Is Such a Halfhearted Competition Really Okay?

Feralas, Doomhammer Arena. An unusual gladiatorial match was underway. The sparse audience cheered the gladiators' "spectacular" performance.

The first event was a one-on-one match. Valeera faced a massive Ogre guard named "Krokar."

The Ogre, clad in ridiculous armor, let out an earth-shaking roar as he entered, drawing cheers from the entire arena.

Meanwhile, the small-statured Valeera was greeted by a wave of boos.

Soon, the two approached the center from opposite sides of the arena and began fighting fiercely.

Below the stands, Rega watched the battle and asked Gordok worriedly, "Old friend, you made sure to speak with that big fellow up there, right? Don't accidentally hurt the elf and upset our guests."

"Don't worry, Rega. I know my limits, or I wouldn't have lived this long," Gordok said carelessly. "That elf girl's toothpicks can't hurt Krokar, but Krokar has already prepared his defeat act. Just watch."

Sure enough, Krokar swung his enormous weapon with seemingly ferocious attacks, yet Valeera easily dodged every one. Her short sword repeatedly left quite a few wounds on the Ogre's body.

Krokar seemed to grow impatient and roared angrily, "I'll tear you apart!" Then he raised his weapon and smashed it down at the elven rogue. Valeera leaped aside, landed against the Ogre's back, switched to short throwing knives, and drove five of them in succession into the back of his neck.

"Roar—" Krokar let out a miserable cry and reached back to grab the elf behind him, but his body began shaking violently. Finally, he collapsed face-first onto the ground, utterly motionless.

Gordok, serving as referee, immediately ran into the arena and announced loudly, "The elf Valeera wins! She has given us a truly splendid gladiatorial performance. Did anyone bet on her? You'll have to buy drinks tonight!"

The audience promptly erupted in