Chapter 779  Pride-


    Having defeated the Symmetra fighter—who, if not for a limited reserve of void energy, could have posed a significant challenge—Aron now faced the final five, each among the Conclave''s top-ranking Civilizations. If the Symmetra’s abilities were any indication, these upcoming battles would be the most difficult yet. Each of the remaining civilizations possessed unique racial abilities that made them particularly formidable and fearsome opponents.


    Aron chose to forgo his rest period, calling forth the next challenger without delay. This time, it was Vaxerion, the Valthroin warrior, stepping into the arena. Clad in his standard-issue military uniform, he presented a disciplined and imposing figure—a sight the Conclave viewers were well accustomed to, signaling the Valthroins'' fierce pride in their abilities.


    For the viewers from the Terran Empire, however, Vaxerion’s appearance was unexpected. Every fighter so far had arrived in armor, even if it was mostly symbolic for some, providing at least a thin layer of protection. Yet here stood Vaxerion, without even the slightest hint of armor—only his military uniform, as if to declare that he required no additional defense.


    Their surprise, however, would have faded if they understood the power behind Vaxerion''s choice—a racial ability deeply rooted in the Valthroin''s renowned pride. For the Valthroins, pride wasn’t simply an attitude; it was a source of strength. The prouder they were, the stronger their ability became, granting them a protective shield that could resist any attack—so long as the fighter held an unwavering belief in their ability to withstand it. This pride had to be genuine, fueled by absolute self-assurance, or the shield would falter. If not for this requirement, the Valthroins might very well dominate the Conclave entirely.


    While it might seem straightforward to defeat a Valthroin by causing a momentary lapse in their self-confidence, in reality, this was nearly impossible. From early childhood, they are rigorously trained to embrace unwavering pride in their abilities, instilling a deep, unshakeable belief that their strength can overcome any foe.


    During this formative period, they are shielded from external influences; access to the wider network is strictly limited to prevent any interference with their development. By the time they reach adulthood, emerging after a coming-of-age ceremony, they are fortified in both pride and trust in their abilities, making it almost impossible to penetrate their mental defenses. As long as their shield endures, they remain virtually untouchable in battle.


    ...........


    The countdown to the fight was nearing its end, yet the Valthorin fighter showed no signs of readiness. His stance remained unchanged, his chest puffed out, and his posture relaxed, giving no indication of worry. He stood there as though the fight was nothing more than a mere formality, a test for Aron to prove himself worthy of his pride.


    {You may begin.} The AI referee''s voice cut through the silence.


    Without hesitation, the Valthorin raised a single hand and pointed a finger directly at Aron. His expression was serene, almost detached, as if the outcome was already decided in his mind.


    "Due to defeating those weaklings so easily," the fighter proclaimed, his voice rich with pride, "I will give you the honor of having the first attack."


    The audacity of his words struck everyone, leaving even the Terran Empire''s viewers stunned. No one had expected such a blatant display of arrogance, especially when the fight held the weight of the Conclave''s prideful civilizations on the line. If he lost, it would not only be a personal defeat but also a loss of his civilization’s technology making such a declaration quite a careless one.


    "Attack me with your strongest attack and do not disappoint me," he added with a flourish, his voice laced with challenge. Then, with a dramatic gesture, he opened his arms wide, completely exposing himself. He gave no indication that he planned to defend, offering Aron an opportunity for any attack he saw fit.