fucking over now," he muttered, slumping in defeat.

    The entire room was filled with tension and despair, their hopes crushed by the insurmountable lead of the Golden Cosmos.

    For Golden Cosmos, the finals were theirs. But for the chairman of the league and his staff, this result posed a significant problem.

    The last battle of the day was a 1v1 between Flinn of Infinite Twilight and Lyric of Blazing Horizons. The fight ended quickly, with every challenger having already fought, the special rule put no real constrain. Flinn''s overwhelming power securing a swift victory, and the updated scoreboard read:

    [Golden Cosmos: 17

    Infinite Twilight: 8

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    The first day of the finals ended with Golden Cosmos firmly in the lead, their dominance casting a shadow over the remainder of the competition.  sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Fans and participants alike dispersed from the arena, the energy in the air a mix of awe and inevitability. While the victors celebrated their success and others reflected on their performances, a storm brewed in the distance.

    Thunder rumbled ominously across the darkened sky, yet no lightning illuminated the heavy clouds, only a strange white coloring the sky from time to time.

    At the grand hotel Aquila Aurum, the mood was tense. In a conference room, the chairman of the league sat at the head of a polished table, flanked by his staff.

    A mixture of frustration and concern filled the room as they reviewed the day''s events.

    "This format was supposed to maintain suspense," one staff member lamented, tapping a finger on the table. "Instead, it''s practically over. The audience knows who''s going to win."

    The chairman leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled as he listened. Finally, he exhaled.

    "It wasn''t a bad idea. The problem wasn''t the format, but our failure to predict Crow''s endurance and the strategic dominance of Golden Cosmos."

    "So what do we do now?" another staff member asked, his tone laced with desperation. "We can''t just let this play out. The finals are supposed to be the pinnacle of excitement, not a foregone conclusion."

    "We could reframe today as a qualification round," another suggested. "Tomorrow, we hold a single final match to decide the champion."

    The chairman appeared to consider this, his gaze distant as the room fell silent. After a long pause, he shook his head.

    "No. It won''t work."

    A low, smooth voice cut through the tension.

    "It doesn''t matter how you spin it. If the match goes ahead as planned, Infinite Twilight will lose."

    The staff froze, their eyes darting to the corner of the room. From the shadows, a figure stepped forward.

    "Who''s there?!" one woman stammered, her voice trembling.

    As the light revealed her face, a collective gasp rippled through the room.

    "The Star Crusher?" the chairman murmured, his voice barely audible.

    Kallistra stood before them, her silver-gray hair cascading down her back, her eyes gleaming with a quiet intensity. She wore an enigmatic smile that sent a shiver through the room.

    Ignoring the startled reactions, she spoke, her tone measured and precise.

    "Infinite Twilight''s hope lies in Goldust and Sia," she began. "Individually, they can match the top members of Golden Cosmos. But there''s a problem."

    The staff exchanged uneasy glances as Kallistra''s gaze swept the room.

    "Golden Cosmos has more than just Eratz. They have three other pillars: the water girl, the Blind Samurai, and now, even the fire girl. If they play their cards right, one of them will dominate the 3v3, and the Pharaoh will seal the 4v4. Your precious finals will end in a child play."

    "How do you know all this?" a staff member demanded. "And why are you even here?"

    Kallistra ignored the questions, her smile fading as she turned her attention to the chairman.

    "You didn''t play with the rules just to have a pathetic final, did you?"

    The chairman''s eyes narrowed.

    "And you didn''t come here just to point out our predicament. What do you have in mind?"

    Kallistra''s expression darkened, the storm outside mirroring the intensity in her voice.

    "I know a way to make this... a memorable final."

 Chapter 258 Stormâ€™s Shadow

    258  Storm¡¯s Shadow The corridor of the hotel was dimly lit, its reflective glass panels mirroring the flickering storm outside.

    Sia stood by a large window, her eyes fixed on the changing clouds swirling in the sky. Light often illuminated her contemplative face as she murmured to herself.

    "Is it really over? Just like this?"

    Her gaze shifted to her reflection in the glass, scrutinizing her own uncertainty. Thoughts of the locker room replayed in her mind, a scene of defeat etched deeply.

    Nyx sat in a corner, wiping away tears as her hands trembled, her fierce exterior replaced by quiet vulnerability. Silver lay on his side, struggling to control his breathing.

    Arin leaned against the wall, her body covered in bandages, wincing with every movement. Rex sat beside her, his hand resting on her shoulder in silent comfort. Iris slumped on the ground, her back pressed against the cold tiles, her eyes dull and unfocused as if drained of all fight.  S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Leonidas stood at the center of the room. His expression was dark, his voice heavy with frustration as he addressed the team.

    "Do what you want with the last day," he began, his tone cutting through the silence like a blade. "You''ve shown why you failed to hunt the unique beasts. This pain¡­ should remind you why you must be serious next time."

    His words hung in the air, heavy and oppressive. The team didn''t respond, their silence speaking volumes.

    Sia sighed, her breath fogging the glass as she returned to the present moment. She glanced back at the storm.

    "Is that all? How could a single beast change someone that much?" Questions burned within her, but one overshadowed the rest.

    Before she could dwell further, distant chatters broke her train of thought. She turned sharply, slipping into the shadows of a corridor. Mercury walked past with Kaida and Catarina, their conversation carrying through the hallway.

    Kaida''s voice rang out first.

    "You didn''t have to go that far just to show your guts. You have a toilet in your room."

    Mercury hesitated, her expression slightly sheepish.

    "It''s not like that, if I do that there, I''ll make him worry about me," she mumbled.

    Catarina''s ears twitched.

    "Nya? Wait, don''t tell me¡­ You''re sharing a room with Eratz?"

    Kaida stopped in her tracks.

    "Aaaah?!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with shock.

    Mercury quickly explained.

    "I know what it looks like, but trust me, it''s not like that! Eratz is¡­ protective, given my situation."

    Catarina tilted her head, her tail flicking in curiosity.

    "Nya? Protec... Wait¡­ You''re already pregnant, you guys aren''t still playing kitten-making games, right???"

    In the darkness, Sia''s jaw dropped.

    Mercury rolled her eyes but couldn''t suppress a small smile.

    "So what? It''s still very early, my belly is fine... Everyone treats me like I''m already done for. I can still do anything. I''m fine, and the baby is fine too. If you keep acting like this for nine months, it''s going to be hell."

    Kaida yawned, stretching her arms lazily.

    "Well, anyway, since we''re leading, you should just surrender in the next battle. No need to try hard."

    Mercury rolled her eyes with a smile, then glanced over her shoulder and flinched. Her gaze locked with Sia''s, who had stepped out of the corridor, her expression frozen in shock.

    Kaida and Catarina immediately noticed her and tensed, their postures shifting into defensive stances, ready for anything.

    "The Frost Empress?" Catarina hissed.

    "What the..." Kaida frowned.

    Mercury blinked several times, her expression a mix of shock and intrigue. She raised a hand to calm her friends, her curiosity piqued by Sia''s sudden and unexpected presence. Sia''s voice was barely above a whisper.

    "You¡­ you''re pregnant?"

    Mercury scratched her head awkwardly, her eyebrows lifting in surprise. A faint chuckle escaped her lips as she tried to process the unexpected question.

    "Well¡­ uh... I guess you heard everything."

    Catarina stepped forward, tail flicking irritably.

    "Yeah, so what? What are you gonna do about it?"

    Sia''s reaction took a sharp turn.

    "So you''re really pregnant? You?! How??? Who could... Ah, firstly, what are you doing? Fighting in this condition? Are you insane? Do you even realize the risks?"

    Mercury blinked, taken aback by Sia''s outburst. For a moment, she hesitated, her surprise evident in the way her normally steady gaze faltered. Then, as the initial shock faded, a warm smile spread across her face, softening her features.

    She gently placed her hands on Sia''s shoulders, and tilted her head slightly, a playful glint in her eyes.

    "Are you sure you want to hear how I got pregnant?" she asked.

    Sia froze.

    "Wha... wait, no! That''s not¡­ I mean, who could¡­" she stammered, her words tumbling over each other.

    Mercury laughed, the sound light and genuine, cutting through the tension.

    "It''s not as reckless as it looks," Mercury began, her voice steady and gentle. "I''m not alone in this. It''s a family effort, and I''d never waste the support they''ve given me."

    She reached out and pulled Kaida and Catarina closer, the two exchanging startled glances before smiling faintly at her gesture.

    "I''m a beast master," Mercury continued, her tone firm with conviction. "This is what I love. If I can keep fighting, I will. And don''t worry, I take no unnecessary risks. If anything feels off, I''ll surrender. My family''s watching my back, and I trust them. For now, though, I''m fine."

    Sia''s gaze lingered on Mercury, her intense eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and admiration. She watched as Mercury''s words carried a weight that resonated deeply, more than she''d expected.

    Now, she understood. Mercury''s style wasn''t as flashy or intriguing as Raya''s, nor was she as singularly focused on fighting as Eratz. Her strength lay in something deeper: her ability to uplift and inspire, prioritizing the people around her over her own glory.

    Mercury wasn''t just a fighter; she was a family-oriented person, all this talent and power was used at reduced capability because, after everything she went through, she preferred a night with her friends rather than training.

    Mercury''s voice pulled Sia back to reality.

    "I''m heading back to my room now. But if you ever want to talk, you know where to find me." Her smile was warm, and genuine.

    Sia blinked, her usual confidence faltering.

    "Maybe¡­ maybe another time," she murmured hesitantly before turning away, her footsteps slow and contemplative.

    Mercury watched her for a moment before turning to Kaida and Catarina. Together, they started walking back toward their rooms, the storm outside echoing faintly through the corridor.

    As they parted ways, Sia''s voice drifted softly through the air.

    "Looking forward to talking with you, Mercury."

    Mercury glanced back, her smile lingering.

    "Same, Sia."

    The three women walked away, their silhouettes fading under the flickering light as the storm rumbled above,

    Meanwhile in the very same hotel, Leonidas strode through the dimly lit corridor of the hotel, his expression tight with frustration. His footsteps echoed faintly against the polished tiles.

    The storm outside grumbled softly, its low rumbles adding to the tension in the air.

    He suddenly stopped in his tracks, his sharp eyes narrowing.

    Ahead of him, a figure approached, humming a soft, almost whimsical tune that seemed out of place against the backdrop of the storm.

    As the figure came closer, the faint flicker of the corridor''s lights revealed Kallistra, her green eyes gleaming with an almost mischievous light.

    "Where were you?" Leonidas demanded, his tone clipped. His frown deepened as Kallistra offered him a playful smile but no answer.

    "Humming," she replied vaguely, her voice carrying a teasing lilt.

    "That''s not an answer," Leonidas snapped, his irritation growing. "Why are you always so¡­ satisfied, even when things clearly aren''t going our way?"

    Kallistra tilted her head slightly, her smile unwavering.

    "I told you before," she began, her tone calm and measured. "You''re unsatisfied because you fail. I''m satisfied because I always succeed. We''re not the same."

    Leonidas''s jaw tightened, his fists clenching at his sides.

    "That doesn''t even make sense. What exactly are you succeeding at, Kallistra? Because from where I stand, things look pretty bad even for you."

    Kallistra simply shrugged, her arms crossing loosely over her chest as she began to walk past him.

    "Everything is fine now," she said breezily. "Tomorrow will make history."

    Leonidas turned sharply, his frustration boiling over.

    "What do you mean by that? There''s no way we win. The gap is too wide. The Cosmos have everything they need to secure victory."

    Kallistra paused, glancing over her shoulder with a faint smirk.

    "You''re mistaken again," she said, her voice carrying a cryptic edge. "I don''t give a damn about who''s gonna win... if there''s a winner that is. "

    Leonidas stepped closer, his brow furrowed in confusion and suspicion.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Her smile faded slightly, replaced by a more serious expression as her green eyes seemed to glint unnaturally in the flickering light.

    "My win... is that I''ve made sure," she said softly, "that the two orbs clash tomorrow."

    The storm outside let out a loud growl, lightning flashing briefly through the windows. For a fleeting moment, Kallistra''s silhouette expanded unnaturally, like the shadow of an immense creature looming over the entirety of the corridor.

    The sight froze Leonidas in place, his breath catching as a chill ran down his spine.

    Before he could muster a response, she turned and walked away, her steps unhurried, her song resuming softly under her breath.

    The tune lingered in the air long after she had disappeared into the shadows, leaving Leonidas standing alone, in the same place that was the palm of a hand just moments ago.

 Chapter 259: The Last Call

    Chapter 259: The Last CallThe following afternoon, Solaris Haven was ablaze with excitement.

    The final day had arrived, the day the champion of the team battles would be crowned.

    Fireworks painted the afternoon sky in dazzling colors, their bursts mirrored in the sparkling waters surrounding the island.

    The crowd filling the colossal arena cheered wildly, their energy infectious. Every seat was occupied, the noise of chatter and excitement blending into a cacophony of anticipation for the final day of the tournament.

    In the center of the battlefield, the four teams stood, each reacting differently to the weight of the occasion.

    Azure Blades and Blazing Horizons bore expressions of defeat, their spirits already crushed by their catastrophic first day.

    For them, this tournament had devolved from a dream into a public humiliation.

    Infinite Twilight, standing tall but noticeably subdued, frequently glanced at the Golden Cosmos team with unease.

    The confidence they had displayed earlier in the tournament was now replaced by uncertainty and fear, for whoever would be sacrificed to face Eratz or Raya again.

    Kaida, ever sharp, noticed their wary glances and smirked.

    "Look at them," she whispered to her teammates, her tone dripping with amusement. "They''re like sheep heading to the slaughter. It''s so great."

    Catarina joined in with a chuckle, her tail swishing lazily.

    "Nya, yeah, poor kittens. Hey, maybe I''ll volunteer for the 1v1. I feel like I could beat anyone today."

    Ryder raised an eyebrow.

    "Sacrifice yourself? Oh... how sad. How about letting the cannon fodder take care of it, again?"

    Catarina''s ears perked up, and she flinched slightly at the jab.

    "Nya! Ryder, you''re no cannon fodder," she reassured, her voice a touch higher-pitched than usual. "Not today, anyway..." She trailed off with a nervous laugh, earning a smirk from her teammate.

    Before the banter could escalate, the chairman of the league stepped forward onto the grand stage.

    The crowd quieted almost instantly, their attention drawn to his commanding presence. He raised a hand, and his voice boomed across the arena, amplified by the speakers. "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, "today marks the culmination of one of the most extraordinary tournaments in our league''s history. We have witnessed moments of unparalleled skill, unwavering determination, and the indomitable will to fight."

    The crowd roared in agreement, their applause echoing through the stadium. The chairman smiled, pausing briefly to let the excitement settle.

    "Every fighter who stands here today has proven themselves to be more than competitors. They are champions, each one inspiring us with their efforts, their passion, and their drive to surpass their limits."

    He took a step forward, his hands gesturing to the teams assembled before him. "But, as with all great stories, this one must have an ending. And this final day will be different from anything we''ve ever done before. To honor the effort and resolve of each champion here, the league has decided on a single, defining rule for the final round."

    A murmur rippled through the crowd, confusion and curiosity sparking among both spectators and fighters.

    The chairman raised his voice, cutting through the whispers.

    "This final round will not be like any other. To maximize everyone''s chances, the last round will consist of... a single match."

    Gasps erupted from the stands, followed by waves of murmurs.

    "What does he mean, a single match?" someone in the crowd wondered aloud.

    The chairman held up his hand again, commanding silence.

    "Allow me to explain. This final match will be a royal rumble... across the entirety of Solaris Haven."

    The giant screen lightened, displaying a detailed map of the island. Several areas were highlighted in red, while the rest remained green.

    The chairman continued, his voice steady.

    "As many of you know, Solaris Haven has a rich history as a land of battles. Several zones across the island were designed specifically for combat, and these will serve as our battle zones, marked in red on the map. Fighters can traverse through the wilderness connecting these zones, but only battles within the red areas will count."

    The audience buzzed with excitement, their imaginations running wild. The fighters exchanged glances, some intrigued, others visibly tense.

    "Each team will deploy all their fighters," the chairman added, his voice rising slightly. "This means the maximum available points for this round should have been thirty-two!"

    The murmurs grew louder as realization dawned. This format could completely overturn the standings.

    With so many points, everything was still possible.

    But the chairman wasn''t finished.

    "To make this event even more thrilling," he continued, "we will introduce a special rule: a bounty system."

    The arena fell silent again, the tension palpable. Zara''s eyes narrowed as she exchanged a glance with Victoria, who raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued.

    "Each fighter will carry a bounty, a value based on their performance throughout the tournament. This bounty represents the number of points their defeat will earn the victor''s

    team."

    The screen changed, displaying a list of names and their respective bounties. Gasps and murmurs swept through the crowd as the numbers appeared:

    Eratz Pandora: 8 points

    Kobayashi Raya: 8 points

    Rex Goldust: 8 points

    Sia Verizion: 6 points

    Mercury Banks: 6 points

    ...

    Most of the powerhouses were around 4 to 2 points, and fighters from Azure Blades and

    Blazing Horizons were marked with 1 point each.

    The fighters stared at the screen, their reactions varied.

    The chairman''s voice rang out once more.

    "Every fighter, every team, has a chance to claim victory. This is your moment to rise. Embrace it, and together, let us create the greatest final in history!"

    The crowd erupted into a deafening roar, their excitement shaking the very ground.

    The teams exchanged glances, their emotions running the gamut from excitement to dread.

    Azure Blades and Blazing Horizons initially looked motivated, their spirits lifting at the

    thought of redemption.

    For a brief moment, the glimmer of hope returned.

    But as the full weight of the rules sank in, their hope began to wane. How were they even supposed to score a single point, let alone compete?

    Their bounties were so low that they realized they would become easy targets for the

    powerhouses.

    Worse, they would inevitably become the game-changers for the top teams, hunted

    relentlessly for their meager points.

    Infinite Twilight, on the other hand, displayed a mix of resolve and unease.

    They had tasted a painful defeat at the hands of Eratz and Raya, and the thought of facing

    them again was unnerving.

    Golden Cosmos exuded quiet confidence. Their advantage was all the motivation they needed, and after so many battles, they were confident in their power.

    Following the announcement, the fighters were dispatched to various locations across Solaris

    Haven.

    The league''s system randomized the placements, ensuring that the strongest wouldn''t immediately obliterate the weakest.

    Some members of the same team found themselves in close proximity, allowing them to

    regroup quickly.

    Across the island, small groups formed as fighters debated their strategies.

    Some leaned toward bold offensives, while others argued over the merits of staying hidden

    until the chaos thinned out.

    In one particularly remote sector, Nyx was alongside Rex and Arin. Normally, her fiery demeanor would dominate the group dynamic, but now, her usual bravado was nowhere to be

    seen.

    She sat on a log, her shoulders hunched as she stared anxiously at the grass beneath her, half- expecting a predator to leap out and strike her down.

    Her fingers tapped nervously against her knees, her eyes darting around as though she could

    sense danger in every shadow.

    "If a Golden Cosmos fighter shows up, I surrender. I''m not risking it," she muttered, her voice tight. Her trembling hands betrayed her unease.

    Arin crossed her arms, her expression a mixture of exasperation and disappointment.

    "You''re not as motivated as you were last month," she remarked, her tone dry. "What

    happened to all your fire, Nyx? You''re acting like you''ve already lost."

    Nyx''s head snapped up, her face twisted with anger.

    "What happened? You really want to know?" she snapped, her voice rising. She sprang to her Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    feet, showing her cheek still covered in bandaid. "That happened! Do you have any idea what

    it''s like to be humiliated like that? To think you''re strong, to know you''re strong, and then to have someone treat you like you''re nothing?"

    Arin''s brow furrowed slightly, but her stance didn''t soften.

    "It only means you weren''t strong. You just always faced weaker opponents. We''ve all faced

    him and lost," she said carefully. "You''re not the only one who''s lost a fight, so stop acting

    like a coward."

    "This wasn''t just a loss!" Nyx''s voice cracked as she stepped closer, her eyes wild with frustration. "He didn''t even use a beastification on me, four eyes! Not once! Do you understand how insulting that is? He didn''t need to! He''s so far above us that he didn''t even break a sweat. It wasn''t a fight; it was a massacre. He used me like a fucking punching bag."

    Arin''s gaze flickered with a hint of sympathy, but her tone remained firm. "So your solution is to give up? To surrender without even trying?" Nyx''s hands balled into fists, her claws drawing blood from her palms.

    "If it''s him, yes! You don''t get it! You weren''t the one who got punched like that. You didn''t feel it..." Her voice softened, trembling as if the memory alone was enough to send her reeling. "I''m not stupid enough to throw my life away trying to fight someone like that!"

    The two women stood glaring at each other, their breaths heavy with frustration and

    unspoken fears.

    The tension between them was palpable, but then, a low, rumbling voice broke through their

    argument.

    "You don''t have to feel scared."

    Nyx and Arin turned to Rex, who had been silent until now. His head was tilted slightly

    upward, his gaze fixed on the darkening sky.

    His expression was unreadable, but there was an edge to his voice that made both women

    pause.

    "Nothing will happen to you again," Rex continued, his tone calm.

    Nyx''s anger faltered, replaced by confusion. "What are you talking about?" she asked, her voice quieter now.

    Rex finally turned to face them, and they froze. His face was taut with fury, veins bulging on

    his temples.

    His eyes burned with an intensity they had never seen before, a storm of emotions swirling

    beneath his clumsy exterior.

    "I swear," he growled, his fists clenching at his sides, "I''ll make him pay for what he did to

    my family." The wind picked up around them, carrying with it a chilling sense of anxiety. Leaves rustled and dust swirled, the dark clouds above thickening ominously.

    The chairman''s voice cut through the tension, broadcasting across the entirety of Solaris

    Haven.

    "Attention all fighters," he began. "The final battle of the tournament begins now. Each of you is positioned strategically across the island, and the rules are clear: fight, survive, and claim your destiny."

    The giant screens flickered, showing maps of the combat zones and the fighters'' initial

    placements.

    The red-marked areas buzzed with potential confrontation, while the green wilderness zones provided a false sense of security.

    The camera panned across the various zones.

    Fighters from Azure Blades huddled together, their earlier determination crumbling into

    quiet panic.

    Members of Blazing Horizons crouched in the shadows, their eyes darting nervously toward every sound in the jungle around

    them.

    In other sectors, the strongest waited for the signal in quiet confidence, Infinite Twilight and

    Golden Cosmos alike.

    For them, the problem resumed in one or two fighters, so they had every reason to believe in

    their chance.

    Eratz stood alone on a rocky cliff, his white hair catching the faint light breaking through the

    clouds.

    His red eyes gleamed as he tilted his head back, gazing at the sky with a small, confident

    smile.

    The chairman''s voice rang out one final time.

    "Fighters, the eyes of the world are upon you. Let this battle decide who will rise as the ultimate champion. The final begins... now!"

 Chapter 260: The Hunt Begins

    Chapter 260: The Hunt BeginsAfter the beginning of the final, every fighter spread across Solaris Haven, each group adopting a different strategy. The randomized placements created unpredictable dynamics, forcing every team to adapt quickly to their surroundings.

    Erynn, Lira, Dorian, and Maris moved together through the dense underbrush.

    "Stay hidden, and merge into the wild," Erynn instructed, her sharp eyes scanning the terrain for potential threats.

    "We''re not here to pick fights," she continued. "We''re here to survive. Let the others exhaust themselves first."

    Dorian nodded silently, his movements deliberate as he stayed close to Lira, who seemed tense but focused. Maris kept glancing over his shoulder, ensuring no one trailed them. Elsewhere, Silver and Devak ran side by side, their pace steady but their expressions tense. "Let''s focus on the easy targets," Silver said. "We pick them off before everyone else gets to them. It''s the simplest way to rack up points."

    Devak nodded.

    "Yeah, what''s about using a field spell in several locations and attacking randomly? These targets are weaklings; they''ll fall easily."

    Silver shot him a tired glare.

    "You''re crazy? Do that, and the Cosmos will locate us in seconds. We''re weaklings to them, Devak. You want to get our asses kicked by this Pharaoh too?"

    Devak shrugged, his smirk fading slightly.

    "Fair point. Fine, your way it is."

    In another sector, Iris summoned a flock of flying beasts that circled above the treetops. Their sharp cries echoed through the area as they scouted the terrain.

    "This is the best way to scan the area," Iris said confidently. "We''ll avoid unnecessary risks, and there''s no way we''ll get located like this."

    Sia, standing beside her, adjusted her gloves and gave a dismissive glance at the beasts above. "I''m going on my own," Sia announced suddenly, turning to leave.

    Iris flinched, her expression shifting to concern.

    "What? What do you mean, on your own? Um... Sissy, we should stick together. It''s safer that way."

    Sia turned back briefly, her voice calm but cutting.

    "If we stick together, it''ll be worse."

    "Why?" Iris asked, hesitant.

    "Reason one," Sia said, raising a finger. "If we''re attacked, it won''t be by some weakling. It''ll

    be someone who knows they can take me down. So, someone like the Pharaoh."

    Iris paled slightly but protested.

    "That''s more of a reason to stay together! If he comes, we can double-team him!"

    Sia continued without missing a beat.

    "Reason two, the Pharaoh is fast, powerful, and smart. You? You''re easily deletable. If he comes, you''ll be buried before realizing he''s there."

    "Wow," Iris muttered, sarcasm barely masking her unease.

    "Reason three," Sia added, "We need points. If we stick together, we''ll cover less ground. We can''t afford that."

    Iris sighed heavily, her shoulders sagging.

    "So, you mean..."

    "Grow up, you didn''t come this far to be babysat," Sia interrupted bluntly before turning to leave. She paused, her gaze distant. "Besides, there''s someone I need to face, and I''d rather do it alone." Without another word, she disappeared into the forest, leaving Iris shaking her head in exasperation.

    Having started moving after the signal, Eratz had already begun navigating the dense forest. On his way, he encountered Colin and Catarina, who quickly joined him. Now walking together, they moved with a mix of caution and ease, their shared trust in their power setting a steady pace through the thick underbrush.

    "So, what should we do now?" he mused aloud. "Maybe a big field spell?" He shook his head. "Nah, that''s not very funny. I feel like doing a real hunt."

    Catarina crossed her arms, her tail flicking.

    "You''re talking about fun? Are you serious? Just go the easy way, Boss. We''re not here to mess around."

    Eratz shrugged.

    "I know, I know. I''m just being honest. It''s like hunting, but humans." He grinned, his expression almost predatory. "And with this bounty system, I''m sure I''ll have plenty of

    predators after me."

    Colin chuckled softly.

    "No one smart will hunt you, Eratz," she said, her tone light but supportive. "But just in case, I''m here to help."

    Eratz smiled and ruffled her hair affectionately.

    "Thanks, Colin. We''ll do fine." He turned his attention to the dense forest. "The problem with this rule is that it''s not clear if there''s a time limit or if everyone has to be defeated. The best strategy is to rack up as many points as possible now. After that..." He clenched his fists, his grin sharpening. "I''ll go look for Rex."

    An explosion thundered in the distance, sending a ripple of tension through the forest. Catarina and Colin froze, their wide eyes betraying their apprehension, while Eratz''s grin only widened.

    "Looks like the game''s started," he said, his tone light but carrying a dangerous edge. Somewhere deeper in the wilderness, chaos erupted as hostilities began in earnest. Caius emerged from a dense cloud of smoke, panting heavily as his feet pounded the earth.

    Beasts of varying sizes and ferocity pursued him relentlessly, their snarls and roars echoing through the trees.

    Behind him, four figures emerged: Taryn, Kaelion, Lyric, and Jace from Blazing Horizons. Their focus was singular, claim Caius'' bounty.

    "All of this for two points?" Caius groaned under his breath, weaving through the dense

    forest.

    He summoned beasts of his own, desperately trying to slow them down. A wolf-like creature leapt at his pursuers, only to be incinerated by Kaelion''s flame-wreathed fists. Another beast attempted to charge, but Lyric''s spear-like claws tore it apart mid-leap.

    The hunters were closing in.

    Caius gritted his teeth as an explosion erupted beside him, throwing him to the ground.

    Dazed, he pushed himself up, his body trembling.

    "I need to find my team," he muttered. "These guys... aren''t ashamed to go all out for two

    lousy points."

    A voice interrupted his thoughts.

    "Got your back, man."

    Relief washed over Caius for a fleeting moment before confusion set in. That wasn''t a voice he recognized. He turned, and the forest around him lit up with an ominous yellow glow. Lightning tore through the area, striking down everything in its path. Trees split apart, and the air crackled with energy. Taryn, Kaelion, Lyric, and Jace skidded to a halt, panic seizing

    them as they scanned the electrified battlefield.

    "What... what just happened?" Taryn stammered, her eyes darting nervously.

    From the clearing, Flinn stepped forward, standing next to an unconscious Caius. The static in the air danced across his body like tendrils of light. He smirked, his voice carrying over the

    still-crackling forest. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Six points in one go? Lucky me."

    Taryn''s lips trembled as she whispered,

    "The Storm Bringer..." Then she screamed, "Run!"

    They bolted, the forest blurring around them in their desperate flight. Yet nothing happened.

    No lightning chased them, no blasts of energy struck from behind. They glanced over their shoulders, confusion replacing their fear.

    Flinn remained in place, not even attempting to pursue. Instead, his gaze turned in the opposite direction, a bemused smile curling his lips.

    "Ah... it''s only been a few minutes," he murmured. "Can''t you ignore me this time?"

    Perched on a rock a short distance away, Kaida smirked.

    "You''re the genius who decided to show me your location."

    In another part of Solaris Haven, Rex stood tall, his breath steady as he spread his arms gracefully. Nyx and Arin watched him intently, their focus unwavering. The air around Rex seemed to freeze, for a few seconds, it was as if the world was waiting for an event

    And then, a blinding light erupted from his body, spreading outward like a tidal wave. The intense glow raced across the forest, swallowing everything in its path. Trees, boulders, and beasts alike were bathed in the radiant light, which reflected off every surface, creating a dazzling brilliance. Every fighter within the area was forced to shield their eyes, some crying out in shock as the overwhelming brightness blinded them momentarily. The entire forest seemed frozen under this artificial sun, its details etched starkly in the glare. "A field spell?" most of the fighters gasped, shielding their eyes.

    Rex''s field spell was unlike any other. While most increased the range and power of attacks, his served an additional purpose. It acted as a sonar, mapping the environment and pinpointing every movement within its radius.

    Through the illuminated forest, Rex could see it all. Fighters hiding behind boulders, beasts

    prowling the underbrush, even the faintest rustle of leaves as someone tried to stay hidden.

    His field spell made evasion almost impossible.

    But it wasn''t just the spell, Rex''s true horror, was his abnormal speed, turning this field spell

    into a terrifying advantage.

    In the blink of an eye, his feet touched the leaves.

    He glared at the side and met Eratz''s surprised gaze.

 Chapter 261: Selective Prey

    Chapter 261: Selective PreyRex stood motionless, his piercing glare fixed on Eratz, who stood protectively in front of Colin and Catarina.

    The wind shifted slightly, rustling the trees around them, but neither moved.

    "There you are," Rex growled, his voice carrying the weight of his simmering fury.

    In the arena, the entire crowd watched the scene unfold in real time through a network of high-tech drones hovering silently above the battlefield.

    Their advanced sensors and long-range cameras transmitted every moment to massive screens surrounding the coliseum.

    Gasps rippled through the audience as the two fighters faced off.

    Zara, watching intently, leaned forward in her seat, her fingers gripping the edge of her chair. "No, no, not now," she muttered, her voice barely audible amidst the murmur of the crowd.

    Victoria sat stiffly beside her, her normally calm expression betraying the slightest hint of tension.

    "Very bad timing for this confrontation," she murmured.

    Back on the battlefield, Catarina''s legs trembled as she clutched Colin''s arm. Her voice came out in a faint whisper.

    "Gol... Goldust..."

    Eratz stood firm, his stance shielding the two behind him. Rex noticed this, and a flicker of something almost resembling disappointment crossed his face.

    "So even you can worry for your people," Rex muttered.

    Eratz''s expression didn''t change, but his eyes narrowed slightly in intrigue. Rex''s face softened, but only for a moment before hardening with resolve.

    "I have no business with your friends," Rex stated. "I''m here for you."

    Eratz blinked and frowned.

    "What?"

    Rex pointed to a path leading deeper into the forest.

    "This way. Let''s settle this far from the others. Just you and me."

    Eratz tilted his head.

    "Not interested in... Wait, you don''t want to win the final?"

    Rex''s eyes burned with intensity as he clenched his fists.

    "This is the difference between you and me," he said, his voice rising. "You''re only interested in winning. That''s all you see."

    The crowd watched in stunned silence as Rex began his impassioned speech. No one could hear, so they only watched a deaf show while imagining the dialogues.

    "You could''ve ended it quickly, but you didn''t. You toyed with them. My friends, my team, you defeated them, but that wasn''t enough for you. You made them cry, you broke their spirits, and for what? Just to prove how much stronger you are?"

    Eratz''s face remained neutral, but a faint flicker of surprise crossed his eyes as Rex''s words echoed through the forest.

    ''This'' was the reason of his anger?

    "I''m not here to win the final," Rex continued, his voice steady but laced with venom. "I''m here to make sure no one ever feels that way again. To make sure you... pay."

    Catarina''s grip on Colin tightened as the weight of Rex''s words hung heavy in the air. Both girls looked at Eratz with pleading eyes, silently begging him not to go.

    Eratz looked over his shoulder at them, his gaze softening briefly. Then he turned back to Rex.

    "Okay," he said simply, his tone devoid of hesitation. "Lead the way."

    Rex smirked and turned on his heel. Without another word, he dashed into the dense forest, moving with practiced agility as branches and leaves blurred past him.

    "We''ll do this at the top of the castle ruins," Rex called out over his shoulder. "The highest spot on the island. It''s the safest place for this."

    He moved swiftly through the forest, weaving between trees and leaping over obstacles with precision. But after a few moments, a strange sensation crept over him.

    Eratz was a genius, a powerful foe with probably no moral, and Rex was giving him his back. Rex slowed his pace and turned his head slightly, expecting to see Eratz trying a sneak attack. But there was no one there, no beast, no energy and certainly no Eratz.

    Rex stopped abruptly, his body tense as he scanned his surroundings. His eyes darted between the trees, searching for any sign of movement.

    "What the hell...?" he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Rex''s mind raced. He replayed the moments before he started running, the confident way

    Eratz had agreed to follow him. It didn''t make sense.

    Then... He remembered just as he thought a few seconds ago. Eratz was a dangerous for with probably no moral.

    "No..." he murmured, his voice growing louder with disbelief. "He didn''t."

    Realization struck him like a thunderbolt. His fists clenched, his jaw tightening as fury surged through him.

    "You... ran away?" he growled, incredulous. Rex''s voice echoed through the empty forest, his rage bubbling over.

    "Damn it, Eratz!" he roared, slamming his fist into a nearby tree. Bark splintered under the force, but it did little to quell the storm building within him.

    Far from the scene, Eratz moved swiftly with Colin and Catarina, weaving through the forest. His expression was calm, his demeanor unbothered as he led his teammates away from the confrontation.

    Catarina glanced nervously over her shoulder. Her tail flicked uneasily, and she let out a shaky laugh.

    "Boss," she said, trying to sound casual, "are you seriously running away? You? The Pharaoh? Instead of fighting him?"

    Eratz didn''t break his stride, his eyes focused on the path ahead.

    "I''m not running away," he said. "I''m ensuring a victory."

    Catarina blinked, confused.

    "You... what?"

    "I don''t care about his emotional damage," Eratz replied bluntly. "What I did to him and his friends wasn''t personal. It''s what I always do. If he''s annoyed, he''s free to stew in his feelings until I''m done here. Right now, my priority is making sure we win this final."

    Colin, running just behind them, nodded.

    "That makes sense... He''s too focused on you, Eratz. Keeping him occupied is the best

    strategy... that''s it, right?"

    An explosion sounded in the distance, but it was far from their location. Eratz glanced briefly in the direction of the noise.

    "This is not a dual but a competition," he said. "The best way to cripple our chances is to keep us tied up, stuck facing one opponent. This is not the time for..."

    Suddenly, the forest was bathed in blinding light. It spread like a wave, illuminating every shadowy corner and making the trio squint against its brilliance.

    "Damn it," Eratz muttered, his jaw tightening. "He used his field spell again."

    As the light receded, Rex stood directly in front of them, his expression a mix of fury and disbelief. His aura radiated anger as he took a step closer to Eratz.

    "Coward!" Rex shouted, his voice echoing through the forest. "What kind of leader runs away? What are you trying to do, Eratz? Running? Hiding? How can you... how dare you..." He clenched his fists, his words tumbling out in a torrent of frustration. "You''re supposed to be the Pharaoh, aren''t you? Then why? Why are you running like this?"

    Eratz tilted his head, unimpressed.

    "Don''t know, let me do it again."

    Before Rex could respond, Eratz vanished in a flash of lightning.

    Rex froze, stunned by the sudden disappearance. For a moment, he just stood there, his fists

    trembling.

    Colin and Catarina exchanged wide-eyed glances, unsure whether to move or speak.

    Finally, Rex''s head snapped up, and he let out a roar of frustration. His body surged forward,

    dashing through the forest like a storm incarnate.

    Eratz, now far ahead, felt Rex''s presence closing in. He smirked, the thrill of the chase

    burning in his eyes.

    "As expected," he murmured to himself. "He only has eyes for me... Guess I can leave the rest

    to them."

    Rex''s voice boomed through the forest.

    "Eratz!" he yelled. "Stop running, damn you!"

    Meanwhile, farther away, the sound of explosions reverberated through the woods.

    Taryn, Kaelion, Lyric, and Jace from Blazing Horizons ran at full speed, their breaths ragged

    as they pushed forward.

    "The noise is getting closer," Taryn said between gasps. "We need to hide. Now."

    They stumbled upon a cavern, its entrance dark and foreboding. Taryn motioned for the group

    to enter.

    "Here," she said. "It''s better than

    out in the open."

    Jace hesitated, peering into the pitch-black void.

    "This is a bad idea," he said. "We can''t see anything. If something attacks us in there, we''re

    sitting dolls. This is stupid."

    Lyric frowned.

    "It''s risky, but she''s right. Outside is worse."

    "Worse?" Jace scoffed. "Outside, we know where to run, here we are..."

    "Amateurs." A voice cut through the darkness, cold and sharp.

    The group froze, their blood running cold. The voice was low but carried a weight that made

    the air feel heavy.

    "Afraid of the dark?" the voice continued. "How sad. Allow me to show you... How to face the

    darkness..."

    From the shadows, a katana gleamed red. The group''s collective fear turned to panic.

    "The... the Shinigami!" Taryn stammered.

    Before they could react, a powerful slash tore through the cavern, the force causing the walls

    to tremble.

    The ground shook violently, rocks crumbling as the cavern began to collapse.

    Taryn and Lyric leapt out just in time, rolling onto the ground outside. Dust and debris

    clouded the entrance as they scrambled to their feet.

    "Jace?" Taryn called out. "Kaelion?"

    Silence answered her. Jace stood up, his stance defensive.

    "We need to stay together," he said. "She''ll come for us next."

    "No!" Taryn shouted, her voice cracking. "We have to run! We stand no chance against her!"

    As they turned to flee, they came face to face with an ominous sight: puppet knights emerging from the shadows, their eyes glowing faintly.

    The metallic creak of their movements sent chills down their spines.

    Their screams echoed through the forest, fading into the chaos that consumed Solaris Haven.

    Raya stepped out of the crumbling cave, her figure emerging gracefully from the shadows amidst the settling dust and debris. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Her katana gleamed faintly in the dim forest light, its red hue ominous against the backdrop

    of the destruction.

    She stopped her walk and raised her chin, the faint trace of a smile curling at the corners of her

    lips.

    "It''s a bad habit to eat from someone else''s plate," she said smoothly.

    Not far from her, Jace and Taryn lay sprawled on the forest floor, unconscious and battered,

    and just beyond them, Arin adjusted her glasses with a composed motion.

    "If you can''t finish your meal on time," Arin began, her voice sharp, "don''t blame the

    scavengers for doing your job, Blind Swordsman."

    Raya''s faint smile didn''t waver, but her stance shifted subtly, her katana lowering to her side.

    "I see. I''ll be sure to correct that mistake." Raya mused.

 Chapter 262: Stalked By a Starving Beast

    Chapter 262: Stalked By a Starving Beast[Golden Cosmos: 19

    Infinite Twilight: 12

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    Leonidas stood with his arms crossed, his gaze locked on the colossal screen displaying the score. His expression was calm, analytical, and for a moment, almost satisfied. Despite the widening gap, the numbers still showed a glimmer of hope for Infinite Twilight.

    "It''s still doable," he murmured, his voice low and steady. "We can win if we play it intelligently. Not everyone is the Pharaoh, after all. The others have a chance."

    He closed his eyes briefly, as if mentally strategizing, his confidence unwavering. And then, his eyes snapped open, blazing with fury.

    "So why... why..." he began, his voice rising. His composure shattered as he shouted at the screen, his voice echoing through the viewing room. "Why is the fool who can beat them in one second wasting time chasing the only one we''re not sure we can defeat?!"

    On the massive screen, the final''s live feed showed Rex relentlessly pursuing Eratz through the dense forest. Their movements were a blur, their speed phenomenal, leaves and branches scattering in their wake.

    Rex''s frustration was palpable, his voice carrying even over the hum of the drones filming the chase.

    "Get back here, you little shit!" Rex roared in rage.

    Eratz glanced back briefly, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

    "Hmph," he muttered to himself. "He could bite." His eyes scanned the surroundings, taking

    in the terrain as he zigzagged through an increasingly dense part of the forest.

    The underbrush thickened, creating a maze-like environment that Eratz used to his advantage.

    "Still need to stall him a bit more," Eratz thought, his mind racing. "Things are almost done."

    As they passed through the dense thicket, another group lay hidden among the bushes. Erynn, Lira, Dorian, and Maris crouched low, their breaths shallow as they watched the two fighters flash by in a whirlwind of speed and chaos.

    "What the fuck was that?" Lira whispered, her voice trembling.

    Erynn held up a hand, signaling for silence.

    "Nothing we should worry about," she replied, her tone firm but quiet.

    A sudden explosion nearby shattered the relative calm. The group tensed, hearts pounding, as the ground shook beneath them. Without hesitation, they ducked lower, their instincts screaming for them to stay hidden.

    At the site of the explosion, Zane lay sprawled in a smoking crater, his chest heaving as he struggled to push himself up. Across from him stood Silver, his expression smug, a triumphant gleam in his eyes.

    "It''s good how easy this is," Silver said, his tone light.

    He raised a hand, summoning a massive grass turtle beast. The creature''s shell bristled with thorn-like vines, its eyes scanning the area.

    "Stay here and see anyone attracted by the noise, I need to know who are the superpredators in this area," Silver commanded the beast before turning on his heel and sprinting away, vanishing into the forest.

    Back at their hideout, Lira''s face was pale, her hands trembling slightly as she gripped the edge of the bush.

    "Maybe we should move," she whispered, her voice shaky. "It''s not safe here anymore." Erynn nodded thoughtfully, rising to a crouch.

    "You''re right," she said, her voice calm but deliberate. "We should find somewhere safer." She paused, a sly smile crossing her face as she pointed toward the direction of the explosion. "And I know just the place."

    Maris blinked in confusion, his brow furrowing.

    "Wait, what? The explosion?"

    Erynn nodded, her confidence unwavering.

    "Exactly. No one would expect us to hide there. It''s the perfect spot."

