The cheering of the audience reached its crescendo as Princess Ethlind gracefully exited the stage, acknowledging the admiration of the crowd. Her armour glittered in the arena lights as she descended, and the spectators continued their lively applause.
As she made her way down, Princess Ethlind spotted Aiden who was making his way to the arena for the next match. With a noble bow, he complimented her, "Good match, Princess."
Princess Ethlind reciprocated with a smile, "Well, thanks for the compliments, Mr. Unbeatable."
Aiden chuckled, dismissing the nickname, "I don't know why everyone is saying such a silly name."
Princess Ethlind, walking past him, teased, "Well, all the best, not that you need it."
Aiden nodded, appreciating the sentiment, "Thanks," and headed confidently onto the stage.
The audience cheered out loud as the two contestants stepped onto the stage.
The referee's voice echoed through the venue, "Due to the opponent's ability being hindered by bright lights, we will be turning the lights a little dim. If the other contestant agrees?"
Aiden, with a nod and a confident expression, quickly replied, "Yes, I am okay."
The dimly lit arena set the stage for the impending clash between Ryker and Aiden, the last semifinal match captivating the attention of the eagerly awaiting audience. As the referee's voice echoed through the space, both contestants stood poised for action.
Ryker, who was nicknamed "Shadow Fantom" due to his<
Opposite him, Aiden stood with an imposing presence. His muscular build was accentuated by the absence of armour, showcasing a confidence that resonated with the audience. Long, flowing hair added to the intensity of his look, framing a face determined for victory. In his hand, he gripped a long katana—a weapon that spoke of both elegance and lethal capability.
The arena hushed as the countdown began, and the two adversaries locked eyes, ready to engage. As the match commenced, Ryker embraced the shadows, melding into their dark embrace. His shadowy form darted across the arena, moving with a fluidity that defied the limitations of the physical world. Aiden, however, remained an unyielding force, katana in hand, eyes focused on the ever-elusive shadow.
Ryker's first move was swift and unpredictable. He emerged from Aiden's blind spot, a shadowy silhouette taking form just outside his peripheral vision. With a calculated strike, Ryker aimed to exploit the element of surprise. Yet, Aiden's reflexes proved to be as sharp as the blade he wielded. In a seamless motion, he parried the unexpected attack, the metallic clash resonating through the arena.
The audience leaned forward, captivated by the unfolding spectacle. Aiden, silent and stoic, continued to defend against Ryker's elusive assaults. Ryker, undeterred by the initial setback, intensified his shadowy dance. He circled Aiden, moving like a wraith in and out of the darkness, launching strikes from unpredictable angles. Shadows twisted and contorted as he aimed for Aiden's blind spots, yet the katana-wielder remained resolute.
The crowd erupted into exclamations as Ryker, shifting into a shadow beneath Aiden, attempted an unexpected uppercut. Aiden responded swiftly, lowering his stance and evading the surprise attack. The katana sliced through the shadows as Aiden retaliated with a swift counterstrike, forcing Ryker to retreat momentarily
Throughout the match Aiden hasn't shown his ability. Ryker's ability made him strong in the dark and was perfect for assassinations. However in a head-on fight, he had won only due to his expert combat ability till now, but against someone who had mastery and skills beyond his age, he stood no chance. Ryker knew his limits but didn't want to back out, he had decided to give his all.
As the match progressed, the audience found themselves captivated by the strategic dance unfolding before them. Ryker, utilizing the versatility of his Shadow Step, continued to confound Aiden with unpredictable movements. Yet, Aiden's enigmatic aura and unmatched skill with the katana allowed him to fend off each shadowy assault.
The intensity heightened as Ryker, seizing an opportune moment, merged into the darkness, concealing his presence entirely. The arena plunged into suspense, the audience unsure of the next move. Aiden, keenly aware of the potential danger, remained vigilant.
Suddenly, shadows flickered across the arena as Ryker reemerged behind Aiden, attempting a decisive strike. The audience gasped, fearing the end of the match. Yet, with uncanny awareness, Aiden swiftly turned, his katana meeting Ryker's attack with a resounding clash.
Aiden with his keen and perceptive senses, had anticipated Ryker's move. In a seamless motion, he redirected the strike, turning the tables on his shadow-wielding adversary. The clash reached its zenith as the final blow was delivered, the sound of steel against steel resonating through the arena.
With a graceful step backwards, Aiden parried the dagger out of Ryker's hand and even before Ryker had time to turn into a shadow again he pointed the blade of his katana at Ryker's neck ending the match. The katana-wielder Aiden, stood victorious. The audience erupted into cheers, celebrating the prowess of both contestants.
The stadium erupted in applause as Aiden's victory was officially declared. Ryker, disappointed with the outcome began to descend from the stage. However, before he could make his exit, Aiden extended a hand in a gesture of sportsmanship.
"It was an exciting match," Aiden remarked, his tone reflecting respect for his opponent.
Ryker, though momentarily disappointed, reciprocated with a handshake. "It truly was," he agreed, acknowledging the skill and tenacity displayed by Aiden.
As they exchanged pleasantries, the audience continued to applaud, showing appreciation for the captivating duel they had just witnessed. Aiden, with a humble nod, acknowledged the cheers and waves from the spectators. His victory had earned him not only a place in the finals but also the admiration of those gathered in the arena.
The referee, sensing the conclusion of the semifinals, took centre stage once more. The dimmed lights returned to their usual brightness as the anticipation for the finals lingered in the air. The referee announced the names of the finalists from each department, and their achievements celebrated by the audience.
"Join us tomorrow for the grand finals!" the referee proclaimed, concluding the day's events. The cheers of the crowd echoed in the stadium as they eagerly anticipated the ultimate showdown between the most skilled contenders in the academy