Stage 4 - Team Battles
The air hung thick with tension as the students entered the Combat Arena, its circular structure evoking the grandeur of an ancient coliseum. Towering stone walls, etched with intricate symbols of past victors, seemed to watch over them, while the floor presented an unforgiving mix of jagged earth and smooth platforms. Dust swirled around their feet, kicked up with every step. Above, the open sky stretched wide, the midday sun casting long, ominous shadows that danced across the battlefield like restless spirits, carried by the gentle yet haunting breeze.
As they stepped inside, the low murmur of the crowd reached their ears. The distant wind whistled through the arena, adding to the eerie ambiance. Spectators filled the stands, their eyes following the students with curiosity and anticipation. High above, the Sages sat in the highest tier, their expressions unreadable, save for the occasional narrowing of eyes as they silently measured the contenders below. The Senseis, including Yoshi, Aiko, and Lian, observed from the lower stands, each carrying their own blend of pride and scrutiny. Further below, upperclassmen, veterans of their own trials, exchanged knowing glances as if weighing the capabilities of the newcomers.
Kai’s heart raced as he took in the sheer scale of the arena. The weight of the katana at his side seemed to grow heavier, a constant reminder of the battles ahead. His fingers clenched tighter around the hilt, the familiar texture of the leather grip grounding him as his mind raced through possible strategies. The rough earth beneath his boots felt unstable, a subtle threat in the midst of an already daunting arena.
Beside him, Michi’s eyes flitted nervously from one element of the arena to the next. He swallowed hard, wiping the sweat from his brow as his gaze landed on the Sages above. His heart pounded as he wondered what they were thinking. Are they impressed? Or do they see me as weak? Despite his nerves, he clenched his fists, determined not to let fear take over.
In contrast, Esta remained calm, though her heart raced as they stepped into the Combat Arena. She took a deep breath, steadying herself as her divine eyes scanned the battlefield. Each detail sharpened in her vision, fueling the strategies that began forming in her mind. Despite the pressure, her focus didn’t waver. There was a flicker of nervousness, but it was quickly drowned out by her instinct to analyse, to calculate the best way to use their surroundings to their advantage. The crowd faded into the background as she concentrated on the task ahead.
Sensei Kitana stood at the edge of the arena, her presence commanding, as if the very air bent to her will. With a lift of her hand, her voice, amplified through her telekinesis, boomed across the space with a sharp authority. "Welcome to the team battles, the fourth stage of the Mid-Year Trials. You've proven your skills in physical endurance, adaptability, and self-reflection. Now, it's time to demonstrate your ability to work together and strategise in battle."
A gust of wind swept across the arena as she paused, letting her words settle. The students stood still, their anxiety palpable, save for the occasional shuffle or whispered encouragement. Kai felt his pulse quicken again, but he forced himself to remain calm, stealing a glance at his teammates. Esta met his gaze first, her expression one of unwavering trust. Michi’s nervous eyes followed, but even through his anxiety, there was determination there too. They were ready.
Kitana’s voice rang out clearly. "Each team will face off in a single-elimination tournament. The top two teams will compete in the final battle, and the ultimate winner will have their names etched forever in the Sanctuary’s history books, with special recognition bestowed upon them."
A murmur spread through the crowd. Kai felt the weight of those words settle over him. Making history. His eyes flickered toward the Senseis. Sensei Yoshi gave him a subtle nod of approval, while Aiko exchanged a knowing glance with Lian. The upperclassmen watched the competitors with interest, their expressions a mix of curiosity and respect.
YOU ARE READING
LIFE FORCE
ФэнтезиIn the mystical world of Eiryu, Kai Akimoto uncovers his rare dual gifts and is whisked away to the Sanctuary to hone his powers. But as a dark force stirs, threatening the delicate balance, Kai must race against time to master his abilities. Can he...