    Lira''s mouth opened in protest, but no words came out. Instead, she exchanged nervous glances with Dorian and Maris, who both seemed equally torn between trusting Erynn''s instincts and running in the opposite direction.

    Finally, with hesitant nods, they followed her lead, heading toward the chaos. The forest seemed to close in around them as they moved, the distant echoes of explosions and roars serving as a constant reminder of the danger lurking at every turn.

    The team approached the site of the explosion with a mix of caution and curiosity. The clearing was a scene of chaos, a large crater dominated the landscape, with Zane lying unconscious at its center. Standing guard over him was a grass turtle beast, its calm demeanor oddly unsettling.

    For a moment, they all froze, taking in the surreal tableau. Normally, they would rush to their teammate''s aid, but there was one glaring problem: the presumed culprit was not another fighter but a ridiculous-looking beast. The absurdity of the situation made them hesitate.

    "Does losing to a wild beast even give anyone points?" Lira whispered, her voice tinged with incredulity.

    Before anyone could respond, the grass rustled. They flinched and turned sharply, only to see Milo emerging from the greenery, his expression as hurried as ever.

    He stopped, looked at the group, then at Zane, then at the turtle, and finally nodded to

    himself.

    "Understandable. Have a good day," he said casually, before turning to leave.

    But before he could take another step, a firm hand landed on his head.

    "Hold on, you little punk," Erynn growled, gripping him tightly. "Where do you think you''re

    going? Don''t you want to tell big sis what happened here?"

    Milo raised an unimpressed eyebrow, meeting her gaze.

    "My sister told me to never talk to strangers," he replied. "So no."

    With that, he twisted out of her grasp and darted away, running as fast as his small legs could

    carry him.

    Erynn frowned, her annoyance bubbling to the surface.

    "Well, well... free points," she said, cracking her knuckles. "Guys, you know what to do."

    But before they could act, a calm, mocking voice spoke from behind them.

    "Yeah, yeah, I know."

    They turned sharply and found themselves face to face with Silver, who was advancing on

    them with a smirk.

    His presence was like a dark cloud settling over the group, the confirmation they made a

    terrible decision coming out of their bushes.

    Everyone turned pale as he surveyed the scene.

    "My... only small freaks everywhere. Thank my senses for bringing me to such a... fruitful

    location," he said, his grin widening.

    Dorian groaned under his breath.

    "Infinite Twilight..."

    Maris, however, frowned and murmured to his team.

    "Wait," he said, nudging the others. "It''s only Silver. He''s not that dangerous, right? If we

    fight him together, can''t we win?"

    They exchanged hesitant glances, their fear warring with the logic of his words. Silver tilted his head, inviting them with a smug smile.

    "Go ahead," he said. "Try your luck. See how far it gets you. But seeing your faces, I know it won''t take a minute to introduce you to the ground."

    The tension reached a boiling point, both sides ready to pounce on each other, when Milo suddenly reappeared, skidding to a halt in the clearing.

    "My... my father also told me to beat the honor out of any stranger who touches a child... and I am a child! And you touched me like no one ever touched me before!"

    After Milo''s dramatic declaration, a heavy silence fell over the clearing. Everyone seemed

    frozen.

    All eyes turned to Erynn, the center of Milo''s glare. Silver broke the tension first. He slowly

    turned to Erynn.

    "Hey..." he muttered.

    Erynn, equally bewildered, shook her head firmly.

    "No. Never. Don''t even start," she snapped, throwing up her hands as if to wash her hands of the situation. "And what are you looking at me for?! Kill him! I''m only here for his bounty!"

    Silver''s brows furrowed as he turned back to Milo, wondering what exactly was happening.

    Milo''s eyes saddened, and he gulped.

    "You... you... you are after my booty?"

    "FUCK!" Erynn''s scream cut through the clearing like a battle cry as she lunged forward, attacking Silver and Milo simultaneously, igniting chaos.

    In another part of the forest, Colin and Catarina kept moving cautiously, jumping from

    branches to branches.

    Colin''s face was filled with worry as her eyes darted around the dense woods.

    "I hope Eratz is okay," she murmured, her voice barely audible.

    Catarina''s ears perked up, and she shot Colin a reassuring smile.

    "Nya, no one can beat Boss when he has a plan. He''ll deal with Goldust like it''s nothing." Her

    tail swished confidently as she adjusted her pace to match Colin''s.

    Colin nodded but couldn''t shake her unease. Her pace faltered slightly as she admitted.

    "It''s just... I just want to help as much as possible. I trained for a long time... I don''t want to be

    a burden." Catarina''s expression softened. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "If you''re here, you''re definitely not a burden, nya. Besides, Boss wouldn''t have brought you along if he didn''t think you''d pull your weight."

    Before Colin could respond, Catarina''s ears twitched, and her eyes widened. "Watch out!" she

    cried.

    A massive ice bird swooped down from the canopy, its razor-sharp talons grazing them as they barely dodged. Colin hit the ground rolling, while Catarina spun midair with feline grace.

    As she landed, she snapped her fingers, and the ice bird shattered into a sparkling rain of shards. Both girls stood on the ground, their breathing heavy as they scanned the area. "Ah... you dodged that," came a nonchalant voice. Iris emerged from the shadows, her

    posture relaxed, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

    Catarina immediately stepped in front of Colin, her claws extended as her tail flicked in

    irritation.

    "Stay behind me, Colin," Catarina hissed.

    Before Colin could respond, another voice rang out behind them.

    "It''s because you switched your target at the last second."

    Both girls whirled around to see Devak stepping out of the shadows, his hands gripping the

    unconscious bodies of Aelric and Selene, one beneath each arm.

    His smile was calm, almost playful, but his eyes held a dangerous gleam.

    "Oh, there''s no need to be so tense," Iris said with a sigh, her voice dripping with mock disappointment. "It was only to make the game funnier."

    Catarina''s claws tensed, her tail puffing slightly as she growled.

    Colin swallowed hard, clutching her hands into fists, but her eyes betrayed her anxiety.

    In the arena, the scoreboard updated on the big screen, glowing ominously:

    [Golden Cosmos: 19

    Infinite Twilight: 15

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

 Chapter 263: The Art of the Hunt

    Chapter 263: The Art of the Hunt[Golden Cosmos: 19

    Infinite Twilight: 15

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    Spectators leaned forward, their eyes glued to the massive screens displaying the final.

    Broadcasts of the match spanned the globe, with networks covering every angle.

    On one popular channel, a commentator exclaimed, her tone filled with awe.

    "Infinite Twilight is making an incredible comeback! Their strategy is bold and efficient, a perfect showcase of adapting to adversity."

    Meanwhile, on another channel, a tactical expert analyzed the strategy in measured tones.

    "They''re targeting the easy bounties to rack up points quickly while skillfully avoiding confrontations with the Golden Cosmos. It''s a masterclass in battlefield tactics."

    In contrast, a third channel''s commentator adopted a critical stance, his voice carrying a hint of disdain.

    "And what about the Cosmos? They''ve allowed Infinite Twilight to dictate the flow of this final. It''s overconfidence, plain and simple, and it might cost them everything."

    Across the world, viewers tuned in to the broadcast with mixed reactions.

    In the cozy living room of the Pandora household, Kian and Lila sat in anxious silence. The tension was palpable as they watched the battles unfold.

    "Come on," Lila murmured under her breath.

    Rowan, sitting in his study, observed the unfolding events with a pensive expression. His hand rested under his chin as she muttered.

    "They need to turn this around soon, or it''ll be too late. What''s your play, Eratz?"

    Among the Infinite Twilight staff, Eliza crossed her arms, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. "Perfect. This is truly art," she said, her tone brimming with pride. "My first year as a scout, and I''ll be ending it with a miraculous victory. Everything is falling into place."

    In stark contrast, Tamara''s gaze was fixed on the big screen, showing brief flashes of Eratz still running at full speed through the forest, with Rex in hot pursuit.

    Her brow furrowed in thought.

    "Rex is the fastest on this battlefield, you won''t escape him," she muttered to herself. "Is it really over? Did he intend to eliminate the others first but get caught off guard by the worst possible opponent?"

    In the dense forest, Rex''s frustration was reaching a boiling point. He darted between trees, his movements a blur, but no matter how fast he pushed himself, Eratz stayed just ahead, using the trees to hijack Rex''s speed.

    "Stop running, Eratz!" Rex roared, his voice echoing through the forest.

    His aura began to swell, crackling with energy. "If you don''t stop, I''ll destroy this entire area! Is that what you want? I''ll tear everything apart until there''s nowhere left to run!"

    But Eratz didn''t stop. He barely glanced back, his focus seemingly elsewhere as his sharp eyes darted across the forest.

    He slowed down slightly, his expression shifting from calculated calm to mild concern. His head tilted slightly as if listening for something. Then, without warning, he came to an abrupt halt. His boots skidded across the ground, leaving deep grooves in the dirt. He turned his head slightly, waiting.

    Rex, unable to anticipate the sudden stop, shot past him like a bullet. His momentum carried him straight into a cluster of trees, splintering them on impact.

    With a frustrated growl, Rex pulled himself free, shaking off the debris.

    "So, you finally decided to stop running like a coward?" he snarled, his tone dripping with disdain.

    Eratz stood motionless, raising a single finger in the air as if about to make a profound point.

    "Two..." he said, his voice calm and measured.

    Rex frowned, his fists clenching. "What?"

    "No, one more..." Eratz corrected himself, his eyes narrowing slightly.

    Before Rex could fully process the cryptic words, lightning erupted around Eratz, engulfing him in a radiant aura of crackling energy. In a flash, he was gone, the shockwave of his

    departure sending leaves and debris spiraling into the air.

    Rex''s jaw tightened as he stared at the empty space where Eratz had stood. His fists trembled with suppressed fury.

    "You..." Rex growled, his voice low and dangerous. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    He slammed his fist into a nearby tree, splitting it cleanly in two. His gaze shot to the direction Eratz had vanished.

    "You bastard!"

    Fueled by his growing rage, Rex launched himself forward, dashing through the forest with even greater speed.

    Trees blurred past him as he honed in on Eratz''s presence, his mind consumed by the chase.

    In the meantime, Mercury advanced steadily toward a ruined temple with steps light as she navigated the crumbling stone and overgrown vines.

    The air was charged with a quiet tension, the distant echoes of battles elsewhere fading into the background.

    Her gaze wandered with curiosity and a faint glimmer of amusement as observed the scene. She paused, her sharp eyes catching movement at the temple''s peak. A smile spread across her

    lips.

    "There you are," she said softly, her voice carrying just enough to reach the top.

    Standing on the highest ledge, Sia stared down at her, her stance firm yet composed.

    "So, you did come," Sia replied, her tone even but edged with a hint of relief.

    Mercury scratched the back of her head casually, her smile never wavering.

    "Well, since you unleashed all that energy, it felt like you were calling problems over. So here

    I am."

    Sia nodded, folding her arms.

    "I was expecting to reach you. I knew the Pharaoh wouldn''t come, since Rex is using his power

    so recklessly. It came down to a gamble between you and the Red Devil. I''m glad to see I got

    who I wanted."

    Mercury chuckled lightly.

    "Flattering, really. But Sia, you sure you''re ready for this? I''m not the same as before and you look a little hesitant."

    Sia''s expression hardened slightly.

    "Don''t underestimate me just because you got stronger, Mercury. I intend to defeat you here. And I''m not sure I can go easy on you. Therefore, think carefully. You should consider giving

    up, given your condition."

    There was a moment of silence between the two women.

    Mercury tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly, though her smile remained.

    "Ah, so that''s what this is about," she said gently. "It''s because I mentioned yesterday that I''d forfeit if things got too serious, isn''t it?"

    Sia''s silence was telling, and Mercury''s expression softened further. She placed her hands on

    her hips and sighed softly.

    "Sia, I''ll say this as clearly as I can. My presence here is my choice. No one else''s. Not yours, not anyone''s. You think I''m powerless? You think I''d risk anything without knowing my

    limits?"

    Sia''s eyes widened slightly, but she said nothing as Mercury continued, her tone firm yet

    warm.

    "The baby is fine. I am fine. And now, I''m here for something important. A round 2. What happened at the Greenridge Finals I can''t forget that and I want another chance to do better. And I want to take that revenge against you, Sia, at your full potential. And if you''re not ready to give your max, I''ll crush you here and I''ll go help my teammates to slowly torture yours."

    For a moment, silence settled between them, broken only by the faint rustling of the wind through the ancient temple.

    Sia closed her eyes and let out a deep sigh. When she opened them again, a soft smile curved

    her lips.

    "Mercury... you''re remarkable," she said, her voice carrying genuine admiration. "I was out of line to treat you like someone fragile. You''ve proven over and over that you''re far from it. I apologize for being... well, annoying."

    Mercury''s grin widened slightly, her hands resting lightly on her hips as she waited for Sia to

    continue.

    Sia''s gaze sharpened, her resolve evident.

    "You deserve my best. I promise to give you everything I have."

    Mercury nodded, her smile now tinged with determination.

    "Good. I wouldn''t want it any other way."

    The ominous clouds above rumbled with distant thunder.

    Eratz skidded to a halt at the entrance of an ancient castle, its crumbling towers silhouetted

    against the darkening sky.

    He stood there for a moment, gazing at the horizon with an almost serene expression. "Come on, man," he murmured, his voice barely audible over the brewing storm. "Come on, man, just one... I''m respecting you here. Don''t leave me hanging."

    A deafening blast erupted further behind, shaking the ground and sending ripples through the

    still air.

    Eratz turned, his eyes indifferent as they fell upon Rex, who emerged from the debris, his

    chest heaving with exertion and rage.

    Rex''s face was a twisted mask of fury, his exhaustion barely contained as he stomped forward.

    "Enough!" he roared, his voice echoing through the ruins. "Are you going to keep running forever? Is this your plan? To make me chase you like a fool?"

    Eratz fully turned to face him, his expression calm, almost amused.

    "No," he replied smoothly. "Now, it''s fine. I don''t need to run anymore."

    Rex froze for a moment, his fists trembling at his sides as he glared at Eratz.

    "You..." Rex began, but his voice cracked with frustration.

    He let out a guttural growl and started pacing, his words spilling out in an angry torrent.

    "You think this is some kind of game, don''t you? You humiliated my team, destroyed them,

    injured them. You made them cry! And for what? What did you gain from it?"

    Eratz raised an eyebrow, his posture relaxed.

    "Why are you so angry?" he asked, his tone calm but cutting. "Don''t you trust your teammates to get their own revenge? Or do you think they''re not capable?" Rex''s steps faltered. His fists clenched tighter as he took a threatening step forward.

    "You... won''t be so confident in two minutes," he hissed, his voice low with menace. Eratz''s eyes glimmered with something unreadable as he gestured toward the castle. "Oh, I will. Because now, everything went as planned."

    Rex paused mid-step, his brows furrowing.

    Somewhere in the forest, Nyx stood over the unconscious body of Kiora, her expression one of

    irritation.

    She glanced behind her, her annoyance growing as Ryder emerged from the trees, his gaze

    locked on her.

    Back at the ruins, Rex''s confusion deepened.

    "What do you mean?" he asked, his voice wary.

    Eratz''s smile widened slightly.

    "For you," he began, his tone almost conversational, "the day I destroyed your team was a

    tragedy. A humiliation. For me? It was just Saturday."

    Rex flinched, his fists trembling as Eratz continued. "You''re strong, Rex. Terribly strong. So strong that you can see the gap between yourself and your teammates. And this gap, I know exactly how to exploit it." Elsewhere in the forest, Arin stood facing Raya, the tension between them palpable.

    Nearby, Kaida prepared for a showdown with Finn. Milo squared off against Silver. Mercury

    and Sia stood in a ruined temple. Catarina faced Devak with her characteristic, while Colin glared down Iris, her determination burning bright. Ryder was facing Nyx.

    Raising a hand toward Rex, Eratz''s voice broke through the stormy air. "Thanks to your... flashy moves, everyone knew I''d be busy. That''s when your teammates''

    started taking risks and use more firepower, and generously offering their locations."

    Rex''s eyes widened, realization dawning.

    "And thanks to that," Eratz continued, clenching his fist in front of his face, "my teammates

    could track them down. Now, the most optimal matchups are done." Rex''s breath hitched, his body stiffening as the truth of Eratz''s words settled in.

    "... You were after them... from the beginning," Rex muttered, his voice trembling. Eratz nodded slowly, his tone devoid of mockery but filled with certainty. "Exactly. We let you have the easy baits, because we were after the big fish." Lightning cracked around his fist.

 Chapter 264: Burning Forest

    Chapter 264: Burning Forest(times ago)

    Aftere the announcement of the bounty system and randomized placements, the Golden Cosmos gathered to discuss their strategy before learning their designated zones.

    "Alright," Mercury began. "We could focus on the weakest bounties first, rack up some quick points, and then shift to Infinite Twilight when the field thins out."

    Kaida crossed her arms, her crimson eyes flickering with impatience.

    "That''s messy. Everyone''s going to do that, and it''ll just devolve into chaos. How about we gather and gang up on Infinite Twilight members directly?"

    Catarina''s tail swished nervously as she glanced between the two.

    "Nya, but that''s risky, Kaida. We don''t know where they''ll be spread. And what if Rex shows up? He''s basically Eratz with his thunder bird on drugs."

    "It''s about to start," Ryder said urgently. "We need to decide fast."

    Eratz, who had been silently observing the other teams in the distance, turned his attention to Kaida.

    "What did you think about Sia when you fought her?"

    Kaida blinked, caught off guard.

    "Uh... well," she began, scratching the back of her neck. "I couldn''t really land a hit on her, but she was doable. Tough, sure, but not invincible." She paused, then glanced at Eratz, a curious glint in her eye. "Wait, you''re not thinking about sending me against her, are you?"

    Eratz shook his head.

    "No, not you."

    His gaze shifted slowly toward Mercury, and the entire team followed his line of sight.

    Mercury''s eyebrows shot up in surprise as she pointed at herself.

    "Me?" she asked, her voice tinged with incredulity.

    Kaida flinched, her face scrunching up in surprise.

    "Uh... wait... yeah! Mercury''s jacked. She could totally take Sia."

    Mercury chuckled nervously, her arms crossing as she met Eratz''s gaze.

    "Are you sure about this? Sia''s abilities counter mine, and she''s a field spell specialist too. It''s not that I doubt myself, but... we need a win, right? Taking on Sia like that is a dangerous

    gamble. Honestly, you''d be better off taking her on yourself."

    Eratz''s expression remained calm but firm.

    "That''s exactly the problem. Rex already showed that strategy. If I take out Infinite Twilight members quickly, Rex could have the same idea. And he hit me midair when I was at full speed one time. The best plan is to match their strongest fighters with equivalent force. I need to target Rex as soon as we''ve secured some points from the other teams."

    Mercury tilted her head, thinking it over, then nodded slowly.

    "Yeah, you''re right. I wouldn''t underestimate someone who could one-shot Kaida."

    Kaida rolled her eyes with indignation as she flexed her biceps.

    "He only got me by surprise! No big deal. I''ll show what I can do against Sia."

    Eratz smirked.

    "Actually, I was thinking of another opponent for you."

    Kaida''s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

    "Wait, what?"

    The entire team''s curiosity peaked as they leaned in closer. Eratz raised his hand, motioning for their attention.

    "Listen carefully. Here''s the plan."

    Back in the arena, the crowd''s excitement reached a fever pitch as the massive screen shifted to display the impending battles.

    Images of the scattered fighters flashed across the screen, each matched with their current opponents.

    Gasps and murmurs filled the stands as the updated scoreboard loomed above:

    [Golden Cosmos: 19

    Infinite Twilight: 16

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

    Every movement and decision was scrutinized by an audience on the edge of their seats.

    Among them, Victoria stood with her arms crossed, her sharp gaze locked onto the various matchups displayed before her.

    Her expression remained unreadable, but her mind was working at lightning speed.

    "Smart," she murmured, barely loud enough for Zara to hear.

    Zara, seated beside her, leaned forward, her expression a mix of concern and doubt.

    "Smart?" she echoed. "It''s risky. They''ve lost their advantage for a gamble. Using weaker opponents to locate Infinite Twilight members and pick their opponents? It''s clever on paper, but it leaves too many things to chance. Milo is too much of a newby to fight someone like Silver, and same for Colin. Even if Catarina can handle Devak, Iris is still there to back him up. And nothing guarantees that Eratz can defeat Goldust."

    Victoria''s lips curved slightly, not quite a smile, but enough to indicate she was more amused than worried. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Risky, yes," she admitted, her tone calm. "But there''s another way to see it, a little thing that makes the difference between each of them."

    Zara frowned, turning her attention back to the screens.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Victoria didn''t answer immediately. Instead, her gaze lingered on the synchronized movements of the Cosmos members, their aura emerging almost simultaneously.

    Finally, she spoke, her tone resolute.

    "The Calamity Beasts."

    In the battle zone, Milo darted through the dense forest, narrowly avoiding Erynn''s clawed

    strikes.

    He leapt onto a tree branch, his small frame balancing like a monkey as he narrowed his eyes. His breathing was steady as a faint glow began to envelop him.

    Elsewhere, Catarina and Colin moved in tandem, their steps synchronized as they advanced

    cautiously.

    Their respective auras began to pulse, a shared rhythm connecting them. The energy surrounding them grew thicker, more tangible, covering the space, and alarming Devak and

    Iris to do the same.

    Across the battlefield, the same mystical aura emerged around other members of the Golden

    Cosmos.

    Ryder''s aura letting out his multiform beast, while Mercury''s steps rippled like ocean waves as she advanced toward Sia, around whom ice beasts began to materialize. Kaida''s fiery energy flared, face to Finn whose body was covered in lightning, while Raya''s eyes glowed icy blue, the frost spreading on the ground as most formed above. Victoria''s gaze softened as she continued to watch the synchronized awakening of power

    across the screen.

    "This is the moment to show the results of all your efforts," she murmured.

    The forest erupted in chaos as the battles began on every front.

    Explosions echoed across the battlefield, and the presence of the Golden Cosmos'' calamity beasts reshaped the terrain with their devastating power.

    Nyx leaped back, her feet finding balance on the sturdy branch of a towering tree.

    She glared down at the massive crater where she had stood moments ago, Ryder''s monstrous

    fist embedded in its center.

    His arm, now a grotesque fusion of flesh and scales.

    Nyx growled, her eyes burning with determination.

    "Last time wasn''t enough? You want some more?? No matter what tricks you pull, you''re not

    the Pharaoh. I can take you on!"

    Ryder tilted his head slightly, his smirk tinged with amusement.

    "Thanks for reminding me why I have to kick your ass," he replied.

    With a sharp inhale, Nyx launched herself forward, a blur of motion. As she closed the

    distance, sharp tentacles erupted from Ryder''s chest, lashing out with whip-like precision.

    Nyx twisted midair, narrowly evading the tendrils that tore through the trees behind her, leaving jagged stumps in their wake.

    She landed gracefully and summoned a towering metal-clad beast.

    The creature roared, its metallic frame reflecting the dim light as it charged at Ryder.

    Nyx darted to the side, coordinating a pincer attack with her beast.

    Both rushed toward Ryder, aiming to strike from opposite angles.

    Ryder spun with inhuman speed. A massive dragon''s claw erupted from his back, snapping its

    jaws at Nyx.

    She gritted her teeth, holding the jaws open with trembling arms as the beast''s strength

    threatened to overpower her.

    "Damn it!" she spat, her muscles straining.

    Ryder inhaled deeply, and his chest expanded ominously. A torrent of fire erupted from his

    mouth, engulfing Nyx in flames.

    Her scream cut through the inferno as she fought desperately to hold her ground.

    The forest trembled as Milo summoned Arborielle, a colossal plant beast that turned the

    dense wilderness into its domain.

    Vines and roots twisted and writhed like living entities, reshaping the battlefield with their

    relentless movements.

    Silver darted from tree to tree, his speed keeping him just ahead of the encroaching vegetation. Sweat beaded on his brow as he muttered under his breath.

    "This forest... where does this thing even start?"

    His frustration deepened as his sharp eyes scanned the area. Below him, Erynn, Lira, Dorian,

    and Maris hung unconscious, ensnared in Arborielle''s massive vines.

    Silver''s face twisted in anger.

    "I just lost the free four points..." he growled. "FUCK!"

    A vine lashed out, forcing him to flip backward. His aura flared, and he summoned a pack of

    fire beasts.

    The creatures charged forward, their flames blazing with intense energy. But the moment they touched the vines, they were ensnared.

    The vegetation coiled around them, draining their energy until the flames extinguished. "What the hell?!" Silver gasped, his eyes wide with disbelief.

    A shadow loomed above him. He glanced up just in time to see Milo descending, his hands

    glowing with an ethereal pink energy.

    Silver raised his arms, catching Milo mid-fall with a confident smirk.

    "Gotcha now, you brat!" Silver shouted.

    Milo''s eyes gleamed mischievously as he unleashed a disorienting scream. The sound was

    shrill and unnatural, reverberating through the air and rattling Silver''s senses.

    He stumbled, his vision swimming as the world around him blurred into a chaotic haze.

    "What the..." Silver muttered, spinning in confusion.

    Desperate, he summoned a flying beast, which swooped in and carried him upward.

    He clutched his head, trying to steady himself as the disorienting wails echoed around him.

    "Annoying little shit," he murmured, rubbing his temples. "I can''t even lower my guard for a second."

    From above, Silver surveyed the battlefield. The massive form of Arborielle dominated the landscape, its vines snatching at everything within reach.

    Realizing the futility of direct combat, he decided to retreat and regroup. "Pointless to fight this thing," he muttered. "I need reinforcement."

    He commanded his beast to move, but haunting wails echoed through the air.

    The sound disoriented both him and his mount, causing the creature to veer wildly.

    Silver clamped his hands over his ears, but the wails resonated deep within him, making it impossible to focus.

    "Damn it!" he roared, summoning several fire beasts to attack the forest from a distance.

    The flames licked at the vines, but they erupted like tentacles, snatching the fire beasts and extinguishing them one by one.

    Even Silver''s flying beast wasn''t spared. Vines coiled around its wings, dragging it downward.

    Silver leapt free just before it was pulled into the vegetation. Freefalling, he activated a beastification with a fire affinity creature.

    Flames erupted around him, and he released a fiery breath that scorched the ground below.

    He landed heavily, struggling to stand with the constant wails, unable to see the vines coiling

    around his location like snakes.

    [Golden Cosmos: 27 Infinite Twilight: 16

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

 Chapter 265: Law of the Strongest

    Chapter 265: Law of the StrongestThe battles raged across the forest, each clash echoing with the sound of raw power and fury.

    Amid the chaos, one battlefield burned brighter than the rest. Catarina and Colin stood united against Devak and Iris, the tension between the four fighters palpable.

    Catarina moved with the grace of a predator, fighting alongside Mystimara.

    Devak, towering with his draconic beastification, countered with wide, powerful swings, each one capable of shattering trees.

    Yet, Catarina was too fast. She ducked, spun, and even passed through his attacks like a mirage, her feline agility turning his brute strength into a disadvantage.

    "Too slow, big guy," she taunted, her voice dripping with mockery as her tail flicked behind her.

    Mystimara''s tendrils snaked forward, coiling around Devak''s arm and halting his next attack. Catarina seized the opening, delivering a flurry of blows that forced him onto the defensive.

    Devak roared in frustration, his claws slashing through the air as he tried to shake off Mystimara.

    Catarina only grinned, snapping her fingers as the shadowy beast unleashed a barrage of energy spheres.

    Each explosion rocked the ground, forcing Devak to shield himself.

    Nearby, Colin faced Iris. Her field spell had transformed the battlefield into a blazing inferno, flames consuming everything in their path.

    "Cute trick," Iris sneered, summoning a flock of flying beasts imbued with elemental power. Ice, wind, and lightning surged toward Colin, but the healing flames swirling around her nullified the attacks mid-air, reducing them to harmless sparks and ash.

    Colin''s gaze remained steady as she directed a stream of healing fire toward Catarina, rejuvenating her while doing the opposite on Devak and Iris, the pressuring them.

    Infuriated, Iris''s grin twisted into a snarl.

    "Good girls don''t annoy adults," she snapped, her body igniting in a fiery aura as she activated a beastification.

    Flames rippled off her body, merging with her flying beasts to create a barrage of relentless assaults.

    But against Colin, it was like pouring water in a lake. Iris only managed to solve the fire problem on her.

    Seeing how pointless her attempt was, Iris decided to change her strategy and redirected her beasts toward Catarina.

    Colin''s eyes widened in alarm.

    She moved to intervene, but Devak was faster. With a thunderous roar, he leapt at Colin, his claws slamming into her stomach with devastating force.

    On the big screen, the public gasped and screamed in horror at this sight. Cassie almost fainted but Roger''s grip on her arm brought her back to life.

    Colin''s body crumpled as the impact sent her flying. Before she could recover, a torrent of fire breath engulfed her, the flames consuming her and leaving her sprawled on the ground.

    "Colin!" Catarina screamed, her voice breaking as she watched her teammate fall.

    Her heart raced, but she couldn''t check on Colin''s condition as she was about to face Iris and Devak alone.

    The battlefield fell into an eerie silence, broken only by the crackling of flames. Then, a powerful blast erupted, annihilating Iris''s birds mid-flight.

    The sheer intensity of the flames drew every gaze, the brilliance of the fire outshining all else. Iris''s confident smirk vanished, replaced by genuine unease. Devak froze, his battle instincts warning him of imminent danger.

    His eyes darted toward the center of the inferno, searching for Colin.

    From within the flames, a figure emerged. Colin struggled to her feet, her body transformed. Fire danced across her skin, glowing red marks etched into her flesh. Wings of flame unfurled from her back, their radiant heat distorting the air around her. Each step she took was painful, but as the fire spread on her, her pain diminished.

    "This... is... nothing," Colin rasped, her voice low.

    Devak''s eyes widened in shock. "Beastification... with a unique beast? At this age?" he

    muttered.

    He clenched his fists, his draconic claws flexing as he advanced toward her.

    "Alright, big girl," he growled. "Let''s see if it''s still nothing."

    He lunged, delivering a powerful knee to Colin''s midsection. The impact should have sent her sprawling, but instead, Devak froze mid-motion.

    Pain struck his body, sharp and electric, as if his nerves were on fire.

    "What the..." he groaned, clutching his chest. His body convulsed as shocks coursed through him.

    From a safe distance, Catarina smirked, her fingers glowing with Mystimara''s power.

    "Taste your own medicine!" she exclaimed.

    Colin raised her hands, fire gathering rapidly between her palms. The flames swirled and grew, their heat radiating across the battlefield.

    "Take... this!" Colin shouted, releasing a colossal fire blast.

    The inferno roared forward, consuming everything in its path, swallowing everything in its

    path.

    Iris turned to flee, her wings propelling her backward in desperation.

    But before she could escape, Catarina snapped her fingers again, switching their positions

    with practiced precision.

    Iris''s eyes widened in terror as the firestorm bore down on her.

    "No..." Iris whispered, powerless to stop the flames.

    The roaring inferno engulfed her, a blood-curdling scream tearing from her throat as the blast consumed the battlefield.

    The explosion was blinding, its shockwave tearing through the forest and sending debris flying in all directions.

    When the dust finally settled, Colin and Catarina stood amidst the scorched earth.

    The air shimmered with residual heat, the remnants of Colin''s firestorm leaving the battlefield scorched and barren.

    Devak and Iris lay sprawled on the ground, trembling and visibly battered, but still very

    conscious.

    Catarina''s ears perked up, and for the first time, her confidence faltered.

    Panic set in as her gaze darted between the two fallen enemies. Her fingers glowed faintly,

    and before she realized it, she began snapping them uncontrollably.

    She switched the searing pain between Iris and Devak in rapid succession.

    "Oh no no no, stay down! Stay down!" Catarina muttered frantically, her tail swishing

    erratically.

    Devak let out guttural screams, his body convulsing as electric shocks wracked his frame. Iris clutched at her sides, her cries mingling with his as the pain flowed between them like water

    being poured from one glass to another.

    Catarina''s snapping became more erratic, and the torture continued for a full minute, their screams and pleas echoing through the scorched battlefield.

    Colin and Mystimara observed the scene, too troubled to make any noise.

    Finally, Devak and Iris''s bodies fell limp, unconscious from the relentless agony.

    Catarina froze, her hands trembling as the silence engulfed her.

    Her eyes narrowed, then, she poked their nose with her tail, confirming that the two were

    really unconscious.

    Then, she stepped back and glanced at Colin who remained confused.

    "Ha! We did it!" Catarina jumped.

    The distant scoreboard flickered, updating with new numbers:

    [Golden Cosmos: 34

    Infinite Twilight: 18

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0

    ]

    The arena erupted in deafening cheers, the sound echoing through the massive coliseum.

    Fans of the Cosmos leaped from their seats, waving banners and chanting in celebration.

    The coordinated efforts of the Golden Cosmos were reshaping the tides of battle, pushing them further into the lead.

    Leonidas stood frozen, his face pale as he stared at the scoreboard. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His hands clenched the railing tightly, knuckles trembling from the force. The realization of Infinite Twilight''s slipping grasp on victory hit him like a thunderbolt. His rage boiled over as

    he slammed his fists onto the rail, his voice booming over the chatter.

    "Rex! Stop playing around and go get them!" Leonidas bellowed.

    He knew his words wouldn''t reach Rex, but the weight of his anger was undeniable.

    Meanwhile, Victoria uncrossed her arms, her sharp gaze softening into a proud smile as she

    leaned back in her chair.

    "They''ve done it," she said with quiet satisfaction.

    Beside her, Zara was less reserved, leaping to her feet and throwing her arms up in

    celebration.

    "They''re crushing it!" Zara exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement. "I can''t believe

    it... What the fuck is this team... they''re unstoppable!"

    Victoria chuckled softly, nodding.

    "Yes, I can''t believe the prowess they made in so little time... this is exactly what we''ve been

    building toward. They will truly conquer the world," She raised a hand toward Zara.

    "Care for a drink later?" Victoria teased, her tone unusually light. Zara laughed, clapping

    Victoria on the shoulder.

    "Bring Tamara too, if we win, it''s on me," Zara replied, grinning.

    The screen panned across the battlefield, showing the other Cosmos members engaged in

    their own clashes.

    On one side of the battlefield, Kaida clashed fiercely with Finn.

    The forest surrounding them was ablaze with destruction, lightning arced through the sky, colliding with roaring fire blasts as their field spells waged war against one another.

    The fiery intensity of Kaida''s draconic beastification mirrored the crackling energy of Finn''s

    lightning.

    Each strike, whether a devastating punch or a wide-area blast, reshaped the terrain, leaving charred and scorched earth in their wake.

    Despite the ferocity of the battle, Finn maintained his easygoing demeanor, his voice carrying

    over the cacophony of their duel.

    "You''re incredible, you know that?" he said, his tone genuinely admiring as he dodged a

    swipe of Kaida''s clawed hand. "Why aren''t you as popular as the others? Are you unpopular

    too? It''s... kind of terrifying."

    Kaida growled, her crimson eyes narrowing.

    "Will you just shut up?!"

    Finn smirked, lightning sparking from his fingertips as he launched another wide-area attack.

    "Don''t be modest... I''m just spitting facts. You''re built different, Red Devil. It''s like these

    stories of predator fighting a superpredator. If this keeps up, I might not last."

    The admission, though casual, grated on Kaida''s nerves. Her fiery energy surged, the flames around her burning brighter and hotter as her attacks became even more aggressive.

    Each swing of her claws sent fire cascading across the battlefield, the sheer force of her strikes

    causing Finn to backpedal.

    "The only super you''ll get is a super ass whooping!" Kaida roared, her voice echoing through

    the forest.

    Her flames consumed everything in their path, making the battlefield unrecognizable. Finn, though on the defensive, remained composed.

    "It''s the law of the strongest," he continued, his tone more somber. "Miss Kalli was right... I

    don''t have the tools to beat you. Not against a unique beast like yours. But I''m not here to win. I''m here to last."

    Kaida''s eyes burned with frustration as she lunged forward, her claws aiming directly at

    Finn''s chest.

    In another part of the forest, Arin darted through the trees, her movements calculated as her puppet-like beasts swarmed Raya.

    The puppets, though formidable in their own right, were obliterated in an instant by Raya''s

    icy strikes. Her katana gleamed as it cut through the summoned creatures, each swing too fast to be seen. Above them, Raya''s ice dragon loomed, its massive form gliding silently through the sky.

    The dragon''s presence was suffocating. Arin glanced up at it, her lips curling into a faint

    smile.

    "It''s really unfair," she murmured to herself, her voice tinged with bitter amusement. "This... isn''t even a fight, is it?"

    Raya never blinked, as if her body stopped taking care of this function to focus on her other

    senses.

    Despite the overwhelming disadvantage, Arin didn''t falter. She continued to move, using the terrain to her advantage as she launched her puppets in a desperate attempt to slow her down.

    The results were the same. Each attack was nullified with effortless precision, and as soon as raya would reach her, she would suffer the same fate.

    Raya didn''t even need to rely on her dragon; her own skills were more than enough to handle

    Arin''s relentless assault.

    "I''m not here to win anyway, it''s impossible to beat these guys," Arin whispered under her

    breath, her gaze flicking toward the distant horizon. "I just need to endure... Until you''ve finished..."

    Both Finn and Arin fought with unwavering resolve, their strategies grounded not in victory but in endurance.

    As beast masters, they understood a common concept, the law of the strongest.

    Finn couldn''t face Kaida in melee, do he focused on long range attacks to keep her in distance

    and gain some time.

    Arin, on the other hand, faced an opponent who outclassed her in every conceivable way.

    Raya''s mastery of her abilities, combined with the sheer power of her calamity beast, left Arin with no other choice than running away forever.

    Both of them understood their roles in the grander scheme of the battle.

    They weren''t there to dominate or conquer.

    They were there to endure, to buy time for their powerhouses to arrive and shift the balance

    of power.

    Their only hope was the result of the two last battles.

 Chapter 266: Of Water and Frost: Mercury VS Sia

    Chapter 266: Of Water and Frost: Mercury VS SiaAs Kaida turned the forest into a literal inferno, farther away, the temperature had dropped so much that ice started spreading on the walls.

    The ruined temple atop which Sia stood gleamed with frost, her icy aura spreading around.

    Across from her, Mercury stood with her arms crossed, her relaxed stance a stark contrast to the tension in the air.

    Sia summoned her ice beasts in a flurry of sharp, crystalline shards. Dozens of creatures made of frost emerged, their forms jagged and almost angelic, then, in unison, they charged toward Mercury with claws slicing through the air.

    With a wave of her hand, Mercury summoned a towering wave that crashed over the advancing beasts, shattering them instantly.

    She raised an eyebrow, her expression almost taunting.

    "Are we still playing, or can we go to the obvious conclusion?" Mercury asked, her voice steady and laced with amusement.

    Sia frowned, her gaze narrowing. Without a word, she leapt from the top of the ruined temple.

    As her feet touched the ground, a storm of ice erupted around her. The air grew colder, and frost crept along the stone walls, encasing them in crystalline beauty.

    From the heart of the storm, Nivalys emerged.

    Mercury spread her arms wide, her aura rippling outward. The temperature shifted, and the air became thick and fluid, shimmering like water.

    Two figures materialized behind her: Naiadira, and Zephyraquiel.

    The clash of beasts began with earth-shaking force. Nivalys lunged at Naiadira, its claws slashing through waves that seemed alive, while Zephyraquiel soared into the sky, unleashing torrents of wind that buffeted Sia.

    Mercury remained composed, orchestrating the battle from a distance with precise gestures.

    Sia''s frost surged, forming walls of ice to block Mercury''s relentless water strikes. The temple''s ruins became a battlefield of frozen spires and crashing waves.

    Sia unleashed frost beams alongside Nivalys, freezing everything in their path, but Mercury countered with explosive water blasts that shattered the ice before it could reach her.

    "Impressive," Sia muttered, her breath visible in the freezing air.

    But doubt crept into her mind. With the water field spell around Mercury, she could freeze the entire battlefield with her own field spell, but something about Mercury''s calm demeanor made her hesitate.

    The Mercury she knew was a prodigy with creativity who could fight her weaknesses, this Mercury, in opposite, was more complete, relaxed and dominating.

    What seemed like a weakness before, now screamed like a trap.

    Mercury smiled, her voice carrying over the chaos.

    "What''s the matter? I expected more from my nemesis."

    Triggered, Sia launched a barrage of frost spikes, each one sharper and deadlier than the last. Mercury responded with a tidal wave, the force of which shook the ground. Tempests swirled as Zephyraquiel dived, its wings creating gusts that scattered the ice shards like leaves.

    Nivalys roared, charging Naiadira with immense strength, but the water beast blew a water jet on the ice sabertooth, pushing it away.

    Zephyraquiel''s attacks followed, sharp wind slashes raining down from above, leaving Nivalys visibly damaged. Sia grit her teeth, realizing her current strategy wasn''t enough.

    "I didn''t think after all this time, I''ll be the challenger again," Sia said, stepping back as her aura spiked.

    She closed her eyes, and her body began to change.

    A phenomenom new for many began to occur.

    Her body shifted, Frost coated her skin, forming feline-like armor with jagged ice patterns. Her hands became clawed, and her eyes glowed with an mystical blue light. A tail of crystalline ice swished behind her.

    It was her beastification with Nivalys, transforming her into a hybrid form. Her voice resonated through the battlefield.

    "Thank you for this fight, Mercury," Sia said. "But this ends now."

    The forest succumbed to her power as a blizzard erupted. Snow and ice swirled violently, reducing visibility to near zero.

    Sia moved like a blur, her frost attacks now covering massive areas, while Nivalys assisted her with colossal shards of ice falling like meteors.

    Everything had been poised for destruction, her frost ready to swallow the battlefield whole, but suddenly, it all stopped. As if time itself had paused.

    Sia''s wide eyes betrayed her disbelief as she stared at the center of what should have been an icy crater.

    The air seemed to shimmer, a faint hum resonating through the frozen silence. In the center of the devastation stood Mercury, glowing.

    A faint smile played on Mercury''s lips as her aura began to rise. The energy rippling around her pulsated with the combined might of Naiadira and Zephyraquiel.

    The air around her shimmered with a bluish glow, her hair lifting as though caught in a gentle current, and intricate marks resembling flowing water and wind illuminated her skin.

    A phenomenon alike Eratz''s beastification unfolded.

    Mercury''s body emitted unparalleled energy, her body ascending as if carried by the water itself.

    The marks on her skin blazed with light, and her calm expression seemed to dwarf the battlefield.

    Sia''s mouth hung slightly open in disbelief. The icy winds of her blizzard began to falter, their strength consumed by Mercury''s overwhelming energy.

    "Thank you for the compliment," Mercury said, her voice calm yet resonant. Her smile

    widened. "And... second this."

    Sia''s expression hardened. With a roar, she charged forward, unleashing an onslaught of frost and ice so powerful it could have frozen an entire mountain in seconds.

    Shards of ice the size of boulders hurtled toward Mercury with

    recision.

    Mercury responded with a stream of water so immense it seemed to blot out the sky.

    The liquid surged forward, crashing against the icy onslaught with titanic force.

    The resulting collision created a shockwave that flattened the surrounding forest, sending trees and debris flying for miles.

    Nivalys and Sia pressed on, their combined strength forming an unrelenting storm of ice. Mercury, however, remained serene, her dual mastery of water and wind proving

    insurmountable.

    Tsunamis clashed with glaciers, and whirlwinds tore through icy barriers. The battlefield became a chaotic symphony of elements, each clash more destructive than the last.

    From Sia''s perspective, the battle was surreal. Her frost seemed inadequate against Mercury''s precise control over water.

