Chapter 262 Warm-up Match 1 (2/2)

Rhode's alternate motive in organising this warm-up match was to familiarise everyone with the atmosphere in the actual Midsummer Festival in order to avoid them getting scared out of their wits. Although Marlene and the rest weren't as terrible as they were before their training in the mirage, it was still common for heroes in the training grounds to turn into zeros. Excellent training results might not represent the same results in battles. Therefore, Rhode felt this was the best opportunity.

As expected, Rhode realised that apart than Marlene, everyone was rather nervous. They couldn't be blamed as Lize was a Cleric who seldom had the chance to witness such a crowd in battle. Anne was as carefree as usual. But judging from the way she gripped her shield, it seemed like she wasn't as calm. As for the two newbies, Randolf and Joey, it went without saying how the situation was for them.

On the contrary, Lapis had already escaped, but she was eventually pulled back by Rhode.

”I will cut the crap.”

Rhode said to everyone waiting to enter the venue.

”All of you are aware of what to do and I'm sure you know the purpose of training for so long in the mirage. You can choose to escape or give up, but that means everything you have done is for naught… I know you won't like that. I know all of you are nervous right now, but you have to get used to it because this is only the start…”

Rhode paused for a moment and carefully observed them. After hearing Rhode's words, Lize's serious expression became more determined. Anne lifted her head proudly, carried a smile, and blinked at Rhode. Randolf and Joey instantly recalled their harsh training sessions in the mirage and summoned their courage.

Did we work so hard just to give them all up? What's the point to suffer like abused dogs?

Almost there.

Rhode didn't mind applying more pressure on them.

”Of course, I hope all of you can bring out your best… Also, just to mention, these opponents here may not even be the best candidates for the Midsummer Festival. So, if you don't perform as per my expectations then, I'm sorry, I will immediately revoke your participation rights.”

Everyone was sure that Rhode was serious as he always did as he promised. If they didn't perform up to his expectations, then he would definitely kick them out of the mercenary group, which was definitely something they wanted to avoid. Due to this, Randolf and Joey put up solemn expressions. Lize closed her eyes as though she was in deep thought. Anne tilted her head and didn't seem to be bothered by Rhode's words too much. Only Marlene, who had been remaining silent, suddenly widened her eyes and asked…

”Mr. Rhode, may we know what's your expectation…”

Rhode answered with his usual poker face and a calm tone.

”Don't return to me if you can't defeat all five of them by each of yourself.”