Time Through Time We Remain Untamed.

Chapter 21.5

        Lan Zhan and Wei Wuxian stood at the sidelines as they awaited the other teams to arrive. They had been 18 duo teams in total and by the score board, the number had been reduced to 10 teams, 8 disqualified for various reasons. The 1st place was held by Wuxian and Lan Zhan at 3 minutes and a percent score point of 15 targets met. They were also an honorary point for them as they had not been hit on target by the ambush at all. The last participants clocked in at 7 minutes and that marked the end of the 1st round. Wuxian felt happiness course through him but he kept himself quiet. They couldn't celebrate just yet. Two more challenges awaited them and they were much difficult than this one.

      The proceeding participants were transported back into the arena to get a 15 minute break before they were taken to the other round area. There was silence in the van as the participants made no effort in communicating. It was a competition after all and there was no space for friendliness here. Wuxian noticed the small glances being thrown at Lan Zhan by other participants and saw how wary they were of him. Lan Zhan was famous in the Martial Arts world in his own right and that fact alone made Wuxian feel extremely proud of being in one team with him. He also felt an immense burden to do well and prove himself not only to others but to Lan Zhan as well, show him that he would also do his part for this team to win.
  
      The car ride was shorter than before and arrived to the cheers of the audience who had seen the whole thing in the arena. It was there the two met their master for a brief moment and he took them aside for a talk.

   "Well done boys. That was excellent execution but it is not over yet. The next round is much harder. I just received news that you two will duel against the 3rd team of the last round. They are from the neighbouring High school in our region. They were runner up in last year's competition therefore you two must pull much teamwork and strategic planning to win but I have faith in both of you. Now rest and prepare yourselves well ok?"

    " Yes Master. " they both answered as they took a seat at their designated tent. During that time, Lan Zhan used the spare minutes to meditate a bit while Wuxian sharpened his sword and practised his swings.

   " Are you ok Lan Zhan? " Wuxian finally asked as they heard the commentator's voice announce there were 5 minutes left before time was up. Lan Zhan took his time opening his eyes and managed to relay his state to Wuxian.

    "Do not worry Wuxian. Remember that you should clear your head and take care of yourself first ok? Do not let your thoughts wander alright?"

    "Yes, yes father. Gosh, all I wanted was to know how you were. Hmm, you better take your own advise as well Lan Zhan. Take care of yourself." Wuxian replied back and Lan Zhan nodded. The two then checked to ensure that they had all they needed and were properly prepared before they went off to the 2nd round. This time, they were taken to a nearby open wrestling ring where the audience had direct view of them but not to close. They lined up with the rest of the teams and waited for the follow up of instructions.

      "I CONGRATULATE ALL COMMENCING TEAMS! WELL DONE FOR MAKING IT TO THE 2ND ROUND. IN THIS ROUND, EACH TEAM SHALL HAVE A SWORD FIGHT WITH THE CORRESPONDING TEAM THEY HAVE BEEN PAIRED WITH. THERE SHALL BE TWO ROUNDS WITHIN AS EACH MEMBER SHALL HAVE A ONE ON ONE MATCH WITH THE OTHER. THE FIRST TO KNEEL DOWN LOSES! I REMIND YOU THAT YOU ARE ALLOWED TO DRAW BLOOD BUT NOT TO CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES. IF YOU VIOLATE THIS, YOU SHALL IMMEDIATELY BE DISQUALIFIED! WITH THAT, LET THE 2ND ROUND BEGIN!!!"

       Wuxian turned and faced Lan Zhan.They had agreed Lan Zhan would go first as it would not only strengthen them but let Wuxian be an element of surprise later on. Wuxian masked his worry and gave Lan Zhan an encouraging smile which Lan Zhan took in graciously. They shared a look of trust before Lan Zhan took his place within the wrestling ring and faced his opponent. His challenger was a young, tall guy who seemed experienced in such games though by the look of his eyes, Lan Zhan could expect some foul play. The other guy drew his sword and flicked it around, his hands ready to bring destruction. Lan Zhan simply closed his eyes and relaxed, holding his sword ready. He eased himself in the moment and only reopened them when the shout to start rang out.