    ''How is she so powerful?'' Sia wondered, her movements becoming more frantic. ''Controlling a calamity beast is nearly impossible... and she''s controlling two?! How? How does she do that?''

    She gritted her teeth, struggling to comprehend how Mercury had transformed into such a

    force.

    Only a few months ago, Mercury had been a worthy rival, but not this overwhelming. Now, Sia''s ice struggled to even remain on the field.

    Slowly, the realization dawned on her: Mercury had outclassed her from afar. Even her field spell was stronger, nullifying her elemental advantage.

    In the middle of the destruction, Sia''s face softened as she watched Mercury. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    There was something almost divine about her movements, graceful, deliberate, and

    commanding.

    Mercury wasn''t just fighting; she was orchestrating the battlefield from above like a goddess.

    A pang of sadness hit Sia, not from the impending loss but from her inability to understand. She clenched her fists, her determination flaring.

    "I won''t fall so easily!" Sia shouted, using Nivalys to propel herself upward toward Mercury. She surged forward, frost and fury trailing behind her.

    Mercury frowned, spreading her arms as water spiraled around her.

    The two collided mid-air, their powers active in a stunning display of hand-to-hand combat.

    Mercury''s fists carried the weight of tidal waves, while Sia''s strikes froze the air around them

    with each blow.

    They punched, kicked, and grappled, their raw strength creating shockwaves that rippled across the battlefield. Mercury''s wind-enhanced agility met Sia''s frost-infused precision in a

    brutal, almost artistic clash.

    But if Sia wasn''t a master in hand to hand combat, Mercury had several battles in her

    achievements.

    Gradually, she began to take the lead. Her strikes grew sharper, her movements faster, and her control over the battlefield undeniable.

    With a powerful kick, she sent Sia hurtling backward. The ice master tumbled, stunned but

    still defiant.

    Sia''s expression darkened. She made a last-ditch effort, raising her hands as frost began to

    spread rapidly.

    Ice formed on every surface, encasing the battlefield in a layer of crystalline beauty.

    "Enough!" Sia roared, pouring everything she had into freezing the entire forest.

    Mercury''s eyes narrowed. Without hesitation, she clapped her hands together. Instantly, the water from her expansive field spell converged, rushing toward Sia in an unstoppable torrent.

    The sheer force of the convergence shattered the frozen landscape as it enveloped Sia.

    Mercury didn''t stop there. She gathered the water into her fist, the liquid glowing with immense energy.

    With a powerful cry, she surged toward Sia, her fist leading the charge. The impact was

    cataclysmic.

    Sia screamed as Mercury''s water-empowered punch slammed into her. The force propelled her downward, crashing through the ground and into the rocky depths below. Mercury followed through, driving Sia further underground as debris and water erupted

    around them. The pressure was unrelenting, the earth shattering under the might of their

    clash.

    Finally, Mercury ascended with a geyser-like eruption, her fist raised triumphantly. The water carried Sia upward, her unconscious body propelled by the force of the blast.

    Sia''s limp form hung in the air for a moment before falling to the scorched and soaked

    battlefield below.

    The scoreboard updated amidst the roaring cheers of the crowd:

    [Golden Cosmos: 42

    Infinite Twilight: 18

    Azure Blades: 1

    Blazing Horizons: 0]

 Chapter 267: Gold and Lightning

    Chapter 267: Gold and LightningThe energy in the arena exploded as the scoreboard updated.

    Mercury''s name blazed brightly, her victory sealed. A wave of deafening cheers erupted, spreading like wildfire through the stadium and beyond into the city.

    Fans leaped from their seats, waving banners, shouting until their voices cracked. The air was thick with joy, disbelief, and awe, a collective realization that this single win might seal the course of the final.

    Cassie and Roger stood, their faces red with emotion. Roger, normally so calm and composed, broke into a rare, joyous laugh as Cassie threw her arms around him as she whispered.

    "They''re really going to do it, Roger. They''re going to win."

    Roger hugged her tightly, his voice trembling as he replied.

    "They are incredible. Absolutely incredible."

    Victoria grabbed Zara in a display of unbridled emotion, lifting her slightly off the ground in an exuberant hug. Zara let out a startled laugh, her arms wrapping around Victoria''s shoulders.

    "I can''t believe it!" Zara exclaimed, her voice breaking. "We can do it, we can win!" she said. Far away in Lugina, the Golden Cosmos'' center was a cacophony of celebration. Staff and fighters cheered, shouted, hugged, and danced as the images of Mercury''s win spread.

    In her home, Lisa sat on the edge of her bed, her hands gripping the edge tightly her eyes were glued to the screen.

    For a moment, she was utterly still, her mouth slightly open. Then, slowly, she began to clap. But as the waves of celebration reached their peak, a different atmosphere settled elsewhere. In a dimly lit room, Crystal sat alone, the glow of the screen illuminating her face. Her disheveled hair framed eyes bloodshot from months of sleepless nights and mounting frustration.

    She stared at Mercury''s triumph, her teeth grinding audibly. Each cheer from the crowd outside felt like a dagger as she watched the woman who had solidified her inability to reclaim Eratz basking in glory, with a superstar as boyfriend while she was dating a boy whose potential had evaporated under the bright lights of national competition.

    On Infinite Twilight''s side, the silence was suffocating. Eliza sat frozen, her lips trembling as she stared at the screen. Her usually confident demeanor was gone, replaced with wide, disbelieving eyes.

    Leonidas gripped the arms of his chair, his knuckles shaking as rage boiled beneath the surface. His eyes darted back and forth as if searching for an escape from the scene unfolding before him.

    Finally, he could hold it no longer. He shot to his feet, his voice a thunderous roar.

    "Rex! Do something!" he bellowed.

    But his rage faltered as his gaze shifted to Kallistra, or rather where she should be.

    In the audience, Braun leaned back in his seat, unimpressed.

    "Why is everyone so fired up?" he asked lazily. "It''s just child''s play."

    Arvad, seated nearby with a mask too, glanced at Braun.

    "It won''t be child''s play in three years," he said evenly. "The most important, at least, is that it makes our loss... tolerable."

    Moses, sitting next to them, groaned in frustration.

    "No loss is acceptable," he muttered. His gaze shifted to the side. "What do you think, ma''am?" he asked, but his words hung in the air.

    Confused, Moses turned his head and froze.

    Tamara was gone.

    The atmosphere around the ruined castle was hauntingly oppressive. Thunder rolled across the darkened sky, its deep rumble reverberating through the hollow remains of the ancient

    structure.

    Jagged flashes of lightning illuminated the jagged edges of the castle''s spires, casting fleeting shadows that danced ominously on the cracked stone walls.

    The only missing guest was probably a deluge dropping from the heavy, charcoal clouds above.

    At the entrance of the castle, Eratz stood motionless, his silhouette consumed by the encroaching darkness. Only his red eyes glowed with an intense, almost unnatural light, piercing through the gloom like embers in the void.

    Across from him, Rex stood near the remnants of a shattered wall, his face briefly illuminated by a sudden crack of lightning. His expression was one of contemplation, his eyes gazing at the distant horizon before returning to Eratz.

    Eratz''s voice broke through the silence, deep and steady.

    "Now''s the time," he said. "There''s nothing you can do. If you try to go to your teammates, I''ll do the same. There''s only one clever solution to this equation: eliminate me now."

    Rex''s gaze lowered, his fists tightening slightly at his sides. The realization of being outmaneuvered settled over him like the weight of the storm clouds above.

    "You really outsmarted me," he admitted quietly.

    Eratz watched him, then quipped.

    "... Not very hard."

    Silence lingered between them, broken only by the distant sound of thunder. Rex closed his eyes, his mind racing through every possible scenario. After a moment, he exhaled deeply and spoke, his tone quieter but resolute.

    "Tell me honestly, not as an opponent but as someone I might respect. Is this really the only way out?"

    Eratz hesitated for a fraction of a second, his glowing eyes softening as a faint, sad smile crossed his lips.

    "Bad timing to ask that, you expect me to give you a easy solution?" he said, almost regretfully. "But I''ll admit it, the only counter to my strategy now, the only hope for you, is for you to defeat me here and now."

    A bitter smile formed on Rex''s face. He looked at Eratz with an almost reluctant admiration, the tension between them momentarily replaced by a quiet understanding.

    For a fleeting moment, the storm med to still, as if acknowledging the weight of this particular battle. Neither moved, their eyes locked. No hate, no frustration, only an acknowledgment of the gravity of this pivotal moment.

    Rex finally took a deep breath, his chest rising as he steadied himself.

    "I understand," he said, his voice firm. "I understand everything clearly now." He paused, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "You''re different from me, Eratz. Very different. You act recklessly, you don''t care about risks or dangers because..." He stopped, his gaze meeting Eratz''s unwavering red eyes. "Because you never fail. You know exactly what you''re doing, and you''re confident in yourself. You trust your strength, the strength of your friends, and you have a heart cold enough to stay calm even when your teammates are in danger."

    Eratz''s smile returned.

    "Half correct," he said. "They''re not in danger. They''re the danger. I trust the people I''ve surrounded myself with and their ability to fight and succeed. No risk, no magic trick, no luck, just this." He gestured subtly with a finger to his temple. "And now, it''s paying off."

    Rex''s smile grew wry.

    "Um, you''re really dangerous, aren''t you? So, does that mean I''ve already lost?"

    Eratz''s smile faded slightly, his expression growing serious.

    "You see a loss; I see a B plan."

    Rex straightened his posture, his confidence seemingly restored. He spread his arms wide, yellow sparks of energy beginning to form and float around him. His voice carried a renewed

    determination.

    "In that case... I''ll force you to find that B plan."

    Eratz''s glowing eyes narrowed.

    "That''s the spirit."

    Under the stormy sky, the world held its breath. The ruined castle loomed, its spires briefly illuminated by flashes of lightning, a solemn witness to the impending clash.

    The air vibrated with tension, heavy and electric, setting nerves on edge. This was it, the

    decisive moment.

    Everywhere, eyes were glued to screens. In the arena, the roaring crowd had fallen eerily silent, their cheers replaced by an awed hush.

    In Lugina, Golden Cosmos staff and supporters huddled together, faces painted with hope and

    anxiety.

    Lisa sat in her room, hands clasped tightly, her gaze unwavering. Rowan leaned forward on

    his chair.

    Even Crystal, gaunt with frustration, couldn''t tear her eyes away from the screen, while

    Adrian and Kenny watched almost in despair.

    Leonidas''s fist shook violently against his chair.

    Two superpredators stood at the storm''s heart, their opposing energies rippling through the

    air like a brewing tempest.

    Their postures mirrored each other, bodies tense and ready.

    The storm intensified, thunder echoing their silent challenge. Eratz''s aura began to swell,

    black and white energy crackling in chaotic harmony.

    Opposite him, Rex''s aura radiated pure, dazzling light.

    Words were unnecessary, their eyes spoke volumes.

    As if on cue, their auras erupted.

    Eratz''s black and white energy surged outward, intertwining in a dance of light and shadow.

    Rex''s radiant aura exploded, blinding and fierce.

    The ground cracked and trembled under the weight of their unleashed power. Their energies collided violently, the force swallowing the castle''s entrance in an instant.

    The forest quaked; trees were uprooted and hurled like twigs. The earth split, fissures

    spreading outward as their clash shook the landscape.

    The air ignited, crackling with energy as neither gave an inch.

    Lightning streaked across the sky, illuminating the battlefield in bursts of silver light. The

    heavens roared as if spectators to their epic duel. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Around the world, viewers stared in awe and terror.

    No one could speak. No one could move. The world had frozen, entranced by the spectacle of

    two titans.

 Chapter 268: The Angel and the Devil

    Chapter 268: The Angel and the DevilThe battlefield crackled with energy as Rex and Eratz stood facing each other, their auras ravaging the surroundings.

    In this chaos, Rex''s gaze was steady, his posture calm but radiating an unshakable confidence.

    "To think I''d meet someone who has honed their power to this extent. You''re truly a marvel, Eratz," Rex said, his voice carried despite the concert of the clash of energy. "This strength, this focus... You''ve reached such a perfect level in so little time."

    Eratz''s red eyes glowed faintly in the light, his stance unwavering.

    "I don''t fight for marveling," he replied coldly. "I fight for results."

    Rex''s lips curled into a smile.

    "Then let''s see who achieves their result."

    Without another word, Rex leapt high into the air,

    His aura surged outward, flaring like a blazing sun. The radiant energy enveloped him, transforming the air around him into a shimmering mirage of heat and light.

    Eratz tensed, his instincts on high alert. The radiance coalesced behind Rex, taking shape into something immense and mystical.

    The light solidified, and an enormous, angelic form materialized, a being both divine and terrifying.

    Its wings, layered with countless glowing arms, spread wide, and its body shimmered with an iridescent aura.

    Rings of light circled its form, and its face was an incomprehensible, shifting array of celestial patterns.

    For a brief moment, Eratz''s expression betrayed surprise. The creature''s sheer presence was overwhelming, its angelic majesty clashing with the terror it invoked.

    But then, Eratz''s instincts kicked in, and his focus sharpened like a blade.

    Rex extended his hand, the radiant beast echoing his movements.

    Eratz flinched, and instantly, a flash erupted.

    An attack faster than the blink of an eye. The ground where Eratz had stood exploded in a brilliant detonation of energy, creating a massive crater that sent shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.

    Floating above the devastation, Rex observed the destruction, his eyes scanning the dust and debris.

    He looked for any sign of life, because he was sure that this Eratz wouldn''t fall from one hit, and instantly, a blur of motion broke through the settling dust.

    Eratz descended from above, his body a streak of black and white energy. His arm swung downward like an executioner''s axe, aiming for Rex''s head with unrelenting force.

    Another flash.

    In an instant, Rex''s angelic beast moved. A radiant hand struck Eratz mid-air, the impact propelling him like a missile into the forest.

    Trees shattered in his wake, their splintered remains scattering as he crashed into the ground with a resounding explosion.

    Hovering above, Rex''s expression remained calm but focused.

    "Your instincts are sharp, Eratz. But instinct alone won''t be enough."

    From the smoldering crater, a faint glow began to emerge. Eratz''s energy surged, his presence undiminished. Slowly, he rose from the rubble, his red eyes locking onto Rex. "So this thing is as fast as him?" Eratz murmured to himself, brushing debris from his shoulder.

    His aura surged, combining his calamity beasts, the Terrakrus, the Thunder Lycaon, and the Aetheri in his signature beastification.

    Rex''s eyes narrowed, and he braced himself as Eratz''s aura spread across the battlefield.

    However, Eratz didn''t summon any beast to his side; he had decided to use Victoria''s teaching for maximum effect.

    "Be creative," Eratz muttered.

    With a burst, he surged forward, covering the distance instantly.

    The angelic beast struck again, its attacks blindingly fast.

    Each blow was a burst of radiant energy, faster than the blink of an eye, but Eratz didn''t move blindly.

    His spiritual training was perfect, allowing him to feel the intent behind Rex''s strikes.

    With preternatural precision, Eratz dodged, predicting the attack''s path before it was fully executed.

    The forest became a battlefield of speed and destruction. Eratz countered with pinpoint strikes, summoning his beasts for split-second attacks before dismissing them.

    The Thunder Lycaon emerged in a flash, launching a devastating bolt of lightning narrowly pared by the angelic beast, before disappearing in sparks.

    The Terrakrus followed, its seismic roars shaking the air, moving rex slightly, only to vanish before the angel could retaliate.

    The Aetheri''s telekinetic blasts struck with unerring accuracy, disrupting Rex''s rhythm.

    The clash was a masterpiece of strategy and instinct. Rex''s speed was unparalleled, his strongest weapon.

    His angelic beast delivering strikes that could have buried any other opponent under sheer force.

    But Eratz''s ability to anticipate, to dodge and counter with calculated precision, kept him in the fight.

    He was literally dancing on the edge of chaos, his style a symphony of coordination between man and beast.

    The battlefield was a blur of movements and explosions, each strike creating shockwaves that echoed across the forest.

    Trees fell, the ground split, and the air crackled with energy. To the spectators, it was almost impossible to follow.

    It felt less like a fight and more like a clash of light, and for those who could grasp the picture, it was a clash of philosophy.

    Rex''s unwavering dominance versus Eratz''s adaptive brilliance.

    Rex''s strategy relied on his unmatched speed and the sheer power of his angelic beast. His

    strikes were relentless, an onslaught of devastating attacks.

    Yet, Eratz remained unfazed, analyzing each move, determining which attacks he could tank to buildup rockbound furry and which he had to avoid.

    His body, glowing faintly from the Terrakrus'' ability, absorbed the blows he chose to endure, each hit amplifying his strength.

    It was a spectacle that could have lasted forever, for both seemed unreachable.

    But between a star at its zenith and another one coming close, reality soon struck both

    fighters.

    A drop of blood. The audience gasped.

    Rex''s head turned slightly as Eratz''s fist connected, the force of the punch echoing like

    thunder.

    For the first time, Rex stumbled, his dominance momentarily shaken.

    Eratz''s red eyes gleamed, his mouth opening slightly, while Rex instinctively commended his beast to attack Eratz, but it was already too late, Eratz already moving after having foreseen

    the attack.

    Rex floated above the battlefield, his posture steady despite the blow that had landed.

    He brought a hand to his jaw. His fingers trembled faintly as he assessed the situation.

    A single punch. Just one, and it had drawn blood.

    Rex''s eyes narrowed as his gaze settled on Eratz, who stood in the clearing below, his red eyes glowing like embers in the dim light.

    Eratz had taken countless hits and was still standing, while one hit was enough to make him

    bleed.

    He wiped the blood from his lips with his thumb, a soft, bitter chuckle escaping his throat. "I''m an idiot," Rex admitted to himself, his voice growing firmer. "I underestimated you." For a moment, Rex closed his eyes, memories flashing before him like fragments of a dream. He saw the scene of Eratz handling four World Star members with ease, the impossible odds turned in his favor with brutal efficiency.

    He heard Kallistra''s voice as she deemed Eratz her equal.

    The truth settled heavily on Rex''s shoulders, but it brought with it a strange sense of clarity.

    "I see it now," Rex said, his smile faint but genuine. "I''m not the challenge here. I''m the

    challenger. And you... you''re the wall I have to overcome."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed slightly, troubled by something he noticed.

    "Let''s raise the level, Eratz," Rex said, his voice carrying a new weight.

    Eratz''s body tensed, his instincts roaring in warning. A single thought crossed his mind, dread

    curling in his chest.

    "Is it..." he began, his voice trailing off. His eyes widened as Rex''s aura erupted. "It can''t be." Rex''s energy surged outward in a blinding wave of light.

    The battlefield was consumed by radiance, a warm and overwhelming brilliance that spread

    like a tidal wave.

    The forest trembled under its might, leaves disintegrating, trees bowing as if in reverence.

    Above, Rex''s angelic beast began to change. The towering, celestial form shrank, its shimmering body folding inward as it seemed to embrace Rex.

    The radiant arms and wings enveloped him, the celestial rings tightening around his form like

    a cocoon.

    The light grew brighter and warmer, its intensity drowning the battlefield in an almost holy

    glow.

    Rex floated in the heart of the storm, the light transforming him.

    His aura expanded in waves, each pulse sending shockwaves through the forest.

    Further away, Arin slumped against a tree, breathing heavily, her exhausted body felt the

    warmth of Rex''s energy.

    A faint smile tugged at her lips, hope reigniting in her eyes.

    "You... finally."

    Raya shifted toward the distant explosion of light. The frost on her skin seemed to waver as

    she muttered.

    "This..."

    In mid-air, Kaida froze, her crimson eyes snapping toward the source of the energy.

    "No way..." she whispered.

    Face to her, Finn''s lips curled into a smirk.

    "About time."

    The storm of energy altered the very fabric of the island. The sky seemed to ripple, clouds

    spiraling as if bowing to the light.

    Thunder increased, and for a fleeting moment, it was as if the entire world paused to witness

    this transformation.

    When the brilliance subsided, Rex hovered above the battlefield, transformed into something

    completely different.

    His form was a radiant fusion of man and angel, a being of majesty and overwhelming power.

    Six luminous wings extended from his back, their countless feathers shimmering like stars

    caught in perpetual motion.

    They emitted a faint, rhythmic hum, a celestial symphony that reverberated through the air. His eyes glowed with a deep light, piercing and unyielding.

    The golden rings floating around his limbs and torso bore intricate, shifting symbols that

    pulsed with a hypnotic glow.

    His body was adorned with patterns of liquid gold that flowed seamlessly across his skin,

    creating a tapestry of divine artistry.

    From his shoulders to his fingertips, his form radiated warmth and power, exuding a perfect balance of beauty and terror.

    This was Rex at his peak, a beastification too glorious to be called a beastification.

    Eratz stood motionless on the cracked battlefield, his crimson eyes fixed on Rex.

    For the first time, his usual calm demeanor wavered, his expression betraying a flicker of

    unease.

    This transformation was unlike anything he had witnessed before, literally, even as someone who had studied Rex, it was new.

    Hovering above, Rex''s voice carried a calm authority.

    "This form is not one I often use. I don''t remember the first time nor the last I have I faced an

    opponent who could push me this far. You, Eratz, are special. For that, you have my respect."

    Eratz''s gaze didn''t leave Rex. His red eyes burned with curiosity, almost disbelief.

    His head tilting slightly as if trying to unravel a mystery. Rex''s expression remained serene as he continued, his voice steady.

    "You are formidable, Eratz. A true rival. But this is the end. Are you ready?"

    Eratz didn''t respond. He lowered his head, his white hair falling over his glowing red eyes. Silence hung in the air, broken only by the faint hum of Rex''s celestial wings.

    Rex''s lips curled into a gentle smile. He spread his arms wide, basking in the energy around

    him, breathing deeply.

    "Then let us conclude this," he said.

    In the blink of an eye, the earth erupted.

    The ground beneath Eratz shattered into a thousand fragments as Rex launched himself

    forward with incomprehensible speed.

    The collision was cataclysmic. The impact sent a shockwave tearing through the forest,

    uprooting trees and reducing the ground to a cratered wasteland.

    The audience watching the battle on the massive screen gasped in collective horror. Dust and debris obscured the view, leaving the outcome shrouded in uncertainty. As the dust began to settle, the screen focused on the figures at the center of the devastation. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Rex stood mere inches from Eratz, his form towering and radiant, his wings stretched wide

    like a shield of light.

    But something was wrong.

    Rex''s eyes were wide, his mouth trembling and gasping for air. His golden aura flickered unevenly, and his body quivered as if in shock.

    His body hunched forward, his wings drooping slightly.

    Eratz''s fist was buried deep in his stomach, his arm glowing with a pulsating energy that seemed to ripple through Rex''s entire form.

 Chapter 269: Execution

    Chapter 269: ExecutionThe forest was silent.

    The roar of energy, the thunderous impacts, the constant chaos that had defined this battle,

    all of it had ceased. The screen above the arena displayed a frozen moment in time, with Rex trembling, his radiant body flickering like a dying star, while Eratz stood before him.

    The crowd was paralyzed. Not a cheer, not a whisper, just wide eyes and dropped jaws.

    Victoria leaned forward, her eyes narrowing as she clutched the railing tightly. Zara''s hand was over her mouth, her eyes darting between the screen and the battlefield, unable to process what she had just witnessed.

    On the opposite side, Leonidas''s face was pale, his fists gripping his armrests so tightly that the veins on his hands bulged. Even on the stands, Braun and Arvad, normally dismissive, exchanged stunned glances.

    Rex staggered back, clutching his stomach. His fabulous beastification had diminished to a figure struggling for air, each breath a laborious gasp. His trembling hand pressed against his abdomen, where Eratz''s glowing fist had connected.

    He took another step back, his knees buckling slightly before he caught himself. His golden aura wavered, dimming with every second as if the very foundation of his power was unraveling.

    Eratz remained motionless. His glowing red eyes locked onto Rex, unblinking, his fist still poised where it had landed. He didn''t chase, didn''t press his advantage. He merely watched.

    The silence was oppressive. Even the storm clouds above seemed to pause, the thunder holding its breath. Finally, Rex managed to stand upright, his body swaying slightly. His teeth clenched as he forced himself to take a steadying breath.

    "What... what did you do?" Rex muttered, his voice barely audible over the crackling remnants of their auras.

    His eyes burned with disbelief, scanning Eratz''s calm figure as though searching for an explanation. Eratz didn''t respond. His eyes narrowed slightly, but his posture remained unchanging.

    Gritting his teeth, Rex''s trembling turned to determination.

    "Fine," he spat, forcing his legs to move. "I''ll find out myself."

    With a burst of light, Rex vanished, moving in a blur of speed that shook the battlefield. The ground beneath him cratered, his angelic aura blazing once more. In the blink of an eye, he was upon Eratz, his fist descending like divine judgment.

    Another explosion. The earth quaked as the force of the impact rippled outward, uprooting trees and hurling debris in every direction. The spectators flinched, shielding their eyes from the blinding light that followed.

    But when the dust settled, their disbelief only deepened.

    Rex was trembling again. This time, Eratz''s fist was buried against his liver, the sheer force of the strike sending spasms through Rex''s body. His radiant form flickered violently, as though struggling to maintain itself.

    His eyes widened, his mouth opening in a silent scream, but no sound came out. The air had been stolen from his lungs.

    Eratz didn''t give him a moment to recover. With fluid movement, he drove his knee upward, connecting with Rex''s chin. The impact sent Rex hurtling backward, his wings faltering as he struggled to stabilize himself in mid-air. He barely managed to land, his feet skidding against the ground as he regained his balance.

    The crowd couldn''t breathe. This wasn''t the battle they were watching a few minutes ago; it was becoming a one-sided massacre.

    Rex''s trembling hand wiped blood from the corner of his mouth. He glared at Eratz, his golden eyes filled with a mixture of fury and disbelief.

    "What... the..." he began, his voice cracking. "How do you..."

    Eratz''s red eyes flickered faintly, his expression unreadable. He said nothing. His calm demeanor only added to the suffocating tension that gripped the battlefield.

    Rex''s frustration boiled over, his aura flaring wildly as he prepared for another attack. "Damn you!" he growled, his voice strained with a mix of disbelief and rage.

    With a roar, he lunged forward again, his movements a flash of golden energy, so fast that the air seemed to ripple. Each strike tore through the atmosphere with deafening cracks, creating trails of radiant light, and leaving behind an afterimage of destruction.

    But each time, Eratz was there.

    A subtle step back. A perfectly timed tilt of the head. A faint flicker of movement. And simultaneously, the counters... brutal, devastating, surgical.

    A sharp punch to Rex''s ribs, sending shockwaves through his body. A strike to his shoulder nearly dislocating the joint. Another crushing blow landed squarely in his stomach.

    The impact left Rex gasping, his body folding inward as he stumbled backward. He clutched his abdomen, his golden aura dimming, his breath coming in ragged, pained gasps.

    But Rex refused to yield. He staggered forward again, his movements now more desperate than precise. His fists ignited with radiant energy as he unleashed another flurry of strikes, his body pushing beyond its limits.

    Once more, Eratz met him head-on.

    Another devastating counter to the liver, a blow to his solar plexus that sent him reeling. And finally, a brutal elbow strike to Rex''s lower abdomen, sending him tumbling through the dirt like a ragdoll, leaving deep furrows in the ground as he skidded to a halt.

    But he couldn''t maintain his stance through the pain.

    His knees hit the ground with a dull thud, and his hands dug into the earth as he gasped for air. The golden glow around him flickered like a dying flame.

    The crowd was deathly silent. Not even a murmur escaped their lips.

    Rex''s trembling body dropped to all fours, his breath ragged and shallow. He coughed violently, then vomited onto the ground, his entire body shaking with exertion and disbelief. "How..." he stammered, his voice breaking. "How... what... the hell..." His golden eyes, wide and trembling, darted to Eratz, searching desperately for answers that weren''t there.

    The spectators were gripped by an unspeakable fear, their breaths caught in their throats as they stared wide-eyed at the unfolding scene.

    Some clenched their fists tightly, nails digging into their palms, while others sat frozen, their hands covering their mouths in silent disbelief.

    To see Rex, the strongest, the pride of the league, being so thoroughly dismantled was beyond their comprehension.

    The sheer speed and power of each blow had left the crowd paralyzed, so how was he getting destroyed like that?

    Even Zara''s hand trembled as she lowered it from her mouth, her fingers twitching

    uncontrollably.

    It wasn''t the shock of the scene, but the fact that Eratz was turning Rex, of all people, into a

    joke.

    Her lips parted slightly, a soft, disbelieving whisper escaping her. "This... this isn''t normal," she muttered over the oppressive silence of the crowd.

    "E-Eratz?!..."

    Her thoughts spiraled, grappling with the impossibility of what she was witnessing.

    Trembling, she gripped Victoria''s arm.

    "Victoria," she whispered. "What is happening? How is he doing that to Rex? He shouldn''t be

    that strong, right?"

    But Victoria didn''t respond. Her gaze remained fixed on Eratz, her breath shallow. For the first

    time, even she was at a loss.

    Leonidas was a shell of himself. He leaned forward in his seat, his face pale, his body

    trembling.

    "This isn''t possible," he muttered, his voice shaky and low. "Rex... can''t be... he can''t be losing like this... He can''t be that strong..."

    The audience remained frozen, their hearts pounding in their chests. They couldn''t cheer, couldn''t even blink.

    The strongest, the man of light, was being dismantled, one strike at a time, by an opponent

    who seemed untouchable.

    Eratz never seemed to move. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    His glowing red eyes remained locked on Rex, his stance calm, almost too calm. He hadn''t

    chased Rex.

    He hadn''t gloated. He merely stood there, silent, while Rex''s voice echoed.

    It was like a predator slowly eating alive its prey, and everyone could feel it.

    To everyone watching, Eratz wasn''t just winning. He was turning a battle, a supposed clash of

    titans, into a correction.

    Rex had unleashed 100% of his power, yet Eratz made it look effortless.

    Terror crept into the hearts of the spectators.

    This wasn''t the future best facing a strong opponent anymore. This was a public execution.

 Chapter 270: The Final Bell

    Chapter 270: The Final BellRex knelt on one knee, the mud pooling around him. His body trembled, every muscle strained under the weight of exhaustion and pain.

    He struggled to breathe, his chest rising and falling in uneven gasps as his golden aura flickered weakly, like a candle in a storm.

    What''s happening to me?''

    The thought echoed in his mind, relentless and suffocating.

    How am I losing like this?

    His body screamed at him, his abdomen throbbing with an intense, searing ache that refused to subside.

    He clenched his teeth, his fingers digging into the mud as he tried to push himself upright.

    I should be fast. Faster than ever. So why... why does it feel like he''s even faster?

    Rex glanced down at his trembling fist, his golden energy faintly glowing around it.

    He clenched it tighter, but the familiar surge of strength felt distant, muted.

    His mind raced back to moments earlier, to the punch Eratz had delivered to his face.

    It shouldn''t hurt... Ok... It should hurt... But not THAT much...

    The memory lingered, gnawing at his thoughts.

    Why does it feel like I''m missing something? Why does it feel like I never even touched him?

    His eyes widened slightly, a creeping dread crawling up his spine.

    No, more than that... what if I really haven''t touched him?

    "Done rearranging your guts?"

    Eratz''s voice broke through his spiraling thoughts, calm and unbothered, but carrying an undercurrent of sharpness. "Cuz I feel like pounding a little more."

    Rex froze. His golden eyes snapped to Eratz, wide and trembling. He tried to respond, but the words caught in his throat.

    His abdomen burned, the pain so raw it felt like a fire spreading through his entire core.

    All he could manage were strained grunts and broken breaths as he forced himself to stand.

    His knees wobbled, his body swaying precariously. Every movement felt like a battle against his own failing strength.

    Gritting his teeth, Rex let out a low, guttural scream, his aura bursting outward in a desperate flare of golden light.

    The sudden surge of energy lit up the battlefield, the radiant glow clashing against the darkness of the stormy sky.

    But his eyes remained wide, trembling with a mixture of pain and disbelief.

    Eratz''s red eyes narrowed slightly, as he proceeded his own words. He raised a hand quickly.

    "Wait..." he started, his tone shifting awkwardly. "Forget I said that."

    For a moment, Rex hesitated, his aura still raging around him. Then, in a flash,

    Rex moved, or rather, vanished.

    In the span of a millisecond, he was above Eratz, his leg descending like a hammer of divine fury.

    Another shockwave tore through the forest but quickly drown by Rex''s scream as Eratz plunged his knee into his thigh.

    The impact resounded like a cannon, the ground beneath them fracturing. Rex screamed, his voice filled with indescribable pain.

    Before he could retreat, another knee connected, this time directly into his face.

    Blood sprayed from his nose, his head snapping back with violent force. Rex reeled, but the follow-up strike, aimed at his throat, narrowly missed as he dashed back in sheer desperation.

    He landed roughly, his legs giving out beneath him. Rolling across the dirt, he came to a stop on one knee, his breath ragged, his golden aura flickering.

    Blood dripped from his nose, staining the ground beneath him. His glare locked onto Eratz, but the rage and frustration in his eyes were now accompanied by a third emotion growing in him.

    Clenching his fists, Rex forced himself upright, his movements shaky and pained.

    A guttural scream tore from his throat, and his aura flared wildly. Twin orbs of light formed in his hands, their brilliance blinding as he poured everything into them.

    With a roar, Rex unleashed a barrage of explosive attacks. Light beams rained down upon the forest, each one detonating with a force that sent shockwaves rippling outward.

    The trees disintegrated under the relentless onslaught, the ground reduced to smoldering craters.

    Each explosion illuminated the battlefield like bursts of artificial sunlight, creating a hellish landscape of devastation.

    The spectators watched in stunned silence, their faces pale as they witnessed the forest being consumed by destruction.

    Rex''s attacks were wild, desperate, and unrelenting, an attempt to drown Eratz in the chaos of his power.

    But Eratz finally moved.

    In a series of flashes, he traversed the battlefield with lightning speed. Each explosion narrowly missed as Eratz weaved through the devastation, his movements too quick to track. The forest became a blur of light and shadow, Rex''s desperation growing with every failed strike.

    With a scream of frustration, Rex summoned a radiant bird. The creature''s wings extended wide, shimmering with celestial light as it soared gracefully into the air.

    But before it could do more than cast its glow, a torrent of lightning rained down, shattering the bird into fragments of light. Raijinara''s presence flickered briefly in the storm before vanishing again.

    "AAAARRGHHHH" Rex''s voice cracked, his desperation mounting.

    He screamed louder, his aura flaring as he formed a sword of light in his hands. With a powerful swing, he slashed the air, sending a crescent wave of destructive energy tearing

    across the horizon.

    The ground split open, the slash leaving a glowing fissure in its wake.

    Not stopping, Rex leaped high above the battlefield, his golden aura blazing as he unleashed a barrage of light beams.

    The sky lit up with explosions, each one obliterating sections of the forest below. Trees were vaporized, the earth scorched, and the terrain reduced to a smoldering wasteland.

    As the last of his attacks dissipated, Rex hovered in the air, his chest heaving as he tried to

    catch his breath.

    The golden glow around him flickered, his energy reserves depleting. He scanned the battlefield, his eyes narrowing as he searched for any sign of Eratz amidst the destruction.

    Then, his whish got granted... in the worst way.

    His breath hitched as Eratz reappeared in a flash, standing mere inches from him.

    Rex''s heart sank.

    His golden eyes widened in disbelief as Eratz''s glowing red eyes locked onto his. The calm, unshakable presence of Eratz made Rex flinch instinctively, his light sword faltering.

    For a moment, neither moved.

    The battlefield was suffused with an eerie silence, broken only by the occasional crackle of

    residual energy.

    Rex, his breath uneven, his trembling body radiating disbelief, had his golden eyes, wide

    were fixed on Eratz.

    Eratz was right in front of him, his body bearing no signs of strain.

    The devastation surrounding them, the uprooted trees, the scorched earth, and the cratered

    ground, seemed irrelevant.

    He was untouched by Rex''s relentless assaults.

    Rex''s mind raced, his thoughts a torrent of confusion and dread.

    How? How was he still fine? Every attack, every desperate move, had failed to even graze him.

    His own radiant energy had been reduced to nothing but flashes of futility. Rex''s fists

    clenched as his breathing quickened.

    He''s stronger than me.

    The thought finally crystallized, chilling him to his core.

    Not just stronger... way stronger.

    This wasn''t the battle of equals he had imagined. The truth settled heavily in his chest: Eratz

    wasn''t a rival to overcome. He was an insurmountable wall, an unrelenting force that dwarfed

    Rex completely.

    The realization tore at Rex''s pride, leaving only the stark reality of their situation.

    The final was over, he thought, his heart sinking.

    Even if he somehow managed to flee and target the weakest members of Golden Cosmos,

    what hope did Infinite Twilight have if their strongest fighter was so thoroughly outmatched?

    The plan, the fight, the championship, all of it, was slipping away, swallowed by the growing despair clawing at his chest.

    A tremor ran through Rex''s body, his aura flickering. The third emotion took root: fear. For

    the first time in years, he was truly afraid.

    "No... no!" he screamed, his voice cracking under the weight of his terror.

    Without thinking, he shot upward, his golden wings carrying him higher into the darkened

    sky.

    His movements were frantic, his only thought to put as much distance as possible between himself and Eratz.

    Eratz''s gaze followed him. And then, calmly, he pushed off the ground.

    His body blurred as he ascended, keeping pace with the shining warrior. Rex glanced back and froze. Eratz was following him, like a ghost, or rather a predator stalking its next meal. The audience sat in stunned silence, their eyes glued to the unfolding spectacle. The strongest fighter in Infinite Twilight, the unshakable Rex, was fleeing. They could only watch as the surreal scene unfolded, their minds grappling with the impossibility of the

    scene.

    How had the battle shifted so dramatically? Where had this overwhelming power come from? Even Zara and Victoria exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions betraying the same

    question.

    To everyone watching, it felt as though Eratz had transcended. This wasn''t the same fighter they had seen at the start of the battle, where the match seemed balanced.

    But Eratz himself knew otherwise. He hadn''t grown stronger. He hadn''t unlocked some

    hidden potential.

    He was exactly the same as he had been when the battle began.

    The truth was simple yet baffling: Eratz wasn''t toting with Rex out of pride or to make a

    statement, i was literally the only way he could fight.

    The truth wasn''t that complicated. Everything turned around the moment Rex summoned his

    masterpiece of a beast and Eratz checked its attributes.

    [Name: Seraphim

    Affinity: Light

    Rank: Special

    Abilities:

    Divine Balance: Sacrifices one stat to significantly increase another.

    Luminous Velocity: Increases speed exponentially but reduces defensive resilience.

    Radiant Cleave: Enhances attack power at the cost of magic resistance. Sword of Purity: Amplifies light-based effects while diminishing durability.

    Angel''s Might: Greatly amplifies all offensive stats but drastically reduces defensive

    capabilities.]

    The beast was a marvel of offensive capabilities. Each of its abilities served a singular purpose: domination through speed and power.

    Its light affinity manifested in explosive bursts of speed and overwhelming attack strength,

    reducing its opponents to ash before they could retaliate.

    But every great strength conceals a weakness, and that particular beast was a crazy double

    sword.

    And sadly, Eratz saw it.

    It wasn''t the multitude of abilities or its rank that startled him. What truly shifted the balance

    of the battle was that last ability: Angel''s Might.

    By skyrocketing offensive stats to unparalleled heights, it left Rex''s defenses in tatters.

    The Seraphim was designed to obliterate, not endure.

    In a normal battle, it was deadly since it was too fast to be properly attacked and Rex could S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    always summon it again.

    Against an average fighter, one or two blows would be enough to end the fight, and Rex could

    easily land a thousand.

    But Eratz wasn''t average, and he pushed him to his fatal mistake: using the beastification

    with his seraphim, and adding the downsides of its power to his body.

    His body that Eratz could make bleed with a single punch.

    Added to that, with Rockbound Fury, Eratz''s power had already been fueled to dangerous

    heights and his spiritual training allowed him to see where an attack would land and where his opponent would move next.

    Rex''s speed was incomprehensible, and his strength was monstrous, but none of it mattered if Eratz could always predict his final destination.

    The key was simple: Eratz didn''t have to match Rex''s speed. He just had to position himself

    where Rex would be, moments before he arrived.

    He never initiated an attack. He waited for Rex to make his move, using the drive of the attack

    to take him by surprise and deliver devastating counters. To Rex, it was as if Eratz could read his mind.

    He resorted to run again, zigzagging to throw him off, changing angles, increasing his speed.

    Eratz''s focus remained unshaken, his vision locked onto the path Rex would take.

    He summoned Cinderblaze directly in Rex''s path, stopping his race.

    The beast erupted in flames, unleashing a fire field spell that disoriented Rex, forcing him to

    falter mid-flight.

    That hesitation meant reducing in speed, candy for Eratz''s eyes.

    In a single, fluid motion, Eratz closed the distance and slammed into Rex''s back with bone-

    crushing force.

    The impact sent a grotesque scream echoing through the forest, a sound so raw and anguished that it reverberated far and wide.

    The scream was not just a sound; it was a signal. Across the forest, every fighter froze.

    Arin and Finn''s expressions turned to stone, shock freezing them in place as the realization

    sank in. Kaida, mid-flight, paused, her crimson eyes widening with dumbfounded disbelief.

    Mercury, supporting Sia, her arm draped around the injured woman''s shoulder, looked

    upward.

    Her blue hair shimmered faintly in the light of the distant battle as she murmured.

    "... Eratz?" Her gaze sharpened as the truth dawned.

    To Golden Cosmos, it was a sound of liberation, a song heralding their triumph.

    To Infinite Twilight, it was the tolling of a death knell.

 Chapter 271: Heart of Light and Darkness

    Chapter 271: Heart of Light and DarknessThe ruined castle stood in oppressive silence, the thunder rumbling ominously in the darkened sky. Lightning illuminated the jagged spires and fractured walls, casting fleeting shadows across the battlefield.

    Rex crashed into the ground near the ruined stronghold''s entrance, his golden aura flickering weakly as his body tumbled against the stone-laden earth. The impact sent cracks rippling outward, the remnants of his light dimming further.

    Rex groaned, his voice a strained whisper of pain. His trembling hands dug into the hard ground as he attempted to push himself upright. His knees buckled, his body swaying like a flickering flame fighting against the storm.

    He clenched his teeth, his breaths uneven as his abdomen throbbed with relentless agony.

    The sound of a second impact drew his gaze backward. Eratz landed heavily, the ground crunching beneath his weight.

    Standing tall, his red eyes glowed faintly in the stormy haze. He tilted his head slightly, observing Rex with a calculating and cautious intensity.

    For a brief moment, neither moved.

    The tension hung thick in the air, amplified by the growling thunder overhead.

    Rex''s entire body tensed, his instincts screaming at him. He forced his legs to obey with a sharp flinch, staggering backward. Every step was agony, his movements unsteady but defiant. The golden energy around him sputtered and surged, his body refusing to yield entirely.

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed. He remained still, weighing his options.

    His thoughts raced.

    ... Not yet? Damn, he''s a real pain... as long as he can move, he''s a threat.

    Eratz raised his hand, summoning a crackling beam of lightning that shot toward Rex. The golden warrior instinctively dodged, his body moving faster than his pain could hold him back. The bolt scorched the stone where Rex had been standing, leaving a faint trail of smoke. Eratz grimaced.

    And of course, even now, he''s too fast. I need to completely incapacitate him... ok, let''s do this.

    "You''re still standing," Eratz said, his voice steady and carrying an undercurrent of admiration. He lowered his hand slowly, his stance shifting into a more composed posture. "I''ll admit, you''ve surpassed every expectation I had. You''re the strongest opponent I''ve ever faced, Rex. Your power, your will... it''s extraordinary."

