Chapter 204 - Ranker Versus 'Trash'

N0v3lTr0ve served as the original host for this chapter's release on N0v3l--B1n.

“Hey, brat! Who do you think you are? Are you sure you want to do this?”

The first to speak among the two was Richard Novo.

After attacking Jared and failing in that venture, he promptly retreated to the air where he retained his position. To some, it might have seemed like Richard simply controlled himself and chose not to attack the young First Year anymore, but to those with keener eyes, it was obvious that Richard was flustered and had chosen to make a tactical retreat.

In essence, the undisputedly superior Ranker had just run from a Lower Class noob!

“The emptiest barrels make the loudest noises.”

Jared’s calm words shook Richard where he was. He, who was already agitated by the fact that he couldn’t get his prey the first time, was now filled with more fury.

Richard’s bloodshot eyes murderously glared at Jared.

“Know your place... YOU BRAT!”

The boy in the air abandoned all form of mercy and common sense, choosing to resort to his ace from the very beginning! This was the fastest, surest way for him to assert his dominance.

Plus, he simply wanted to watch the defiant kid scream in pain!

“[Descending Gravity]” Richard smiled in delight, aiming for Jared’s location.

Descending Gravity, like most Spells, could be evaded. For an Area Of Effect Spell like this, it was very difficult to dodge, especially since the effects were invisible and also instant.

The most effective measure in dealing with the Spell was to constantly keep moving. At least, the caster, depending on speed, may not have been able to keep up with one’s speed.

Then why... why wasn’t Jared moving a single step from his location?

BOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM

The earth around Jared cracked, rumbling to Richard’s Spells... but then a surprising sight became evident.

The boy’s short explanation was outstanding. Though it was in a gentle tone, people wondered how they were able to listen so fluidly to his words.

“I took the liberty of using a Sound Amplification spell so everyone in this Hall can hear us. With that in mind, I would like to ask...” Jared answered the question on everyone’s minds.

“... Is this all you have?”

To his words, Richard’s heart skipped a beat.

How was he to answer such a condescending question? He was still recoiling from the explanation Jared gave concerning counteracting his Spell.

‘I-Is he... really a First Year...?!’ His thought rang as he gulped.

“You brat! Of course it’s not! I’m a Ranker! I’m the 5th strongest in this whole Academy. You think blocking one of my Spells will be enough to give you an advantage? Don’t make me laugh!” Richard rambled on, even though he was deep in panic.

Everyone who knew Richard well were aware of the fact that [Descending Gravity] was his Ace Move.

He would simply crush those who opposed him, that was how he had climbed up the ranks. Of course, Richard had other great Spells, but none were even remotely as impressive as his crushing attack. If Jared could stop his greatest move... how would he fare against his lesser ones?

‘Calm yourself, Richard! This is just a kid! There’s no way he’s stronger than you... yeah!’

Since Jared said he understood [Descending Gravity]’s nature, that meant he couldn’t be immune to the others. He would have required time to completely analyze the Spell. That meant Richard could still win if he surprised the young brat with a new move.

‘Heh, your luck has run out now, kid!’ With a dark gleam in his eyes, Richard’s spirits were now elevated and he began considering what Spell he would use against the one who dared to defy him.

“I’m happy to see you so motivated.” Jared remarked, now smiling in a relaxed manner.

Richard was a little taken aback by the boy’s reaction to his obvious malevolence, but before he could voice a comeback, Jared’s voice appeared once again.

“Since you have more in store, I suppose it’s time I showed you a little trick up my sleeve as well...”

An air of unease began to radiate around the stage as both flying boys gazed at each other.

“... I’ll be crushing you now. So, resist with all you have... okay?”

Richard couldn’t understand where the boy’s confidence was stemming from. He hadn’t even attacked since the match began, and it was common knowledge that First Years couldn’t achieve more than Low-Tier Intermediate Spells... especially those in the Lower Class.

“Here I go... Elemental Chamber.”