Thunder Craft : Weaponized Chaos

Chapter 7: Face Off In the Lunchroom

"Well, it seems like I just can't get rid of you, man. Shi~it seriously, don't they have chow on fifteen?" I say begrudgingly, trying to mask my annoyance.

Victor's face lights up with a huge grin. "We sure do! We even take bets on how many times you'll fail your exam before you drop out." He pauses, eyes glinting with mischief. "I bet three. Hey, uh, you been 'studying'? Exams are this Friday."

Double wince.

"I heard your mom is hoping for some extra help with her 'favorite student.'"

Triple wince. Wait, what did this guy just say? I narrow my eyes, staring him down as his crew erupts in laughter at his so-called cleverness.

I force a mock laugh with them until they quiet down, needing a moment to ask my question. "Hey, you," I start, my voice steady. "What did you just say to me?"

As students begin dragging their tables away, sensing the brewing storm, I lean in, determined. "Because if I recall correctly, I could take you down so easily, I could write a guide on it. You know exactly why I struggle with tests: because you told your dad about my business—"

I glance around, realizing I'm now the only one standing against Victor and his goons. "But since it looks like my friends decided to take to other activities, I'm all alone and outnumbered. See ya."

I know he's not going to let me leave after that jab, but honestly, that last remark was too good to resist.

Victor's face contorts with rage as he shoves his way through his crowd of followers, his eyes locked on me. Oh boy.

Time slows, everything around us blurring into the background. The lunchroom noise fades away, and it feels like we're the only two people in the world.

I shift my weight onto my left heel, preparing for what's about to unfold.

I couldn't wait for this moment to come. I've trained for it, planned for it, and now, it's finally here.

As Victor lunges forward, I pivot sharply, ready to face whatever comes next. The air crackles with tension as adrenaline surges through my veins.

"Come on, then!" I shout, my voice rising above the noise as I brace myself.

He charges, and I sidestep, feeling the rush of wind as he misses me. I can see the surprise on his face as I quickly regain my stance, ready for another move. The crowd holds its breath, the atmosphere electric.

Victor recovers and spins around, his fists clenched. "You think you can dodge me? You'll regret this!"

I can't help but smirk. "Regret? Nah, I'm just getting started."

He lunges again, and this time I'm prepared. I duck low, feeling the adrenaline spike as I swing my leg to trip him. He stumbles but catches himself, turning the moment into a fierce glare.

"Nice try, Thundora," he snarls, eyes narrowing.

"Thanks for the compliment," I shoot back, staying light on my feet, ready for whatever he throws at me next.

Around us, the onlookers are caught in a mix of awe and anticipation, whispers and murmurs swirling like a storm. It's not just about the fight anymore; it's about standing my ground.

As Victor lunges again, I know this isn't just a battle of fists; it's a test of will. And I'm not backing down.