    Rex trembled, his golden eyes narrowing as he glared at Eratz. His breathing was labored, but he didn''t respond.

    "But," Eratz continued, his tone softening, "you and I aren''t so different."

    Rex''s glare faltered, confusion flickering across his face.

    Eratz took a deliberate step forward, his red eyes unwavering.

    "Think about it. We both carry the weight of our teams. We take on the hardest battles, not for ourselves, but for them. You''re standing here, fighting through pain that would drop anyone else, all because you want to protect your teammates. Isn''t that right?"

    Rex''s jaw tightened, his silence giving Eratz all the answers he needed.

    "That''s why I respect you," Eratz said, his voice firm and sincere. "You''re not fighting for glory or pride. You''re fighting because you believe it''s the only way to help the people who trust you. Isn''t that the same reason I''m here?"

    Rex''s breath hitched. The storm above seemed to grow quieter, the rolling thunder fading into the background as Eratz''s words took center stage.

    "I don''t care about looking strong or being admired," Eratz said, his voice unwavering. "I fight for results. I fight because I believe in the people who''ve fought beside me. Just like you. So, if either of us falls here, it doesn''t mean we''ve failed. It means we''ve trusted your team to finish the fight. It means we''ve done everything you could, and that''s enough. Being here right now is the proof we shoulder everything."

    Rex''s trembling intensified, his golden aura flickering like a dying ember. His lips parted slightly, his expression wavering between defiance and uncertainty. Eratz''s words burrowed into his thoughts, dismantling the barriers of pride and anger that had fueled him. "You''re an incredible fighter, Rex," Eratz said, his voice lowering slightly, almost as if confiding a truth. "If I fall one day, I''d also want it to be to someone like you."

    Rex''s eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. The pain in his body felt distant for a moment, overshadowed by the weight of Eratz''s words. The golden warrior''s gaze dropped to the ground, his fists clenching as conflicting emotions swirled within him.

    "But today," Eratz said, his voice regaining its edge, "it''s my turn to carry this fight. I''m sorry, but I have to do it. If you have to lose, let it be by the hands of the best opponent of this tournament."

    The storm roared back to life, the thunder crashing as if punctuating his declaration. Rex''s trembling fingers loosened, his aura dimming slightly. For a fleeting moment, doubt flashed across his face.

    Did he mean it? ... Maybe... Maybe he''s right? Could it be okay to lose here?

    Under the storm raging above and Eratz''s calm figure standing before him, Rex realized one thing: if he gave in now, it wouldn''t be because of weakness. It would be because of the overwhelming strength standing against him.

    His knees trembled, the jagged stones beneath him mirroring the turmoil in his heart.

    The storm above rumbled, thunder growling like a beast ready to devour him whole.

    He dropped to one knee again, his hand pressing against the ground for balance. His vision blurred, and his thoughts spiraled.

    Why am I still trying?

    The question was a whisper in the back of his mind, but it grew louder with every painful breath.

    What''s the point? I''ve given everything I had... and it still wasn''t enough.

    He clenched his fists, but the strength he''d relied on for so long felt foreign, distant. His teammates'' faces flashed through his mind: Leonidas'' commanding presence, Sia''s unwavering resolve, Arin''s quiet determination.

    They were counting on him. They believed in him. But what could he do for them now? He couldn''t even stand properly.

    Rex''s gaze lifted to Eratz, standing a short distance away. The man''s red eyes glowed faintly in the dim light, his expression calm, yet resolute.

    Eratz didn''t move to attack, didn''t press his advantage. Instead, he stood there, watching.

    "You''re... the strongest opponent I''ve ever faced," Eratz said, his voice calm and sincere. "And I mean that. Your strength, your will to protect your team, your resolve... it''s inspiring."

    Eratz''s thoughts, however, were chanting a different song.

    It''s over. He''s breaking. Just a little push.

    "You remind me of myself," Eratz continued, his tone taking on a contemplative edge. "We''re not so different, you and I. We take on the hardest battles, shoulder the heaviest

    burdens, because we believe in our teammates."

    Stay down. Just accept it.

    "But sometimes, the greatest strength is knowing when to step back," Eratz said softly, his

    words dripping with warmth. "To trust that your team will carry the fight forward, even

    without you standing at the front."

    Rex''s breathing slowed. His hands fell limp at his sides.

    He''s right... isn''t he?

    He thought of Leonidas, always pushing him to do more. Of his teammates'' support.

    Maybe... maybe it was okay to lose this one. Maybe it was okay to stop fighting.

    His legs wobbled, and he sank back to his knees, his head bowed.

    "Maybe you''re right," Rex murmured, his voice hollow. He raised his gaze slightly, a faint, bitter smile forming on his lips. "What do you think, Eratz? What should I do?"

    Eratz''s internal outburst was nearly uncontrollable.

    Yes! That''s it! It''s done!

    But his face remained composed, his expression one of warm understanding.

    "If you trust your team," Eratz said gently, "then trust yourself to rest. You''ve done more

    than enough, Rex. Your strength has already inspired them."

    Holy shit it actually worked. We''ve won.

    Rex nodded weakly, his smile faltering as his golden aura dimmed further. He lowered his

    head, unable to look Eratz in the eyes.

    Eratz raised a hand, charging a beam of energy, its glow casting long shadows over the ruined castle walls. The storm above seemed to hold its breath as the light grew brighter. "Thank you, Rex," Eratz said, his voice firm but kind. "And I promise, we''ll fight again one

    day. Without anything to carry." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Rex forced a small smile, though his heart felt heavy. He thought of his team one last time, of everything they had endured together.

    "Don''t go too hard on them for me..." he murmured under his breath, barely audible. Eratz heard it, and slightly grimaced. There was something disturbing in winning this way,

    but at this point, he only wanted to see his team bathing in gold. He wanted a major trophy for everyone, so only victory mattered.

    His beam charged to its peak, the light illuminating the battlefield. To everyone watching, it seemed like the final chapter was about to be written.

    But then, in a fleeting moment, Rex''s knees buckled as he looked to the mud beneath him, the shadows of his fallen comrades playing vividly in his mind.

    He saw Arin, standing on her debut stage, her tears glinting in the harsh light of accusations, "Better just because she''s part Ishtarian."

    He remembered how she wiped them away, defiant yet breaking inside. Silver''s carefree grin flashed next, his simple wish to find joy in the chaos of competition.

    Finn, always the untouchable figure, effortlessly cool yet consistently there to lighten the

    burden with a joke, appeared in his memory.

    They had always been a team.

    He saw their faces again: Nyx, tears streaming down, her shoulders shaking; Arin,

    apologizing endlessly; Sia, her fists clenched tightly, the frustration etched into her

    expression.

    "They believed in me," Rex murmured, his voice trembling. "They fought for me."

    And now, they were waiting. They had placed their hopes in him. His chest swelled with an

    agonizing mixture of despair and determination.

    He couldn''t let it end like this.

    Golden light surged around him, flickering wildly before stabilizing, growing in intensity.

    His aura began to expand, larger, brighter, fiercer. Rex''s trembling knees straightened, his back arched, and he let out a guttural roar that echoed across the battlefield. The ground beneath him cracked and fractured. Rocks and dirt floated, suspended in the

    growing storm of energy as Rex''s power reached heights he had never before touched. Eratz stood motionless, watching with sharp eyes as the winds whipped his white hair.

    His red eyes glinted, and for the first time, his lips curled into a smirk. Then, unexpectedly, he let out a short laugh, a sound caught between relief and regret.

    "Ah, so close," Eratz muttered under his breath, shaking his head. "You really want it the hard

    way, uh?"

    His own aura began to flare, shadowy tendrils of black and white energy spiraling outward as

    it answered Rex''s challenge.

    The battlefield became a maelstrom of light and shadow, the two warriors'' energies clashing

    even before their bodies met.

    Above them, the sky spiraled, clouds drawn into a vortex of swirling chaos. Lightning crackled

    at its heart, converging in the center.

    Rex and Eratz crouched slightly, their muscles tensing. The air grew thick, suffocating with

    power as the world seemed to hold its breath.

    They leaped simultaneously, their energies converging in a single, breathtaking moment. But before their clash could ignite, the heavens intervened.

    A blinding flash of light split the swirling sky, descending with the weight of the world right

    on them.

    The force was cataclysmic. The earth shuddered violently, deep fissures ripping through the battlefield as shockwaves radiated outward.

    The entire island quaked under the impact, and the roars of the heavens drowned all other

    sound.

    Above, the spiraling clouds exploded outward in a spectacular display, unveiling a column of radiant energy.

    Spirals of darkness entwined the light, weaving together in a dance that poured down from

    the sky with unrelenting force.

    Caught within the descending energy, Eratz and Rex were suspended mid-air, their bodies contorted as they writhed against the overwhelming power that engulfed them.

    The sheer magnitude of the light rendered them weightless, vulnerable, and inextricably

    bound to its will.

    A golden aura appeared around Rex, its radiance pulsing erratically. Meanwhile, a deep purple aura erupted from Eratz, coiling and lashing outward, before closing in around him like a protective cocoon.

    Their expressions were painted with shock and awe, but resistance seemed futile.

    The energy cascading from the heavens was not painful. Instead, it was an immense, tranquil

    force, a delicate balance of overwhelming power and serene control.

    The light did not feel like a burning fire, but resonated, and slowly harmonizing with their

    mental states.

    Golden threads of Rex''s aura and purple strands of Eratz''s aura were drawn upward like moths

    to a flame.

    Slowly, they condensed into two distinct forms: above Rex, a brilliant white orb; above Eratz, a pulsating black orb.

 Chapter 272: World Crafters: The Legendary Beasts

    Chapter 272: World Crafters: The Legendary BeastsThe storm of energy ceased, releasing Eratz and Rex from its grip. Both landed firmly on their feet, the ground cracking beneath the weight of their auras. Their gazes instinctively turned skyward, where the two orbs now hovered, rising higher and drifting farther apart.

    Ambient energy swirled around the orbs, thick and heavy as if the air was drawn into their pull. Slowly, the orbs began to pulse rhythmically, like the beating of a colossal heart. Each throb sent vibrations rippling through the atmosphere, resonating across the entire island.

    All eyes turned upward, drawn by the strange, powerful sensation. From the members of Golden Cosmos to the remaining members of Infinite Twilight, and even those who had fallen in battle and regained consciousness, everything came to a halt.

    Conversations ceased, and movements froze. The island''s collective attention fixated on the

    sky.

    The orbs had grown, their pulsations intensifying. Golden threads of light radiated from the white orb, shimmering with each heartbeat, while the black orb was veined with vivid purple strands, each one flickering in time with its resonant pulses.

    On the ground, Rex broke the silence.

    "What''s going on?" His voice carried a note of uncertainty, his eyes narrowing as he watched the orbs.

    Eratz, still staring upward, looked stunned.

    "The orb... You... You had the white orb?!"

    Rex turned to him, confused.

    "What white orb?" Then, as realization dawned, his eyes widened. "Oh... the thing that creepy woman gave me? That orb?" He glanced back at the sky. "It''s that thing?"

    Eratz flinched, his mind racing. In an instant, pieces of a larger puzzle fell into place.

    "Creepy... Kallistra..." he muttered under his breath. She had been the owner of the white orb. If Rex possessed it now, it could only mean one thing. His gaze returned to the pulsating spheres, his teeth gritting.

    "Did she plan this?"

    Then, as if struck by lightning, his eyes widened further. A chilling realization struck him. "But then..."

    The wind began to howl, swirling with renewed intensity. Rex''s confusion deepened, but before he could ask, Eratz turned to him in panic.

    "Gather everyone," Eratz shouted. "Let''s get them out of here. Now!"

    Rex blinked, startled.

    "What? Get out? Why? What''s happening? And what''s about the tournament?"

    "Forget the tournament!" Eratz shouted, "There won''t be any use for that if this thing happens here!"The wind surged with terrifying intensity, whipping around Eratz and Rex as they stood rooted to the spot, eyes fixed on the pulsating orbs above. The black and white spheres had grown to colossal proportions, their rhythmic beating now a deafening drum that reverberated across the island and beyond.

    The energy gathering around the orbs became tangible, twisting visibly the air around them. Threads of golden light and purple shadow intertwined, spiraling into the heavens and creating an ominous spectacle.

    The sky above them cracked and splintered, revealing vast rifts of blinding brilliance and bottomless darkness, as if the world itself was being torn apart.

    A low, resonant growl echoed from the depths of the orbs, shaking the earth and silencing all other sounds. Then, the orbs erupted in a devastating blast, columns of raw energy piercing the earth and splitting the land with a deafening crack.

    For a moment, an unnatural silence blanketed the battlefield, the thunderous stillness more terrifying than the explosion itself.

    The ground quivered, and then a deep earthquake tore through the island, forcing the fighters to their knees as the land buckled beneath them.

    From where the white orb had descended, a radiant figure emerged, its form shimmering with immaculate light that seemed to cleanse the air itself.

    A massive dragon with sleek, pearly scales emerged like a vision from an angel of death. Its wings, vast and adorned with feather-like extensions, shimmered with golden threads of energy, each pulse illuminating the battlefield like sacred fire.

    Its fiery golden eyes burned with a fierce intensity, and its body exuded a warmth that could be felt even from the ground.

    The titan released a thunderous roar that shook the heavens, a sound so deep and resonant it seemed to be able to rip the island into pieces. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Its body erupted with a wave of pure, radiant energy, forming a protective aura that shimmered like liquid light.

    The energy poured outward, bending the forest below as if the trees themselves were bowing to its might. Vegetation swayed and twisted, their forms illuminated by the dragon''s luminous brilliance.

    This was the embodiment of blind justice in the flesh.

    From where the black orb had struck, a shadowy counterpart emerged, equally magnificent yet terrifying in its power. This dragon''s obsidian-black scales shimmered with a purple sheen, and its body seemed to absorb the surrounding light.

    Its purple eyes glowed like a purple diamond, and tendrils of shadow coiled around its form, crackling with dark energy. When it spread its wings, the air grew cold and oppressive, as if the life was being drained from the land itself.

    The titan released a chilling roar that pierced the air, a sound so unnerving it seemed to reach into the core of every living being. Its obsidian body erupted with a wave of purple and black energy, forming an impenetrable shield of darkness around it.

    The wave surged outward, enveloping the forest in its wake. Vegetation twisted and withered as if swallowed by the void, their forms bending unnaturally before crumbling into shadow.

    There was no doubt, it was the embodiment of pure evilness.

    Eratz and Rex could only stare, awe and dread etched on their faces. The two titans floated above them, their presence overwhelming. The battlefield felt insignificant beneath their

    shadow.

    Across the island, every remaining fighter froze. Those who had been eliminated and regained consciousness staggered to their feet, instinctively drawn to the phenomenon above. Members of Golden Cosmos, Infinite Twilight, Azure Blades, and Blazing Horizons shielded their eyes against the brilliance and braced themselves against the crushing weight of the aura radiating from the Titans.

    Far beyond the island, the world held its breath. Cameras stationed for the tournament''s broadcast captured the event, streaming the unimaginable sight to millions.

    Across cities, towns, and homes, people stopped in their tracks, transfixed by the sight of the two divine beasts. Gasps of awe and terror echoed as the Titans'' cries carried through the speakers, their power transcending the screen.

    The radiant dragon raised its head toward the heavens, its golden aura spreading in waves of calm energy. The shadow dragon lowered its gaze to the earth, its purple eyes burning with determination as its purple energy writhed and surged.

    "What... what are those?" Rex stammered, his voice barely audible over the cacophony of

    energy and sound.

    Eratz''s fists clenched.

    "Big problem," he whispered.

    A profound silence fell across the island and the world beyond. The scene, broadcast to millions, held everyone in stunned disbelief.

    Victoria stood frozen, her expression betraying the sheer impossibility of what she was witnessing. Zara''s mouth hung open, trembling.

    Even Leonidas seemed surprised. His mind raced back to Kallistra''s peculiar behavior the previous night, and with dawning horror, he realized it had all led to this.

    The two dragons hovered ominously, their colossal forms dominating the battlefield. Their auras now expanded with terrifying ferocity. Waves of light and shadow clashed violently where their energies met, tearing through the air with a crackling intensity that seemed to pull at the edges of reality.

    Then, slowly, the dragons turned to face each other. Their movements were deliberate, filled with purpose. A low, guttural growl emanated from both, resonating through the air like a

    distant storm.

    The wind began to pick up, swirling around the battlefield in chaotic gusts. What started as a breeze quickly grew into a violent gale, carrying with it the weight of impending destruction. Eratz flinched, his breath hitching. He recalled the legend Tamara had once told him about the two legendary beasts, and now, standing in the presence of the Titans, and seeing their behavior, he understood what was about to unfold.

    "Rex!" Eratz shouted with urgency. "We have to go! Now!"

    Without waiting for a response, he broke into a dash, his feet pounding against the trembling

    earth.

    Rex hesitated, his gaze fixed on the two dragons. The sheer power radiating from them rooted him in place, but the deafening roars that followed snapped him out of his stupor.

    He turned and ran, following Eratz as the ground beneath them shook violently. Behind them, the two dragons roared in unison, their voices combining into a cacophony that

    drowned out all else. The clash of their auras reached a fever pitch, spiraling upward into a cataclysmic storm of light and darkness.

    Then, with a deafening blast, the dragons launched at each other. Their colossal forms collided mid-air, unleashing a shockwave so powerful it flattened the forest below and sent a rippling quake through the entire island.

 Chapter 273: No Place For Heroes

    Chapter 273: No Place For HeroesThe island became the stage for a cataclysm unlike anything the world had ever seen.

    The titanic clash between the radiant and shadow dragons escalated with unrelenting ferocity, their energies tearing through the air and shaking the very foundations of the land.

    Their roars reverberated across the battlefield, a deafening symphony of light and darkness colliding in an unyielding struggle for dominance.

    The radiant dragon unleashed a devastating beam of golden light, its brilliance splitting the sky as it scorched a massive trench into the earth. The blast following illuminated the battlefield with blinding intensity, searing the air and leaving a glowing trail of molten stone in its wake.

    The shadow dragon retaliated with a vortex of spiraling darkness releasing several black beams in the direction of the light dragon, tearing down a whole mountain and crossing the air.

    The clash of their attacks ignited an explosion so immense that it flattened the surrounding forest, sending shards of rock and debris hurtling in every direction.

    Each time their colossal bodies collided, the ground fractured and heaved, forming jagged canyons that carved deep into the earth.

    The sky above was a chaotic maelstrom of swirling light and shadow, the opposing forces tearing apart clouds and igniting storms that lashed the island with torrential rain and howling winds.

    The radiant dragon roared, summoning an array of luminous spears that rained down from the heavens, each strike creating blinding bursts of energy that rippled outward in golden

    waves.

    The shadow dragon countered by slamming its wings, releasing a surge of black energy that spread like a suffocating shroud, swallowing the spears in a torrent of raw darkness.

    Then, both unleashed a light and dark breath, colliding in a cataclysmic display.

    The impact sent out shockwaves that shattered the protective shields.

    Drones capturing the event stuttered and failed, their feeds disrupted by the overwhelming pressure emanating from the dragons. Sparks of light and shadow lit up the sky as their auras raged uncontrollably, consuming everything in their path.

    The island itself seemed to groan in agony, its terrain being torn apart by the ferocity of the battle, while both beasts showed no signs of relenting.

    Far beyond the battlefield, the public screamed in terror, their voices drowned out by the chaos unfolding before them. People scrambled to evacuate, for many, the event was incomprehensible, a nightmare come to life.

    But for the few who understood what was happening, it was far worse.

    Cassie and Roger pushed through the panicked crowd, their faces pale with fear as they struggled against the tide of bodies moving in the opposite direction. They were trying to reach Victoria. Desperation fueled their movements, but when they reached the battle arena, Victoria was gone.

    She was running, running as she had forgotten how to. Zara followed her, struggling to keep up, her voice pleading.

    "Victoria! Slow down, I can''t..."

    Victoria''s sharp reply cut through the chaos like a blade.

    "Leave with the others! This isn''t a place for you!"

    Zara hesitated, torn between duty and survival, but the tone of Victoria''s voice left no room for argument. She turned and began helping the panicked crowd evacuate, casting one last glance at Victoria disappearing into the chaos.

    Leonidas was running too, his heart pounding not from fear but exhilaration. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "This is it," he muttered under his breath, his lips curling into a twisted smile. "One way or another, this is what I wanted."

    His thoughts turned to Kallistra, the woman he despised with every fiber of his being. Yet, at this moment, he silently thanked her.

    "Here we are, legendary beasts in the flesh."

    Suddenly, a beam of radiant light streaked across the sky, its brilliance cutting through the darkness like a divine sword. It struck a distant hill with devastating precision, and in an instant, the hill erupted into a dazzling explosion.

    The force of the blast sent a shockwave across the land, its tremor felt even in the city far from the impact site.

    For a brief moment, the world seemed to hold its breath. The explosion''s light faded, and silence reigned. Then, as the enormity of the attack registered, the public erupted into full- blown panic.

    If the dragons'' attacks could reach this far, nowhere was safe.

    The evacuation descended into chaos as people screamed and ran, the terror in their eyes reflecting the incomprehensible destruction unfolding before them.

    The titanic battle continued unabated, each strike from the dragons threatening to reshape the land itself.

    Back amidst the chaos, Sia stood beside Mercury, her expression tense.

    "What is happening?" she asked, her voice steady despite the swirling destruction around them.

    Mercury''s worried gaze swept the battlefield.

    "I don''t know," she admitted, her usual composure cracking. Her thoughts lingered on her friends, her fists clenching with frustration. "I... I need to find them." She turned to Sia. "Can you move alone?"

    Before Sia could respond, a deafening roar shattered the air. Both women instinctively looked up, their words dying in their throats. The two dragons soared overhead, their colossal forms dominating the sky. Their movements were a terrifying blend of grace and destruction as they chased each other with relentless fury.

    The radiant dragon released a torrent of golden light, its brilliance scorching the sky. The shadow dragon dodged, countering with a swirling blast of black energy that spiraled toward its opponent. Each clash ignited explosions that shook the ground, sending shockwaves rippling through the forest.

    Sia and Mercury stood frozen, their bodies unable to move under the crushing weight of the dragons'' aura. The sheer scale of the beasts and their devastating attacks made everything

    else seem insignificant.

    Elsewhere, scattered across the forest, everyone had a clear view of the chaos unfolding above. Fighters stood in stunned silence, their eyes locked on the dragons.

    The sky seemed alive with energy, a battlefield of light and shadow as the Titans exchanged devastating blows. Trees bent and cracked under the force of their roars, and the ground

    trembled with every blast.

    Among their mind, a singular thought began to form: We need to leave.

    Despite the obvious danger, hesitation gripped them. Each person''s mind raced with the same questions: Where are my friends? Are they safe? Can I leave them behind?

    And then...

    A blinding flash swallowed the forest, erasing everything in its radiant glow. The intensity forced everyone to shield their eyes. For a moment, it felt as though time had stopped.

    "Rex," Arin murmured in surprise, her voice barely audible over the ringing silence that

    followed.

    Farther away, Rex lowered his hand, his field spell dissipating. His eyes narrowed in concentration as he clenched his fist.

    "Found them," he muttered. "Seven to the north, eleven from the northeast to the east, three

    in the middle south, five in the south, and four to the west."

    Eratz, standing beside him, gave a sharp nod.

    "Alright. Take the middle and the east to the north. You''re faster at locating them. I''ll handle

    the rest."

    Rex nodded without hesitation.

    "Understood."

    In unison, they disappeared, their forms vanishing in flashes of light as they dashed into the chaos, each determined to save as many as possible amidst the storm of destruction.

    In mere seconds, Rex covered vast areas of the forest, his field spell guiding him like an omniscient compass. Each flicker of energy led him to fighters scattered across the island. With precision and unmatched speed, he located them one by one, pulling them to safety. His movements were a blur, a streak of light amidst the chaos, as he carried the wounded and disoriented to more secure locations.

    Meanwhile, Eratz soared through the sky with lightning speed, his aura crackling as he trailed threads of energy from four calamity-ranked beasts on his side. Gritting his teeth, he accelerated, determined to reach them before the dragons'' breaths.

    Far below, Mercury and Sia sprinted through the forest. The ground trembled beneath them,

    and the cacophony of battle above made every step feel heavier. Sia, wide-eyed and

    breathless, shouted.

    "What are those things?!"

    Mercury glanced upward, her expression grim.

    "If I''m not wrong," she began, her voice taut with urgency, "this isn''t something we can take

    on! We need to find our..."

    Before she could finish, a blinding flash consumed them again, forcing them to shield their

    eyes.

    When Mercury reopened her eyes, she was no longer on the ground. The wind rushed past her, and a familiar sensation of power enveloped her. She realized she was on Raijinara''s back. Her gaze darted to her side, spotting Sia, wide-eyed and clutching onto Raijinara''s mane. Turning, she looked back and froze. Eratz was there, standing steady and in one piece. "Eratz!" Mercury called out, her voice tinged with both joy and disbelief. She barely hesitated

    before rushing to him, wrapping her arms around him tightly.

    Eratz exhaled deeply, his lips curling into a brief smile.

    "Good, you''re safe."

    As the two hugged, Sia''s gaze lingered on them. Her expression shifted, the realization

    dawning on her like a lightning strike. She glanced at Raijinara, then back at the pair, piecing

    it together. Her thoughts crystallized in a single, silent conclusion: He''s the guy.

    She was in deep shock, the man who defeated her a year ago, with the woman who defeated

    her this year. It was unbelievable, but somehow, she found it understandable. She glanced away, murmuring to them.

    "Now isn''t the time for this."

    Mercury flinched at Sia''s words and quickly agreed. Releasing Eratz, she turned to him.

    "What''s going on?"

    Eratz''s expression hardened as he spoke.

    "The black and white orbs. I don''t know how, or why, but we unleashed the legendaries here.

    For now, I''m tracking the threads of energy to locate everyone. There are still two more

    threads left."

    He directed Raijinara to adjust course, his focus sharpening as they sped toward the

    remaining targets.

    Meanwhile, Rex had already found and relocated many people to the forest''s entrance.

    Among them were Ryder, Kaida, Milo, Raya, and Arin. The group, though shaken, seemed

    relieved to be in a safer spot for the moment.

    Rex prepared to leave again, but Arin grabbed his arm, her grip firm.

    "Rex," she said urgently, "what''s happening?"

    He hesitated, his gaze darting between her and the distant chaos.

    "I''m not sure," he admitted. "Eratz said something about the white orb."

    Kaida and Ryder''s jaws dropped simultaneously. They exchanged wide-eyed looks, realizing

    instantly what was happening.

    Milo stepped forward, his voice trembling with urgency.

    "Where are the others? We need to find them quickly!"

    Rex raised a hand, his tone steady but firm.

    "Calm down. Eratz is taking care of them. I have to go too; there are still people in my area."

    Before anyone could ask more, he disappeared in a flash of light, leaving the group

    momentarily speechless.

    Arin murmured softly.

    "Rex..."

    High above the forest, Rex soared with incredible speed, reaching a rocky peak that offered a

    vantage point over the island. He paused, his breath catching as he took in the sight above. The dragons clashed in the sky, their overwhelming power tearing through the heavens. Light

    and shadow collided in bursts of catastrophic energy, the spectacle was both magnificent and

    sinister.

    For a moment, he was frozen.

    "What can we even do against that?" he whispered to himself. But then he shook his head, dispelling the creeping doubt. "Now''s not the time," he muttered.

    He inhaled deeply, his focus sharpening as he activated his field spell again. A flash swallowed

    everything, giving the location of his remaining targets. But then he flinched and promptly

    turned around.

    "Can''t you take a break for a second? You''re really hard to catch, you know that?"

    Standing behind him was Kallistra, her wide smile unnervingly calm.

 Chapter 274: Chains of Light and Shadow

    Chapter 274: Chains of Light and ShadowThe sky above the ruined island churned with chaos, an unrelenting maelstrom of light and shadow that seemed to rip apart the heavens.

    Every clash between the light and shadow dragons sent shockwaves rippling through the land, reshaping the terrain beneath them.

    The forest was now a smoldering wasteland, and the air was thick with ash and the metallic tang of raw energy.

    Eratz clung to Raijinara''s mane as the lightning bird soared through the stormy skies, its wings gliding with precision despite the turbulence.

    Behind him, the last people in his area, Collin, Catarina, Iris, and Devak, had joined the little community on the thunder beast.

    Collin clutched tightly to his waist, her small frame trembling. Catarina crouched low, her usual playful demeanor replaced with a mix of fear and worry, while Iris and Devak sat toward the back, their expressions etched with unease.

    From this vantage point, they could see the devastation wrought by the legendary beasts.

    The light dragon''s power caused a rapid, chaotic overgrowth of luminescent plants from shimmering pools of energy, their roots spreading wildly and destabilizing the ground until it fractured and melted into molten rock.

    The overgrowth was a paradox, teeming with life but inherently destructive, as the vibrant vegetation expanded uncontrollably, choking the land and forcing the earth to rupture under the pressure of unrestrained energy.

    Meanwhile, the shadow dragon''s suffocating void absorbed life and light, leaving behind barren expanses where time seemed to slow.

    The air grew oppressively heavy, the ground cracked and decayed, and the stillness was so profound that even the sounds seemed swallowed.

    The void drained vitality from the land, creating areas of eerie silence where life faltered and natural rhythms halted.

    Together, their powers created a terrifying harmony of creation and destruction, reshaping the land in a way that was both spectacular and apocalyptic.

    Sia broke the silence, her voice barely audible over the roaring winds.

    "I can''t believe it... The legendary beasts. They''re real."

    Devak, his gaze fixed on the dragons in the distance, gulped.

    "If they exist, then that means all the legends are true... Every story about the legendary beasts is real. If so, why now? Why are these two here?"

    Iris, still salty about losing against a child, forced a wry smile and spoke up.

    "Oh, great. Guess that means all those bedtime horror stories weren''t just to make us behave. What''s next? A space city full of alien beasts?"

    Mercury rolled her eyes, muttering.

    "We''ll cross that bridge if it comes. But now, how are we supposed to deal with something like that?"

    Eratz didn''t respond immediately. His red eyes narrowed, locked onto the titanic figures in the sky. His lips twitched, then he sighed.

    "We can''t. Even a pain enjoyer like me knows its limits," he said finally, his tone flat. "The only good question is how do we get everyone out before they destroy the island?"

    Collin tugged on his arm, her voice trembling.

    "What about Mom and Dad? Are they okay?"

    Eratz''s gaze softened momentarily as he glanced back at her.

    "They''re around Victoria. Don''t worry, I''m sure they''re fine. But we better join them."

    Catarina''s tail flicked nervously.

    "Okay, we get everyone and we run away, but how? Those dragons... Any of their attacks could hit far and wide. How do we even get away? We''re stuck on a freaking island!"

    Eratz''s jaw tightened as he considered their options. His mind raced through the possibilities. Finally, he spoke.

    "If we can lure them to the opposite side of the island, it might buy us enough time to evacuate the remaining fighters and civilians. We''re beast masters. I''m sure most of us have a flying beast to take one civilian at a time."

    Then, he froze, his eyes narrowing and sighed as he glanced at Catarina.

    "Maybe except for you."

    Catarina''s ears flattened, and she hissed.

    "M-Mew?! I''ve got a seraph panther boss!"

    Before anyone could add anything else, a shadow streaked through the sky.

    A projectile slammed into Raijinara''s side with tremendous force, sending the beast

    screeching in pain and nearly toppling the group from its back.

    The lightning bird struggled to stabilize, its wings flapping wildly against the impact.

    "What the hell?!" Devak shouted, his hands gripping the bird''s feathers tightly.

    Eratz''s gaze darted to the ground below, then at the spot where the projectile landed. His eyes widened as the smoke cleared.

    It was Tamara.

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed as he scanned the ground below, then he looked back at the source of the impact and blinked.

    "Tamara?! You?? What are you doing here?" he asked, his voice a mix of confusion and surprise.

    Tamara raised her gaze to the dragons clashing, then gritted her teeth.

    "No time for questions, Eratz! You need to take command, now!" she replied sharply, her voice cutting through the chaos.

    Meanwhile, on the other side of the battlefield, Rex''s boots sank into the mud as he stood motionless, staring at the figure before him.

    Kallistra''s smile was illuminated by a jagged streak of lightning, her serene expression at odds with the devastation surrounding them.

    "Kallistra," Rex murmured, his voice barely audible over the storm. Then his fists clenched, and his voice rose in anger. "KALLISTRA! This... this was all you, wasn''t it?! The orb you gave me... It''s what caused this, isn''t it?!"

    He pointed toward the dragons, his golden aura flickering erratically as he struggled to control his emotions.

    "Why did you do this? What''s your goal? What... what the hell is even happening?!"

    Kallistra''s smile didn''t waver as she crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly.

    "Oh, Rexy, you wound me. Do you think I''m the one to blame? I only gave you something belongings better to you than me, but the way you used it... I mean, let''s not forget, Eratz has the black orb. Perhaps the person who gave it to him is more responsible than me? Maybe it was the result of your perfect synchronization during the fight, why did YOU focus so much on him? There''s plenty of blame to go around."

    Her voice was smooth, almost soothing, yet each word cut deep, chipping away at Rex''s

    confidence.

    "But... but you gave me the orb," Rex stammered, his tone faltering. "You knew... you must have known this would happen!"

    Kallistra''s expression hardened, her arms dropping to her sides.

    "And yet, you accepted it. Did I force you, Rex? Did I hold a blade to your throat and demand

    you take it? If I had given you a bomb that could have ended the world, would it be my fault if you''d taken it and it would have blasted? No. It''s not how it works, Rex. You made a choice. And now, people are going to die because of that choice."

    Rex''s knees threatened to buckle as her words sunk in. He opened his mouth to argue but

    found no rebuttal.

    His mind raced with images of the destruction around him, the forests reduced to ash, the mountains crumbling under the dragons'' power, and the faces of his teammates, worn and

    battered.

    "I... I didn''t mean for this to happen," he whispered, his voice trembling.

    "Intent doesn''t matter," Kallistra snapped, her voice sharp. "What matters is what you''ve

    done. And now, it''s up to you to fix it."

    Meanwhile, high above the battlefield, Raijinara soared through the chaos, carrying Eratz,

    Tamara, and their group.

    Explosions from the clashing dragons illuminated the island in brilliant golds and haunting

    purples, casting the fleeing group in an eerie, flickering glow.

    Tamara''s voice was firm, cutting through the roar of the storm.

    "Eratz, listen carefully! This isn''t just some random catastrophe. Those beasts are the

    legendary dragons of blind justice and pure evilness. You awakened the second one because

    your heart is the darkest of humanity."

    Eratz frowned.

    "Wow, that came right from the heart, right? You''re lucky I don''t use bad vocabulary in front

    of my sister."

    Tamara waved her hand.

    "This thing literally prove it, it''s legendary, you can''t deny it. You... are... evil. What matters now is that you have to pass a sort of trial to take control of the dark dragon."

    Eratz turned, his expression one of surprise mixed with frustration.

    "A trial? Tamara, what are you talking about? You never said anything about this. Why are

    they here now??"

    Tamara held onto Raijinara tightly, her eyes scanning the devastation below.

    "Listen, I know what you mean. There''s a lot of things I haven''t told you before, but trust me

    on this one. Everything I''m doing, is only for the sake of everyone. I''ll tell you everything once we deal with this." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    She gave a pleading gaze to Eratz, the young man kept her gaze for a bit, then groaned and

    shook his head.

    "Alright, we''ll deal with it later. What''s this trial about?"

    Tamara looked back at the dragons.

    "The legend says these dragons appear only when the chosen ones of the orbs are in what the

    locals called an harmonious state. When they represent the essence of the light and shadow duo. They judge the orb bearers, test their worth. But the exact nature of the trial is unclear. It

    could be anything."

    "Anything?" Catarina snapped, her cat ears twitching in agitation. "Like what, a quiz?"

    Iris, seated at the back, rolled her eyes.

    "Or a sacricial ritual?"

    "Enough," Tamara said sharply. "The point is, these dragons don''t appear lightly. They''ve

    judged you and Rex as compatible with their orbs. Now it''s up to you to prove yourselves.

    That''s in the legend, so this is how it should be."

    Eratz frowned, glancing back at the titanic figures battling in the sky.

    "Your legend don''t say exactly how we do that? Prove ourselves how? By defeating them? Do

    you realize how impossible that would be?"

    Tamara hesitated, her grip tightening.

    "Maybe. I hope it''s not that... Even I know this is beyond my power. The legend doesn''t

    specify, but it does mention that those who prove themselves can assimilate the dragons'' power. But there''s always the traditional way. They may be legendary, but they''re still beasts.

    If you can defeat them, you can tame them."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed.

    "... Is this a way of telling me we''re doomed?"

    As if in response to his words, another colossal blast erupted nearby. The dark dragon unleashed a beam of purple energy that struck a distant mountain, vaporizing it in an instant.

    The shockwave rippled outward, flattening the surrounding forest and sending a gust of

    blistering heat through the air.

    The group shielded themselves as Raijinara swayed from the force of the explosion. Tamara''s expression hardened a she watched the destruction.

    "It might be impossible, but right now, what matters is that your aura awakened it. You are

    the one with an ownership of the black orb cemented in your aura, so only you can access the

    trial."

    Eratz looked back at her, his jaw tightening.

    "Ownership?"

    Tamara nodded.

    "Yes. Even if the orbs are no longer physically with you, there''s still a connection. A part of

    your aura is embedded in the dragon. You''re the catalyst, Eratz. That link gives you a chance, maybe the only chance, to stop this the easy way."

    Eratz''s gaze shifted to the dragons, their destructive power lighting up the stormy sky. His fists clenched as he considered the impossible task before him.

    At the same time, on the other side of the battlefield, Rex''s head lowered.

    The oppressive weight of the storm bore down on him as the dragons'' battle continued to

    rage above. Each clash of their power sent waves of brilliant light and smothering shadow rippling across the sky, the chaos framing Kallistra''s serene face. Lightning illuminated her for a moment, casting her expression in sharp relief. The glow faded, leaving her face bathed in darkness, her green eyes glowing like beacons.

    Rex hesitated, his breath uneven as he grappled with his guilt and doubt. The storm''s fury

    seemed to amplify his inner turmoil, each deafening roar and blinding flash oppressing him.

    His clenched fists trembled at his sides. Slowly, he raised his head, his golden eyes meeting

    hers for a fleeting moment before dropping again.

    "I... I don''t know if I can fix this," he murmured, his voice barely audible.

    "You don''t have to," Kallistra said softly. "That''s what I''m here for."

    She stepped closer, her eyes narrowing.

    "You can''t. And I allow you this one, I also have my share of responsibility. So I will atone for

    my sin, with you."

    Rex stared at her, his golden aura dimming further.

    "What do you mean?"

    She extended her hand, her tone softening.

    "Lend me your hope, Rex. Trust me. I can take the burden of the light orb and save everyone.

    But you have to let go. You have to believe with every fiber of your being that I can do this.

    Only then will the orb''s power transfer to me."

    Rex''s gaze shifted between her hand and the raging battle above. Doubts clawed at his mind,

    but Kallistra''s words struck at his deepest fears and insecurities. He thought of his failures, the lives at risk, and the weight of responsibility crushing him.

    "I... I can''t..." he murmured, his voice cracking. "I don''t know if I can do this." "You''ve already done enough," Kallistra said gently. "With your speed, you''d be more useful helping the citizens to get away. Let me take it from here."

    Rex clenched his teeth, his head lowering as the oppressive weight of her words bore down on

    him.

    The air around them shimmered with flashes of light and shadow, the dragons'' ferocious

    battle painting the scene in a kaleidoscope of violent colors.

    Rex remained frozen, his mind spiraling. Slowly, his trembling hand began to rise, hesitation

    in every movement.

    The storm seemed to pause as if holding its breath, the flickering light framing the moment

    with an almost surreal clarity.

    Kallistra''s lips curled into a smile, her eyes glinting as Rex''s hand finally met hers.

    Lightning flashed once more, illuminating her triumphant expression before the darkness

    reclaimed

    her.

 Chapter 275: The Edge of Harmony

    Chapter 275: The Edge of HarmonyThe storm above raged on, lightning splitting the sky in jagged arcs, but amidst the chaos, Rex and Kallistra stood perfectly still, hands clasped together.

    The radiant aura around Rex flickered like a wavering flame, gradually growing steadier as it enveloped them both.

    Kallistra''s serene expression remained unshaken, her voice soft and gentle, a calm harbor in the storm.

    "Rex," she murmured, her words barely audible over the distant roars of the dragons, "listen carefully. To awaken its full potential, you need to summon your aura as if calling a beast. But this time, focus entirely on your emotions. Let them guide you."

    Rex closed his eyes, his brows knitting in concentration.

    "My emotions?" he asked hesitantly.

    "Yes," Kallistra said, a warm smile gracing her lips. "Feel your intentions. What do you want most right now? Where do you wish to be at the end of the day?"

    Rex''s breathing slowed as he let the question sink in. Moments passed in silence, save for the crackling of energy in the air. Finally, he whispered.

    "I just... I just want to end this. I don''t want anyone to get hurt anymore. I want to be with my friends."

    Kallistra''s grip on his hands tightened slightly, her voice unwavering.

    "Perfect answer, Rex. Hold onto that feeling, your friends, your dreams of peace. Let it consume you completely. You don''t need to do anything else. Just let me carry the burden for you. Trust in me, in my strength, in my resolve to see this through. Your role is not to fight, but to feel, to give me everything in your heart. If you do that, I will make sure it all ends as you wish. Peace, happiness, everyone together. I promise you, Rex, your faith in me will be your salvation."

    Her emerald eyes glinted faintly as she spoke, and though her tone was gentle, there was a weight behind her words that seemed to press down on him, and Rex wasn''t a model of resilience.

    She closed her eyes as well, emptying her mind. The faint green glow of her eyes disappeared, replaced by the steady radiance of Rex''s aura as it surged around them.

    The energy between them began to shift, swirling in intricate patterns.

    It was as if their auras were weaving together, the golden light melding with faint streaks of silver, forming a radiant cocoon.

    The chaotic winds momentarily stilled by the growing energy. Flashes of lightning illuminated the scene, highlighting the radiant cocoon that seemed to pulse with life. Each pulse sent ripples of light through the air, momentarily outshining the storm. Meanwhile, high above the battlefield, Raijinara soared through the turbulent skies. The legendary beast''s wings beat heavily against the wind, carrying Eratz and his group. They watched in tense silence as Eratz sat cross-legged, his eyes closed, his body glowing faintly with shadowy tendrils of energy.

    Colin and Mercury exchanged worried glances, but no one dared interrupt him. Eratz was attempting something he had already mastered, but with a different fuel.

    His spiritual mode, like he did once with Raijinara, but this time he focused on every single thread of energy in him, until he located that one frequency that matched with the two dragons.

    But this time, something different happened. Instead of amplifying his energy, it seemed to drain him, his aura growing dimmer with each passing second.

    Sia finally broke the silence, her voice hushed.

    "Is this... normal? He''s not looking any stronger."

    "Who know," Tamara murmured, her brows furrowed. "We''re swimming in dark water here, one thousand ideas, one solution."

    Eratz''s breath hitched slightly, and his fingers twitched as he pushed deeper into his focus.

    The air around him seemed to shift, growing heavier, charged with an indescribable tension. Then, it happened.

    A strange frequency rippled through his senses, faint at first but quickly intensifying.

    Eratz flinched, his body jerking as if struck by an unseen force. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The threads... he could almost see them.

    Two colossal, vibrant threads stood out, pulsating with unimaginable power, unmistakably belonging to the legendary dragons.

