Sacred Arts

19. New Top Thirteen

"You are all the finest warriors of this year, as well as the esteemed academy's top thirteen warriors," Master Shawn announced, standing tall. "Just as before, you will now be given a twenty-four-hour period of rest until the tournament resumes," he continued. The remaining warriors, filled with determination, settled themselves in a cross-legged position, dedicated this time to cultivating and restoring their strength. Among the remaining warriors are Barry Coleen, Rain Anderson, Raquel Jackson, Flint Cason, Trey Lynne, Jan Byrne, Kenzie Royale, Ernest Cade, Jonathan Vere, Matthew, Amon, and Jess. "Due to the vacancy in rank thirteen, Bret and Elinor would have a chance to battle each other for that spot," Master Shawn informed everyone.

As the twenty-four-hour rest period came close to ending, the remaining warriors began to rise from their positions, eagerly awaiting the start of the next round. "Time's up, warriors." "Please come forward and draw your lots," Master Shawn instructed. "This time, the lots would be ranging from numbers one through six," he continued. Each warrior approached the stage one by one, carefully selecting their lots. Those who drew number one were instructed by Master Shawn to step onto the stage.

Barry Coleen and Flint Cason were the chosen ones. The crowd held their breath, anticipating Flint's next move. It was no surprise that Flint found himself backed against a wall, facing an obstacle as massive as a mountain. Beads of sweat began to form on his forehead as he thought about his decision. "Are both warriors ready?" Master Shawn asked, snapping Flint out of his daze.

Flint, feeling a sense of relief as if he had narrowly escaped a difficult situation, exclaimed, "I admit defeat," and bowed to Barry. "Okay," Master Shawn acknowledged. "The warriors that drew number two may step onto the stage," Master Shawn instructed. Rain Anderson and Ernest Cade made their way onto the stage. However, upon noticing Rain, Ernest halted on the third step and admitted defeat without even fully stepping onto the stage.

The third match followed a similar pattern, as Raquel's opponent immediately admitted defeat upon realizing who they were up against. "Wow, even Jan Byrne, last year's rank six, didn't want to fight Raquel," someone in the crowd said, amazed. "Unbelievable, these are supposed to be the top warriors, and they'd all rather give up than fight," Amon said, shaking his head in disbelief. "The next pair of participants may step forward," Master Shawn announced. Kenzie Royale stepped onto the stage, glancing at the crowd, curious about her opponent.

"Where is the other warrior?" Master Shawn asked aloud. "If no other warrior comes forward, her opponent is likely Jess," Headmaster Edward responded. "Well, where is she?" "We'll have to disqualify her if she doesn't come forward," Master Shawn continued. "The healers said she was done recovering the last I checked in on her," Master Jacob chimed in. "I hate to admit it, but since," Master Shawn said before getting interrupted.

At that moment, a warrior landed on the stage, leaving the crowd stunned by their identity. "Sorry to keep you waiting," Jess said with a mischievous grin. "Wow, that's Jess." "She has become much stronger in such a short amount of time," Amon muttered in amazement. "What did she do to gain that much strength in so little time?" Matthew wondered. "This should be interesting," he thought with a grin forming on his face.

"So you're my opponent?" "Let us have a legendary battle," Kenzie said, letting out a powerful aura. "Yeah, entertain me will ya," Jess said, letting out a powerful aura of her own. As Kenzie disappeared, the crowd held their breath in anticipation. They knew that Kenzie possessed a unique technique that allowed her to move at incredible speeds, making her a formidable opponent. "Even though I've seen this technique before, I'm still impressed with her agility and skill," Amon thought to himself.

Jess, however, remained calm and focused. She knew that Kenzie's disappearing act was just a tactic to create confusion and gain an advantage. Jess kept her senses sharp, ready to react to any sudden movements. Suddenly, Kenzie reappeared on the side of Jess, her sword aimed at her head. But Jess was ready. With lightning-fast reflexes, she turned, blocking Kenzie's attack with her forearm.