"Back in the virtual arena of the Central Lands, I defeated seventeen challengers in a row in this state, ultimately earning the title of 'Blade Tiger.'
His gaze fell upon Ron, eyes sparkling with battle intent:
"Kid, today won't be like usual when I hold back.
With my enhanced state, I stand a fifty-fifty chance even against a typical Morning Star Wizard.
Of course, that is, if the opponent doesn't use Spiritual Shock to control me right at the start."
Almost simultaneously, the Stand-In Puppet beside Ron completed its activation sequence.
Nurtured long-term by the energy from the Abyss Crystal, the puppet had undergone significant transformation.
Its height increased to nearly two meters one, taller than Ron by a head.
Muscle lines were extremely distinct, each one perfect like a sculpture, with scales on its skin surface displaying a deep purplish-black hue, edges shimmering with starlight.
