The crowd around them couldn't help but gasp, and Matthew's eyes flew open in shock. Blinking rapidly, he saw a figure standing before him—golden hair gleaming so brilliantly under the sunlight that it seemed to glow.
Before them, a translucent wall of golden light shimmered, blocking Thora's attack.
Thora's fist slammed against the barrier, creating a small shockwave, sparks bursting from the point of impact. His eyes widened, his face—already fierce—twisted into an even more savage expression. Yet even so, he couldn't avoid the outcome: the force of his own blow rebounded against him, sending him flying backwards and crashing to the ground in an undignified heap.
Around them, some onlookers covered their mouths, others tried to hold back laughter, while those of higher status than Thora didn't bother restraining themselves—bursting out laughing openly, their eyes filled with curiosity as they turned toward the newcomer.
