Chapter 340 Deciding Match 2 (1/2)
Lize nodded and looked at Rosen firmly.
”Mr. Rhode, I just have to do as you instructed, right?”
”That's right, it's all up to you now.”
”I understand.”
Lize clenched her fists and stepped onto the arena.
The entire audience abruptly turned silent for a few seconds and whispers filled the place.
”Wait… This young lady… That's a Cleric outfit, right?”
”Ugh… That's right, she's a Cleric…”
”Cleric… Can a Cleric even battle?”
”Don't ask me… I've had battle experience with powerful knights and bishops, but never with an ordinary Cleric…”
The crowd whispered into one another's ears. They racked their brains but couldn't figure out what a Cleric like Lize was doing on the arena. Although she had always been a part of the participating list of mercenaries, most of them disregarded her because Rhode assigned her as a substitute. And to them, the reason why Rhode placed her as a substitute was more just for the sake of convenience in case his men were wounded. This wasn't the first time that they witnessed this arrangement because this arrangement had been used frequently by every guild during individual matches as they wouldn't have the opportunity for the substitutes to participate. However, this was the first time a Cleric turned up for battle and even as the first participant. What exactly was going on?
If this was in the past, this decision would definitely be hissed over a hundred times by the audience. However, after the audience witnessed Rhode's prowess, they immediately became cautious. Humans survived under such profanities and if any ordinary human mentioned outrageous ideas, they would only be seen as freaks or idiots. However, if a genius mentioned the exact same thoughts, these ideas would immediately be treated as amazing and definitely something that not ordinary humans could think of…
It was the same case for the audience. Although they were doubtful, they no longer regarded Starlight as a mercenary group full of country bumpkins. A Cleric for battle—what kind of strength would she display?
”… That's odd.”
Viktor adjusted his position and observed.
”What do you think about this, Barter?”
”It's strange, alright. But if you ask me, that kid perhaps planned this scheme to make Rosen retreat willingly because isn't this the rumored princess? Although both sides agreed to a life and death challenge, if Rosen killed her—ha, Royal Highness Lydia will definitely execute him and his whole family.”
Barter snorted while rejoicing in Rosen's misfortune. However, Viktor shook his head.
”I don't think so, Barter. It's obvious that Mr. Rhode is genuinely concerned for his men. Normally, a Cleric won't possess any fighting strength. Indeed, just as you said, if we discuss this matter regarding death, it will turn into an issue if Rosen lays hands on her. This stubborn fart has always been devoted to the Reformist Party and it won't be too likely for him to do something that will make Royal Highness Lydia punish them. However, if this young lady is gravely hurt by him, the injuries may be for the rest of her life. Their difference in strength is too huge and it's practically a dream for her to resist against Rosen. Not only will he beat down the flames of the King's Party, but he will also cause unhappiness between Royal Highness Lydia and Mr. Rhode. No matter what, this young lady is Royal Highness' half-sister and Clerics aren't necessarily a class suitable for battles. Therefore, if there are any problems, Mr. Rhode will never be able to answer to Her Royal Highness.”
”Eh? Is it that bad?”
Barter questioned and stood up. His expression turned anxious.
”This spells trouble…”
”I haven't finished my sentence yet, Barter. If you don't kick this bad habit of yours, you'll be on the losing end in the future.”
Viktor smiled at the frantic Barter. The later pouted and sat down.
”I say… You educated people must have too much time on your hands to drag me into this pile of crap without speaking the main point. By the time you get to it, the enemies are already in our base! Alright, let me hear what you have to say.”
”It's simple. It isn't that Mr. Rhode isn't aware of the situation. Besides, I feel that he didn't send her up first to threaten his opponent. Instead, the life and death challenge aren't bound by rules. If Mr. Rhode used her to affect the political strength, he would have chosen to send her when he was up against Sky Sword and your Purple Lily to guarantee a victory. That old fox, Mobis, would definitely not risk it and perhaps even you wouldn't dare to harm Her Royal Highness' sister right?”
”That… makes sense.”
Barter rubbed his chin and nodded in agreement. Indeed, he was on the King's Party side and how could he allow his men to harm Her Royal Highness' sister? Even though Barter who wasn't as smart as Viktor knew that this wasn't possible.
”And then?”
”So I think… Mr. Rhode is confident in winning this match.”
”But, that girl is a Cleric…”
”Yes, a Cleric. But, none of us have engaged in battles with Clerics before. Of course, Clerics usually won't partake in any frontal battles because they are mainly supporting roles. But, does this mean that Clerics definitely can't battle?”
Viktor shook his head.
”I'm rather suspicious of this. We have never seen a Cleric used any attacking spells in battles, but Mr. Rhode actually sent one up. Indeed, for the other classes to face Rosen now with their current strength is definitely asking for death. But, a Cleric may show different results…”
Barter turned his attention to the arena.
At this moment, in the VIP lounge, Amund made the same conclusion.
”… However, Your Highness, please pardon my rudeness. I have lived long enough and fought against Soul Knights, Guardian Knights, and even the Holy Bishops, but I have never battled a Cleric. After all, that's too…”
Amund couldn't find an expression to describe his feelings.
”I understand what you meant, Teacher.”
Lydia sat up and looked at the arena. However, her gaze wasn't directed at Lize who was preparing herself, but was targeted at Rhode who crossed his arms. Lydia's eyes glinted in a burning radiance, like a kid who just discovered an amusing toy or like an artist who witnessed a beautiful artwork.
”I think I want you even more now… Mr. Rhode Alander.”
Amund rolled his eyes and at the same time looked at Rhode with pitiful eyes.
I wish you luck, young man.