The demon lords began departing, opening portals to their various domains. Some looked at Satou with pity. Others with curiosity. Seraphine blew him a kiss as she left, her expression suggesting she'd be very interested in visiting before the fight.
Soon, only Satou, Loki, and Malakor remained in the great hall.
"That was well played by Chronus," Malakor observed. "Ruthless, but well played. He's managed to put you in a position where you must fight or lose all credibility, and he's chosen a champion specifically designed to counter most conventional combat strategies."
"Can I win?" Satou asked directly.
Malakor was silent for a long moment. "Richard Clay is powerful. His Decay ability makes him nearly untouchable in close combat. Most who've fought him have died within minutes. But..."
"But?" Satou prompted.
