[ShadowClone]

Originally Posted by EmptySoul

So.. about episode 29.

Spoiler for Episode 29:

Did you guys expect that Alviss would be losing right up to the end? I didn't really think that he'd be in the sort of position he's in. I also really didn't think Rolan would be too strong, but I guess he is. The thing he used at the end was reaaaaaaaaaaaaally cool. I also think this is the first fight to extend past one episode, isn't it?

Well, Rolan is the first Knight opponent team Mar fights, so the story needs to pretty much establish just HOW STRONG Knight-level opponents really are (what with the "warning" Kanocchi gave Ginta etc.) The fact that Ginta wasn't assigned to fight Rolan was pretty much explained in Episode 28. Moreover, the "similarity" between Alviss and Rolan basically gives no other alternative than the two of them to meet in combat.

As for "your one-episode/fight statement":

Spoiler:

it still holds true. They just ended Episode 29 for a suspenseful "cliff-hanger effect". I would guess the rest of the battle in Episode 30 would not last more than 5 minutes screen time.

As for Alviss "losing"... come on! He's the only legitimate good-guy "bishounen" in the series ( Nanashi's a lecher! )! Do you think they'd wipe him out just like that? Think of all the fan-girls!

But if you really want to know what happens:

Spoiler:

At the last moment, Alviss summons what could be his BIGGEST 13-totem pole ever and shoves it down the magma dragon's throat, destroying it. However, with that last-second move, Alviss uses up too much of his magical power and loses stamina. They continue to battle, but it is obvious that Rolan has the overwhelming advantage. With his last ounce of magic power, Alviss summons an ultra-high speed 13-totem pole which Rolan could not dodge, and it scratches Rolan's face. With his magic power gone, Alviss surrenders and realizes what he is lacking to be able to face a Knight-class opponent. Rolan commends him and notices that Alviss is already thinking about their next encounter.