"Aaagh!"

An agonizing scream escaped Ezreal's lips as he took the blade of an axe through his stomach. The champion fell backwards into the river that divided the battlefield of this war. Without having to look, he already knew his slayer was Draven, the Glorious Executioner. Ezreal's life left him the moment his body contacted the bottom of the river.

Several tens of seconds later, Ezreal opened his eyes to find himself at the spawning pedestal. Beside him was the Lady of Luminosity, one of his allies for this match. She smiled weakly at him, waiting for the pedestal's magic to restore vigor into her tattered body.

"Hey, Lux. Good to see you made it out of that bloodbath." Greeted Ezreal.

"My summoner seems to be extra careful about keeping me alive." She replied, grateful towards the one in whose hands her fate remained. "And you, Ezreal? That was one painful scream…"

Although champions only suffered temporary deaths on the Fields of Justice, the pain from the injuries inflicted was very real. Lux had witnessed her comrade get his body cleaved almost into two by that execution axe. Even with all the battle experience she had, it was still difficult not to be concerned about such an injury.

Sensing the concern in Luxanna's voice, Ezreal smiled and waved the lady's worries away.

"I do admit that it hurt like hell, but I'm fine. It's not like we really die, anyway. But wow, that Draven, he is serious with that axe of his."

Ezreal thought of the force with which the axe had just sliced into his body and made a mental note not to go into a 1v1 with Draven, ever.

Seeing the Explorer's usual cheerful smile again, Lux relaxed.

It was still only the second time Lux had ever really spoken to Ezreal. While it was true that the two had been in countless battles together, whether it be as allies or as enemies, they've never had a chance to have a proper conversation. Although Lux had begun to take a liking to this highly skilled Champion, she was sure he still regarded her only as an occasional comrade.

"Lux, you ready?" Ezreal nodded at her. His emerald eyes reflected nothing but skill, trust, and confidence. The Prodigal Explorer was ready for another round of fighting to the death.

Encouraged by Ezreal's confidence, Luxanna gave a reassuring nod back.

"All right, Ezreal. Let's go help our team out."