Chapter 718 Time Slows, Blood Flows
Time seemed to slow down for the people inside the arena. n/-OVelBIn
The first to move into action was Rodney. He felt his body become incredibly light, like wings had grown on his back, as he flew forward, trying to catch his queen.
Ulrick, who saw what happened, was about to dive forward as well, so no one would get hurt. But a second killing intent pulsed in the training room, this one much more vicious.
Immediately, he felt a heavy pressure slam into him, and he instantly knew this threat was much more dangerous.
Looking down toward the bleachers, he saw a blur go from the guest side to where his daughter was and knew what was happening.
He couldn't afford to care about Phoenix's well-being or his son's attempt at saving the girl. If he did, his daughter would die, he was certain.
He flash-stepped down, heading for his daughter, and got there at the same time as the other party dashing there.
Explosions occurred, as the sound barrier was pierced multiple times in a single second, and a cloud of dust was kicked up.
From outside, the visibility became null, as they waited, their breaths held. When the dust settled down, many things became obvious.
Down in the arena, Phoenix was on the ground, a few cuts on her arms and back, while Rodney was half impaled on the ice spikes, coughing blood.
The situation looked dire. But somehow, it was worse in the bleachers.
On the Lorhen side of the stands, the two servants were on the ground, eyes wide and mouths agape.
This was because everything had moved so fast, and now someone might die.
Ulrick, who had moved just fast enough, was now standing next to Astaroth, his blade pressed against the latter's throat. Already, blood trickled from the edge of the blade.
As for Astaroth, he was wrist deep into the Lorhen first daughter's chest, his arms covered in white fur, which was now stained with blood.
It instantly became hectic outside, as the young knights scrambled to get the healers into the training portal. Their time was counted.
Astaroth jumped into the arena, dashing toward Rodney, as his meld undid itself.
*Cough cough* *Splatter*
Blood hit the dirt ground, seeping into the dry compacted soil, as Rodney looked up to the bleachers, past Astaroth.
He could see his wounded sister in his father's arms, and his first thought was for her safety.
Turning to lock eyes with Astaroth, he asked, "Did you let her live?"
Astaroth nodded his head, his teeth clenching.
"Her safety is not important over yours, Rodney. You need to focus on staying awake. Understand?"
Rodney slowly blinked, feeling his life slip away.
"It is important. I wouldn't want a war to start because of me. It would haunt me into the afterlife."
*Cough cough*
"Stop talking, you idiot! Focus on staying awake, and only that. Luna! Come out. Start healing him!"
The small girl appeared behind Astaroth, her face already filled with worry, as her hands lit up in a soft milky glow. She pressed them against Rodney's chest, the icicles already melted away, leaving gaping holes in his body, which were slowly closing.
"Come on. Hang in there," Astaroth said, his teeth clenched.
"Don't you dare die from saving me, you idiot! I wouldn't forgive myself," Phoenix added, tears rolling down her cheeks.
Blinking again, his eyes feeling so heavy, Rodney forced a smile on his lips.
"Thank you. For everything."
A long sigh escaped his lips as the words left them, his eyes going dull.