From the viewing stands high above the training arena, Nikko Yakomoto narrowed her eyes.
"Why would she use that?" she muttered, voice too soft for anyone but Elizabeth to catch.
Elizabeth turned toward her, brow furrowed. "What does that tree do?"
Nikko didn't answer at first. Her gaze stayed locked on the massive tree growing at the far end of the arena, a towering, ancient thing with bark like silver stone and branches that shimmered with faint luminescence.
"It's a support skill," Nikko finally said. "A powerful one. Meant to empower an entire base during extended combat. It spreads buffs through the ground itself, strength, stamina, clarity of mind. Useful in large, scale battles, especially when morale is low or numbers thin."
Elizabeth's brows pulled together.
"Then why use it now? For a display?"
"Exactly." Nikko's voice was low and uncertain. "It doesn't make sense."
A chill settled between them.
