Pyro of the Craven

Chapter-19: Enter the Knockout Stage..!!

As the first match commenced, Shiva and Mrinal stepped into the arena, greeted by a chorus of mocking voices from the audience. The crowd, aware of Shiva's superior skills, began to taunt Mrinal, belittling her presence in the knockouts after she hadn't engaged in any battle in the previous round. Undeterred, she stood before Shiva, her gaze downcast, absorbing the taunts and jeers. Shiva, with a hint of pity in his voice, offered her a way out, urging her to surrender quietly. The mocking voices grew louder, but Mrinal stood her ground, exhibiting neither fear nor confidence. She observed her surroundings, keeping her head down.

However, in a moment that caught everyone off guard, Ramaraju's commanding voice pierced through the air, emanating from the announcer's platform.

"Enough!" Ramaraju's voice boomed, instantly capturing the attention of the crowd. He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing, his voice filled with genuine emotion. "What you are doing is wrong. I know what it feels like to hear such things, to be weighed down by the doubts and mockery of others."

The crowd fell into a hushed silence, captivated by Ramaraju's heartfelt speech. He shared his own experiences of facing adversity and the damaging effects of negativity. "We should not judge based solely on appearances or past battles," he emphasized, his words resonating deeply. "Mrinal is a Second-Grade Ryoshi, and she healed our team when we most needed her. Without her, we wouldn't have managed to survive it. A healer, like our Mrinal here, possesses a power far greater than those who solely seek destruction. They have the strength to mend and protect, to bring hope and healing to those in need."

Ramaraju's words stirred a sense of realization among the spectators. The air in the arena shifted as the crowd began to question their previous assumptions. They understood the significance of Mrinal's role as a healer, recognizing the immense value she brought to the battlefield. The murmurs of admiration for Ramaraju's wisdom rippled through the crowd, their skepticism replaced by an appreciation for his powerful act.

Among the NES, smiles lit up their faces as they watched him command the attention of the audience. Collector Remus, impressed by Ramaraju's impact, quietly remarked to himself, "The reactions on their faces changed."

Empowered by Ramaraju's words, Mrinal felt a surge of confidence flow through her veins. The doubts that once burdened her now seemed insignificant in the face of her resolve. She locked eyes with Shiva, determination etched in her gaze.

Shiva, smirking in response to Ramaraju's act, recognized the transformation in Mrinal. He admired her newfound strength and the fire that burned within her. "You've grown, Mrinal," he acknowledged, his voice laced with respect. "But remember, I will not go easy on you."

Mrinal met his challenge head-on, her flower petals swirling around her as she tapped into her unique power. Shiva, harnessing the force of Odic-Force, unleashed bursts of dazzling light and raw strength. Their clash was a dance of contrasting elements, a testament to their individual abilities and determination.

Amidst the intensity of the battle, their conversation continued. Shiva questioned Mrinal's resolve, pushing her to find her inner strength. "Why did you have to leave Krudarth Academy?" he asked, curiosity mixed with a hint of disappointment.

Mrinal, her voice intense, replied, "There were circumstances, Captain Shiva, circumstances that forced me to make difficult choices. It wasn't an easy decision."

Shiva's gaze softened as he realized the burden Mrinal had carried in silence. His voice took on a compassionate tone as he spoke, "Mrinal, you should have trusted me enough to share your burdens. As your captain, and as someone who has always thought of you as a little sister, I would have been there to support you through it all."