The host began to read out the scores, starting from the lowest and working upward. With each passing name and score, the tension in the arena grew. Finally, he reached the top three.
"In third place, with a remarkable display of power and strategy, we have Gio with a score of 8,550!"
The crowd cheered as Gio stepped forward to accept his well-earned applause. He wore a humble smile, acknowledging the support of those around him.
"In second place, proving that resilience and teamwork can overcome any obstacle, we have Raul, with a score of 8,750!"
Kai, though still nursing his injuries, looked proud as Gio and Raul received their applause adding credibility for their branch. Kai just missed the top three, coming in at fourth place.
The host's voice took on a dramatic tone as he announced the first-place winner. "And now, the moment you've all been waiting for. In first place, with an incredible display of skill, we have Asher, with a score of 8,975!"
Asher was a dark horse of the competition this year, there was no doubt he would be competition in the future.
The arena erupted into a thunderous roar of applause and cheers.
Amid the jubilation, Gio spotted Juniper in the crowd, his face beaming with pride. After the results were announced, the trainers were allowed to leave the arena. Gio made his way through the excited crowd and found Juniper waiting for him just outside.
Juniper greeted him with a warm smile and a hearty congratulatory hug. "Gio, you were amazing."
Gio returned the smile, returning a generous hug feeling a surge of happiness. "Thanks, Juniper. It was a tough competition, but I'm glad I entered."
Juniper's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "I couldn't see much of the final battle, there was so much dust but that Orion was kind of amazing to take on four of you"
Gio chuckled "It was a team effort. Kai, Raul, Asher and I worked together, using our beasts' abilities and our own strategies to create an opening. In the end, although we didn't succeed I'd still say we were rather successful."
Juniper's excitement grew. "I've been curious about contractual beasts but a celestial beast, they're different aren't they from your usual beasts? The general vibe was completely different"
Gio's expression turned thoughtful. "Speaking of rare beasts, Juniper, I've got something to share with you. During our journey, Bardo and I encountered a plant beast, they are called Verdona."
Juniper's came to a sudden stop and pondered "A plant beast? Really? I don't remember seeing it though.."
"It appeared after the broadcast was stopped, I thought about letting you know there and then but..I wanted to tell you in person after this was all over." Gio scratched his head
As they strolled away from the bustling arena, Gio recounted his encounter with Verdona, describing the sentient plant.
Juniper listened with attention, "I've wanted to contract a plant beast since the beginning" he admitted. "Their connection to plants may be similar to my own, surely I should have some affinity with it."
Gio grinned and rubbed junipers head. "Well, I'd say it's the perfect time to make that dream a reality. We can rest for a few days, and then we'll head out to find Verdona together."
Gio cleaned up inside the trainer facility before they followed the crowds out of the arena and headed out for a meal.
Gio and Juniper made their way to a popular bbq restaurant to celebrate Gio's impressive performance in the arena. The restaurant's exterior shimmered with holographic displays, advertising its offerings to the passing crowd.
Inside, the atmosphere buzzed with a lively blend of conversations and laughter. It was specially popular with groups of students, The scent of different meats and spices wafted through the air, tantalizing their senses. The hostess led them to a cozy corner table with a view of the city's skyline.
Gio leaned back in his chair, still wearing his competitive spirit with pride. "I can't believe I got third place. It was a tough battle, but I have to admit, Asher really did steal the show in the end."
Juniper nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting Gio's figure. "Asher was impressive, no doubt about it. But I have to say, I was the proudest person in that arena when they announced your name."
Gio chuckled, reaching across the table to take Juniper's hand. "Thank you for coming to watch the competition, knowing you were watching really helped me do my best."
Juniper blushed slightly at the compliment, squeezing Gio's hand. "Well, I have to show my support for you."