Crocodile had never expected the two Giants to defeat Ye Chen. As long as they kept him busy for a while, Crocodile was confident he could crush everyone else. Then he would settle the score with Ye Chen.
Crocodile's plan seemed flawless. Ye Chen really had landed in trouble, and no explanation would get him out of it.
"Crocodile?"
Lucci was on his own, apart from Hadley, who perched on his shoulder in a matching cloak, looking every bit as cold and imposing.
"Coo, coo, coo..."
Hadley startled at Crocodile's sudden appearance and flew into the air. Lucci merely glanced at him.
"Hmph."
He snorted, his expression full of disdain.
"You don't find this strange at all?"
Crocodile suppressed his anger and tried to look relaxed. His plan was perfect, as far as he was concerned. Once he defeated Lucci, the strongest fighter at Ye Chen's side, the rest would be easy.
"What difference does it make?"
Lucci gave a cold smile. "Whether your appearance here is suspicious or not, all I have to do is beat you."
Whatever Crocodile had planned, defeating him would put an end to it.
Lucci tore off his cloak. Hadley, already perched on a branch, cried out excitedly when he saw his master preparing to fight. He flapped his wings as though cheering Lucci on.
The trees stirred though there was no wind. Leaves rustled overhead, and dust swirled up from the ground.
Lucci stood tall, his presence formidable, his fierce, scythe-shaped brows drawn tight. Wind began to rise, carrying sand with it. Lucci did not move, but an overwhelming pressure swept toward Crocodile.
Nearby birds and beasts fled in terror. Lucci's killing intent grew stronger, and even the surrounding plants and trees seemed to cry out in despair.
That was no exaggeration. Plants