    But there was something else.

    A third frequency. Smaller, fainter, but distinct. It was nearby, and then... it began to disappear, slipping beyond his reach like a fading whisper.

    Eratz''s eyes snapped open, glowing faintly with a purple light. His voice was barely above a whisper.

    "Rex?!"

    Golden threads of energy twitched and spread out of Rex''s body like living tendrils, weaving and pulsating as they anchored themselves to Kallistra.

    His radiant aura flickered erratically, his breath came in sharp, uneven gasps, and his body trembled under the weight of whatever was happening.

    His knees buckled, and he dropped to the ground, one knee digging into the ground.

    His head hung low, his teeth clenched as he rise his head, only to see Kallistra''s warm smile, her eyes glowing golden and fixed on him with a serene intensity.

    Golden line drawings began to etch themselves across her skin, intricate patterns radiating from her heart and flowing down her arms.

    Eratz flinched, his red eyes narrowing sharply as he felt the air shift. Something was happening to Rex, something he couldn''t yet explain.

    Iris, Sia, and Devak exchanged worried glances, the unease growing palpable among them.

    "What''s going on?" Sia''s voice broke through the tense silence. "What''s happening with

    Rex?!"

    "Rex? What''s wrong with him?" Devak asked.

    Eratz opened his mouth to respond, but before he could, Tamara''s sharp intake of breath drew their attention.

    Her wide eyes were fixed on the horizon, her jaw slack with a mix of shock and realization.

    "No..." she murmured, her voice trembling. "No, no, no..."

    "Tamara?" Eratz turned toward her, but her next words sent a chill through the group.

    "Eratz, where is Rex?" she demanded, her voice frantic. "You have to tell me right now! Where the Hell is he?!"

    Before Eratz could respond, a deafening roar tore through the sky.

    It was unlike anything they''d heard before, a primal, guttural sound that resonated deep

    within their chests.

    They instinctively covered their ears, the sheer force of the sound making Raijinara falter

    momentarily in its flight.

    The light dragon stopped mid-battle, its enormous, luminous body suddenly rigid.

    A blinding light began to emanate from its body, growing in intensity with each passing

    second.

    The light pulsed like a heartbeat, illuminating the entire battlefield with its glow.

    Its roar echoed again, shaking the very foundations of the island.

    "What in the hell is happening now?" Iris whispered.

    No one answered. Every gaze was fixed on the light dragon.

    The air grew heavy, oppressive. Trees bent under the force of the light''s pressure, their leaves

    bursting into golden embers before disintegrating.

    Eratz''s voice was a murmur that drew everyone''s attention.

    "Hold on tight." he commanded, gripping Raijinara''s mane.

    The group exchanged silent nods, their hands tightening around the bird''s feathers and each

    other.

    There was no need for further words. The tone, Tamara''s reaction, they started to understand without realizing what was happening: it was already too late.

    With a thunderous clap of its wings, Raijinara surged forward, its speed pushing them back

    against its body.

    The world around them became a blur, a chaotic kaleidoscope of light and shadow as they raced toward Rex''s location.

    The air roared past them, a deafening windstorm that drowned out every other sound.

    Then, suddenly, the wind stopped.

    The group opened their eyes, blinking against the sudden stillness. They found themselves in

    an entirely different part of the island, the jagged terrain of a rocky cliff stretching out before

    them.

    The air here was eerily calm, the storm''s fury replaced by an oppressive silence.

    Iris was the first to speak, her voice hushed.

    "Where are we?"

    No one answered. Their gazes were drawn downward, to the scene unfolding below.

    On the cliff''s edge, Rex knelt, his head bowed and his golden aura flickering faintly. Facing him stood Kallistra, her body aglow with dazzling golden light.

    Intricate patterns of energy danced across her skin, and her serene smile was framed by the lingering storm''s muted flashes of lightning.

 Chapter 277: The Green Light of Ruin

    Chapter 277: The Green Light of RuinThe world seemed to hold its breath. The distant roars of the dragons quieted for a brief moment, their looming presence overshadowed by the weight of Kallistra''s words.

    Eratz''s eyes widened, his jaw slackening in disbelief.

    "A battle?" he echoed in disbelief.

    The group exchanged uncertain glances. Even Tamara, her teeth grinding against each other, looked visibly shaken. Sia muttered under her breath.

    "Lady Kallistra..."

    Kallistra, unfazed by their reactions, clasped her hands together, her golden patterns shimmering faintly in the dim light.

    Her smile remained calm, almost serene, as she met Eratz''s confused gaze.

    "It has to be this way," she said softly, her voice carrying an unsettling certainty. "The two dragons'' clash symbolizes the recipe for equilibrium. A battle between light and darkness is the key to open the door... and to close it."

    Eratz''s expression hardened, his arms crossing defensively.

    "Why am I not even surprised?"

    Kallistra''s gaze turned upward, toward the colossal figures of the dragons circling in the sky.

    Their auras flickered like opposing flames, one golden and radiant, the other dark and consuming.

    She took a step forward, her posture exuding confidence as she continued.

    "To be fair, everything I said happened, why not trust my knowledge now? Some of the legends I uncovered spoke of a clash between the dragons that led to their hibernation," she began, her tone measured and deliberate. "A battle that lasted an eternity. That clash shaped the very rules of the world as we know it. The more they fought, the purer their energy became, until their essence condensed into two rocks. Those rocks became the orbs you and Rex carried."

    Her eyes flicked back to Eratz, narrowing slightly.

    "But this time, the rocks aren''t just stones. They''re us. You and I. And these dragons?" She gestured toward the heavens with a sweeping motion. "They''re not independent creatures. They''re projections of the energy from our body."

    Tamara''s fists clenched at her sides, her voice cutting through the tension.

    "So you''re saying the only way to stop them is to make you fight?"

    Kallistra''s lips curled into a knowing smile.

    "Precisely. The more we fight, the more energy we draw into ourselves. With every clash, their power becomes part of us, until eventually, there''s nothing left of them."

    Eratz''s eyes narrowed, his tone dripping with skepticism.

    "You''re telling me that these legendary dragons are going to just... disappear because you think we''re already their... Owner? I have a hard time trusting anything coming from your mouth, plus, if you wanted to stop them, why did you steal the light orb from Rex?"

    Kallistra''s expression remained unwavering.

    "You''re asking a stupid question, deary," She raised her hands slightly, the golden patterns on her skin glowing brighter. "Do you think I dream of unique beasts just to give them to anyone? I want the finest, that''s all, and that''s something you also practice. There''s no law against that, right? No one has died yet."

    Rex, still kneeling and catching his breath, looked up with wide, disbelieving eyes. "You... you are the worst. How can you lie... and look at everyone in the eyes like this?"

    "Please, look at you, you were literally begging to be stole, I just gave us a favor," Kallistra said, her tone almost gentle. "But don''t worry, Rex. You''ve already done your part. You''ve set the stage for this. Now, all that''s left is for Eratz and me to finish it. The connection between us and the dragons is undeniable. They''re tied to our emotions, our auras, our very essence. Their existence is dependent on us. If we resolve this conflict through our battle, their power will return to where it belongs: within us."

    The air around the group hung heavy with tension, the distant roars of the dragons punctuating the silence like a grim reminder of the stakes.

    Each clash in the distance sent tremors through the ground, as if the world itself protested the chaos.

    Yet, in this moment, the dragons were the last of their worries, it was Kallistra''s declaration that drowned everything.

    Kallistra spread her arms again, as if presenting an undeniable truth.

    "It''s not just any battle. It''s the battle. The clash between light and darkness. It''s the only way to bring equilibrium."

    Mercury, standing closest to Eratz, suddenly grabbed his hand. She was visually nervous, and her voice was unsteady.

    "Eratz, no. You can''t go through with this. This is definitely a trap."

    He glanced at her, his red eyes softening momentarily.

    "I know this sounds like a trap, but how many solution do we have?" His voice was low, almost defeated. "I''m as lost as you are, Mercury. I don''t know what to do. But I do know we can''t let those things keep rampaging."

    The group remained silent, their gazes darting between the dragons in the sky and Eratz. The weight of the decision pressed on all of them, each feeling the growing sense of dread. Tamara finally broke the silence, stepping forward with a determined expression. "Then I''ll take the black orb. If that''s what it takes to stop this, I''ll fight her instead. Hey, snake, tell me how we can do it with the black orb."

    Kallistra''s teasing smile quickly turned into a firm frown. She crossed her arms and shook her head.

    "No. If it''s not Eratz, then I''m not fighting. And if I''m not fighting, the dragons will keep rampaging until there''s nothing left."

    "You''ve got to be kidding me!" Tamara snapped, her frustration boiling over.

    At the edge of the forest, the remaining group of finalists huddled together in disarray.

    Anxiety rippled through them as the earth quaked under the dragons'' relentless power. Arguments flared, their voices blending with the distant destruction.

    "We need to go back and find them!" Arin''s voice cracked with desperation, her body trembling as she tried to push forward.

    Finn and Nyx held her back, their grips firm but reluctant.

    "Little A, stop," Finn said, forcing a smile. "We can''t just run into that chaos. Look at the

    forest! It''s... it can''t even choose between growing or withering..."

    "Then what are we supposed to do?!" she cried, tears welling in her eyes. "We can''t just leave

    them!"

    Erynn crossed her arms, her expression grim.

    "Maybe we should focus on getting out of here before we''re next. Staying here is a death

    sentence."

    Raya frowned, her sharp senses picking up on too many signals at once.

    "What''s taking them so long?"

    A sudden blast of energy struck the ground nearby, sending a shockwave that knocked several

    to their knees.

    As the dust settled, two figures emerged from the shadows of the impact.

    Victoria and Leonidas.

    The group froze, their tension giving way to a mixture of relief and confusion. Victoria''s gaze swept over them, her expression softening slightly when she saw they were safe.

    But as she scanned the crowd, her brow furrowed.

    "Where are the others?" she asked.

    Her voice carried authority, cutting through the noise of the aftermath.

    Kaida stepped forward hesitantly.

    "Rex said Eratz was helping him look for the others. They should still be..." Her voice trailed

    off as she glanced toward the forest, or what remained of it.

    Victoria''s jaw clenched, her teeth grinding audibly.

    "The forest..." She turned to the group. "Head back to the town. I''ll find them myself."

    The finalists erupted into protests, their voices overlapping.

    "You can''t go alone!"

    "We should go together!"

    "It''s too dangerous!"

    Leonidas''s voice cut through the chaos, calm and condescending.

    "Why waste your breath?" He walked closer, his presence imposing. "You''re arguing over a force you can''t even comprehend. Two living legends have manifested before our eyes. Do you understand what this means? The change it will bring to the world?"

    The group stared at him, uncertain. Leonidas''s lips curled into a smirk. "Face it. The people inside that forest are probably dead. There''s no place in this new world

    for weaklings. It''s survival of the fittest now. And those who remain will bow to the strong."

    Milo, trembling with a mixture of fear and fury, stepped forward. "You''re wrong! They''re not dead! Stop saying that!" His voice cracked.

    Leonidas glanced down at him, his smirk widening. He placed his hands in his pockets and

    tilted his head mockingly.

    "Kids should stay out of adult matters. Why don''t you run along and get your little ass

    somewhere else?"

    Before Milo could retort, a hand gently rested on Leonidas''s shoulder. An oppressive aura rolled through the air, freezing everyone in place.

    Leonidas stiffened, his smug expression faltering as he slowly turned his head. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Victoria stood behind him, her calm demeanor belying the deadly intent in her eyes.

    "If every condition is met to create your dream world," she said, her voice chillingly quiet,

    "I''ll personally make sure you don''t live to see it." Victoria''s unyielding pressure forced Leonidas to straighten, his smugness slipping.

    Even he knew better than to provoke someone both Kallistra and Tamara deemed stronger

    than them. Her voice was calm but firm, brooking no argument.

    "Everyone else, leave now. Head back to the town. This ragdoll and I," she motioned toward

    Leonidas without sparing him a glance, "will enter the forest and search for the others. We''ll

    meet..."

    Before she could finish, the earth beneath them groaned. A deep tremor rattled through the forest, the vibrations more sinister than before.

    Victoria turned sharply toward the forest, her face momentarily losing its composed mask.

    Her wide eyes betrayed terror, and her voice dropped to a whisper.

    "No... It can''t be."

    The forest shook violently, not from the dragons'' distant battle but from a new, unmistakable

    source of energy. A familiar force, one Victoria knew all too well.

    Back on the rocky peak, Kallistra''s aura began to expand, its reach creeping slowly yet

    inexorably over the landscape.

    It wasn''t an overwhelming burst of color or a dramatic shift in the air, it was a quiet, insidious weight pressing down on everyone''s shoulders.

    Her oppressive presence grew with each passing second.

    She looked at the group with a smirk, her hands elegantly clasped behind her back. "You have no idea what I''ve done to get here," Kallistra said, her voice smooth but laced with

    an unrelenting resolve. "The lengths I''ve gone through, the choices I''ve made, the twists I''ve bent to reach this moment. I''ve put everything on the line to see this outcome. Now, with my

    chances right here before me..." Her voice dropped to a chilling calm. "I''m not going to wait any longer. Like it or not, we''ll do it, Eratz."

    The earth began to quiver. It was faint at first, but it rapidly escalated into a violent quake.

    Eratz flinched, his instincts kicking in.

    "Everyone, get out of here!" he shouted. His voice was sharp with urgency as he turned to Rex.

    "Rex, use your power to get them out! I''ll deal with her!"

    Mercury snapped, stepping forward, her hand grabbing Eratz''s arm with determination.

    "You''re not staying here, you idiot! We leave together!"

    Eratz sighed, trying to calm her.

    "Even if we leave, if these dragons are still there, it''s pointless..."

    "No! You listen!" she interrupted, her voice rising with emotion. "You think you can just send

    me away while you fight this thing? I''m staying!"

    Eratz''s jaw tightened.

    "No, this won''t happen! You know your condition, Mercury. This isn''t a tournament anymore.

    From here, you withdraw."

    She opened her mouth to argue further, but Eratz''s voice cut through, firm and unyielding.

    "You''re not talking your way out of this. You can''t take more risk now, there''s not only you this time."

    Colin clung to Eratz''s other arm, her eyes wide with fear.

    "Please... please, don''t stay behind Eratz!"

    Before anyone could argue further, Kallistra''s voice echoed directly in their minds, smooth

    and unwavering.

    "Let me give you a solution."

    A brilliant green light erupted from beneath the rocky peak, its intensity forcing everyone to

    leap away as the ground beneath them cracked and crumbled.

    The rocky summit fractured with a deafening roar, the ground splintering into massive

    boulders that fell into the abyss below.

    The group scattered, leaping from rock to rock as the peak crumbled around them.

    The air was filled with dust and debris, illuminated sporadically by the flashes of light from the dragons'' distant clash.

    Eratz landed on a precarious ledge, his eyes darting around to ensure everyone was still moving. As he prepared to jump again, something caught his eye amidst the chaos. Beneath the collapsing peak, revealed by the falling debris, was a figure. Its surface was smooth and obsidian-like, a dark form glistening in the dim, chaotic light. Eratz''s body froze for a brief second as he stared, the strange figure holding his gaze.

    Then, Kallistra''s voice echoed again, ringing through the air and their minds alike. "Star Eater."

 Chapter 278: Primal

    Chapter 278: PrimalFrom within the heart of the collapsing mountain, an enormous figure began to emerge.

    Its form was a blend of pure darkness and pulsating energy, its colossal frame streaked with radiant green light coursing like veins through its massive body.

    As it rose, the ground quaked violently, and the air thickened with an oppressive power that made it hard to breathe.

    The creature stood taller than the surrounding peaks, its towering presence making even the bravest feel like insects.

    Its head was round and hairless, and the veins of green light coalesced into a glowing circle, a form that seemed to be the thing''s eye.

    Around its immense limbs, spirals of light shimmered, like galaxies caught in its orbit, an eerie reminder of its cosmic origin.

    [Name: Star Eater]

    Affinity: Void

    Rank: Primal

    Abilities:

    Gravity: Generates a powerful gravitational field, altering the pull and sense of gravitation across a wide area.

    Event Horizon: Creates dimensional rifts for teleportation to chosen locations.

    Cosmic Power: Channels energy into its body, reshaping and enhancing its characteristics.

    Void Rend: Tears through dimensions, unleashing cascading void energy that cuts through space.

    Stellar Collapse: Condenses surrounding energy into a miniature star before detonating it, obliterating everything in its radius.]

    Rocks rained down in a deadly cascade as the group scrambled for safety. The sound of crumbling stone and Star Eater''s growl created a symphony of destruction.

    Eratz, perched on Raijinara''s back, gritted his teeth as he guided the lightning bird through the storm of debris. His mind raced as he analyzed the beast towering over them.

    Primal?

    The word echoed in his thoughts, his jaw tightening.

    Since when is there a Primal rank?

    Nearby, Mercury flew astride Zephyraquiel, her sharp eyes locked on the massive creature. The sea-blue glow of her beast contrasted sharply with the green light radiating from the Star Eater.

    "What... is this?" she murmured, her voice barely audible over the chaos.

    The group leapt from collapsing rocks, their movements desperate and chaotic. One by one, they summoned their flying beasts to escape the crumbling terrain.

    Tamara''s phoenix-like beast erupted in flames, its wings blazing as it shielded her from the falling debris. Colin clung tightly to a fiery vulture, its blazing aura illuminating the chaos around her.

    Nearby, Catarina''s seraph panther leapt gracefully from rock to rock, carrying her to safety with supernatural agility.

    Sia, Iris, and Devak''s beasts flanked the group, their wings slicing through the air as they ascended above the devastation.

    From their vantage points, the group could fully take in the sheer scale of Star Eater.

    Its movements were slow but deliberate, each gesture sending tremors rippling through the earth. It scanned the battlefield with an almost sentient awareness, its green eye glowing brighter as if judging those before it.

    Mercury tightened her grip on Zephyraquiel''s mane.

    "This thing... what kind of beast is that? It''s something else entirely."

    Sia''s gaze remained fixed on Star Eater, her hands clenching into fists.

    "That''s it. Lady Kallistra''s ace." Her voice was low, filled with both awe and dread. "So this is what it looks like when she completely summons it."

    Star Eater let out a low, resonating growl. Though it had no visible mouth, the tremor in the air was unmistakable. Green light flared along its body, and the oppressive gravity grew even heavier.

    And then... The beast moved.

    With a single sweeping motion, its arms lashed out like tidal waves, forcing everyone to act immediately.

    "Move!" Mercury shouted, guiding Zephyraquiel into a sharp dive, the swirling wind keeping her just ahead of the beast''s sweeping attack.

    Catarina clung to her beast, a panicked grin plastered on her face as they swerved to avoid the deadly arc.

    Everyone pushed their beast to twist mid-air to avoid a massive shadow arm.

    Raijinara dashed more easily. It''s sharp movements cut through the skies, dodging debris and massive arms.

    Eratz could have a better view and intervene if needed. He focused principally on Rex, visibly too weakened to use his power.

    He was on the back of one of Iris'' flying bird, carried away difficultly.

    But suddenly, the air above Eratz shimmered. A green light pierced the sky, radiating from a rift that opened like a jagged wound in the atmosphere.

    Eratz''s eyes widened as the light gathered into a concentrated beam.

    "Eratz!" Colin''s voice broke into a scream, the panic unmistakable.

    "Eratz!" Mercury cried in despair.

    The beam shot down, slicing through the heavens with devastating speed.

    Raijinara''s wings snapped into action, carrying Eratz in a blur of electric motion. The green beam struck the earth below, erupting in an explosion of green light and energy that shook

    the battlefield.

    Raijinara circled back, and Eratz steadied himself, exhaling sharply. His gaze darted to the Star Eater, but his focus shifted as he noticed movement above it.

    Kallistra floated in the air, calm amidst the chaos, her arms crossed and a finger gently tracing her lips. Her hair billowed in the winds, and a faint smirk played on her face.

    Eratz''s hands clenched into fists.

    "So this is how it''s gonna be..." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Straightening on Raijinara''s back, he let his aura ignite, a storm of power cascading from his

    body, mixing all his beasts at once.

    They were past beyond the time to seek for solution. In this moment, only one solution was

    on the table, and Tamara understood that.

    Her voice cut through the chaos like a thunderclap, sharp and commanding.

    "Listen up!" she roared, her phoenix blazing brighter beneath her.

    "She''s made her choice! Kallistra is our enemy now!"

    The team froze for a moment, the weight of her words sinking in. Iris''s eyes widened, and Catarina''s lips quivered as she gulped audibly, her face pale.

    "Star Eater has no weaknesses!" Tamara bellowed, her voice echoing over the battlefield. "We can''t defeat it with normal beasts... but we can keep it busy! That thing is beyond us, but she''s

    not!"

    Tamara''s eyes blazed as she pointed out Kallistra.

    "Kallistra is very squishy, she''s the key to defeat this thing, so don''t take any risk trying to defeat it! Just keep it busy! And no matter what, don''t attack that bitch until the dragons are completely gone!" Her words were a war drum, each syllable striking like a hammer.

    The team''s physical reactions betrayed their emotions. Colin''s head bobbed in a hesitant nod,

    her hands trembling.

    Devak''s jaw tightened, and he gave a curt nod, his eyes hard with determination.

    Catarina shifted nervously, but she straightened, her resolve flickering to life.

    Tamara raised her fist high.

    "We keep Star Eater occupied! We buy time! And Eratz..." Her eyes locked onto him. "Only you

    fight her directly! She''s yours. Beat that bitch''s ass!"

    The heat of her words left no room for hesitation. She thrust her arm forward, her voice

    ringing like a final call to arms.

    "Now, charge!"

    The group scattered into the skies, their beasts weaving through the chaotic battlefield.

    One by one, they activated their beastifications, their auras flaring brightly as they unleashed their full power. Collin focused to reactivate her beastification with her phoenix, her flames spiraling outward in a blazing inferno.

    Catarina''s body shimmered, her form merging with Mystimara as she became a blur of light

    and shadow.

    Mercury''s body shimmered with blue patterns as Zephyraquiel let out a piercing cry as it

    soared higher.

    Sia''s icy bird screeched, frost trailing in its wake as she fused with Nivalys.

    The battlefield became a coordinated storm of elemental power as the team worked in unison

    to divert Star Eater''s attention.

    Above it all, Kallistra hovered, her hair glowing faintly under the green light of Star Eater.

    Her arms crossed, she surveyed the battle with a calm smile, her gaze eventually locking onto

    a single point.

    Eratz, standing tall on Raijinara, met her gaze. His aura crackled with electricity, his

    expression fierce.

    The flying beasts surged forward in a coordinated assault, their riders determined to close the

    gap.

    Each movement was precise, a balance of instinct and strategy as they pushed toward

    Kallistra.

    Star Eater''s monstrous form shifted, its massive hand stretching outward in a wide, sweeping

    arc.

    "Above!" Tamara shouted, her phoenix twisting mid-flight as the colossal arm swept

    through the air beneath them.

    Everyone flinched, their beasts responding with sharp ascents to evade the devastating swing.

    Before they could steady themselves, Star Eater''s opposite hand rose high, slow, but covering

    a terrifying space.

    It fell toward the group, a shadow blotting out the sky. The riders pulled their beasts into desperate dives and rolls, narrowly avoiding the crushing impact.

    Dust and debris erupted in the wake of the attack, the air thick with tension as they regrouped

    and pushed forward.

    Drawing closer to their target, the group readied themselves. Each rider leapt from their beast, charging through the air with energy blasts aimed directly at Kallistra.

    They converged, their attacks prepared to strike, and then it happened.

    A green light.

    The air fractured like shattered glass, the sound sharp and unnatural. In an instant, the

    fighters were scattered.

    The void yawned open around them, disorienting their sense of place. Some found themselves falling farther away, while others stumbled onto distant rocky peaks, far from

    their original positions.

    Perched atop Star Eater, Kallistra sighed in a soft exasperation.

    "You know," she began, "a beast will respawn, but a master won''t. I''m really not trying to kill

    anyone here, so it would really help if you didn''t make yourselves so... deletable."

    With a graceful motion, she swung her arm. Star Eater growled deeply, the sound reverberating through the battlefield.

    Above each fighter, rifts began to form, shimmering with an ominous emerald hue. Beams of

    light started to rain down, each one targeting the scattered riders.

    Then... impact.

    Star Eater''s massive frame trembled violently, its balance disrupted. Kallistra staggered, her

    composed expression giving way to surprise.

    She turned sharply, only to find herself face-to-face with a dazzling fist.

    The force of the punch rippled through the air, sending a shockwave that momentarily

    silenced the battlefield.

    The emerald beams ceased. Everyone turned their gaze to Star Eater, their attention drawn to

    the source of the impact.

    On its back, Kallistra stumbled backward, clutching her face as she leapt several times to

    regain her footing.

    Eratz stood before her, shaking his hand to ease his knuckles.

    "So you''re really that squishy," he remarked.

    Kallistra chuckled, a sound both amused and annoyed. Pieces of something fell from her face,

    scattering to the ground like shards.

    She lowered her hand, revealing a cracked surface where the punch had landed.

    Her smirk returned, though her tone carried a hint of irritation.

    "It''s really a bad habit to hit a woman''s face."

 Chapter 279: Titan Drop

    Chapter 279: Titan DropEratz frowned as he observed the cracks spreading across Kallistra''s face. From the spots where shards had fallen, emerald light shimmered faintly beneath.

    Her body seemed to be an intricate masterpiece, a flawless emerald sculpture hidden beneath a layer of skin.

    "Huh," Eratz muttered, narrowing his eyes. "It felt... really good to punch you. But now, I''m not so sure. Did you even feel that?"

    Kallistra chuckled, the sound soft but laced with amusement. She raised a hand to rub the broken side of her face, tracing the cracks with a lazy finger.

    "Asking if I felt that? My, my, Eratz... that''s a bold question coming from someone like you. Worried because I don''t look normal anymore? Even though this appearance it''s something you''re very familiar with."

    She planted one hand on her hip and tilted her head, her smirk widening. Then, with a snap of her fingers, she uttered a single word.

    "Beastification."

    A rift opened beneath Eratz before he could react. The ground dissolved into emerald shards, swallowing him whole.

    The sensation of falling was unlike anything he had ever experienced. It wasn''t the rush of air or the pull of gravity, instead, it was as if his body stretched in every direction.

    The walls of the dimensional void shimmered with a kaleidoscope of emerald light, sharp and crystalline, refracting his own distorted reflection back at him.

    Then, in an instant, he emerged, flung through the rift and falling in the void. Before he could control his fall, he gazed in front of him.

    Towering before him was Star Eater.

    The beast''s massive arm began to rise, its movement slow but with the certitude to touch him due to its size.

    The sheer size of the limb cast a shadow over Eratz as it swung down with terrifying force. Eratz flinched instinctively, his body tensing. But then his gaze hardened, and his jaw set.

    His aura flared around him, electric currents crackling through the air as lightning wings burst from his back.

    With a powerful beat of those radiant wings, he shot on the side to dodge the incoming attack. The massive hand closed in, the pressure alone threatening to crush him

    BOOM.

    An explosion ripped through the battlefield, shaking the earth and sending a shockwave that knocked Eratz off course.

    He shielded his face from the blast, his wings flickering as he struggled to regain control. When the tremors subsided, he lowered his arm and blinked at the sight before him.

    A new creature had appeared, its immense form equalling in size Star Eater.

    A white dragon. A giant and magnificent white dragon.

    It radiated an aura of savage power, every detail of its body meticulously crafted.

    Tamara had summoned a majestic dragon, a counterpart to Star Eater, equal in majesty and

    terror.

    The creature''s body was covered in brilliant white scales that glowed faintly under the sunlight, streaked with veins of crimson that pulsed like living rivers of energy.

    Its long, elegant neck held a head adorned with a crown of crimson horns, curved and intricate, like a regal crown forged by the wind itself.

    Its eyes, sharp and burning with a golden glow, fixed Star Eater.

    From its back stretched enormous translucent wings, their edges shimmering with red-tinted wind currents.

    The dragon''s maw opened, revealing rows of glistening, dagger-like teeth. It let out a thunderous roar, the sound resonating with the force of a hurricane.

    The winds surged outward in a massive shockwave, rattling the battlefield and sending waves of awe and fear rippling through everyone.

    [Name: Solnova]

    Affinity: Light

    Rank: Primal S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Abilities:

    Meteoric Flare: Summons a rain of radiant meteorites that explode upon impact, creating blinding flashes of light and devastating shockwaves.

    Starfall Impact: Channels energy into a massive meteor strike, concentrating destructive power into a single, cataclysmic blow.

    Radiant Shroud: Generates a barrier of shimmering light, increase every stats.

    Celestial Pulse: Releases a wave of light energy that annihilate any structure.

    Ascent: Absorbs ambient light to amplify strength and speed, creating a fiery aura lasting a for a determined time based on the user. Become immune to any attack in this state, greatly reduce the body resilience when it expires.]

    Eratz stared, his breath caught in his chest as Solnova spread its immense, glowing wings, its body radiating light so brilliant it cast sharp shadows across the battlefield.

    Tamara''s voice rang out over the chaos, clear and commanding.

    "I''m taking care of Star Eater! Go!"

    Eratz clenched his teeth, his eyes narrowing as his fists tightened. Lightning crackled around him, the storm of his aura flaring to life.

    "Got it!" he growled.

    In the next instant, he launched forward with blinding speed, a streak of electricity cutting through the air as he aimed for Kallistra.

    Star Eater growled, its massive form twisting as it swung a colossal arm toward Eratz. But before the attack could land, Solnova intervened.

    The radiant dragon surged forward, its body illuminated by a swirling storm of light. It collided with Star Eater''s arm, forcing the massive beast to redirect its focus.

    The impact unleashed a shockwave that shook the battlefield, light and shadow clashing

    violently.

    Every movement of Solnova left trails of glowing light in the air, and the ground beneath its feet shimmered with burning light.

    Kallistra''s calm demeanor shifted slightly, her lips curving into a faint grimace. Without

    hesitation, she leapt backward.

    Each step she took released energy, and the ground beneath her glowed ominously.

    With each step, she unleashed new beasts, shorter than Star Eater, but with a frequency

    similar to any calamity beast.

    Undeterred, Eratz surged forward, his lightning wings spreading wide.

    he soared through the chaos, lightning coursing around him as he evaded the relentless onslaught of Kallistra''s beasts.

    Mid-flight, a shadow loomed before him, a towering calamity beast with spines of obsidian and molten eyes roaring as it charged.

    Without hesitation, Eratz summoned the Terrakrus. The black dragon materialized midair, its obsidian scales shimmering with earthen energy.

    With a deafening roar, the black dragon slammed into the calamity beast, its seismic power shaking the back of Star Eater.

    The two creatures clashed, claw against claw, as the shockwaves reverberated around Eratz. He used the opportunity to press forward, lightning wings propelling him with blinding

    speed.

    Another calamity beast emerged, this one massive and wreathed in swirling darkness. Its gaping maw opened wide, threatening to swallow Eratz whole.

    Gritting his teeth, he summoned Cinderblaze. The fiery beast emerged beneath him, its

    blazing mane igniting the air around it.

    Cinderblaze unleashed its field spell, a torrent of fire engulfing the beast''s jaw. The creature writhed as the inferno consumed it.

    The heat was palpable, and the battlefield glowed with an orange hue as Cinderblaze roared and began attacking the other beasts around.

    Kallistra had a phenomenal number of beasts, more than Eratz had seen on one person. But unlike him who wished for a pack, she was a collector, and ultimately her beasts couldn''t

    match his.

    Only Star Eater was a problem.

    Eratz pushed his advantage. He gathered the energy from the field spells around him, fire and

    earth swirling into his fist.

    The power intensified, his aura radiating like the sun itself.

    With a burst of speed, he closed the distance to Kallistra, who stood calmly amidst the chaos,

    her emerald light warping the air around her.

    He roared as he threw the punch, his fist blazing with the gathered energy.

    The impact was explosive, a shockwave tearing through the battlefield as light and fire

    erupted outward.

    But something was wrong. The air around him shimmered with green light, refracting his

    attack.

    The emerald energy twisted, redirecting the force of the explosion. Eratz narrowed his eyes, his spiritual senses flaring as he felt the subtle shift in energy.

    She''s here... But I didn''t touch her body?

    Focusing, he activated his spiritual mode. The world slowed, the chaotic energy around him

    becoming clearer.

    He anticipated her next move, sensing the ripples in the air as a rift opened behind him.

    Without looking, he summoned the Aetheri.

    The ethereal beast appeared behind him, forming a shimmering platform of light. Eratz leapt

    back just in time, dodging a barrage of emerald beams that rained down from above.

    The rift closed behind him as he ascended higher.

    He didn''t stop. His lightning wings beat furiously as he propelled himself above Kallistra, who descended with a radiant smile.

    The sky was their arena, flashes of green and gold lighting up the heavens as they exchanged

    blows.

    Eratz fought with all his might, prediction, countering, attacking, while Kallistra was mostly on the defensive, using her spacial power to redirect Eratz''s attack.

    On the ground, Tamara and Solnova battled Star Eater in a titanic struggle.

    Each clash of their power reshaped the battlefield, fire and light colliding with void and

    shadow in an apocalyptic display.

    The battle reached its crescendo, the sky and earth alike trembling as their fates clashed in the

    ultimate confrontation.

 Chapter 281: Emerald Witch

    Chapter 281: Emerald WitchThe activation of Kallistra''s field spell was unlike anything Eratz had ever witnessed. A blinding emerald light exploded outward, consuming the entire battlefield in a wave of searing brilliance.

    The radiance filled every corner, burning with an intensity that forced everyone to shield their eyes.

    Far below, Tamara looked up just as the wave of light reached her. Her eyes widened in realization.

    "Damn it," she muttered, but it was too late.

    The emerald glow surged forward, consuming her and Solnova in its unrelenting grasp.

    Even farther away, Victoria pressed onward with Leonidas, her gaze flicking to the side to watch the dragons clash.

    Their movements were still violent, but something felt... off.

    It was as though their power had dulled, their deadly blasts no longer carrying the same weight.

    She frowned, her senses tingling with unease.

    Then she saw it. A blinding green light rushing toward her like a tidal wave. Her head snapped forward, but there was no time to react.

    The glow enveloped her, Leonidas roaring as the light consumed them both.

    The light propagated across the entire forest, its reach extending to the very edges.

    Even the beast masters standing at the forest''s entrance could not escape it.

    "What the hell is this light?!" Kaida screamed, her voice barely audible over the hum of the light''s energy.

    She covered her face with her arms, stumbling backward as the overwhelming glow enveloped everything.

    Raya, standing beside her, instinctively opened her mouth to speak, but then paused.

    She raised an eyebrow and closed her mouth as the light swallowed them whole.

    They were swept away in the wave, their cries of confusion and fear fading into the hum of the emerald energy.

    And then, silence.

    The light fractured like a shattered glass pane, the pieces scattering into the void. Eratz landed heavily on a moving platform, the ground beneath him unstable.

    He steadied himself, his sharp eyes scanning his surroundings. The terrain was chaotic, an amalgamation of floating platforms and jagged structures that seemed to defy gravity. Emerald sparks flickered and danced in the air, casting a glow on the chaotic landscape.

    The atmosphere was a strange mix of beauty and danger, a purple-hued afternoon sky with violent winds howling through the void.

    Eratz''s gaze locked onto a spot in the distance, his mouth opening slightly in shock.

    Across the chaotic terrain, Victoria struggled to her feet on another platform. Her hand gripped a tree as she surveyed the unfamiliar world, a world she recognized way too much. "Oh no," she whispered. Her gaze darted around, taking in the sight of other fighters scattered across the vast expanse.

    Everywhere she looked, another beast master stood on a distant platform, each trying to make sense of their new surroundings.

    Tamara was perched on one of the floating platforms alongside Solnova. She clenched her jaw, her fists tightening as she looked to the side.

    Then, a voice boomed across the chaotic expanse.

    "Is this playground to your taste, Eratz?" Kallistra''s voice rang out.

    Every fighter turned toward the source of the voice, their eyes widening in unison. High above the battlefield, Kallistra floated, her presence commanding and menacing.

    But it wasn''t her alone that drew their attention. Beneath her, an abomination loomed.

    It was a titanic creature, its form a horrifying fusion of void and emerald. Its massive, twisted arms stretched out infinitely, merging seamlessly with the chaotic environment.

    The platforms, the jagged terrain, even the very ground beneath their feet seemed to be part of its body. The creature''s glowing emerald eye burned like a green sun, and its presence radiated an oppressive energy that made the air heavy.

    Kallistra gestured toward the monstrosity with a sweeping hand.

    "Allow me to introduce you to the complete form of Star Eater. My last gift for this circus." Tamara''s eyes widened.

    "The island..." she murmured. "It''s... merged with Star Eater."

    The fighters remained frozen, their collective dread palpable as they took in the monstrosity that now defined their battlefield.

    Kallistra floated above the chaos, her eyes glowing with an unholy green light. Her cracked face glimmered as she looked down at Eratz.

    "You know, it''s the first time someone''s pissed me off this much," she admitted, her voice carrying through the fragmented battlefield. "I''ve tried so hard to be an angel. To play fair. To be kind. But... whatever. Let''s play my game instead. The game where you survive my strongest mode." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz stood still on his platform, his aura crackling faintly. He exhaled deeply, his sharp gaze fixed on her.

    "That doesn''t make you less stupid."

    Kallistra''s eyes gleamed with fury, and the atmosphere shifted instantly. A rift tore open above Eratz, emerald light pouring out in an unrelenting cascade of beams.

    He leapt from his platform just as the first beam struck, the explosion tearing his perch apart.

    The battle began in earnest.

    Kallistra raised her hands, manipulating the fractured terrain with her gravity power.

    Platforms shifted unpredictably, some rising into the air while others crashed into the void below.

    As Eratz soared through the chaos, another rift opened in front of him, emerald beams firing like a volley of arrows.

    He twisted mid-air, his lightning wings flaring as he dodged the relentless assault. "Keep running away! I''m too dumb to spare you now, right?!" Kallistra shouted, her laughter echoing as she teleported to another vantage point.

    She opened more rifts, surrounding Eratz in a storm of emerald lasers.

    He gritted his teeth, weaving through the onslaught with precision, the beams grazing past him as they exploded against distant platforms.

    From the horizon, Star Eater''s massive form loomed, its emerald-void body pulsating with

    energy.

    The titanic beast opened its cavernous maw, and a gravitational pull began to drag Eratz

    toward it.

    He flared his aura, fighting against the force as debris and stray platforms were sucked into

    the beast''s core.

    At the same time, Star Eater fired an enormous laser, the beam slicing through the battlefield

    with devastating power.

    Eratz narrowly dodged, the heat of the blast.

    The other fighters were in no better shape. Scattered across the chaotic terrain, they struggled to maintain their footing as the platforms shifted beneath them.

    Victoria leapt from one collapsing land to another, Leonidas summoning a flying beast to get away, but as they flew higher, gravity pulled them back again.

    Tamara, still astride Solnova, clenched her jaw as she dodged Star Eater''s attacks.

    "Damn it, Eratz, keep moving!" she shouted, her grip tightening on Solnova''s mane.

    Nyx let out a frustrated scream as she barely evaded a beam that obliterated the platform

    behind her.

    "What is this nightmare?!"

    Back in the thick of battle, Eratz flew through the chaos, his mind racing. Kallistra was

    relentless, opening rift after rift to fire more beams while teleporting herself to stay out of his

    reach.

    Her control over the battlefield was absolute, the platforms shifting under her command to

    keep him off balance.

    "What''s wrong, Eratz?" she taunted. "Too busy running to fight back?"

    Eratz didn''t answer, his focus entirely on staying alive. He dodged another volley, his

    movements a blur of lightning and speed.

    But just as he thought he had a moment to breathe, a rift opened directly beneath him. Gravity shifted, pulling him downward with crushing force.

    He reacted instinctively, channeling his aura into a burst of energy that propelled him upward just as the rift closed, narrowly avoiding being swallowed.

    Star Eater joined the fray again, its massive arms stretching outward. The void-beast''s hands

    glowed with emerald light before releasing a series of smaller, faster beams that curved

    unpredictably.

    Eratz flipped through the air, dodging the beams as they carved through the terrain.

    The battlefield was pure chaos. Fighters scrambled to survive, dodging both Kallistra''s attacks and Star Eater''s devastating strikes.

    Kallistra''s grin widened as she teleported to yet another position, her glowing eyes locked on

    Eratz.

    "Let''s see how long you can last, Pharaoh!" she shouted, opening another rift above him, the emerald beams raining down once more.

    Tamara leapt from platform to platform, her eyes locked on Kallistra''s floating form in the

    distance.

    The shifting terrain did little to slow her down as she closed the gap with a terrifying speed. She clenched her fists, shouting across the chaotic battlefield.

    "Her only power is that beast! As a fighter, she''s reachable! Eratz, focus on her!"

    Eratz, mid-flight, turned at her words, his sharp eyes fixing on Kallistra.

    The glowing emerald figure didn''t flinch, but the energy between everyone shifted as

    Tamara''s words ignited a renewed resolve in the fighters scattered across the battlefield.

    A sudden blast of energy tore through the air. Tamara shot forward like a meteor, her body engulfed in a radiant mix of white and red energy.

    Her body had changed into a draconic humanoid form, her limbs elongated and scaled, her

    fingers ending in razor-sharp claws.

    Horns spiraled upward from her head, and massive translucent wings of light erupted from her back, propelling her through the air with blistering speed.

    She burst toward Kallistra, her trajectory a burning streak in the sky. The air cracked under her momentum, and for a moment, it seemed as though she would end the battle in a single

    strike.

    Kallistra''s voice rang out.

    "You won''t get me twice like this."

    Tamara came to an abrupt stop, or rather, was stopped mid-flight. The air around her rippled,

    a gravitational force halting her advance and holding her in place.

    Kallistra''s smirk widened.

    "You could break me in one hit, Tamara, but you forgot something. The reason our battle was

    even for so long? It''s because I''m a genius."

    With a flick of her wrist, Kallistra opened a rift directly in front of Tamara. The distortion

    surged toward her, poised to teleport her away, but then...

    Crack.

    Kallistra''s smirk faltered as a sharp crack echoed through the air. Her face fractured further,

    glowing emerald light spilling from the fissures.

    She blinked, disoriented, and turned her head to see Eratz passing behind her, his fist still

    radiating with the aftershock of his strike.

    She roared in fury, her voice carrying a guttural desperation. Before she could react further,

    Tamara unleashed a dragon''s breath.

    A torrent of dazzling energy erupted from her mouth, the sheer force of it propelling Kallistra away from Star Eater.

    The emerald figure tumbled through the air, struggling to regain control.

    Eratz didn''t hesitate.

    With a hand gesture, he summoned Raijinara above. The lightning bird descended, its aura

    crackling with volatile energy. Eratz raised his hand, preparing to deliver the final blow.

    But then, the air turned green.

    Star Eater intervened. The massive beast unleashed a barrage of emerald beams, the projectiles raining down on the battlefield with catastrophic force.

    Eratz saw the light streaking toward him, right when he had this chance to strike, but a

    sudden shockwave tore through the air as Tamara''s dragon form collided with Star Eater.

    Solnova''s headbutt stopped the colossal beast''s hardwork, and with a ferocious grip, Solnova held it in place.

    A gigantic dazzling gleam surged along its horns as it charged a devastating dragon''s breath.

    Eratz frowned but seized the opportunity. His wings flared as he dashed forward, his aura bursting into a storm of lightning. Raising his hand, he focused all his energy.

    With a sharp motion, he brought his hand down, and a colossal bolt of lightning fell toward

    Kallistra.

