Right as the bell rang, Astaroth melded with White Death. The stats boost his spirit companion got from upgrading were non-negligible, but not game-changing.
As he was melding, he had to side-step a volley of arrows coming his way. Killi was already on the offensive, starting with his bow, trying to shave off some health from Astaroth.
Astaroth knew that this fight would differ from his last one, because Killi was his opponent. He had seen a lot of this man's past competitions and streams.
It would not be easy to make combat with an opponent with his experience on the battlefield. He was also a very proficient archer and swordsman, as had been proved in the past.
Clearing his mind from stray thoughts and distractions, Astaroth focused his gaze on Killi. This would be the most interesting fight he had in a while, aside from his sparring with Kloud.