The sun rose high over Lucindor, casting golden light across the Grand Arena. Today, the city's brightest students would face the ultimate test—a battle that would determine their rank, their legacy, and their place in society.
The stands were packed. Citizens, nobles, and visiting dignitaries filled every seat, waving banners and cheering for their favorites. The air vibrated with excitement, carrying the scent of food, dust, and anticipation. At the center, magical barriers shimmered around the arena floor, glowing faintly—protecting spectators from the full force of Sundane combat.
A tall Announcer in ceremonial robes raised his arms. The crowd fell silent.
"Welcome, people of Lucindor, to the Lucindor Academy Tournament!" His voice echoed like thunder. "Eight students have been chosen to prove themselves. Today, their skill, courage, and strategy will decide their rank and who earns a place in the Lucindor Special Alliance Team—our city's elite unit!"
A magical display lit up above the arena, showing the ranking tiers:
Special Tier: Masters of all disciplines.
Gold Tier: Strong Sundane Force users capable of magic.
Silver Tier: Strong users without magic.
Bronze Tier: Competent practitioners.
Copper Tier: Beginners still honing their skills.
"Remember," the Announcer continued, "victory is not the only measure of worth. Even in defeat, outstanding performance may earn a high rank. Show control, skill, and courage, and the judges will recognize it."
The display shifted, revealing the contestants:
Rein Seraphim, daughter of the legendary wizard.
Leo Lightlock, Prince of Lucindor.
Kenneth Haybeast, son of the renowned Knight Kelly.
Shinzu Raven, heir of the Raven family's Sundane lineage.
Felicia Blaze, a fiery newcomer.
Chase Hardblade, a determined swordsman.
Alice Ryder, quick and precise.
Carl Winston, a powerhouse of raw strength.
Cheers erupted as the crowd reacted to each name. Some waved banners; others shouted encouragement.
*****
Tournament Rules
The Announcer's voice cut through the clamor.
"The tournament is single-elimination. Four first-round battles will decide who advances to the semifinals. Two will then reach the finals, where the champion will be crowned. Each match is timed. If no winner emerges, judges will decide based on skill, strategy, and control of Sundane Force.
The arena is protected by magical barriers, preventing permanent injury. Dangerous techniques are allowed, but any rule-breaking or disrespect toward an opponent results in immediate disqualification. In this tournament, honor is valued as much as victory."
The first-round matchups appeared in glowing letters above the arena:
1. Rein Seraphim vs Felicia Blaze
2. Leo Lightlock vs Chase Hardblade
3. Alice Ryder vs Carl Winston
4. Kenneth Haybeast vs Shinzu Raven
The crowd's cheers swelled to a deafening roar. The first battle was about to begin.
*****
In the front row, King Henry and Queen Ella watched quietly.
"Will our son win?" Ella whispered, worry threading her tone.
"If he masters his powers, yes," Henry replied, pride flickering in his eyes. "He's grown so much… reminds me of our late son."
Ella's gaze softened, tinged with sorrow. "He would be here now if he hadn't been taken so young."
*****
Leo felt the weight of the crowd, the judges, and the royal gaze pressing down on him. Anxiety gnawed at his chest—but beside him, Ken offered a simple nod.
That small gesture steadied him.
"Good luck, Leo?" Ken asked, grinning.
"Good luck to you too, Kenny," Leo replied, drawing his sword. Its polished edge caught the sunlight, reflecting his determined gaze.
"I'll win this… no matter what," he whispered, raising the sword.
Rein approached, bowing slightly. "Good luck," she said softly.
"Oh… th… you too," Leo stammered. She's strong… I'll need everything I've got.
*****
The referee Knight stepped between Rein and Felicia.
"Are you ready?"
Felicia Blaze raised her chin, her eyes blazing. "I'm ready!"
Rein Seraphim took a deep breath. "I… I am ready."
The crowd erupted as the arena vibrated with energy. Sundane Force flared around swords, and magical light danced on the barriers.
"Let the battle begin!" the Announcer shouted.
Steel clashed, sparks flew, and the first battle of the tournament had officially begun.