    She reacted quickly, opening a rift to avoid the strike, but her escape was cut short.

    Rex appeared behind her, his body battered but still functional. With a desperate effort, he

    shoved her back into the fray.

    Kallistra''s glowing eyes widened in shock, she had completely forgotten his existence at this point, and now Rex''s strength forced her forward.

    She had barely enough time to process what was happening before the lightning struck her,

    followed by Eratz''s devastating punch to her face.

    The impact was catastrophic. Cracks spider-webbed across her body as the emerald glow began to dim.

    Her roar turned into a guttural gasp as she stumbled, her power faltering.

    She didn''t understand. She was at her peak. She was strong. So why was she the only one

    taking damage?

    Her vision blurred as she felt her body weaken. It was as though she were sinking to the bottom of an endless ocean.

    The world around her became muffled and distant, her breaths shallow and labored.

    Emerald light flickered dimly around her, failing to illuminate the oppressive void she now

    found herself in.

    The image of Eratz standing above her burned into her fading vision, and with a final gasp,

    she felt herself slip deeper into the abyss, powerless to fight back.

    But then, at the bottom of this abyss, she saw a light.

    It was faint at first, a distant flicker in the oppressive darkness, but slowly it grew, expanding

    and calling to her.

    Her body froze, suspended in the void. She couldn''t tell if she was still whole or merely a fragment of herself, but her hand moved, trembling as it reached toward the light.

    The faint glow engulfed her, wrapping her in its embrace. Above, Eratz hovered, his aura gathering in his fist.

    Lightning crackled and danced around him as he concentrated, attempting to summon the

    full force of his power. This time, he would use Sun, not with the fire field spell, but with his

    own energy.

    His fist began to glow, a radiant beacon of destruction, as he prepared to end the battle.

    But before he could reach her, a deafening roar shook the atmosphere.

    A terrifying sound, not only because of its power, but because it announced the presence of its

    owner too close to the area.

    The light dragon was back.

 Chapter 282: Shining Warrior

    chapter 282: shining warriortime seemed to freeze, the battlefield caught in an eerie stillness. in that fleeting moment, everyone instinctively looked above.

    the light dragon was here.

    it roared, a sound that shattered the silence and reverberated across the chaotic terrain. its radiant form shone, illuminating the fragmented platforms and the emerald void.

    but it was alone, all alone, without its eternal counterpart. the dark dragon, its equal and opposite, was nowhere to be seen.

    at this moment, no one could speak, nor even think beyond the single, chilling question that seemed to rise in every mind:

    why?

    why would the light dragon, bound by destiny to battle the dark dragon, abandon its archenemy to come here?

    and then the answer struck them, a silent revelation that filled the air with an oppressive weight. those who had heard the tale of the two orbs, the eternal balance between light and dark, and the reason they had appeared here and now, knew the truth. the answer was terrifying in its simplicity.

    the light dragon had come because it was no longer its own master. it had intervened not by choice, but because its vessel called to it. the bond was established.

    kallistra''s gaze snapped to eratz, her glowing emerald eyes now tinged with a radiant white. her lips moved, forming words that echoed like a divine pronouncement.

    "...game... over."

    a blinding light erupted from above, engulfing eratz in an instant. waves of energy rippled outward, and kallistra stood at the center of it. the light dragon''s energy began to flow toward her like rivers of molten gold.

    eratz was flung backward by the force of the blast. his body spiraled through the air, his lightning aura flickering as he struggled to stabilize himself. the light surged like a shield, protecting kallistra as a transformation began.

    her body absorbed the dragon''s essence, glowing with a dazzling brilliance. her hair turned a pure, shimmering white, cascading around her like a light waterfall.

    the emerald cracks on her face healed, replaced by glowing golden markings that pulsed like a heartbeat. her skin glowed faintly, exuding a radiant warmth.

    the light spread to her entire being. her cracked body now shone with perfect symmetry, her form no longer fractured but whole.

    the battlefield held its breath. no one dared move. no one dared speak. they could only watch in silent awe as kallistra completed her transformation.

    at last, the radiance dimmed slightly, revealing the new kallistra. she floated above the battlefield, her presence undeniable, her aura radiant and suffocating.

    she spread her arms wide, her golden eyes surveying the fighters below. the light dragon''s essence had become her own, and she now exuded an overwhelming power.

    "at last..." kallistra whispered, her voice trembling with emotion, a raw mix of relief and disbelief. her golden eyes shimmered as she looked at her own glowing hands, the radiant markings pulsing softly. "it''s a miracle... i did it. after everything... i actually succeeded."

    her voice grew steadier, filled with a profound weight as she continued.

    "this is the proof that i was right, that i was always right! even when everything and everyone was against me, i was the one who saw the truth."

    she raised her arms slowly, the golden light flowing from her, then she laughed. it was a laugh of pure, unrestrained joy, echoing across the battlefield like a song of triumph. the sound sent a shiver through those watching, their expressions tense with unease.

    tamara gritted her teeth, her draconic form trembling with frustration. eratz stood atop raijinara, his eyes fixed intently on kallistra, his lightning aura crackling faintly.

    "i was right!" kallistra cried out, her voice ringing with euphoria. "i was always right! everyone is wrong, except for me! this battlefield, this moment... it''s mine! i have won!" her golden eyes scanned the fighters below, the radiant markings on her body pulsing in harmony with her emotions.

    "you fought so hard, each of you. what a great story."

    she laughed again, her voice a melody of vindication and delight. her golden eyes scanned the battlefield, glinting with an edge that made everyone freeze in place.

    "you tried. you fought so hard, each of you. and you annoyed me so much... it really gives me some desires... for a punishment." her gaze fixed on tamara, her smile widening.

    "tamara... vicky?... hm, no, not you, let''s replace you with leonidas, because why not?"

    tamara''s teeth clenched in silent frustration, her aura flickering faintly. leonidas, standing further back, clenched his teeth.

    everything went as they had planned, but now that kallistra was on her throne, he saw in her less of an ally and more of a danger.

    was he even an ally in her eyes to begin with?

    finally, kallistra''s eyes moved, landing on another target.

    "and my personal favorite, my dirty mouthed soulmate, eratz. there''s a big place for you in my world of pain," her voice softened mockingly.

    her golden eyes gleamed, locking onto him as he stood atop raijinara.

    his body stiffened, and his red eyes narrowed as he glared back at her.

    kallistra turned her gaze toward the light dragon.

    now that she had achieved her goal, there was a burning desire in her, a desire to experiment.

    she raised her arm gracefully, her fingers curling as if grasping an invisible tether. the air around her shimmered with an ethereal glow as the light dragon responded to her command. the massive beast roared, its voice resonating like the tolling of a celestial bell, shaking the heavens and earth alike.

    the air grew dense with energy, charged with a light so intense it painted the battlefield in blinding hues of white and gold.

    slowly, the dragon opened its colossal maw, radiant energy gathering in its depths, pulsating like the heart of a dying star.

    "show me the power of a true legend," kallistra declared, her voice carrying over the stunned

    silence.

    with a deafening roar, the light dragon unleashed its attack.

    a single, concentrated beam of light erupted from its mouth, streaking across the battlefield.

    the beam bent the air around it, distorting reality with its raw intensity.

    the land beneath its path trembled violently, fissures splitting open as the ground itself recoiled from the dragon''s wrath, and finally, the attack struck a distant mountain range with

    cataclysmic force.

    for a brief moment, the world seemed to hold its breath, and then...

    an explosion of light and energy erupted, consuming everything in its wake.

    the mountain range shattered, its jagged peaks reduced to a blinding cascade of debris and

    molten rock.

    a shockwave rippled outward, flattening the forest in its path, the sheer force toppling trees like mere twigs.

    the sky lit up with a radiant dome of golden light, visible even from the farthest corners of

    the island.

    on the other side of the island, citizens huddled in the relative safety of makeshift shelters, their faces pale with fear.

    the explosion''s light reached them, bathing the area in an unnatural daylight that seemed to

    stretch endlessly.

    the shockwave hit moments later, a deafening rumble that shook buildings to their foundations and sent waves crashing violently against the shores. people screamed, shielding their eyes from the brilliance and bracing themselves against the tremors.

    back on the battlefield, the fighters stood frozen, their faces pale and their breaths caught in

    their throats.

    even tamara could only gasp at the aftermath, her fists trembling at her sides. mercury, perched atop zephyraquiel, gripped the beast''s mane tightly, her knuckles trembling as her

    wide eyes scanned the devastation.

    eratz stared at the destruction with big eyes. this power, this scale. there was many way to spell defeat and this attack was all of them.

    as the light dissipated, revealing a molten, smoking crater where an overgrowth of vegetation had begun, even kallistra seemed momentarily taken aback.

    she lowered her arm slowly, her lips parting as if to speak, but no words came.

    her eyes flicked to the light dragon, which stood majestically, its radiant body pulsating with energy, unbothered by the destruction it had wrought.

    a flicker of something crossed her face, surprise, perhaps, or awe, but she quickly masked it

    with a tight smile.

    her teeth caught her lower lip for a brief moment before she forced herself to laugh softly, the sound hollow against the backdrop of devastation.

    "well," she said, her voice trembling slightly before regaining its usual confidence. "this

    power... it truly is legendary, isn''t it?" she paused, her gaze lingering on the radiant beast

    before her.

    "even i have to admit, this... is dangerous. too dangerous. a legendary beast like isn''t suitable for vulgar competitions among beast masters."

    she turned her gaze back to the stunned fighters below, her golden eyes gleaming with pride.

    the air was heavy with tension, the battlefield cloaked in an oppressive silence after the

    devastating demonstration of the light dragon''s power.

    she turned her gaze toward eratz.

    "you''re a lucky man, eratz," she said, her eyes narrowing. "i was considering making you my

    test subject. but for now..." her smile twisted, and she shrugged. "i''ll settle for something

    less lethal."

    before anyone could respond, a powerful voice boomed through the battlefield, cutting

    through the suffocating tension.

    "kallistra!"

    all eyes turned skyward as victoria approached, riding a majestic, winged beast that

    glimmered faintly under the fractured light.

    the beast''s powerful wings beat steadily as it carried her closer to kallistra. victoria''s

    expression was firm, but her voice carried an uncharacteristic note of desperation. "please, stop this. it''s over! you''ve won, kallistra. you have what you wanted. the legendary

    beast is yours. now, no more fighting!"

    kallistra''s eyes flicked toward victoria, her smile faltering slightly.

    "vicky..." she murmured.

    victoria''s beast halted a few meters away from kallistra, the two women now facing each other. victoria raised a hand, palm outward in a gesture of peace.

    "listen to me. at this point, nothing can challenge you. no one here can oppose you. not

    tamara, not eratz, not me. you''ve already won. so please, stop. stop before there are consequences we can''t undo."

    the battlefield seemed to hold its collective breath. the fighters scattered around exchanged

    uneasy glances, their hearts pounding as they watched the exchange.

    victoria''s words carried a gravity that resonated with everyone present.

    she was right. sea??h th§× n?velfire(.)net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    kallistra had gained possession of a legendary beast.

    in a world where the more unique a beast was, the stronger the master would be, nothing

    could stop her now.

    even tamara seemed to give up, her draconic form trembling slightly. kallistra appeared to hesitate, her golden eyes narrowing as she crossed her arms. she let out

    a soft sigh, almost as if conceding.

    "you''re right," kallistra admitted, her voice tinged with reluctant agreement. "i have won.

    this power..." she looked down at her glowing hands, her golden markings pulsing faintly.

    "it''s everything i worked for. everything i deserved."

    victoria bit her lips, hope flickering in her eyes.

    "then let this end here," victoria urged. "no one needs to suffer. you can walk away now,

    kallistra. as the victor."

    but kallistra''s gaze snapped back to victoria, her face conveying a troubling emotion: regret.

    "oh, vicky," she said, her tone almost pitying. "you''re missing the point."

    victoria''s brow furrowed, confusion flashing across her face.

    kallistra turned her back on victoria, floating higher as she spread her arms wide.

    her golden eyes began to glow with a fierce intensity, and the markings on her skin pulsed

    brighter.

    "don''t worry," kallistra said calmly. "i''m not going to hurt anyone. i don''t need to. not for

    what i''m about to do."

    the words sent a chill through everyone on the battlefield. the light dragon, still hovering in

    the sky, let out a low, guttural growl that vibrated through the air.

    its eyes glowed in sync with kallistra''s markings, the connection between them

    unmistakable.

    kallistra flew backward, her arms still spread as if embracing the world. her voice echoed,

    carrying a chilling finality.

    "with this power, i can finally open the doors of my world."

 Chapter 283: The Weight of Power

    chapter 283: the weight of powerthe world seemed to strain under the weight of the dragon''s power.

    kallistra floated in the air, her golden eyes glowing as she lifted her arms. above her, the light dragon let out a thunderous roar, shaking the battlefield.

    this wasn''t just a display of strength, it was something far more significant.

    reality began to warp and twist.

    the sky cracked like shattered glass, sharp lines spreading outward as if the heavens were breaking apart. colors mixed and swirled, creating unnatural patterns.

    the ground shook violently, shifting under the feet of those watching in silence. space itself rippled, bending and stretching as though the world was being reshaped by an invisible force. above, the light dragon glowed brighter, its energy spilling into the air like liquid gold.

    a jagged tear appeared in the sky, pulsing with power and growing larger with each second. the sky darkened, the light from the rift spreading in waves that reached far beyond the battlefield.

    the world seemed alive and unstable. the energy of the dragon spread outward, shaking the balance of nature itself.

    strange forms of energy materialized from each element, while many beasts where visibly glitching and covered in light soots.

    on that day, kallistra initiated the outburst of new unique beasts, called forth by the dragon''s influence.

    the entire world was changing, reshaped by the dragon''s overwhelming power.

    on the battlefield, the fighters stood frozen, watching the chaos unfold. platforms crumbled and reformed, the ground bending and twisting under the dragon''s energy.

    lightning flashed across the distorted sky, casting eerie shadows over the land.

    farther away, near the port, citizens gathered in fear. they stared at the changing sky, their faces pale.

    the horizon was now a swirling mix of colors and shapes, impossible to understand. the cloudy sky was gone, replaced by a chaotic, shifting canvas.

    cassie and roger stood among the crowd. cassie''s hands were clenched tightly at her sides, her face etched with deep worry. roger rested a hand on her shoulder, his face grim. sear?h the n?vel(f)ire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    they didn''t speak, there were no words that could capture the dread they felt. the sight was beyond anything they could have imagined.

    parents clung to their children, shielding them as the winds grew stronger. the cries of frightened people were drowned out by the dragon''s power shaking the air.

    boats in the harbor rocked violently, the churning water mirroring the fractured sky above. the entire island seemed to hold its breath, trapped in the grip of the light dragon''s immense force.

    and above it all, kallistra stood unmoving, her smile unwavering as the dragon''s energy continued to pour into the world.

    the light dragon roared again, its power surging outward in brilliant waves that spread across the sky. it was the start of a new and terrifying era.

    eratz stood motionless, his gaze fixed on kallistra. his fists were clenched, his lightning aura flickering weakly around him as the sheer scale of what she was doing began to sink in.

    but it wasn''t her power that unsettled him the most... it was the feeling.

    a strange vibration pulsed through the air, a force that seemed to grow with every passing second.

    it wasn''t the light dragon; this was something else entirely. the vibration became stronger, sharper, cutting through the chaos like an ominous heartbeat, but a beat from a single direction, a beat with a gigantic size and terrifying speed.

    a gasp escaped his lips, and his eyes began to glow faintly with a deep purple hue.

    in a flash of lightning, eratz moved raijinara across the fractured battlefield, heading straight for victoria.

    she was atop her beast, her focus fixed on the chaos kallistra had unleashed.

    "move!" eratz shouted as he reached her.

    without waiting for her reaction, he grabbed her by the arm and yanked her off her flying beast.

    victoria struggled for a moment, her hair whipping in the wind.

    "what... what are you doing, eratz?! what''s going on?"

    "stay away from here," he said firmly, his voice sharp and urgent. "get everyone out of here. as far as you can."

    victoria stared at him, her usually calm demeanor cracking as she saw the purple glow in his eyes.

    "eratz, you..."

    "now!" eratz barked.

    kallistra, still channeling the light dragon''s immense power, was oblivious to the growing tension in the air.

    she stretched her arms wide, the golden energy swirling around her like a storm.

    "ah... i can''t wait to see every single one of... uh?" and then, she stopped.

    a gasp escaped her lips, she turned her head sharply, sensing it for the first time.

    from the distance, a streak of deep purple light tore through the air, moving with unrelenting speed. it struck the light dragon squarely, the impact sending shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.

    the light dragon roared in pain, its radiant form momentarily faltering as the beam of energy forced it to halt its reshaping.

    kallistra''s golden eyes widened in shock as she turned to face the source of the attack.

    "... what?!"

    the horizon trembled, the sky splitting apart as the source of the purple light came into view.

    its massive form emerged slowly, its scales as black as the void, glowing faintly with streaks of purple that pulsed like veins.

    the black dragon had returned.

    it let out a chilling roar that echoed across the battlefield, its deep, guttural cry sending shivers through everyone present.

    kallistra groaned, her golden eyes narrowing as she raised her arms, directing the light dragon to engage its dark nemesis.

    the light dragon responded, its massive form surging forward with a burst of radiant energy.

    a beam of searing light erupted from its maw, colliding with the black dragon''s counterattack, a torrent of deep purple energy.

    the clash created devastating blasts of energy, rippling through the battlefield and shaking

    the very air.

    debris and fragments of platforms were blown away, the chaotic landscape becoming even more unstable.

    as the dragons battled, the light dragon''s focus on reshaping the world faltered. its radiant influence over the distorted sky and land waned, the rift in the heavens pulsing unevenly.

    kallistra flinched, realizing the shift.

    she had already opened the door, she couldn''t allow a delay, not now, not after already

    winning.

    she clenched her fists, golden energy surging around her as she channeled more power into the light dragon to maintain its grip on the world''s balance.

    meanwhile, eratz made his way with victoria toward mercury and colin, who stood together

    on a trembling platform.

    their eyes widened in shock as the dragons'' clash unfolded.

    "what... what do we do now?" colin asked, her voice trembling as she clung tightly to

    mercury.

    mercury''s usual confidence was shaken. she stared at the chaotic battle above, her mouth opening and closing before she finally looked at eratz.

    "what are we supposed to do? run away?"

    eratz''s gaze didn''t leave the clashing dragons.

    "yes," he said firmly. "you should have all left long ago. there''s nothing you can do here at

    this point."

    mercury frowned, her eyes narrowing.

    "and you? why do you always talk like this?" she asked, her voice soft but tinged with

    frustration. "why do you try to play the hero? why do you act like you have to do everything

    alone?"

    eratz sighed and turned to face her, his expression serious.

    "this isn''t about being a hero," he replied. "there are two reasons i''m staying. first,

    kallistra is too dangerous to be left alone with a legendary beast. if i run too, it will be over, just like victoria said. she''ll hold all the power. if kallistra decides to bomb the world, no one can stop her. it''s stupid, but i can''t take that risk, especially since i have a way to prevent it." mercury''s frustration deepened, her voice trembling as she pressed him.

    "then let us help you! you''re asking us to leave, but it''s worse and selfish to ask me to just run. we''re supposed to be together. we''re supposed to be a duo..."

    her voice faltered, but eratz stepped closer, his tone softer now. "merc, i''m not planning on leaving you alone anytime soon, or long. from what i''ve seen, kallistra won''t try anything serious against me, so consider that no matter what, i''ll stay alive. that''s why i''m so stubborn now," he said, a hand on her shoulder. "and that''s why i need all of you to leave. i''m getting close to something, and..."

    before he could finish, a presence interrupted them.

    tamara arrived, stepping onto the platform heavily. her fiery draconic form exuded tension

    as she scanned eratz, her sharp gaze narrowing on his glowing purple eyes.

    "eratz," she said cautiously. "your eyes..."

    eratz shook his head, cutting her off before she could continue.

    "yes... but not yet," he said firmly. his eyes flickered toward the black dragon as it roared

    again, his expression hardening. "but i could feel it coming."

    the group exchanged uneasy glances. victoria turned to tamara, her voice hesitant.

    "do you think... eratz is..."

    tamara folded her arms, her jaw tightening as her eyes remained on him.

    "yes. maybe this is what''s happening."

    eratz nodded slowly, his glowing purple eyes fixed on the battle above. the dragons clashed

    with unrelenting force, their powers tearing through the distorted sky.

    he turned back to colin, his tone now calm but commanding. "colin, heal rex. his power is the best to get everyone away. you guys use whatever means

    you can to get everyone off this island."

    colin hesitated but nodded, mercury opened her mouth to protest again, but eratz raised a

    hand.

    "if i can pull this off... there won''t be any tragedy."

    for a moment, silence fell over the group, the only sound the distant roars of the dragons

    clashing above.

    tamara''s sharp eyes softened slightly, her expression conflicted as she crossed her arms and

    looked away.

    mercury''s hands tightened into fists, her lips pressed into a thin line, but she said nothing,

    her gaze locked on eratz as if trying to read his resolve.

    victoria stood stiffly, her hands gripping the edges of her cloak, her worried eyes darting between eratz and the ongoing battle.

    the weight of his words hung heavy over all of them, unspoken fears etched into their faces.

    back above, kallistra took the lead. her control over the light dragon sharpened, and with a gesture, she combined its radiant power with the gravity of star eater.

    the two forces worked together, pulling the black dragon into a relentless barrage of light

    and crushing weight.

    the black dragon roared in defiance, but it struggled under the overwhelming assault.

    everything was perfect, for a moment, a new through crossed her mind. if she could defeat the black dragon, maybe she could assimilate it too?

    the thought was so exciting that she could feel it splitting her face in two... until she realized

    it wasn''t a feeling.

    a crack formed on kallistra''s face, spreading rapidly across her radiant features.

    her eyes widened in shock just as an explosion of energy erupted from her. golden light shot

    into the air, spiraling upward in a chaotic burst.

    the spiral twisted and expanded, forming a massive cloud of radiant energy above her, like a

    celestial storm of power.

    kallistra screamed, her voice a mix of stupor and surprise as she fought to contain the

    eruption.

    the battlefield was bathed in golden light, the force of the explosion shaking everyone to their core.

    even the dragons paused momentarily, their focus shifting to the spiraling storm above. as the golden blast finally subsided, the battlefield descended into an eerie stillness. kallistra''s radiant form faltered, and she began to fall into the void below. her body trembled

    as she struggled to regain control, barely summoning her dimensional power in time to teleport herself onto a nearby platform.

    she landed heavily, her legs nearly buckling beneath her.

    her glowing eyes opened, flickering, and her trembling hands shot to her face, gripping it tightly as if to hold herself together.

    "what... is... this?" she gasped, her voice strained and broken.

    veins bulged along her temples, glowing faintly with the golden light of the dragon''s power. the pressure in her head felt unbearable, as though it might split open at any moment.

    she couldn''t understand what was happening. the power that had felt so absolute, so perfect,

    now threatened to consume her.

    every time she tried to control it, white cracks of energy erupted across her body, fracturing her composure further.

    kallistra screamed, a raw and desperate sound, as another burst of energy cracked through her

    form.

    her strength diminished greatly, her overwhelming aura dimming like a dying star. she

    dropped to her knees, gasping for air, her body shaking as dizziness and pain overwhelmed her senses.

    her burning eyes darted frantically as she struggled to comprehend.

    "the power of the dragon..." she whispered hoarsely, but before she could finish her thought,

    a loud thud echoed in front of her.

    startled, she flinched and looked up, her glowing eyes locking onto a figure standing before

    her: eratz.

 Chapter 284: The Beast and The Alpha

    chapter 284: the beast and the alphaeratz stood before kallistra, tension hanging heavy in the air between them.

    her body trembled visibly, her glowing eyes shifting erratically between white and green, mirroring the cracks spreading across her face.

    once radiant and imposing, she now appeared fragile, her golden aura flickering like a candle struggling against the wind. s§×ar?h the n?vel(f)ire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "you..." she hissed, her voice trembling as she pointed a shaking finger at eratz. "why... why are you still here?"

    eratz met her gaze.

    "because we have unfinished business."

    kallistra''s jaw tightened, her teeth grinding audibly. her hands clenched into fists as she fought to steady herself, but another crack spread across her face, a jagged line glowing faintly with the golden light of the dragon''s power.

    she stumbled slightly but caught herself, her voice sharp and defiant.

    "you''re only standing... because i chose not to kill anyone," she spat, her tone cracking under the weight of her struggle. "i''ve already done what i planned. you can''t stop me now."

    eratz straightened his pose, his red eyes narrowing as a faint purple glow emanated from them.

    "when you want to do something, you have to see it through to the end. you have too many enemies, kallistra, and you haven''t gotten rid of them. and now you''re vulnerable."

    kallistra''s teeth clenched tighter, and her golden aura flared violently around her. she let out a guttural scream, summoning every ounce of her remaining strength.

    "you... insolent pest!"

    eratz responded in kind, his own aura erupting in a surge of crackling energy. the two forces collided with a deafening roar, sending shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.

    the sky above shifted wildly, its hues twisting and fracturing under the relentless pressure of kallistra''s crumbling grip on her power and the ferocious clash between the dragons.

    each shift was a chaotic dance of black and gold, as though the fabric of reality itself was being torn apart, unable to withstand the strain of all these combined energies.

    most of the fighters had gathered on a nearby platform, their gazes fixed on the unfolding battle. the tension was palpable, and their expressions mixed fear, awe, and uncertainty.

    rex sat hunched over, his body trembling as colin''s healing flames enveloped him. the gentle fire danced along his wounds, its warmth soothing yet his breaths were shallow, his body flinching at the faintest flicker of the flame.

    arin knelt before him, her hands gently holding his trembling ones, her voice soft and reassuring.

    "it doesn''t hurt, rex," she murmured, her tone calm yet firm. "just breathe. her flames are helping you recover. you''ll be okay."

    rex''s eyes darted to her face, searching for reassurance, his own filled with unease.

    "it... it feels... like it''s burning," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

    beside them, colin''s hands trembled as she focused on maintaining the flames, her wide eyes filled with concern.

    she glanced briefly at the distant battle, worry etched into her face.

    victoria, standing among the group, surveyed the fighters with a worried expression.

    "we need to move. use your lightning beastifications to increase your speed. we have to reach the citizens and get them away until it gets better."

    tamara stood at the edge of the platform, her draconic form outlined against the distorted horizon. her sharp gaze swept over the chaos, her voice steady but tinged with urgency.

    "forget getting better. use your largest beasts to get the citizens out of here. the island is doomed."

    her words drew startled glances from the others. mercury''s jaw tightened.

    "what do you mean, doomed?"

    tamara didn''t turn, her eyes fixed on the horizon.

    "star eater has fused with the island. its energy is everywhere. the moment kallistra will lose control, the land will fall with it." she paused, her voice dropping to a quieter tone. "my pals are among the citizens. i hope they''ve already started evacuating them."

    the group exchanged uneasy glances, their worry evident. she finally turned to face them, her fiery eyes resolute.

    "leave now. prioritize the citizens. use every beast you have. our only job now is to ensure they live."

    her dragon descended to the platform, its massive form settling beneath them. tamara climbed onto its back, her posture tense but composed. she looked back at the group, her fiery aura flickering faintly.

    "each of you is in good shape. that means you''re not the priority. get to work."

    for a moment, silence hung over the group. then, one by one, they nodded, their expressions hardening with resolve. the tension was heavy, but tamara''s words had struck a chord.

    there was no time for hesitation.

    as the fighters began to summon their beasts, hesitation rippled through the group like the trembling sky above them.

    some glanced back toward the chaos of the battlefield, their eyes lingering on the figure of eratz left alone against kallistra.

    mercury, atop zephyraquiel, looked down at the others, her face etched with conflict. her grip tightened on the back of her beast, her knuckles trembling as her gaze flicked toward the distant platforms where eratz and kallistra clashed.

    her voice was low, almost a whisper.

    "i don''t care if you always win..." she murmured. "once everyone is safe, i''m coming back."

    one by one, the fighters summoned their beasts, their expressions hardening as they prepared to carry out the evacuation.

    the clash between eratz and kallistra raged on, reshaping the battlefield with every strike.

    kallistra''s form flickered, her glowing eyes darting between white and green as she hugged herself tightly. her golden aura sputtered i waves, a shadow of the overwh

    presence i

    once was.

    "leave me alone!" she screamed, her voice cracked and desperate.

    energy surged around her as if the world itself bent to her will. yet, fractures crawled across her face and arms, light spilling through the cracks like a shattered porcelain figure barely

    holding together.

    eratz summoned cinderblaze and the thunder lycaon.

    the beasts moved with blinding speed, their fiery and electric attacks weaving around

    kallistra in a relentless assault.

    fire danced around her, lightning cracked through the air, and for a moment, she struggled to follow their rapid movements.

    each strike forced her to retreat, her body swaying as she barely deflected their attacks.

    "enough!" she roared, her body convulsing as she unleashed a titanic wave of energy.

    the blast vaporized the thunder lycaon instantly, its form dissolving into flickering sparks. cinderblaze was hurled backward, its flames snuffed out temporarily by the sheer force of the attack.

    but for eratz, this blast was an opening. he lunged through the chaos, passing through the energy like water.

    his fist glowed with raw power as he struck from the side, aiming squarely at kallistra''s fractured face.

    but the blow passed through a rift she opened at the last moment, redirecting the force.

    kallistra twisted unnaturally, unleashing another blast that sent eratz hurtling backward. her hands trembled, her aura flaring violently. she tried to steady herself, but a thunderous roar from above made her flinch.

    a colossal bolt of lightning fell on her, shattering the platform she stood on.

    as she fell, she caught sight of raijinara diving straight toward her, its wings sparking with

    electric energy.

    "no!" kallistra cried out, summoning a gravity pull to push the beast away.

    but in that moment of distraction, eratz appeared next to her, his hand charged with pure

    energy.

    he delivered a spinning punch... or so she thought. he paused mid-strike, anticipating the rift she was about to create.

    kallistra''s eyes widened in shock, her movement faltering, and another bolt of lightning

    struck her, sending her reeling.

    she emerged from another rift, her body in shambles, her aura flickering dangerously.

    "why?" she gasped, clutching at the cracks spreading across her body. "why can''t i... why

    can''t i destroy you?!"

    eratz didn''t answer. flying backward, he summoned the aetheri, its telekinetic abilities creating a web of platforms around them.

    kallistra screamed in frustration, destroying each one with surges of golden light.

    shockwaves rippled across the battlefield as the platforms disintegrated, but eratz was

    already upon her again, striking her squarely in the face.

    the cracks deepened, light spilling out like a torrent. "stop!" kallistra roared, unleashing a devastating beam of energy.

    eratz dodged narrowly, the beam streaking past him and carving through the horizon.

    she tried to redirect it, moving the attack in a wide arc, but eratz flew away, evading her

    desperate strikes.

    the beam''s path cut through mountains, triggering massive explosions that spread across the

    landscape.

    her attacks became increasingly erratic, each one showing her growing desperation.

    her aura flared one last time as she gathered every ounce of her remaining strength.

    she raised her hands above her head, a swirling orb of light forming between them. the orb expanded rapidly, vibrating with terrifying intensity.

    "i''m really going to kill you if you keep fighting!" she screamed, hurling the orb toward eratz.

    the attack was cataclysmic, a blinding wave of light engulfing everything in its path. platforms disintegrated, mountains crumbled, and the ground shook violently as the wave

    reached eratz.

    but then, a strange phenomenon occured. kallistra''s eyes widened as the light consumed him.

    she screamed, her voice cracking with panic.

    "no! dodge it, you idiot!"

    but it was too late. the energy spread, swallowing eratz completely. the explosion razed

    everything, its force felt far beyond the battlefield.

    yet, as the blinding light reached its peak, it began to recoil. the energy swirled on itself,

    converging to a single point.

    the battlefield held its breath as the light condensed into a brilliant sphere. from within it, a

    figure emerged. kallistra froze, her body trembling as despair washed over her. eratz floated without his

    sparkling wings, his eyes burning with an intense purple glow, the energy gathering on his

    fist.

    the swirling energy around him coalesced, radiating a different kind of energy than usual.

    "this... this makes no sense," kallistra stammered, her voice trembling. "how... what are you? you''re not human..."

    eratz''s gaze locked onto hers, unyielding.

    "that''s ironic coming from you," he said calmly, raising his hand as the energy converged

    into his fist. his irises glowed a vivid purple.

    "like you said yourself before," he continued, his voice steady and resolute. "it''s something you''re very familiar with: a beastification."

 Chapter 285: Heart of Darkness

    chapter 285: heart of darknessthe event began from the moment eratz and kallistra initiated their last clash. eratz could feel a shift inside him.

    his body felt lighter, almost weightless, as though gravity had let go. every move came naturally, flowing as if he were part of the air itself. for the first time, his mind felt faster than the chaos surrounding him.

    he didn''t just see everything, he felt it. kallistra trembling before him, the dragons circling above, and beneath the ground, star eater, its void-like energy sluggish and disconnected.

    everything, every pulse, every presence, was alive in his senses. he could feel it all: the emotions, the energy.

    the dragons were evenly matched, their power locked in a fragile balance, which kept kallistra from fully controlling the light dragon''s immense energy.

    meanwhile, star eater''s energy felt dormant, almost frozen. kallistra''s hold was slipping. she was carrying too much power, the light dragon, star eater, and the effort to reshape the world.

    the strain was tearing her apart. maybe it was the pressure of a legendary beast? or was it this moment when she used its power to change the world?

    something definitely broke the balance in her, and now she was self-destructing. her body, already cracked and glowing, couldn''t handle the forces she wielded.

    eratz''s eyes flared with a glowing purple light, his heightened awareness sharpening every thought. the battlefield seemed to unfold before him like a map, each flaw in kallistra''s defenses laid bare.

    he saw her energy unraveling, her strength crumbling. there was a path to victory. it wouldn''t be easy, but he knew he could do it. he had to.

    back in the present moment, kallistra clutched at her sides, her entire body trembling. the fractures on her skin glowed brighter, her glowing eyes, shifting between white and green, darted around in desperation.

    eratz stood tall, his body surrounded by an intense purple aura that flared outward like a storm. his gaze burned with intensity, and his voice cut through the chaos.

    "this end now," he declared.

    eratz unleashed this new aura. the purple energy erupted like an explosion, surging upward in a massive wave. it lit up the battlefield with an eerie glow, the intensity shaking the very air.

    above, the black dragon''s eyes flared brightly. its massive form tensed as a similar purple energy glowed around it. then, it let out a bone-chilling roar, a primal, echoing sound that seemed to pierce through the sky and the earth alike.

    in other parts of the island, the beast masters rushing to evacuate the citizens stopped in their tracks. the roar pierced through the air, sending shivers down their spines.

    each one froze, their gazes instinctively drawn back toward the source of the terrifying sound. fear tightened their expressions, and the weight of uncertainty pressed down on them.

    mercury, atop zephyraquiel, murmured under her breath, her voice trembling.

    "eratz..." her grip on the mane tightened as she stared into the distance, her heart pounding with worry.

    tamara stood nearby, her fiery aura flickering unevenly as her wide eyes shook with visible tension. she bit her lip, struggling to maintain her composure, but her trembling hands betrayed her.

    victoria''s voice broke the silence, snapping her out of her daze.

    "tamara," victoria called softly.

    tamara turned to her, their eyes meeting. the shared worry between them was unmistakable.

    neither spoke, but the silence was heavy with the unasked questions: "who will stand at the end?" "what will be the fate of the loser?"

    meanwhile, near the shores, the citizens were being evacuated in a frantic but organized effort. world star members worked tirelessly, guiding groups onto flying beasts or aquatic beasts that floated steadily on the water''s surface.

    the roar had reached them too, its echoing force causing the evacuees to glance back at the island, their faces pale with fear.

    under star eater''s influence, the island itself seemed alive, trembling and shifting as though it were a living creature, and now on top of the beasts, it was easier to see this living horror.

    the ground quaked and rippled unnaturally, threatening the buildings. the citizens clung tightly to their makeshift transports, their eyes wide with terror as they watched the island twist and shudder.

    "what kind of monster can cause this?" braun muttered, his voice barely audible over the chaos.

    his brow furrowed deeply as he tightened his grip on the reins of his beast. moses, standing beside him on a massive aquatic creature, glanced toward the trembling island, his face pale but composed. sea??h th§× novel(f~)ire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "it looks like... the star crusher''s work," he said quietly, his words heavy with disbelief. braun turned to him sharply.

    "the star crusher? if it is, then we''ll need a big explanation from ma''am when this is all over."

    the two exchanged uneasy looks before turning their attention back to the task at hand. the citizens'' safety was their priority, but the unsettling thought of what lay behind them lingered heavily in their minds.

    above, the skies continued to fracture, the light and shadow painting the horizon in chaotic patterns. back on the battlefield, the chaotic roar of the black dragon subsided, leaving only the heavy silence of anticipation.

    its dark form ascended above the battlefield, wings stretching wide as its eyes burned with a deep, purple glow. the oppressive atmosphere shifted, focusing entirely on the purple sphere

    below.

    from the sphere, eratz emerged. his purple aura now stabilized into a radiant yet ominous glow. his appearance had changed: his hair, now black as the void, was streaked with glowing purple lines that pulsed faintly across his body.

    his red ishtarian eyes gleamed now with a deep purple color. kallistra trembled, her knees buckling as she stared at him with wide, disbelieving eyes.

    she clutched her arms tightly, her entire body shaking as she watched eratz''s transformation unfold before her.

    eratz slowly raised his hands, gazing at his palms as if seeing them for the first time. he flexed his fingers, feeling the raw energy coursing through him, then turned his gaze upward.

    his eyes locked onto the black dragon hovering above, its massive form illuminated by the fractured sky. the world seemed to hold its breath as the two stared at each other.

    [name: nythra

    affinity: darkness

    rank: legendary

    abilities: ----]

    eratz smiled softly, a serene expression amidst the chaos.

    despite all his training and newfound power, he realized with awe that he was still too weak

    to see the full stats of a legendary beast like nythra.

    the vastness of the world stretched before him, reminding him of how much there was yet to learn and conquer.

    instead of frustration, the realization filled him with exhilaration. he liked it, this endless challenge, this infinite horizon.

    he stared at nythra, the embodiment of ambition and darkness, a legend made flesh. for a moment, the battlefield faded away.

    it was just the two of them, connected by something far deeper than words. the dragon stared back, its piercing gaze unwavering.

    eratz could feel it, a deep connection that resonated through every fiber of his being. their

    hearts seemed to beat as one, their will entwined.

    nythra''s immense presence felt neither hostile nor kind. it was assessing him, communicating without words, as though sharing a thousand thoughts at once.

    images flashed in eratz''s mind, moments of his past, his struggles, his victories, his darkest desires. he saw himself as he was at the beginning: a young man driven by vengeance and

    ambition.

    the first emotions that pushed him forward, the choices that led him here, all of it tied to the essence of the dragon before him. eratz closed his eyes, taking a steady breath.

    "it''s no coincidence we''re linked," he said quietly, his voice firm yet calm. "if everything i have now means that i''m evil, then i''ll gladly embrace it."

    nythra didn''t respond, not with words or sounds. but eratz felt it, a deep pulse as if the

    dragon''s heartbeat echoed within him.

    it was an acknowledgment, a silent agreement between two kindred spirits. eratz opened his eyes, now glowing with renewed intensity.

    he turned his gaze to kallistra, who remained frozen, her body trembling under the weight of his aura. a faint smile played on his lips as he addressed her.

    "kallistra," he began, his tone steady but powerful. "i believe that not finishing an enemy

    when you can is the biggest error," he raised his hand, purple energy spiraling around it. "but now i understand why you were so confident."

    his aura erupted outward in a burst of energy, surging with unrelenting force. nythra roared, a chilling sound that shook the battlefield and sent ripples of dread through the air.

 Chapter 287: A World Forever Changed

    Chapter 287: A World Forever ChangedThe effects of Kallistra''s defeat spread all around the island.

    Star Eater began to crumble. Its void-like energy now faltered, its form disintegrating into shimmering fragments.

    As its massive body fell apart, the ground mixed with it quaked violently. The entire island groaned as if in pain, its foundations fracturing under the sudden release of energy.

    Buildings shook and collapsed, their sturdy structures reduced to rubble. The island''s forests burned in patches, their flames struggling against the choking clouds of dust that filled the air.

    Entire sections of the land broke off, plunging into the turbulent sea below. The majestic landscape of Solaris Haven, twisted by Kallistra''s alterations and the dragons'' rampage, now disintegrated in the wake of Star Eater''s demise.

    The sky itself seemed to collapse as the hues of the clash between light and shadow dissolved. The fractured heavens, torn apart by the battle''s intensity, began to repair themselves, leaving streaks of unnatural light that rippled across the atmosphere.

    The remnants of the field spell, swirling with chaotic energy, faded away, leaving behind a vast start sky.

    Out on the water, dozens of boats rocked violently as the waves responded to the chaos. The air was thick with an eerie stillness, broken only by the distant sounds of destruction. On one of the boats, Cassie suddenly clutched her chest, her breathing shallow and rapid. Her hands trembled as she gripped the edge of the boat, her wide eyes fixed on the collapsing island.

    "No...no... they''re still there! Colin, Eratz, Mercury!" she cried out, her voice cracking with panic.

    Her legs buckled, and she nearly collapsed if not for Roger catching her.

    "Cassie, stay calm," Roger said firmly, though his own voice was tight with tension. "We''ll find them. They''ll be fine."

    "We''ll find them how?!" Cassie shouted, tears pearling in her eyes. "They''re still there, Roger! We have to go back! We can''t leave them!"

    Roger''s grip tightened on her shoulders.

    "Cassie, listen to me! We have to trust them. This is all we can do."

    Around them, voices began to rise. People on the boats and beasts were shouting, their fear and confusion bubbling over.

    "What''s happening to the island?"

    "Is it collapsing? What''s going on?!"

    "Are we safe here?"

    The mix of anger, panic, and despair was palpable. Parents clutched their children tightly, shielding them from the sight of the island''s destruction.

    Some beast masters tried to calm their mounts, which bucked and flared their wings or tails in distress.

    The crumbling island continued its descent into chaos, with massive chunks of earth collapsing into the sea and tremors splitting the land apart.

    Star Eater''s disintegration left a void that the island couldn''t sustain, its fusion with the land now unraveling in a catastrophic chain reaction.

    The sky above had begun to stabilize, but below, the island was dying.

    On the waters, citizens on beasts and boats watched in stunned silence, their gazes fixed on the decaying landmass.

    Many had tears streaking their faces, while others clung tightly to each other, murmuring prayers or staring in frozen disbelief.

    Then, a shadow grew wider in the horizon. The sound of beating wings filled the air, drawing everyone''s attention upward.

    Tamara''s dragon appeared, its massive form blotting out the fragmented light as it glided gracefully toward the water.

    Behind it, other fighters appeared, flying on their beasts, their figures silhouetted against the spectacle of the starry sky.

    Zara''s head snapped up, her wide eyes filling with tears of joy.

    "They''re here! They''re all here!"

    Among the public, Roger''s hand tightened on Cassie''s shoulder, his voice urgent.

    "Look! Cassie, they''re here!"

    Cassie''s eyes followed his gaze, scanning the sky until she saw them. On Zephyraquiel, she could make out Colin and Mercury, flying together.

    Tears streamed down her face, and she called out to them, though her voice was lost in the sea of people.

    "Colin! Mercury! Over here!"

    Above, Mercury glanced back at the collapsing island. The sea had begun its work, swallowing the remains of the landmass.

    Her face was calm, but her eyes betrayed her worry. The historical land was becoming nothing more than a watery grave.

