High above them, Elder Drew couldn't help but shift uncomfortably. Though he was a Divine Rank expert, there was a quiet anxiety flickering in his heart. He didn't care whether Max won or lost—victory wasn't everything. But the reputation of the Great Ruler Empire was on the line.
Losing in a fair fight was acceptable. Being crushed and humiliated, however, would be a stain that would take years to wash away. He had heard Lyra's account of Max's performance during the recruitment assessment, and though her words had been confident, this opponent was not some inexperienced genius.
This was a seasoned 3rd level Champion Rank, a whole realm above Master Rank, someone no 8th level Expert Rank should even dream of facing.
Elder Drew sighed deeply and folded his arms, silently praying Lyra's gamble wasn't a mistake. 'I hope you're right, Lyra,' he thought grimly as he focused on the battlefield.
