As some students took the opportunity to rest, and others continued their exercises, Kai found a moment of solitude on his bed. He sat cross-legged, his eyes closed in deep concentration.
He began performing the Spirit Gathering Technique. The technique allowed him to replenish his inner strength and clear his mind before the imminent competition.
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Time slipped away, and soon the moment arrived.
Master Liang and Ms. Mei entered the room, their presence commanding attention. "It's time," Master Liang announced, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and seriousness. "Get ready, everyone."
Ms. Mei handed out the newly arrived uniforms, each decorated with the name of their school. The students eagerly received their uniforms, their eyes gleaming with pride.
Alex couldn't help but voice his curiosity, "Why are we getting the uniforms now? Shouldn't we have received them earlier?"
Master Liang scratched his head sheepishly. "Ah, yes, it should have been given to you earlier." Ms. Mei interjected with a mock scolding look. "This forgetful old fool wouldn't have remembered if I hadn't reminded him."
The students chuckled, their amusement breaking the tension in the room. They quickly changed into their uniforms, the fabric fitting snugly against their bodies. The Dragon Academy insignia served as a symbol of their unity and strength.
With their uniforms on, the students followed Master Liang and Ms. Mei toward the competition grounds. The sight that awaited them left them in awe.
The venue was vast, with rows upon rows of seats filled with expectant spectators. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and excitement.
A commentator stood on the stage, microphone in hand, ready to address the crowd. His voice echoed throughout the arena as he introduced the competition and the participating schools.
"Ladies and gentlemen, today we have a spectacular display of martial arts talent! Let's give a warm welcome to the Dragon Academy, Tiger Martial Institute, Crane Martial Arts School, Serpent Dojo, Phoenix High, and Lionheart Academy!"
The audience erupted into applause and cheers, showing their support for their favored schools. The Dragon Academy students exchanged excited glances, a mix of nervousness and determination in their eyes.
The commentator continued, "Now, let's determine the matchups for the first round. Each school's representative will select a colored ball, and those with the same color will face each other in the matches. Let the selection begin!"
Master Liang and the other teachers stepped forward, each drawing a ball from the box. The tension in the air grew palpable as they revealed their colors one by one. The commentator announced the pairings for the fights, heightening the anticipation.
"The first fight will be between Dragon Academy and Tiger Martial Institute. The second fight will be between Crane Martial Arts School and Serpent Dojo. Lastly, the third fight will be between Phoenix High and Lionheart Academy."
The crowd's excitement reached its peak as the matches were revealed.
The Dragon Academy students exchanged words of encouragement and reassurance, preparing themselves mentally for the challenges ahead.
Kai, representing Dragon Academy, stepped onto the stage, feeling the weight of expectations on his shoulders.
As he locked eyes with Damian, his opponent from Tiger Martial Institute, a respectful nod passed between them, acknowledging each other's abilities.
The commentator's voice resonated through the arena, introducing the fighters to the eagerly awaiting crowd.
"From Tiger Martial Institute, we have Damian, a fist user at the Novice Rank Lower Level. And representing Dragon Academy, we have Kai, a single-handed sword user also at the Novice Rank Lower Level."
The moment of truth had arrived. The audience held its breath in anticipation, waiting for the clash of martial prowess to commence.
The referee raised his hand, signaling the start of the match.
Kai tightened his grip on his sword, his eyes locked on Damian. He could sense the aura of determination emanating from his opponent.
Without wasting a second, Damian lunged forward, his fists blazing with speed and precision.
Kai swiftly evaded the incoming strikes, his sword dancing gracefully to parry each blow. The crowd gasped at the display of skill and agility.
Kai focused his mind, drawing upon his training and experience.
He countered with swift slashes, aiming to find an opening in Damian's relentless assault. Their movements were fluid, a beautiful dance of strength and strategy.
As the fight intensified, the cheers from the spectators grew louder.
The students from Dragon Academy cheered fervently for Kai, their collective energy fueling his determination. Damian's supporters from Tiger Martial Institute rallied behind their representative, urging him to press forward.
The battle continued, both fighters demonstrating their unwavering resolve.
Damian's punches packed a powerful punch, but Kai's swordsmanship showcased finesse and precision. Each clash resonated through the arena, captivating the audience with their electrifying display.
Time seemed to stretch as the fight progressed.
Beads of sweat trickled down Kai's forehead, his muscles straining with effort. Damian matched him blow for blow, refusing to back down.
With a surge of adrenaline, Kai executed a swift feint, drawing Damian off balance.
Seizing the opportunity, he unleashed a series of precise strikes, landing blow after blow. The crowd erupted in cheers, swept up in the intensity of the moment.
Damian, refusing to concede defeat, summoned his inner strength.
He retaliated with renewed vigor, launching a barrage of punches with unmatched speed. Kai's focus heightened as he defended against the onslaught, his determination unyielding.
The fight reached its climax, with both fighters pushing themselves to the limit.
Their movements became a blur as they exchanged blows with lightning speed. Every strike carried the weight of their training.
Finally, with a final, decisive strike, Kai managed to break through Damian's defenses.
The impact sent Damian sprawling backward, landing on the ground with a resounding thud. The crowd erupted into thunderous applause, acknowledging the intense battle that had unfolded before them.
Kai stood tall, his chest heaving with exhaustion and triumph.
He extended a hand to Damian, helping him to his feet. There was mutual respect between them, forged through their shared passion for martial arts.
As they exited the stage, the Dragon Academy students surrounded Kai, their cheers and applause echoing through the arena.