    Suddenly, a voice called out from above. Arvad flew toward the group with Braun, Moses, and Rylas following closely behind.

    "Rex!" Arvad called, his tone urgent. "What''s going on? What''s the situation?"

    Rex hesitated, his face tight with uncertainty.

    "We don''t know. We left Eratz and Kallistra behind. Tamara and Victoria have decided to go

    back, so we... we can''t say exactly what''s happening."

    The World Star members exchanged uneasy glances. Moses frowned deeply.

    "Ma''am did what?"

    Further back, Kaida rode atop her dragon, flanked by a few members of Azure Blades and Iris

    from Infinite Twilight.

    She looked over her shoulder at the island, with an expression of worry.

    "It looks like it''s over," she said quietly. "The dragons aren''t roaring anymore."

    Iris exhaled sharply, folding her arms.

    "It''s over now, yes, but if we go back, it''ll definitely start again. We should... we should just

    run away."

    Kaida''s fiery temper flared, her eyes blazing as she turned to Iris.

    "Are you serious? You want to abandon the people who risked their lives for us?"

    Iris groaned, throwing her hands up.

    "And what exactly are we supposed to do if we go back? The whole point of this operation was to save the citizens. The Queen is already there. What are we going to do, get in the way?"

    The tension between them mounted as Kaida took a step forward, her fists clenched.

    The fighters of Blazing Horizons moved quickly to separate the two, holding Kaida back before she could commit the first murder of the day.

    On Zephyraquiel, Colin hesitated, her voice small as she looked up at Mercury.

    "What should we do?"

    Mercury didn''t answer right away. Her gaze remained fixed on the horizon, where the sea continued to consume the island.

    The weight of the moment pressed down on her. Finally, she sighed and turned to Colin, her expression softening.

    "What to do? I don''t know," she admitted. "I''m not objective right now, so I can''t say. But you, Colin... What do you think? What do you want to do?"

    Colin''s eyes widened slightly, and she hesitated. Then, trembling softly, she leaned against

    Mercury, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "I just want to be with everyone again."

    Mercury smiled gently, rubbing Colin''s head.

    "Yeah. That''s a good idea. Let''s gather everyone."

    The sea moved with relentless assaults, inching forward and devouring the crumbling island.

    Solaris Haven was reduced to fragments and dust that the waves hungrily swallowed.

    What remained of the land was jagged and broken, the edges falling away in great chunks that splashed violently into the ocean.

    Above it, on one of the last standing peak of the island, Eratz sat cross-legged, gazing down

    at the destruction.

    His expression was distant, almost absentminded, as if the sight before him was

    insignificant.

    The sea churned, swallowing what little remained of the land, while the stars above cast a

    faint glow on the ruin below.

    Behind him, Kallistra lay on her back, her arms sprawled out as she stared at the starry sky.

    Her body was still, her chest rising and falling in shallow breaths.

    Eratz slightly raised his head and murmured.

    "Ah, there they are."

    From above, the sound of beating wings drew closer. Tamara descended, still in her

    beastification, holding Victoria tightly.

    As they neared the peak, their eyes immediately locked onto Eratz.

    "Eratz!" Victoria''s voice was sharp, filled with both relief and concern.

    Eratz sighed as they landed.

    "Right on time," he said.

    Tamara released Victoria, and both women stepped toward him. As they drew closer, their

    eyes widened in shock.

    Eratz''s appearance had changed. His white hair was now jet-black, streaked with faint,

    glowing purple lines that coursed across his body.

    His eyes now burned with a deep purple.

    "Eratz... you..." Tamara''s voice faltered as she took in his beastification and it''s origin. "So

    you did it."

    Eratz nodded, his gaze shifting upward. The air above them grew heavier as a massive shadow emerged from behind the mountain peak.

    Nythra, the black dragon, unfurled its wings and soared overhead, its enormous form blotting

    out the stars.

    Victoria and Tamara both froze, their breath catching in their throats.

    "You really managed to tame it," Tamara whispered, her voice laced with awe and disbelief.

    Eratz stood, brushing off his pants as he looked at the dragon.

    "Tame is a strong word," he said, his tone thoughtful. "I''d call it... a partnership. Surprisingly, it was easier to reach an understanding with Nythra than with my Terrakrus." He paused, his gaze softening. "But it doesn''t feel like the same thing."

    Victoria and Tamara exchanged a glance, their expressions shifting from shock to cautious

    relief.

    "Eratz," Victoria murmured, her eyes flicking between him and the dragon. "You... you

    really... You''re really..."

    Tamara stepped closer, studying him with an intensity that made him tilt his head.

    "You... you look different," she said softly. "Your presence... it''s unique. This isn''t what I''m used to seeing. You''re..." She hesitated, her voice dropping to a whisper. "You''re really the one I''ve been waiting to see. You''re... invincible."

    Eratz chuckled, shaking his head. "Invincible? Hardly. If I was invincible, it''d be a problem. There are people I want to see defeat me someday." His gaze shifted to Nythra, who hovered

    silently above, its piercing eyes meeting his. "But this guy is so strong... maybe I won''t use him in battle. Maybe." He smiled faintly.

    Victoria and Tamara studied him, their expressions softening as they took in the man he had

    become.

    For a moment, neither spoke, both lost in the weight of the transformation they were

    witnessing.

    A soft chuckle broke the silence, making them flinch. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Magnificent power, isn''t it?"

    Both women''s heads snapped toward the sound. There, lying on the ground behind Eratz, was

    Kallistra.

    Her voice was gentle, almost playful, though her body was still weak. She didn''t move, her

    eyes fixed on the stars above.

    "Kallistra..." Victoria''s voice was a mix of shock and confusion. Her gaze darted to Eratz.

    "Why is she...?"

    Eratz raised a hand to calm them. "Relax," he said. "In her state, she couldn''t hurt an insect.

    The problem is... that''s only for now."

    Victoria and Tamara exchanged uneasy glances before slowly approaching their old friend. Kallistra''s faint laughter drifted through the air as they neared.

    "Don''t worry," Kallistra said softly. "Eratz is overestimating me. I''d never put myself in a

    position to antagonize him again. Never ever. Plus..." She paused, a faint smile crossing her lips. "I don''t need to."

    Tamara froze, her expression darkening. She turned to Eratz, her eyes questioning.

    Eratz looked up at the sky.

    "It''s too late," he said. "I can see them."

    "See what?" Victoria asked, her voice tense.

    "Threads of energy," Eratz explained. "The threads I could see before, what you call

    frequency. There''s a real web in the sky now. Countless of them. The outburst has already begun."

    Tamara''s eyes widened.

    "An outburst?... You mean... more Calamity beasts? New Primal beasts?"

    Eratz nodded slowly.

    "Not all are that strong, but the energy combinations are strange."

    Tamara''s voice grew sharper.

    "Can''t you use the dragon''s power to reverse it? Stop the outburst?"

    Eratz shook his head, his expression solemn.

    "It''s too risky now. I don''t fully understand Nythra''s power yet. If I try to stop it, I could destabilize things further. I might erase entire species by mistake. For now, we''ll have to observe. I''ll try in the meantime to improve and see if I can control this power more, but if the

    situation becomes unmanageable, then I''ll risk everything."

    Victoria and Tamara''s faces fell, their shoulders slumping as the weight of his words settled

    over them. The sadness in their eyes was unmistakable.

    Tamara''s voice was barely above a whisper. "After everything... how could we lose?"

    Victoria turned her gaze to the horizon, where the sea continued to claim the remains of the

    island. She murmured.

    "A world forever changed... and we''re left to pick up the pieces." Tamara''s fists clenched as she glared at Kallistra, her fiery eyes narrowing with rage.

    "How could you?" Tamara''s voice was sharp, cutting through the silence. "Do you have any

    idea what you''ve done? How many lives you''ve endangered? How many people could be in danger because of you?"

    Kallistra, still lying on her back, chuckled faintly. Her eyes remained fixed on the starry sky, as though Tamara''s anger was nothing more than a passing breeze.

    Victoria stepped forward, her expression unreadable, though her trembling hands betrayed

    her emotions.

    She stopped just short of Kallistra and crouched down slightly, looking at her old friend with a

    mix of sadness and disbelief.

    "Kallistra..." Victoria''s voice was softer but laced with a deep hurt. "Why? Why would you do something so horrible? I want to understand. Please, tell me... Why?"

    For a moment, Kallistra didn''t respond. She continued to stare at the vast expanse above, her

    glowing eyes tracing the threads of energy that danced across the heavens. Then, she let out a soft sigh, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Why?" Kallistra repeated, her tone almost wistful. "Because I wanted to make the world

    more beautiful."

    Tamara''s anger flared even further.

    "Beautiful? You call this destruction beautiful?! Do you even hear yourself?" Kallistra slowly turned her head to glance at Tamara, her expression serene yet distant.

    "Yes, I do. And maybe you''ll never understand because you''re not like me. You''re not... normal." Tamara blinked, her fury giving way to confusion. Kallistra chuckled softly, almost sadly, before continuing.

    "You''re a monster, Tammy. An unstoppable force. Someone who''s always been strong.

    Someone who''s always stood out. And Eratz?" Her gaze shifted to the black dragon hovering in the distance. "He''s even worse. He''s a real anomaly, and he''s untouchable now." Kallistra paused, her smile fading as her eyes returned to the sky.

    "But me? I was just... normal. Ordinary. There was nothing special about me. No power, no

    unique talents. Nothing to make me stand out. Until... you gave me this chance, Tammy." Tamara flinched, her frown deepening as she took a step back. Kallistra''s smile returned, tinged with a bittersweet edge.

    "You gave me the key to a new world. You introduced me to this treasure, unique beasts. They

    became everything to me. I adore their unicity, how a single change in their nature can create

    something entirely new in me. They''re creatures of dreams and nightmares, of myths and legends. They changed my life, Tammy. They saved me." Her voice softened, her words flowing with a gentle passion.

    "I love them. The diversity, the thrill of hunting them, exploring uncharted lands, discovering abilities no one has ever seen before... It''s everything to me. It''s how I climbed out of my drowning, how I found something that made me feel alive."

    She raised her hand, her palm open as though she were trying to grasp the stars above.

    The light of the heavens reflected in her eyes, making them shimmer with an almost childlike

    wonder.

    "You can''t understand. None of you can," Kallistra said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Because you''ve never been the failure. You''ve never been the one with no power, no worth,

    no future. You''ve always been special. But me? I''m just the girl who found her salvation in the beasts someone better than me hunted."

    Victoria''s throat tightened, her hands trembling as she tried to process Kallistra''s words. "Kally..."

    Kallistra turned her gaze to Victoria, a faint smile on her lips.

    "It is true. And that''s why I did this. You three, you''re not so different from me. You believe in

    the importance of these beasts. You value their power, their uniqueness. And one day, you''ll

    start hunting them too, for any excuse you can find. I know you will. Because that''s who we are. That''s our essence. We''re beast masters."

    She laughed softly, a sound that was both light and heavy with meaning. "We''re all the same.

    The only difference between us is the team we chose to stand with." Kallistra''s hand lowered, her gaze returning to the stars. Her voice grew quieter, almost

    reverent.

    "I''m in love with the mysteries of this world. I did what I did... and I''ll never regret it."

 Chapter 288: The Birth of a Legend

    Chapter 288: The Birth of a LegendA massive rescue operation commenced in the aftermath of the catastrophic events at Solaris Haven.

    The combined efforts of rescue associations, challengers, and World Star members formed a coordinated response to the chaos.

    Every beast master involved played a crucial role, deploying their skills and beasts to stabilize the situation.

    From the sky, flying beasts ferried stranded citizens to safety, their riders maintaining calm and order amidst the panic.

    Aquatic beasts swam tirelessly, ferrying groups across turbulent waters to nearby rescue ships, ensuring no one was left behind.

    World Star members played a big role in organizing the evacuations alongside the local rescues. Their presence brought a sense of authority and control, calming the frantic crowd.

    Tamara''s dragon patrolled the skies, its massive form a reassuring sight, while Braun, Moses, and Rylas coordinated efforts on the water to direct boats and beasts in the right direction.

    Kaida, Kaelion, and other challengers moved among the evacuees, offering reassurance and guiding them to the safer beasts and vessels.

    The combined teamwork of these beast masters was a testament to the strength of unity in the face of adversity.

    As the rescue unfolded, moments of warmth and relief began to bloom amidst the chaos. Families, separated during the earlier disaster, were reunited in emotional embraces.

    Tears flowed freely as parents found their children, siblings reunited and loved ones clung to one another, overwhelmed with gratitude and joy. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Among the crowd, Cassie and Roger were finally reunited with Colin and Mercury. As soon as the two approached them, Cassie rushed toward Colin with tears streaming down her face.

    She hugged her daughter fiercely, holding her tightly as though she might disappear again. "I''m never letting go of you ever again," Cassie whispered, her voice shaking. Colin, though a little overwhelmed, hugged her back, smiling softly.

    "I''m alright, Mom. I''m sorry for worrying you," she said gently, though her voice cracked with emotion.

    Roger joined them, wrapping his arms around both Cassie and Colin in a protective embrace.

    "Don''t ever do that again, Colin," Roger murmured, his voice trembling as tears filled his eyes. "We thought we might never see you again. Every second without you... it was unbearable. Please, no matter what happens, just come back to us. We''ll always be here for you."

    Colin, though slightly squished in the hug, let out a soft, reassuring laugh.

    "Okay, okay, I''m really alright," she said.

    Nearby, Mercury watched the reunion with a smile, her heart lighter seeing them safe and together. But her moment of peace was interrupted by an excited voice calling her name.

    She turned just in time to see Milo running toward her at full speed before leaping straight into her arms.

    "Mercury!" Milo exclaimed, clinging to her tightly, his small frame shaking slightly.

    She stumbled slightly but caught him, her laugh catching in her throat as she held him close.

    "Milo," she said softly, her voice tinged with both relief and affection. "I''m so glad... You''re safe."

    Milo''s grip on her didn''t loosen, his face buried against her shoulder.

    "I was so scared," he admitted, his voice muffled. "I thought I would lose you..."

    Mercury tightened her hold, pressing her cheek against his hair.

    "I''m here," she murmured. "I''m not going anywhere, Milo. You''re safe now."

    The warmth of the moment wrapped around them as Cassie and Roger joined Mercury and Milo, forming a tight-knit family group. For a moment, the chaos of the world faded, replaced by laughter and relief.

    A little farther away, Zara scanned the crowd with wide eyes until she spotted the members of Golden Cosmos. With an audible gasp, she sprinted toward them and launched herself toward the group, her arms outstretched.

    "You''re all here!" she cried, her voice thick with emotion.

    Ryder and Kaida wisely dodged the missile, but Raya and Catarina weren''t as lucky, both crushed under Zara''s indiscriminate love.

    Raya gasped, tapping Zara''s back repeatedly in a futile plea for release, while Catarina let out a loud, exaggerated "Miew!" of protest, her cat-like tail flicking wildly as she squirmed against Zara''s grip.

    The warmth and joy of the reunions spread like ripples through the crowd. Even as the remains of Solaris Haven disappeared beneath the waves, the spirit of hope and unity shone brightly among everyone.

    For the first time since the disaster began, there was a sense that things might finally be okay. The air grew still, save for the soft whispers of the wind picking up speed. Slowly, the people on the boats and beasts froze, their gazes collectively drawn toward the island.

    Before them, Solaris Haven sank beneath the waves completely. The sea churned violently, sending massive waves rippling outward. The surface of the ocean glimmered faintly under the starlight, the remnants of the island swallowed into oblivion.

    Everyone watched, stunned and silent. The weight of the moment pressed down on them as if the world itself mourned the loss of such a historical and mythical place.

    Mercury stood rigid, her eyes fixed on the spot where the island had vanished. Her hands clenched into fists, her body trembling. Without warning, she began to move, her breath

    quickening.

    "Mercury, wait!" Roger called after her, but she didn''t stop. Her heart screamed at her to rush to where Eratz, Victoria, and Tamara had disappeared.

    Before she could take flight, a deafening roar split the air, freezing her and everyone else in their tracks. The sound was chilling, terrifying, and more than anything, it was a harbinger of

    death.

    All eyes turned skyward, wide with fear and awe, frozen in place.

    From the starry expanse above, a colossal dow escended, its for illumi I faintly by the stars'' light. The creature''s massive wings blotted out the stars as it glided downward with

    a grace that belied its size.

    As it drew closer, the details became clear: one of the dragons had returned.

    A wave of terror rippled through the crowd, leaving gasps and cries in its wake. Some instinctively backed away, trembling, while others clung to one another, their faces pale with

    dread.

    The dragon''s sheer presence was suffocating, exuding an aura of death that pressed down on everyone like an unrelenting weight.

    It circled above them once, its dark silhouette etched against the fractured night sky, casting a shadow of despair over all who looked up, before it began to descend, closer and more menacing with every heartbeat.

    As the dragon descended, shadows began to gather above it, swirling and coalescing into a dense mass. The energy pulsed and then erupted in a burst of brilliant purple light,

    momentarily blinding the onlookers.

    When the light faded, Eratz emerged, his body radiating with the same purple energy.

    He stood atop the dragon''s head, his jet-black hair streaked with glowing purple lines, and his eyes burning with an intensity that seemed to pierce through the air.

    In one hand, he held Kallistra, dangling limply like a bag under his arm, her energy visibly drained, though she was still alive.

    For a moment, no one spoke. The sheer power of Eratz''s presence, amplified by the legendary dragon hovering beneath him, rendered everyone speechless. The sight of the dragon''s piercing gaze and Eratz''s transformed state was both spectacular and terrifying.

    The crowd''s initial shock soon gave way to panic. Voices rose, people scrambling to calm their beasts, who were growing restless under the oppressive aura of the dragon.

    Fear spread like wildfire among the crowd. A legendary beast, a literal beast beyond reality, or rather at the origin, now loomed above them.

    "Everyone, calm down!" Arvad''s voice cut through the chaos as he and other World Star

    members moved swiftly to restore order.

    Moses and Rylas shouted directions, urging the beast masters to keep their mounts steady and reassuring the civilians.

    It took time, but the crowd slowly settled, though the fear in their eyes remained. The sheer presence of the dragon and Eratz was enough to leave them in awe and trepidation. Among the crowd, those who had been present when Eratz was left behind with Kallistra exchanged looks of disbelief, now realizing the miracle that had unfolded.

    Eratz hadn''t just survived. He had done the impossible, he had tamed the legendary beast of

    pure evilness.

    The gravity of the moment sank in. This wasn''t just a victory. This was history being written before their very eyes. The black dragon, the symbol of darkness, now flew under the

    command of a single beast master.

    And that beast master stood before them, transformed by the experience.

    For those present, this was the moment the world changed. Eratz had ascended to a new

    world. He wasn''t just a contender for greatness anymore; he was a legend in the making.

    In a way, this was the moment the world officially recognized Eratz as the top beast master. The crowd froze in stunned silence, their expressions oscillating between awe and disbelief. Among the challengers and World Star members, the shock was even deeper.

    Ryder''s voice broke the silence among the Cosmos, faint and tinged with awe.

    "He really did it," she whispered, her words heavy with disbelief.

    Zara, unable to process what she was seeing, would have fallen if it wasn''t for Raya and

    Catarina''s supporting her.

    Kaida''s eyes trembled, her lips twitching into an uncontrollable smile.

    "What the..." she muttered, shaking her head.

    Roger wrapped an arm around Cassie, who was trembling with emotion.

    "Our boy," Roger said quietly, his voice breaking. "Cassie... look... look what he''s doing..."

    Colin''s mouth fell open, her eyes shimmering with a mix of awe and overwhelming emotion. Mercury''s hands, which had been clenched tightly, slowly relaxed as her lips parted, a tremble running through her.

    She now stood motionless, gazing at Eratz with wide, unblinking eyes, as if he were the light that banished every shadow in her heart.

    The turmoil in her vanished completely, the man she was so worried about, her man, had defied the impossible and returned to her, not without accomplishing another miracle.

    A soft, relieved smile spread across her lips, delicate yet beautiful, reflecting the love and

    admiration she felt.

    Even the World Star members couldn''t hide their astonishment. After calming the crowd, Braun and Moses exchanged stunned glances, while Rylas whispered.

    "How? How could he tame that thing?"

    The black dragon''s massive presence still hung heavy over the boats and beasts, its dark energy seeping into the air.

 Chapter 289: Whats Left To Do?

    Chapter 289: What''s Left To Do?The rest of the night unfolded as Eratz was received like a hero by the crowd and his

    companions. Friends, family, and challengers alike gathered around him, their faces a mix of awe, relief, and admiration.

    Colin was the first to run to him, wrapping her arms tightly around his waist, Roger and Cassie quickly followed, tears streaking down their faces as they embraced him with a strength that nearly knocked him over.

    Mercury stood back for a moment, her eyes glistening with emotion. When their gazes met, she rushed to him, throwing her arms around his neck and burying her face in his chest, a soft smile of relief gracing her lips.

    The challengers and World Star members, too, crowded around, each taking a moment to congratulate him. Kaida gave him a hearty slap on the back, grinning ear to ear.

    "You''re insane, you know that? But damn, you''re the best."

    Ryder nodded, his usual carefree demeanor replaced with genuine respect. Zara, overwhelmed with emotion, crushed him in a hug, her tears soaking into his shirt.

    Even Tamara and Victoria, typically composed, couldn''t hide their pride.

    Tamara clapped him on the shoulder, her voice uncharacteristically soft.

    "You''ve done something no one else could. Don''t let anyone forget it," Tamara said, her voice carrying a rare softness. She then added with a faint smile, "You always had the talent, Eratz. But now, you have the strength. I''ll be waiting for you to come take my crown."

    Victoria simply smiled, her eyes saying everything her words didn''t.

    Hours later, as the first rays of dawn crept over the horizon, the sound of engines broke the relative quiet.

    Rescue operations had arrived at last.

    Boats and seaplanes began to approach, their silhouettes cutting through the golden light of the morning. The rescuers worked with precision, coordinating efforts to recover the citizens scattered across the water.

    People were lifted from boats and floating beasts, and carried onto larger vessels or into seaplanes. The process was meticulous but efficient, with each team ensuring no one was left behind.

    By midday, everyone had been safely evacuated, leaving the grave of Solaris Haven behind.

    In the days that followed, a thorough census was conducted. Miraculously, it was confirmed that no lives had been lost during the disaster.

    The news spread quickly, bringing a wave of relief to all who had feared the worst. Celebrations erupted in towns and cities, the people''s gratitude for the beast masters and rescue teams present in their cheers and festivities.

    But it wasn''t just the relief of survival that made this event significant.

    The footage of the two legendary dragons, captured by the drones has been watched by everyone. Experts and ordinary citizens alike were captivated by the sight of Nythra and the light dragon.

    The sheer scale of the event, combined with Eratz''s miracle of taming one of them marked a turning point for humanity.

    This was more than a disaster; it was a moment of evolution. The realization that such legendary beasts could exist and be tamed.

    While the existence of legendary beasts rippled across the world, reports of strange, new monsters began flooding in from various regions.

    These creatures, born from the outburst caused by Kallistra''s actions, signaled the dawn of a new era. An era where the proliferation of unique beasts inspired a surge of new beast masters, many were captivated by the finals and determined to try their luck in this changing world.

    However, the truth behind the event remained hidden, guarded deliberately by those who had witnessed its reality.

    In a quiet hospital room in Astoria, the members of the Cosmos were gathered alongside Tamara. Kallistra lay in a bed, unconscious since before the island of Solaris Haven sank into the sea.

    Her face was pale but serene, as if in a deep, dreamless sleep. Machines hummed softly around her, monitoring her vital signs. The room was filled with a tense silence, broken only by Tamara''s measured voice.

    "We need to decide what to do about her," Tamara began. "If the truth comes out, Kallistra will be arrested. But there''s a bigger issue. As the host of the light dragon, how could anyone hope to contain her? The shields they used for the final were destroyed by the dragons'' roars, so what jail could hold this thing?"

    The group exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of the situation pressing down on them. The notion of containing someone tied to such a force was both impractical and dangerous.

    Colin and Milo sat close to Mercury, while Kaida leaned back with her arms crossed.

    "So what do we do?" Ryder finally asked.

    Kaida''s eyes narrowed.

    "The only solution is obvious. She should have died back there."

    Victoria''s gaze immediately snapped to Kaida.

    "We don''t kill people. That''s not an option. Not for her, not for anyone."

    Kaida didn''t back down, her voice rising.

    "And what happens when she wakes up? We can''t control her, we can''t stop her, and we can''t lock her. So what do we do???"

    Victoria ignored the jab, her focus turning to Tamara.

    "What about the white orb? Couldn''t we find a way to separate her from the light dragon?"

    Tamara shook her head, her expression grim.

    "I don''t know how. The orb is supposed to be her now, by her own words. And the only one who might know is lying in that bed." She gestured to Kallistra, her voice heavy with frustration. "Until she wakes up, we''re in the dark. And if she wakes up, it''s over."

    The room fell into a tense silence, each member lost in thought. Eratz, back in his normal form, leaned against the wall with his arms crossed as he looked upward, his expression unreadable.

    "She''s a problem," Eratz said, at last. "But she made sure not to kill anyone. Is it really impossible to control understanding with her?"

    Tamara frowned deeply, shaking her head.

    "You''re underestimating the damage she''s already done. Even if she didn''t kill directly, her actions might. The outburst she caused, the beasts it unleashed, no one knows where this will

    lead."

    Eratz''s gaze dropped, his eyes meeting hers.

    "I have the power to reverse what she did. I''m just not doing it... Not yet at least."

    The room stiffened, everyone''s attention snapping at him. Mercury''s brow furrowed, her lips parting as if to speak, but she hesitated.

    "Why not?" Tamara demanded. "Do you need to understand everything just to try?"

    Eratz sighed.

    "Because I don''t feel like playing with the power of annihilation. Kallistra used the light dragon''s power the moment she got it, without mastering it. If I try to reverse her actions and mess it up, I could make things worse. And there''s another reason."

    He paused, his gaze drifting toward the window, where the first rays of dawn filtered through.

    "If I succeed, she''ll just try again. And then there won''t be any other option but to incapacitate her. Permanently."

    The weight of his words settled heavily in the room. No one spoke for a moment, the implications sinking in. Colin fidgeted nervously, her hands twisting in her lap. Finally, it was

    Raya who broke the silence, her soft voice cutting through the tension.

    "Isn''t there another way? Can''t this be solved by talking to her?" sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Eratz glanced at her, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

    "That''s exactly where I''m going with this. Instead of trying to play god and reshape the world

    again, let''s observe what happens. The world was already filled with Calamity beasts and other dangers. There were apparently Primal beasts, but the world was always standing. Who''s to say the outburst won''t settle into something manageable?"

    He pushed off the wall, his stance relaxed but his tone firm.

    "The first thing we should try is to wait and see. If things spiral out of control, then we act.

    But for now, let''s give the world a chance to adjust."

    Victoria exhaled slowly, her tension easing slightly as she nodded. Tamara, however, still looked unconvinced, her eyes narrowing as she studied him.

    "And what if you''re wrong?" she asked.

    Eratz met her gaze evenly.

    "Then I''ll fix it. I''m just trying to not accidentally push anything to extinction unless I have no

    other choice."

    The room remained quiet, each person lost in their thoughts. The stakes were higher than

    they''d ever faced, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead loomed over them like a shadow.

    But for now, Eratz''s decision was the only path forward. They would wait, watch, and prepare for whatever came next.

 Chapter 290: Beast Masters

    Chapter 290: Beast MastersAfter the catastrophic events at Solaris Haven, the League officials were left with a critical decision: how to conclude the team battle finals.

    The Cosmos team had been leading, with Infinite Twilight not far behind, but the circumstances of the battle, interrupted by legendary beasts, left the outcome unclear.

    Many suggested simply declaring the Cosmos as winners. After all, they had been ahead in points, and most fans and officials seemed content with this resolution. However, in a surprising turn of events, something shifted.

    Realizing that Leonidas was still at the helm of Infinite Twilight, Victoria, in a rare public statement, declared that her team would not accept a hollow victory.

    With the full support of her agents, she proposed a true final match, one fought in the traditional format, to properly crown the champions.

    This bold move reignited the world''s excitement, turning the upcoming match into an unparalleled spectacle. To everyone, it was another feat of Victoria''s fairness, while those around understood the only goal in mind: a public execution for Leonidas.

    The final became the center of global attention, with everyone desperate for a glimpse of the one name that now echoed across every corner of the world, Eratz.

    Eratz''s journey to the top was as meteoric as it was dominant. In his early matches, he was known as "The Flash," a title earned for his astonishingly swift victories, which left opponents stunned and crowds awestruck.

    As his battles continued, his sheer physical strength and relentless tactics saw him rebranded as "The Juggernaut," a fitting name for the crushing power he brought to every encounter.

    But Eratz''s rise didn''t stop there. As he faced and dominated some of the strongest challengers in the same league, maintaining an unbroken streak of victories, he became known as "The Apex Predator."

    This title reflected not only his mastery of beasts but also his ability to outthink, outmaneuver, and utterly overpower anyone who dared face him.

    Finally, after triumphing over every opponent and proving his unparalleled mastery of both combat and strategy, he earned the ultimate title: "The Pharaoh."

    A name that symbolized his reign over the battlefield, his control over the forces of nature, and his ability to bend even the strongest foes to his will.

    And now, Eratz had achieved something beyond. Taming Nythra, the Black Dragon, a creature at the very origin of balance itself, had cemented his name in history.

    This act marked him not only as a master of beasts but as a force destined to shape the world''s future. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The world gathered that day at Eterna Nexus Stadium, the largest arena ever constructed, to witness the rise of Eratz, now crowned with a new, undeniable title: The Legend.

    The atmosphere was electric. Tens of thousands of spectators filled the seats, their cheers a deafening roar that echoed through the massive structure.

    Cameras hovered above, capturing every angle of the historic moment, while broadcasters struggled to contain their excitement.

    At the center of the arena stood the Cosmos team, their presence commanding. Eratz stood at the forefront, his expression calm but resolute, exuding an aura of unmatched power.

    Next to him, Mercury, Colin, Milo, Raya, and the others flanked their leader, each bearing their own confident smirks or determined gazes. The world''s eyes weren''t just on Eratz but on the team that had become an unbreakable force.

    As the commemorative picture was taken, the staff members joined the fighters on stage. Victoria''s composed figure stood tall, her sharp gaze cutting through the celebratory air.

    Leonidas, standing nearby, looked visibly uncomfortable, his past confident demeanor replaced by an empty, defeated expression. He avoided Victoria''s cold stare, unable to meet her piercing eyes.

    Turning his gaze aside, Leonidas caught sight of Milo, who was glaring at him with a mischievous grin. Milo clenched his fists and declared, loud enough for Leonidas to hear:

    "Haha, prepare your booty!"

    Leonidas stiffened, his face twitching with unease. Silver, standing nearby, frowned and muttered under his breath.

    "This kid isn''t an idiot. He knows exactly what he''s doing."

    Leonidas sighed heavily, knowing there was no point in arguing. There could only be one conclusion unless another legendary popped out of nowhere.

    The weight of his choices, the humiliation of standing on that stage, and the knowledge that he had been used and thrown away in every way hung heavily over him.

    The battle was about to begin. The Cosmos team stood ready, their minds focused but just as they began to step forward, the unexpected happened.

    Infinite Twilight, their rivals, did something no one could have predicted at this moment. They lined up, forming a guard of honor. With confident smiles, they stood tall, clapping and cheering for their opponents.

    The crowd''s reaction was immediate. A wave of applause swept through the stadium, the spectators rising to their feet to join in. The atmosphere transformed into a moment of mutual respect and admiration.

    "Congratulations," Sia said, her eyes locking onto Mercury. "But don''t think we''re giving you an easy win."

    Mercury smirked, her confidence unwavering. She gave Sia a playful wink.

    "That''s not yours to decide."

    Rex, standing among Infinite Twilight, met Eratz''s gaze. A genuine smile spread across his face. Eratz smiled back, a rare moment of camaraderie passing between the two.

    "Come on, guys," Eratz said. His eyes burning with determination. "We can''t leave a single point after this."

    The team responded in unison, their voices filled with resolve.

    "Alright!"

    Together, they walked forward, their steps steady and purposeful, moving toward the light of the arena. The world held its breath as they prepared to write the final chapter of this story.

    Beast masters were no strangers to hardship. They were used to facing challenges and overcoming them was what truly made them what they were.

    No matter how the world had twisted and turned, no matter how overwhelming the odds were, they would fight to conquer.

    That day, on this grand stage, their resolve had been tested once again, and after one of the greatest finals in memory, the Cosmos were crowned champion with a perfect score of 8-0, despite a formidable opposition.

    A few months after the finals, in the bustling city of Astoria, life moved forward, but some wounds lingered unseen. The world had moved on from the dramatic finals and the chaos of Solaris Haven, yet there were those who remained suspended in time.

    Tamara and Victoria walked side by side through the hospital''s calm corridors. They passed a mixture of old and new posters plastered on billboards. One caught their attention, a vivid image of the Cosmos team lifting the Continental Champions trophy, their faces beaming

    with joy.

    Tamara stopped, tilting her head slightly as she let out a soft chuckle.

    "You remember this?" she asked, her eyes fixed on the picture.

    Victoria''s gaze softened as she looked at the image.

    "How could I forget?" she murmured, her voice carrying a touch of melancholy. "Kaida made Raya palpate every inch of that trophy. Said she couldn''t let her miss out on knowing what it looked like. I thought Raya was going to explode from embarrassment."

    "Oh, I liked that. My favorite was this kid, Milo," Tamara added, laughing now. "That champ... drinking ginger juice straight from the cup right in front of that bastard Leonidas. I swear, that moment alone should be in the history books."

    Victoria laughed softly, but her gaze lingered on the poster. The joy frozen in that image seemed almost distant, like a relic of another life. Her expression dimmed slightly. "Speaking of Leonidas, do you know what happened to him?" Tamara asked, her tone

    dropping slightly.

    Victoria nodded.

    "He''s still the leader of Infinite Twilight, but... he''s not in control like he used to be. From what I hear, because of his connection with Kallistra, the team''s turned on him. They''re

    pushing him to step down."

    "Good for his fucking mug," Tamara said with a smirk.

    Victoria shook her head with a faint smile, but her thoughts lingered elsewhere. The two women stood in silence for a moment, staring at the image of the Cosmos team, the champions of the continent, bathed in triumph and joy.

    Tamara sighed, her voice softer now.

    "You remember when it was us?"

    Victoria nodded slowly, her fingers brushing against the edge of the poster.

    "We were young," she said, her tone tinged with regret. "And stupid. We thought we had all the time in the world. We weren''t thinking about what came next. We were just... having fun."

    Tamara''s smile faltered, her expression turning more thoughtful.

    "Is that why you left?" she asked, her voice careful, probing. Victoria opened her mouth to respond, but Tamara raised a hand, cutting her off gently.

    "Relax," she said. "I''m not blaming you. I get it. Probably better than anyone. We weren''t the

    same anymore."

    She turned her gaze back to the poster, her eyes clouded with a mix of emotions.

    "We thought we were invincible. But after, we did horrible things. Kallistra, what she did..."

    Tamara''s voice caught for a moment, but she pushed through. "If she''s evil for what happened, then what does that make me? I offered her her first unique beast and hunted for her. If she became like this, it''s my fault. I was an idiot too."

    Victoria''s gaze flicked toward Tamara, her expression unreadable. Tamara turned to face her,

    a quiet determination in her eyes.

    "The people in your new agency," she said. "They remind me of us, back then. They''re young, they''re hopeful, and they''re powerful. But this time, you know where power can lead. Make

    sure they don''t end up like us."

    Victoria''s lips curled into a sad smile.

    "They''re different from us," she said softly. "But there''s still hope. Despite everything...

    you''re here

    now."

    Tamara smiled back, the weight of the years and the choices they had made settling between them. For a moment, they stood in silence, the past and the present intertwining in the air

    around them. Finally, they decided to pay their traditional visit to their sleeping beauty.

    The hospital''s corridors were unusually still as they approached Kallistra''s room. Their steps slowed when they saw a small crowd of doctors huddled outside the door, their voices low and urgent. The tension in the air was palpable, and both women instinctively froze.

    Victoria''s sharp eyes darted between the anxious faces of the doctors. Her pulse quickened, an unsettling weight settling in her chest.

    Tamara, usually so composed, took a halting step forward, her movements almost robotic. The sight of the group, their worry so plain, made the air feel heavier.

    As the two women approached, one of the doctors turned and noticed them. His face was pale,

    his expression a mixture of shock and helplessness. He stepped forward hesitantly, wringing

    his hands. "It''s... It''s terrible," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper, his eyes darting toward the floor as though he couldn''t bear to meet theirs.

    Tamara''s brow furrowed deeply. She opened her mouth to demand answers, but before she could, something inside her snapped. Her feet moved on their own, her body propelled forward as if by sheer instinct.

    She shoved past the doctor, her hand slamming against the door to Kallistra''s room, but once

    she entered the room, the overwhelming scent of chemicals stopped her short.

    And then, she saw it. Tamara''s knees buckled slightly, her voice caught in her throat. Her hands clenched into fists

    as her mind raced to make sense of the terrible sight before her.

    "What the hell happened here?" she choked out.

 Chapter 291: Between Bonds and Freedom

    Chapter 291: Between Bonds and FreedomInside, the room was unnervingly pristine. The bed was empty.

    Carefully tied restraints hung limply from the sides of the bed, their ends neatly tucked as if mocking the chaos now erupting. The sheets were smooth and unwrinkled, as though no one had ever laid there.

    But it was what lay in the center of the bed that drew all attention: an emerald gem, glowing faintly, its surface smooth and flawless.

    Tamara''s eyes widened in disbelief, her mind struggling to process what she was seeing. Her breathing quickened, and her hands clenched into fists at her sides. She let out a guttural yell, her voice raw and filled with fury.

    "What the hell?!" she bellowed, the sound reverberating through the room.

    Victoria stepped in behind her, slower, more hesitant. Her usually steady composure cracked as her body visibly trembled. Her wide eyes scanned the room, taking in every detail: the restraints, the untouched sheets, the glowing gem.

    "What the..." Victoria whispered, her voice trembling.

    She took a step closer to the bed, her hands shaking as she reached out to touch the gem. The emerald was cool to the touch, perfectly normal save for its faint glow. Victoria held it carefully, her heart pounding in her chest.

    "Where is she?" Victoria''s voice cracked as she turned to the doctor who had followed them inside. "What happened here?"

    The doctor shook his head, his face pale.

    "We don''t know. We checked on her regularly. Her vitals were stable. Everything was normal. And then..." He gestured helplessly at the empty bed. "When we came in for the morning check, she was just... gone. All that was left was that gem."

    Tamara''s breathing was ragged, her hands gripping the edge of the bed tightly. Her mind burned as she stared at the glowing gem in Victoria''s hands.

    "Gone? That''s your explanation?" Tamara''s voice was sharp, cutting through the doctor''s feeble excuses. "You''re telling me a patient just vanished into thin air? With no alarms, no witnesses, nothing?!"

    The doctor''s mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. He looked as lost as they felt. Suddenly, Victoria''s phone vibrated in her pocket. She hesitated, her fingers fumbling as she pulled it out. When she saw the number on the screen, her jaw dropped.

    Somewhere else, walking casually down a bustling street, Kallistra''s voice came through the phone, cheerful and teasing.

    "Oh, good. I felt your presence on the gem, so I figured you''d be back in my room by now. Hello, Vicky. Hello, Tamara."

    Tamara''s eyes blazed with fury. She lunged toward Victoria, trying to grab the phone, but Victoria moved swiftly, dodging Tamara who tripped over the bed and landed heavily on it, pulling the neatly tucked sheet with her.

    Scrambling to her feet, she marched back to Victoria, who held the phone between them so both could hear.

    "Where are you?!" Tamara yelled. "I''ll drag you back by your ass if I have to!"

    Kallistra''s laugh was light and melodic, but it carried an edge of mischief.

    "Oh, Tamara, always so dramatic. I''m somewhere between the sky and the ground, eating a delicious ice cream. You''d love it here. Very peaceful."

    The doctors in the room exchanged confused glances, unsure if they should speak. But Tamara and Victoria were too stunned to respond to them. Instead, Tamara growled, her fists clenched tightly.

    Victoria''s voice was strained as she asked.

    "How did you get out? Kallistra what is this?"

    Kallistra''s voice turned playful.

    "Oh, nothing special, I was in a coma, but I feel better now. Well, joke aside, I wasn''t exactly unconscious. My spirit was... let''s say, disconnected. Maybe overusing that mighty dragon power did it. Teehee." She giggled, clearly enjoying herself. "I managed to regain control, though, and woke up during the night. Then I felt like I didn''t like my room so I left. Easy as pie."

    Tamara''s knuckles trembled.

    "What... the... fucking..."

    "Oh, by the way, I heard everything you said during my forced vacations," Kallistra said, a grin evident in her tone. "And I can''t believe how much you defended my right to live. So touching! I''ve decided to retire as a beastmaster. I think I''ll enjoy life from now on, exploring and discovering all the little babies I brought into the world."

    Tamara snatched the phone from Victoria, her voice a low growl.

    "You''re not going anywhere! Where the hell are you?!"

    Kallistra''s laugh was brighter this time.

    "And what are you going to do? Hunt me down? Drag me back? Oh, Tamara, don''t make me laugh. I''m feeling very fine now, and that means the dragon is, too. You should focus on your next battle. You know, the one where Eratz sent you straight to retirement home? Maybe think of me every time it hurts."

    Tamara''s fury was palpable, her face flushed with rage, but before she could retort, a quiet, trembling sound broke through the tension.

    Victoria was wiping her tears with her arm, her voice barely a whisper.

    "You''re... alive..."

    Tamara''s anger faltered as she turned to her. The room was quiet, even Kallistra became quiet on the other side. A few moments passed and no one spoke before Tamara murmured.

    "Vicky?"

    Victoria nodded slowly, her voice steady but laced with emotion.

    "I''m fine. I''m just... relieved. I thought you were dead, Kallistra. I thought..." Her voice broke

    for a moment, but she took a deep breath and continued. "Thank God you''re alive."

    The room fell silent. Even Kallistra seemed momentarily shaken. When she finally spoke, her voice was softer, hesitant.

    "Vicky..."

    Victoria straightened her voice firm but kind.

    Victoria straightened her voice firm but carrying an unmistakable softness.

    "Kallistra, you''re free to go. No one will come after you. We won''t report you... no one will know. You have my word."

    She paused, her grip tightening around the emerald gem as if drawing strength from it. Her next words came slower, heavier.

    "Live your life, Kallistra. Do what you said, explore, discover, enjoy the freedom you''ve wanted. But... please," her voice cracked as raw emotion seeped into her tone, "don''t ever push us into that kind of ultimatum again. Don''t try to alter the world. Don''t force us to stand against you again. If you do... if you take that path, you''ll leave us no choice. The next time will be the last, and I don''t want that, Kallistra. I don''t want to see any of us fighting like that

    ever again."

    There was a long, heavy silence. Even Kallistra seemed at a loss for words. Her silence on the other end of the line was deafening, a stark contrast to her usual confident tone.

    After what felt like an eternity, Kallistra''s voice returned, forcing herself to sound playful, but

    it came out strained and uncertain.

    "If we... pretend to everyone that I was possessed by the dragon, I won''t have to run away anymore," she offered, a weak attempt at humor.

    Tamara growled. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "Like hell, we will!"

    Kallistra''s laugh returned, lighter this time.

    "Fair enough. Take care of yourselves, Vicky. And Tamara, try not to explode too often. You''re

    getting wrinkles. Catch you soon."

