In that critical moment, I managed to react just in time, rolling to the side with all my strength.
I narrowly avoided Verne's deadly strike, scraping past one side of the sacred pillar. But I only managed to avoid a fatal blow—my right leg was struck by the pillar, tearing open several deep gashes. Blood poured out like a spring, soaking the ground beneath me.
Seeing me dodge his attack, Verne looked surprised, but he wasn't discouraged. He steadied himself, gripping the massive pillar tightly, and swung it toward me again. However, I dodged his strike once more.
The crowd watching could no longer remain calm. Many stood up, eyes fixed on me and Verne in the arena. It was clear to everyone that the battle had reached its most critical point, and the savages, who reveled in power and co