    With that, the line went dead.

    The two women stood in silence for a moment. Tamara''s anger simmered, but it was

    tempered by the relief that lingered in the air.

    Victoria, still holding the emerald gem, closed her eyes and took a deep breath, a warm smile

    on the lips.

    "She''s really gone," Victoria said softly, her voice carrying a mix of relief and lingering worry.

    Tamara crossed her arms and shot Victoria a sharp look. "And how exactly are you planning to

    explain this to everyone?"

    Victoria exhaled slowly, her gaze falling back to the emerald gem in her hand.

    "I''ll need a lot of excuses to make them swallow this," she admitted.

    Tamara growled under her breath, shaking her head.

    "You''re an idiot, you know that?"

    Victoria glanced at her, the corners of her lips twitching into a faint, tired smile.

    "Always has been. You were the tough one, and Kally the smart one. There''s only one room

    left for me."

    Tamara rolled her eyes, she crossed her arms, looking at the window, trying as best as she

    could to hide her smile.

 Chapter 292: The First Step

    Chapter 292: The First StepIt had been months since the finals. Despite the outburst of unique beasts following the legendary events at Solaris Haven, the world adapted, as Eratz had predicted.

    No catastrophe struck, and life moved on. People adjusted, resilient as ever, and the world continued its steady rhythm.

    In a cozy living room, Mercury sat on a soft couch, her hands gently resting on her now- prominent belly.

    The room was warm and inviting, filled with the faint aroma of fresh lemons and the quiet hum of the TV.

    Cassie sat nearby, a bowl of lemons in front of her, slicing them methodically, the sharp scent filling the air.

    "I''m so tired of doing nothing," Mercury groaned, leaning back and letting her head rest against the couch. She glanced at Cassie, her tone both exasperated and wistful.

    "Every day it''s just me sitting around, waddling like a duck. I''m a beastmaster, Cassie. I can at least do some stuff... like shopping... cooking... visiting the agency and coincidentally walking on the treadmill..."

    Cassie chuckled, her knife moving smoothly through another lemon.

    "Oh, sweetheart, this is just the beginning. You think sitting around now is bad? Just wait until this little warrior decides to make his grand entrance. You''re not going to get a single minute of sleep. Good luck being a beast master with a baby attached to your hip."

    Mercury let out a dramatic sigh and slumped forward, her head thunking lightly against the table.

    Her eyes drifted to a framed picture on the desk: a snapshot of everyone at the final of the team battle, all smiling, chaotic, and close.

    She couldn''t help but smile as she looked at it.

    "It''s always so crowded here... when he will come it''s going to be crazy, right?" she said softly.

    Cassie set the knife down and turned her full attention to Mercury.

    "Crazy doesn''t even begin to cover it. But you''re going to be amazing. And if you''re not, well..." She grinned and gestured toward herself. "That''s why I''m here. Partner in crime, remember? You can already write my name down for this little warrior."

    Mercury laughed, the sound light and genuine.

    "You better not run away when he turns out to be a handful."

    Cassie winked.

    "Run away? Please. I''ll spoil him rotten while you try to discipline him."

    Mercury''s laughter filled the room again. She leaned back, rubbing her belly gently.

    "I wonder what it''ll be like," she murmured, her tone softening. "It''s weird, but I feel so... good. Happy. Like, ridiculously happy."

    Cassie raised an eyebrow, slicing another lemon.

    "Is that your hormones talking again?"

    "No!" Mercury protested, laughing and throwing a nearby pillow at her. "I''m serious. I just... I don''t know. Everything feels right."

    Cassie smirked, catching the pillow with one hand.

    "Sure, sure. Remember this feeling when you give him his first slap... better you than Eratz anyway."

    Mercury rolled her eyes, but she couldn''t stop smiling. A comfortable silence settled between them.

    The sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a golden glow over the room.

    After a moment, Mercury''s smile softened, and she spoke, almost as if to herself.

    "If it was possible... I would like to go back in time and revive every second of this life. Forever."

    Before Cassie could respond to that, the sound of the doorbell rang through the house, pulling them from their lighthearted conversation.

    Mercury blinked in surprise, her hand instinctively resting on her belly as she tilted her head toward Cassie.

    "You were expecting someone?" Mercury asked.

    Cassie shook her head, wiping her hands on a towel before standing.

    "Not really. Maybe it''s Tamara? She does love popping in unannounced." Mercury chuckled.

    "If it''s her, tell her quickly that we haven''t refilled our stock of wine."

    Cassie grinned, and with that, she made her way through the house, weaving past familiar furniture and framed photos.

    The garden was bathed in soft light, casting gentle shadows as Cassie walked toward the gate. She reached the intercom, a sleek panel attached to the stone wall, and pressed the button.

    Her voice was cheerful as she spoke.

    "Well, well? Who might this be?"

    There was a brief silence, followed by a hesitant reply.

    "It... it''s me... Liora."

    Cassie froze. Her smile vanished, replaced by an expression of stunned disbelief.

    Back in the living room, the atmosphere was suffocating.

    The sunlight streaming through the curtains failed to lift the weight that hung between the

    three women.

    Cassie, Mercury, and Liora sat in a strained triangle.

    Cassie perched on the edge of her chair, her fingers interlaced tightly in her lap. Mercury leaned forward slightly on the couch, one hand protectively resting on her rounded belly, the

    other gripping the armrest as though anchoring herself.

    Across from them, Liora sat stiffly, her back ramrod straight, her hands clasped so tightly in

    her lap that her knuckles had turned white.

    Liora''s voice broke the silence, trembling and unsure.

    "Cassie... I know I have no right to be here. But I had to come."

    Cassie''s gaze softened slightly, but her posture remained rigid. Her lips pressed into a thin

    line.

    "Why now, Liora?" she asked calmly.

    Liora took a shaky breath, her shoulders sagging as though the weight of her words was too

    much to bear.

    She stared at her clasped hands, unable to meet their gazes.

    "I need to apologize," she began, her voice cracking. "To Eratz. To you. To everyone. I... I''ve made so many mistakes. And I''ve carried them with me every single day. But I can''t carry it anymore. I need to say I''m sorry... even if it doesn''t change anything."

    Cassie''s lips tightened, her arms crossing over her chest. Her eyes were sharp, though her voice trembled slightly.

    "That day when you abandoned him, you hurt him, Liora. Deeply. It took him a lot of efforts to rebuild himself after what you did. And even after that, you had the audacity to come back and try to stake a claim in his success. Do you even understand the damage you caused? The courage it took for him to break free from your madness?"

    Liora nodded, her tears spilling over as she wiped at her cheeks with shaking hands.

    "I know," she whispered. "I don''t expect forgiveness. I don''t deserve it. But I... I hate myself, Cassie. I hate myself more than you could possibly imagine."

    Her voice cracked further, and she clenched her hands together as though trying to hold herself together.

    "I was bullied so much as a child for being Ishtarian. For being different. They mocked my white hair, my green eyes, so much that they became red. They called me a beast. They made me feel like I didn''t belong among humans, like I was some kind of animal. And I believed

    them. I let that hate grow inside me until it exploded."

    She swallowed hard, her hands trembling as she continued.

    "When Eratz was born... I saw all those things I hated about myself in him. His white hair, his dark skin... everything that made him Ishtarian. Instead of seeing him as a child who needed love, I saw him as a reflection of everything I despised about myself. And instead of protecting him, I blamed him. I... I took it out on him."

    Her voice broke completely, and she buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking as S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    sobs wracked her body.

    "I was wrong," she cried. "So wrong. And I... I don''t expect him to forgive me. But he deserves to know how sorry I am. Even if he never wants to see me again, I need him to know."

    The room fell silent, save for Liora''s quiet sobs. Cassie''s eyes glistened with unshed tears, her expression wavering between anger and compassion.

    She reached out hesitantly, placing a hand on Liora''s shoulder. The gesture was tentative but

    warm.

    "You should have seen it sooner, Liora," Cassie said softly, her voice trembling. "You should have realized what you were doing to him before it was too late."

    Cassie''s tone shifted slightly, becoming firmer.

    "Do you understand the depth of the hurt you caused? You didn''t just break him; you broke

    this family. You cut yourself off from him, from us, and left a wound that''s still healing. But," she continued, her voice softening again as her gaze drifted to Mercury, "that branch you cut off has grown into another tree, far away from you."

    Liora followed Cassie''s gaze, her eyes landing on Mercury''s rounded belly. For a moment, her expression was blank, as though her mind struggled to process what she was seeing.

    Then, realization struck.

    Her breath hitched, and her lips parted slightly.

    "Is it... is that...?"

    Cassie nodded, her voice quiet but firm.

    "Yes. That''s your grandson." Liora was frozen on the spot. A loud gasp escaped her lips, and soon tears began to flow again,

    this time more uncontrollably.

    She placed a trembling hand over her mouth, her shoulders shaking as she struggled to

    contain her emotions.

    "G... Grand... Grandson?... This is... I... I''m going to be a grandma?!.... Oh... Mercury..." she

    choked out.

    Slowly, as though compelled by an invisible force, Liora leaned forward slightly, her hand trembling as she extended it toward Mercury.

    But Mercury raised her hand, stopping her in her tracks.

    "I understand your pain," Mercury said softly. "And I understand why you''re here. But this

    isn''t about you anymore. It''s about Eratz. I''ll talk to him, but it''s his decision whether or not

    we wants to see you. I won''t force him into anything."

    Liora froze, her hand hovering in the air before slowly withdrawing. She nodded, her

    shoulders slumping in acceptance.

    "I understand," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Sorry... And... thank you. Thank

    you so much..."

    For a long moment, none of them spoke. The room was filled with a heavy, almost suffocating

    silence. Finally, Liora stood, her movements slow and deliberate. She looked at Cassie and Mercury one last time, her expression a mixture of gratitude and sorrow. "Thank you," she said again, her voice breaking. "For giving me this chance."

    As Liora left the living room, Cassie accompanied her to the door. Mercury rested her hand on

    her belly, her gaze distant. "Mom''s wishes are really dangerous, right?" Mercury murmured softly.

 Chapter 293: King of Beastmasters

    Chapter 293: King of BeastmastersIn the Cosmos Agency, the aces were pursuing their training session like any other day, but this time, they decided to add a new exercise to spice things up for its conclusion.

    Kaida stretched her arms, fiery energy already crackling around her.

    "Alright, Eratz! You haven''t had a real battle since the final. Let''s see if you''re still kicking."

    Eratz stood in the center of the battleground, arms crossed, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Hm? Have you asked permission from your good sense before testing this?"

    Milo, bouncing on his toes, pointed a playful finger at Eratz.

    "Ha! Nonsense! Today is the day we take down our King, and to do that, we will do like wise people and cowardly attack you, all versus one, with Raya and two healers. You have no chance!" He made a dramatic punching motion, which looked more adorable than intimidating.

    Eratz''s jaw dropped slightly as he watched Milo. For a moment, he thought.

    Seriously, this kid is trolling us all from the beginning... he knows exactly what he''s saying.

    Raya, standing gracefully to the side, bowed her head slightly.

    "It is an honor to witness your strength, Eratz."

    Ryder smirked, his hands on his hips.

    "I''m not a liar, I know you will kick my ass, but I want to see how badly. I''ve got to be ready for the Continental League."

    Catarina stood back, her arms hanging loosely at her sides, her gaze distant and filled with resigned amusement.

    Memories of her and Kaida being utterly wiped out by Rex flashed through her mind, that same Rex that Eratz destroyed before ascending to a new level.

    Her lips curled into a wry smirk as she crossed her arms.

    "We''re so cooked," she muttered under her breath, earning a chuckle from Raya.

    "Alright," Eratz said, rolling his shoulders. "Let''s make this interesting. I''ll give you a handicap: no field spell."

    Kaida''s grin turned mischievous.

    "Don''t regret it."

    The moment the words left her mouth, the team sprang into action.

    They moved as one, a perfectly coordinated assault aimed at overwhelming Eratz.

    Colin''s fire ignited the air with blazing streams, Kaida charged with her wings spreading wide behind her, and Milo darted around like a whirlwind.

    Catarina joined in, summoning Mystimara immediately. Raya''s katana materialized, shimmering with spiritual energy, while Ryder leapt into the fray, his wings spreading out as he soared overhead to flank Eratz.

    For a few moments, it looked like they had him cornered.

    But then, Eratz''s eyes glowed purple.

    Minutes later, the dust settled. Around Eratz, the battlefield was littered with spent energy and exhausted teammates. Beasts disintegrated into glowing particles as their summons ended.

    In the center, the Terrakrus let out a growl, while Cinderblaze roared in victory beside it.

    Eratz stood calmly, brushing dust off his hair with a grin.

    "Good, you almost made me use 2% of my actual full power. I''m proud of you." he teased.

    From the side, Ryder groaned as he stared at the shattered turtle shell on his back.

    "That''s a lie, you demon!"

    Milo, on his knees, raised a hand toward Eratz, his expression a mix of awe and frustration.

    "How... how are you so strong?"

    Eratz glanced at Milo with mock seriousness, then looked at the palm of his hand.

    "Sorry, son, but you''ve got to be at least six feet tall to hit me."

    Milo gasped dramatically.

    "So size does matter!" he cried, clutching his chest as if in despair. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, he began a passionate monologue. "We are doomed! Absolutely doomed! He''s unstoppable now! 6 feet? It means that he has evolved to the point of being only reached by a giant. He is no longer a human, but the king of beasts! The conqueror of champions! The invincible machine!"

    Eratz posed dramatically, fist clenched, looking above.

    The group burst into laughter, the tension of the battle dissolving into lighthearted camaraderie. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    Kaida, still catching her breath, stood up.

    "Alright, fine. You''re still the king. But next time, you''re going down."

    Eratz''s smirk widened.

    "That''s all I''m asking."

    Colin, wiping sweat from her brow, smiled softly.

    "I think you''re ready for it, Eratz. For ''that'' match."

    Eratz''s expression shifted, his confidence tempered by a quiet determination. He glanced at his fist, clenching it slightly as his thoughts turned inward.

    "I have to be," he said, more to himself than anyone else. "For the first time, I''m fighting not just for me, but for everyone. Even my opponent."

    As the group began to regroup, chatting and teasing each other, Eratz took a moment to step back and observe them.

    His gaze softened as he watched Colin''s quiet determination, Milo''s boundless energy, Kaida''s fiery spirit, Catarina''s quiet strength, Raya''s ethereal focus, and Ryder''s unwavering support. They had come so far, each of them growing in their own way.

    He thought about the journey that had brought them here, the challenges, the triumphs, and the bonds they had forged along the way. A small smile tugged at his lips as he called out to

    his team.

    "Alright, enough lounging around! Let''s get back to it. We''ve got a hunt to plan, I want each of you to join us on the world tier next season."

    Their groans and laughter filled the air as they rallied, their voices harmonizing into a resounding and united.

    "Alright!"

    As the new season began, Eratz''s focus sharpened like never before.

    Each training session, every beast he honed his bond with, was all preparation for the monumental event awaiting him: his debut match as a world-tier fighter.

    In the world of beastmasters, Eratz''s rise to prominence had been meteoric, and with it came opportunities that few could ever dream of. The new season had started, and as a world-tier competitor, he faced a unique schedule, a single match per week.

    This deliberate pacing gave him ample time to prepare, hunt, and just enjoy life. But this time, his upcoming match wasn''t just any battle. It was the most awaited match in the world, a clash so highly anticipated that it already felt like a final.

    Eratz''s opponent was none other than Tamara.

    The fans had christened the match "The King of Beastmasters," and for good reason. This was no ordinary fight. It was Tamara''s final match before retirement, a revelation she had shared during a heartfelt interview.

    Though the announcement brought a wave of sadness from her legions of fans, it was met with resounding applause and admiration for the legacy she had built. Tamara, the best of her generation, now stood ready to face Eratz, the best of the new generation.

    For many, this wasn''t just a battle; it was a symbolic passing of the torch. Tamara represented the pinnacle of the past, a monument to the glory of beastmasters. Eratz embodied the

    future, the unrelenting force of a new era.

    Together, they were about to create a moment that would echo through history.

    The world buzzed with anticipation. Across continents, fans, beastmasters, and commentators couldn''t stop talking about the upcoming clash. Media outlets ran endless features on both fighters, analyzing their strengths, contrasting their styles, and speculating

    on the outcome.

    Social media exploded with debates, predictions, and tributes.

    Every corner of the globe felt the ripple of excitement. Interviews with retired legends spoke

    of Tamara''s unmatched tenacity and skill, while younger fighters marveled at Eratz''s dominance and adaptability.

    The beastmaster community was united in its awe, this was a fight that transcended competition, a duel that symbolized the spirit of their craft.

    The stadium chosen for this iconic battle was none other than the Alpha Empire, the largest and most advanced arena ever built for beastmaster matches. It was a marvel of architecture, capable of holding over 150,000 spectators, with state-of-the-art facilities designed to showcase every moment of the battle in breathtaking detail.

    Giant screens loomed over the arena, ensuring that no matter where one sat, every roar, every

    strike, every move would be vividly displayed.

    On the day of the match, the atmosphere around the stadium was electric. Fans from every corner of the world had gathered, their excitement palpable. Streets leading to the arena were flooded with people clad in team colors, waving banners, and chanting names. Vendors sold merchandise ranging from plush versions of iconic beasts to replica weapons wielded by the fighters. The air buzzed with conversations in countless languages, united by a shared anticipation for what was about to unfold.

    Inside the coliseum, the stands were filled to capacity hours before the match was scheduled

    to begin. The roar of the crowd reverberated through the stadium, a symphony of cheers,

    chants, and claps.

    Flags from different nations were waved proudly, and fans held up signs professing their allegiance to either Tamara or Eratz.

    The media presence was overwhelming. Commentators from every major network were

    stationed in dedicated booths, their voices booming as they shared insights and predictions.

    Cameras scanned the audience, capturing the energy of the crowd and the luminaries in attendance. From veteran beastmasters to high-ranking officials, the event had drawn everyone who was anyone in the world of beastmasters.

    The center of the coliseum, the battleground, gleamed under the spotlights. It was vast,

    adaptable to any terrain or setting the match might require, a green canvas awaiting the artistry of two of the greatest fighters to ever grace the stage.

    As the crowd''s anticipation built to a fever pitch, the energy in the arena became almost tangible, a living thing that pulsed with every heartbeat.

    In the locker room, the hum of excitement from the packed stadium outside was faint but

    palpable. Eratz sat on a bench, Mercury standing behind him, deftly tying his white hair into a ponytail with a ribbon.

    The ribbon was a patchwork of various fabrics, each piece stitched together with care and

    love. Cassie, Roger, Mercury, Milo, and Colin had all contributed to its creation, intending it

    as a lucky charm for Eratz, a symbol of the family he had built.

    Mercury paused, studying her handiwork.

    "You know," she said with a teasing lilt, "I doubt this will stay intact the whole match. It

    might not be a good idea to wear it against Tamara."

    Eratz turned his head slightly, smirking.

    "You shouldn''t have said you worked together on this then. Now I''ve got to wear it. You''ll all

    see me win with this."

    Mercury rolled her eyes playfully, tying the last knot with a bit more force than necessary.

    "Stubborn."

    "Determined," he corrected, the smirk growing wider.

    She leaned forward, resting her chin lightly on his shoulder, her voice softening.

    "A world-tier should be a model, stop being a little brat."

    "Doesn''t that mean I''m your superior, miss Continental-tier?" Eratz shot back with a grin.

    Mercury''s eyebrows shot up as she pinched his cheek.

    "Whose fault is it that I''m still continental-tier, huh?"

    He winced exaggeratedly. "Alright, alright, I surrender!"

    They both laughed, the sound filling the room with warmth. For a moment, the tension of the

    upcoming battle melted away. Mercury''s hand lingered on his shoulder as she looked at him, her gaze soft and reflective.

    "You''ve changed," she said quietly. "The old Eratz, the one I first met, felt like he wanted to lose to have a challenge. But this Eratz... the one who wants to win, who knows he will

    win... he''s very... exciting." She winked at him, her playful side surfacing.

    Eratz smiled, rising an eyebrow.

    "Rinse and repeat?"

    Mercury laughed in surprise, her eyes sparkling. She poked his cheek.

    "Like to see my belly dangling around that much? Well, if you insist..."

    Eratz''s teasing smile deepened.

    "I was thinking about training in the forest, hanging out, honeymoon one day... but I like the

    way you''re thinking."

    Mercury''s cheeks heated slightly before she burst into laughter, playfully smacking his back. "Why you little..."

    They shared another laugh before Mercury straightened, her expression softening.

    "I''m going back to join the others," she said. "Good luck, Eratz. You''re the best." She leaned

    in, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips.

    As she pulled back, Eratz''s gaze was steady, filled with determination.

    "Look attentively. I''m going to fight for our house." Mercury nodded, her smile warm and full of pride. She turned to leave, and Eratz instinctively

    got up to accompany her to the others. As they walked, his steps slowed slightly, his eyes

    widening as a thought struck him.

    "You know..." he began, his voice trailing off. Mercury turned to look at him, curious.

    "What?"

    "I just realized... I''ve never fought you in a real battle."

    Mercury''s brow furrowed in surprise before her expression softened into one of intrigue. She

    tilted her head, considering his words.

    "Hm?.... Oh... Wait, that''s true. We haven''t, have we?"

    They looked at each other, a spark of playful challenge passing between them.

    Eratz grinned, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

    "It mean... We are meant to be a duo. So, let''s tag team to beat Undertaker when he will be

    born and make him a beast."

    Mercury rolled her eyes, a laugh escaping her as she punched his shoulder softly.

    "You idiot. This is why you''re forbidden from naming him."

    They shared one last laugh before they left the locker room.

    The energy in the arena was electric, the air thick with anticipation. Every seat was filled, the

    crowd a sea of excited faces, flags waving, and chants echoing throughout the massive stadium.

    In the VIP box, Mercury sat with Cassie, Roger, Colin, and Milo. Sia had joined them, sitting

    next to Mercury, her calm demeanor contrasting with the bubbly excitement of Milo, who couldn''t stop bouncing in his seat.

    In another section, Victoria watched with Zara by her side. Ryder, Kaida, Catarina, and Raya

    were seated nearby. Rex sat next to Arin, his arms crossed, his eyes focused on the arena

    below.

    Among the crowd, a familiar woman with dark gray hair and a mask enjoyed the show. The emeralds embedded in her attire glimmered under the bright stadium lights.

    At home, the other members of Infinite Twilight crowded around a large screen, their

    expressions a mix of awe and nervous energy. The Pandora household was unusually quiet, save for the commentary on the television.

    Liora, Kian, and Lila sat together, their eyes glued to the screen. Liora''s hands were clasped

    tightly in her lap, her lips pressed together in silent prayer. Marcus, however, had found an excuse to repair his car in the garage.

    Elsewhere, in a cozy cafe, Lisa and her friends were gathered around a table, watching the

    broadcast on a mounted screen. Lisa''s bright smile reflected her joy and admiration, her eyes never leaving the screen.

    In his office, Rowan leaned back in his chair, rubbing his beard thoughtfully as he watched. A

    small smile played on his lips.

    Back in the arena, the corridor leading to the battleground stretched ahead of Eratz. The

    overhead lights cast a stark glow, each step he took echoing faintly. For a moment, the corridor seemed to transform, each light illuminating a fragment of his past. With each step, memories surfaced: the day everything begun, the betrayal at Genova Academy, the nights spent training in solitude, and the unwavering support of Cassie and

    Roger.

    He glanced up at the light above, and for a brief second, it reminded him of the stars that had guided him, the dreams that had driven him forward.

    Closing his eyes, he pushed forward, the flash of his battles with his Aces playing in his mind.

    He saw the Thunder Lycaon''s ferocity, the Aetheri''s delicacy, and the unyielding strength of

    the Terrakrus. A small smile tugged at his lips as he opened his eyes, the roar of the crowd growing louder with every step.

    The corridor ended, and the announcer''s voice boomed through the stadium. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you''ve all been waiting for! Introducing the

    challenger, the Legend, Eratz Pandora!"

    The stadium erupted into cheers as Eratz stepped into the arena, greeted by an ocean of

    sound. He paused for a moment, taking it all in. The faces in the crowd blurred into a tapestry of support and admiration.

    His gaze flicked upward, catching glimpses of his friends and family in the stands. He

    couldn''t exactly see them, but he could feel every single one of them. Mercury, Cassie, Colin, and Milo waving energetically. He caught Ryder and Kaida cheering loudly, Catarina

    describing the scene to Raya who smiled softly.

    Finally, his eyes settled on the center of the arena. There stood Tamara, one hand resting on

    her hip, a confident smile playing on her lips.

    Their eyes met, and a silent understanding passed between them. Eratz walked forward, his

    steps steady, his posture relaxed but ready. He stopped a few feet from her, the noise of the crowd fading into the background as their world narrowed to just the two of them.

    "You ready for this?" Tamara asked, her voice carrying a playful edge. "Today might be the

    day your winning streak ends."

    Eratz smiled, the corner of his lips twitching upward. "Sadly, you''ve just pronounced the forbidden words." Electricity crackled at his fingertips, and his eyes glowed a deep, vibrant purple. The crowd roared, the anticipation reaching a fever pitch as the two legends faced each other,

    ready to make history.

 Chapter 294: Wings of Tomorrow

    Chapter 294: Wings of Tomorrow(One year later)

    The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden glow across Colin''s room. The warmth tickled her face, and she groaned softly, rolling onto her side.

    Her eyelids fluttered open, and for a moment, she stared at the ceiling in a haze. Then it hit her.

    She bolted upright.

    "Oh no, I''m late!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in panic.

    Throwing off her blankets, she leapt out of bed and dashed toward the bathroom, her feet thudding lightly against the cold floor. She quickly scrubbed her face and brushed her teeth, the cold water jolting her fully awake.

    Without wasting a moment, she hopped into the bathtub, letting the warm water cascade over her.

    She hurriedly washed, her mind racing, and by the time she stepped out, her cheeks were steamy and her hair damp.

    Her white hair, now long and flowing, framed her face in soft waves that cascaded down her back. Colin grabbed a towel and dried her hair quickly before tying it into a long ponytail that swayed slightly as she moved.

    Back in her room, she rummaged through her drawers, grabbing her uniform. At 14, Colin stood taller, her frame more athletic, and her stance carried a quiet confidence that hadn''t been there years ago.

    She slipped on her clothes: a white blouse with subtle lace trim along the sleeves and a tailored black skirt that fell just above her knees.

    She completed the outfit with long black tights and polished black shoes.

    She paused briefly in front of the mirror, adjusting her collar and giving herself a once-over.

    The ponytail over her shoulder shimmered in the sunlight, accentuating the snowy white of her hair against her dark skin.

    "Good enough," she mumbled before sprinting out of her room.

    Entering the living room like a whirlwind, Colin skidded to a halt, her voice already raised. "Mom! Why didn''t you wake me up?"

    Cassie, sitting on the couch with a mug of tea in her hands, raised an eyebrow. Roger, seated next to her with a game console in hand, lowered it slightly, his face equally surprised.

    "I thought you''d skip school today," Cassie replied, her tone calm. "It''s the big day, after all."

    Colin''s mouth dropped open in disbelief.

    "Skip school? I can''t skip school, especially today!"

    Cassie scratched her cheek, glancing at Roger.

    "This girl... She needs to know there are better things in life than school."

    Roger smirked, resuming his game.

    "I don''t think you should tell that to a student."

    Colin groaned, grabbing a piece of toast from the table and stuffing it into her mouth.

    "Love you two!" she said, her words muffled as she dashed toward the door.

    Cassie shook her head with a small smile.

    "Geez, where does she get all that energy... Hey, I saw that. You''ve lost. My turn."

    Roger gave her a pitying side-eye, trying to move the game console away.

    "I was distracted..."

    Outside, Colin paused, taking a deep breath. With a quick flick of her wrist, she summoned her beast: a magnificent fire bird resembling an eagle.

    The creature appeared in a blaze of flames, its feathers glowing with a fiery aura.

    "Alright, buddy. Let''s go," she said, hopping onto its back.

    With a powerful screech, the eagle took off, its wings cutting through the morning air. Colin leaned forward, the wind rushing past her face as they soared above the city.

    Below, the streets bustled with life, but as she flew, Colin''s attention was drawn to a massive screen on the side of a skyscraper.

    The image showed Tamara, battered and bruised, raising Eratz''s hand. The headline below it read: "The New King."

    Colin observed it for a moment, her eyes brightening with pride before a wide grin spread across her face.

    "Alright, speed up," she urged, patting the eagle''s neck.

    The eagle screeched, picking up speed as they raced toward her school.

    In front of the middle school, a boy stood near the gates, a bag slung over his shoulder. His short, messy hair glinted under the sun, and his sharp eyes scanned the bustling crowd of students.

    A few girls stood at a distance, whispering and giggling as they glanced his way.

    "Is he new?" one girl asked.

    "He''s kinda cute," another replied, tilting her head curiously.

    The school bell rang, and the students began filing inside. But the boy remained where he was, unmoving, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

    "Hm, just in time," a voice called out behind him.

    The boy turned to see Colin landing gracefully, her fire eagle dissipating into embers as her feet touched the ground. She dusted herself off, her hands on her hips as she looked at him.

    "Uh? You?! Why are you still standing here? You''re going to be late," she said, raising an eyebrow.

    The boy''s smile widened.

    "But I''m new here, and you said you''d be my guide."

    Colin rolled her eyes.

    "Didn''t you see I was late? You could go alone, are you a baby?"

    "Please, I''ll be 23 in nine years," Milo replied with a smirk.

    Colin stared at him for a moment before breaking into a smile of her own. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    "You''re impossible. Come on, let''s go."

    The two walked toward the school building, their banter continuing as the morning sun climbed higher into the sky.

    The day passed in a blur for Milo as he experienced the bustling life of middle school for the first time. The vibrant hallways, the chatter of students, and the sheer energy of the place

    overwhelmed him.

    Within minutes of being introduced, Milo found himself surrounded by Colin''s fan club and her lively group of friends.

    Between people admiring him, or rivals because of his connection to Colin, Milo''s head spun, but the more time passed, the more people seemed to gather.

    His usual confidence wavered as he realized how hard it was to juggle so many new faces at

    once.

    Colin, standing a few steps away, observed the chaos with a mischievous glint in her eye. She crossed her arms, watching Milo flounder with an amused smirk.

    Later that afternoon, Colin and Milo soared through the skies on their flying beasts. Colin''s fire eagle, its glowing feathers leaving a faint trail of embers, flew confidently alongside

    Milo''s gliding griffin.

    Milo slumped slightly on the back of his beast.

    "You know, school isn''t that great after all," he groaned. "Homeschool wasn''t so bad. At

    least I didn''t have to deal with..." He gestured vaguely. "... people."

    Colin laughed, her voice ringing like a bell over the rushing wind.

    "Oh, come on. You survived your first day, didn''t you?"

    "Not thanks to you, you traitor," Milo muttered, casting her a side-eye. "How did you even

    get a fan club?"

    "Oh, don''t blame me, it was so fun." Colin''s smile widened. "maybe because I''m adorable?"

    Milo groaned again, throwing his hands up.

    "You''re the worst... And you''ve been suspiciously energetic. What''s going on with you?" He

    paused, eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Then realization dawned, and he snapped his fingers.

    "Oh, wait. Today is..."

    "Yep," Colin said, her grin widening as she looked at him with excitement. "They should be

    home now."

    Milo nodded, a small smile forming despite himself.

    "Yeah, finally."

    Colin''s fiery energy flared even more. She sat upright, brushing her long white hair back over

    her shoulder.

    "Hey, wanna race?" she asked. Trough every city in the region. We use our fastest beasts. The loser do the homework of the winner for one week."

    Milo''s competitive nature flared to life.

    "I never back down from a challenge," he declared, sitting straighter on his griffin. "Good," Colin said with a grin. She leaned forward slightly, the fire eagle beneath her tensing

    as it sensed her intent. "Oh, and by the way..." Her grin grew as the fire eagle launched forward. "3, 2, 1, go!!"

    "Hey, cheater!" Milo yelled, urging his wind griffin to give chase. The griffin let out a sharp screech, its wings slicing through the air as it picked up speed.

    The two soared high above the city, their beasts weaving effortlessly between the clouds. The world stretched out below them, a stunning patchwork of vibrant colors and bustling life. Colin smiled and glanced back, her hair whipping in the wind.

    "Catch up, slowpoke!" she called, her voice carried by the rushing air.

    Milo grinned, the thrill of the race pushing his earlier exhaustion aside.

    "Oh, you''re going to eat those words," he muttered, leaning closer to his griffin.

    The griffin''s wings flapped powerfully, catching a swift current of air. It surged forward, narrowing the distance between them.

    Colin''s fire eagle screeched, sensing the competition, and dove lower, skimming the treetops before shooting back upward in a burst of flames.

    The two soared high above the city, their beasts weaving effortlessly between the clouds.

 Chapter 295: Dominion of the Beast Masters

    Chapter 295: Dominion of the Beast MastersThe world stretched out below them, the cities beneath forming a stunning patchwork of vibrant colors and bustling life.

    In Grushia, Kenny was working as a newspapers deliverer, his face red with frustration as he argued with his boss.

    The older man, waving a clipboard, pointed at a pile of unsorted papers. Kenny threw his arms up in exasperation before grabbing a stack and storming off, muttering under his breath.

    Somewhere else, in a dimly lit precinct, Julian sat slouched in a chair, flanked by a group of disheveled delinquents.

    A stern-looking police officer paced in front of them, asking questions. Julian sat stiffly in his chair, with a look of deep concern.

    Milo and Colin climbed higher, passing by Genova Academy. On the school grounds, Rowan stood clapping alongside several teachers.

    They were celebrating the students who had participated in a citywide competition, with one young girl proudly holding a trophy above her head.

    Rowan''s smile was wide and genuine as he applauded the winners.

    The two riders left the town behind, their beasts'' wings slicing through the crisp air.

    Under another sky, Lisa was immersed in her studies at a healthcare university.

    Surrounded by textbooks and notes, she cracked her knuckles with determination, her focus unwavering as she prepared for an upcoming exam.

    Elsewhere, in a cozy cafe, Crystal leaned against a man twice her age, her lips curled into a forced smile. The man''s hand rested on her shoulder possessively as he whispered something in her ear.

    Crystal''s eyes darted away, her expression flashing with disgust before she masked it again with a practiced grin.

    In a tranquil forest, Gabriel looked far more at peace than he had in years. Surrounded by his beasts, he crouched down, running his hand gently over the soft fur of one of them.

    He smiled, as the beasts chirped and growled softly in response.

    Meanwhile, in a bustling port city, the former director of Genova Academy sat at an outdoor cafe.

    A thick book lay open on the table before her, and she occasionally sipped from a steaming cup of tea.

    Her expression was calm, almost content, as if she''d finally found some peace in her

    retirement.

    Back in the air, Colin and Milo shared a glance before leaning forward in unison. Their beasts roared, accelerating with renewed vigor.

    The wind roared in their ears as they pushed onward, the world blurring around them.

    Soon, a vast forest came into view, and nestled within its embrace was a large villa. The property was expansive, surrounded by lush greenery and sparkling ponds, its architecture both elegant and welcoming.

    Smoke curled lazily from a barbecue in the backyard, and the sound of laughter and chatter floated through the air.

    Colin and Milo landed gracefully on the villa''s sprawling lawn, their beasts dissipating into shimmering light.

    They exchanged excited grins before rushing toward the backyard, where the heart of the gathering was.

    The scene was lively and chaotic in the best way. Kaida stood by the barbecue, waving a spatula and yelling at Braun, Ryder, and Rylas, who were sheepishly backing away after attempting to snag some uncooked meat.

    Nearby, Catarina and Rex were wading in the pool, their arms flailing as they clung to each other for dear life. Arin stood at the edge, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation.

    The backyard was filled with familiar faces from Cosmos, Infinite Twilight, and World Star, all mingling and enjoying the festivities.

    Colin and Milo skidded to a halt near the pool, their eyes scanning the crowd. Finally, their gazes landed on a group seated near the shaded patio.

    "Well, well, well, took you long enough," Mercury teased, her voice warm and playful.

    She sat comfortably, surrounded by Mina and Sera, her friends from college, but also Raya, Sia, Cassie, and Roger.

    Her presence was as radiant as ever, but what truly caught Colin and Milo''s attention was the small bundle in her arms.

    The baby was a boy, an Ishtarian with soft, blueish-white hair and dark skin.

    His tiny hands grasped at the air, and his curious blue eyes sparkled as he gazed at the world around him.

    Milo and Colin approached cautiously, their expressions a mix of awe and excitement.

    "Can we...?" Colin asked hesitantly, her hands twitching slightly.

    Mercury smiled and nodded, shifting slightly to let them get closer.

    "Of course, silly, here," she said softly.

    Milo crouched down, his eyes wide as he gently touched the baby''s tiny hand. The baby

    responded with a soft coo, grasping Milo''s finger tightly.

    "He''s... amazing," Milo whispered, his voice filled with wonder.

    Colin leaned in, brushing a strand of her white hair behind her ear. She reached out, her finger brushing lightly against the baby''s cheek.

    "Hey there, little guy," she said softly, her smile tender. "Welcome to the family." Mercury watched them with a proud smile, her hand resting on the baby''s back. The sunlight glinted off the simple yet elegant ring on her finger, a symbol of her marriage to Eratz.

    "He''s perfect," Milo said, standing up and grinning. "My new rival. Our battle in 10 years will shake the world."

    "I bet you will still be the same slowpoke," Colin sighed, glancing at Mercury with a knowing smile.

    "Well, sometimes not changing is good," Mercury said with a laugh. "But most importantly... Colin, are you ready for the big day?"

    Colin straightened, her eyes gleaming with determination. She clenched her fists and nodded

    firmly.

    "I''m more than ready."

    Mercury smiled and gave her a playful wink.

    "Alright, then, go beat his ass."

    Sera rolled her eyes from her seat, her arms crossed.

    "Uh, hello, Merc, that''s your husband you''re talking about."

    Mercury grinned, undeterred.

    "Exactly why she should. Go get him, Colin."

    Sia, folding her arms, studied Colin intently. Her usual analytical tone softened as she

    nodded.

    "Maybe you''ll be the one to finally do it. You''ve grown a lot, Colin."

    Raya, serene as always, added with a gentle smile.

    "This is his biggest wish, too. I''ll be rooting for you."

    Colin took a deep breath, her gaze sweeping across the gathering. Every face seemed to turn

    toward her, silently cheering or openly encouraging her.

    Kaida raised her thumb high with a mischievous grin.

    "Make him suffer, girl."

    Catarina and Rex popped their heads out of the water, speaking in unison.

    "Venge us!" before sinking back down with a splash.

    Colin''s heart swelled with warmth as she turned to Milo. He shrugged, a smirk playing on his

    lips.

    "Remember, I''m also your rival. If you fail, I''ll be challenging him next."

    Colin''s smile turned into a confident grin.

    "In your dreams, Milo."

    Taking a step back, she gathered her resolve. Then, with a burst of flames, she ran away and

    when she got far enough, she ignited.

    In a dazzling display, her phoenix Calamity beast appeared, its fiery wings spreading wide as

    Colin leapt onto its back.

    "This is a promise," she murmured to herself, her gaze determined.

    The phoenix screeched and took to the skies, its flames trailing like a comet. Below, everyone

    watched her ascent with pride.

    Mercury''s gaze dropped to the baby in her arms. She murmured softly.

    "What do you think, Cosmos? Do you think she''ll do it?"

    Colin soared above the vibrant landscape, the phoenix''s powerful wings carrying her higher

    and higher.

    Rivers snaked through the terrain like veins of silver, shimmering under the sunlight. Forests stretched out below like emerald carpets, teeming with life.

    Majestic predators prowled through the underbrush, their sleek forms glinting as they moved with grace. High above, dazzling avian beasts flitted between trees, their feathers shimmering like precious jewels.

    On the forest floor, playful creatures darted and danced, their curious eyes following Colin''s

    phoenix as it soared past.

    Deeper in the shadows, mysterious and rare beasts lurked, their presence hinted at by soft

    rustles and faint glimmers of light.

    Colin marveled at the wonder of nature, her heart swelling with gratitude.

    Every corner of this world told a story. Every person was the main character of their own tale,

    deciding how it would unfold

    In the villa, Zara was already slumped over the table, her cheek pressed against the wood, mumbling something incoherent. Tamara, her cheeks flushed from laughter and wine, leaned back in her chair, holding her glass as Victoria chuckled beside her.

    "Ah, I thought you were lost on your way," Victoria said smoothly, raising her glass as the

    door creaked open.

    Tamara squinted at the door, her already wobbly posture sliding further into her chair.

    "Seriously?" Tamara groaned, dragging her hand down her face in exaggerated annoyance. "Can''t even get toasted in peace these days..."

    The woman stepped in, her silver-gray hair glinting in the warm light. She smirked, her emerald-adorned attire shimmering as she surveyed the room.

    "I made a quick stop to visit an old friend," Her eyes scanned the table as she removed her

    cloak. "Now... where''s my cup?"

    Elsewhere, in a bustling town, Kian and Lila stood in the locker room of an arena, their nerves barely masked by their determined expressions. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

    The crowd buzzed with energy, filling the air with anticipation. Eliza, perched in the stands with her sharp gaze, scribbled notes on their opponents.

    Marcus stood at the edge of the seating area, his arms crossed, smirking with pride. Next to him, Liora held her pendant tightly, her fingers brushing against the small photo inside.

    It was a picture of her holding her grandson next to Mercury. Her lips curved into a soft smile

    as the match was announced.

    The roaring crowd snapped her attention back, and she leaned forward, cheering loudly for

    her children as they prepared to fight.

    Colin flew higher, her phoenix soaring effortlessly through the thinning air. The rocky plateau below glimmered faintly in the sunlight, but her focus was fixed ahead.

    The phoenix flapped its mighty wings, carrying her to the highest summit of the mountain

    range.

    As she reached the summit, the fiery bird screeched before dissipating into embers. Colin jumped gracefully to the ground, her landing light.

    She straightened, her long white ponytail swaying slightly in the breeze as she brushed

    herself off.

    A wide smile spread across her face as she took in the view and the familiar figure waiting for

    her.

    "Well, you''ve kept me waiting," Eratz turned toward her, his white hair catching the light as the wind ruffled it.

    Colin broke into a sprint, her emotions bubbling over.

    "Big bro!" she cried, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug.

    Eratz''s smile softened as he returned the embrace, one hand resting gently on her back.

    "Well, well, I thought you weren''t a softy anymore?"

    She pulled back slightly, her eyes shimmering with determination and affection.

    "It''s because of you... And I''m not a softy! You kept your promise, and now it''s my turn to

    keep mine." Eratz nodded, stepping back to give her space. His posture shifted, his arms crossing as his playful smirk turned into a challenging grin.

    "You''ve come a long way, but today''s the real test. Show me everything you''ve got, Colin."

    Colin squared her shoulders, her stance solid as flames began to dance around her hands. "I''ll give you everything," she said firmly. "I''ve waited for this moment."

    The wind picked up around them, carrying the weight of their shared journey. Eratz''s voice

    rang out, steady and commanding.

    "I''m counting on you. Today, I am your opponent. No big bro nor family. Show your worth."

    Colin''s lips curled into a determined smile.

    "I will."

    Their eyes locked, a spark of their unyielding determination meeting in midair. Eratz''s eyes

    glowed an intense purple, while Colin''s glowed a fierce orange, her resolve burning as brightly as her flames.

    Eratz''s shadow spread, several eyes shining within it, his voice steady, a grin tugging at his

    lips.

    "Come and defeat me."

    The End.