Tag Team Battles!
In the academy's arena, Jon and Elara were an unbeatable pair. While many other teams clashed with mismatched tactics, Jon and Elara showcased flawless synergy. Their strategy was straightforward yet effective: Jon would charge forward with his sword, drawing the opponents' attention, while Elara, strategically positioned behind him, provided cover with her bow.
Most of their battles were surprisingly one-sided. Many teams, lacking a balance between offense and defense, were swiftly outmatched.
However, their most memorable match was against two skilled archers. The atmosphere in the arena was thick with anticipation. At first glance, the archer duo seemed harmless. But looks can be deceiving.
As the battle commenced, Jon lunged forward, his sword gleaming under the arena lights. But to his astonishment, neither archer targeted him. Instead, they split, circling around to surround Elara. In perfect unison, they drew their bows, unleashing a barrage of arrows at her.
"Elara, watch out!" Jon shouted, realizing their strategy. He knew he had to act fast. Sword in hand, he dashed towards one archer, hoping to divert his attention. But the archer, sensing Jon's intent, halted his assault and began to retreat, maintaining distance.
That's when Jon revealed his true prowess. With a swift motion, he planted his feet, executing a full spin. The surrounding air stirred, raising a cloud of dust. Fluidly, he pulled out his own bow from his inventory.
The previously raucous crowd fell silent. They were taken aback; Jon's past battles had displayed his swordsmanship mastery. Could he be an archer too? Many assumed it was a desperate attempt to save his teammate.
But as they observed Jon's stance, the way he held the bow, and the precision of his aim, they realized their mistake. Within moments, a volley of arrows, with deadly accuracy, targeted the archer assaulting Elara.
The archer barely had time to react; arrows struck him in rapid succession. His partner cried out in alarm, trying to warn him, but it was too late. The final arrow, aimed straight for his heart, triggered the arena's magical shield, saving him from a lethal blow. Still, the impact sent him sprawling, unconscious.
Elara's face was a picture of disbelief. She had always prided herself on her archery skills, but what she had just witnessed was on another level. Jon, with unmatched dexterity and precision, had demonstrated bowmanship that even surpassed his sword skills. She realized he had been holding back, never revealing his full potential in their previous fights.
The remaining archer, sensing the odds against him, desperately tried to reposition. Each arrow Elara fired was strategically aimed to herd him towards Jon, who awaited with sword drawn. The archer, seeing the trap, leaped backward, aiming for a decisive shot at Jon.
But Jon was always one step ahead. Before the archer could even land, Jon's sharp blade was inches from his throat. The archer's eyes widened in fear, and he quickly raised his hands in surrender.
Relieved, the archer rushed to check on his fallen comrade. He deeply bowed to Jon, grateful for the mercy shown. "Thank you for sparing our points," he said, his voice shaky.
Jon merely nodded, his face stoic. He understood that in the arena, every move mattered. And he was determined to prove that when it came to combat, he was second to none.
As was their post-victory ritual, Elara sprinted to Jon, leaping into his arms for a jubilant embrace. From the stands reserved for second-year students, Roderic watched with a smirk. It wasn't a smile of contentment or pride for witnessing an acquaintance's triumph, but rather one laden with sarcasm. Without taking his eyes off the arena, he turned to Nolan beside him and taunted, "Seems like Elara never had eyes for you, Nolan."
After clarifying his relationship with Gwen and realizing Jon wasn't a threat, Roderic began to look down on the half-elf. In Roderic's eyes, Jon was inconsequential, a mere bug. Even if Jon displayed above-average skills, Roderic believed he would never reach the heights of Aeloria's nobility. After all, wealthy and influential families had the means to provide their heirs with miraculous elixirs and state-of-the-art equipment that enhanced their abilities.
Nolan, with a tense expression, clenched his fist so tightly that his veins bulged. He shot a piercing look at Roderic and asked, "You seem quite entertained. Do you know that half-breed?"
Maintaining his haughty demeanor, Roderic replied, "He's just some commoner Gwen considers a friend." And, seizing the chance to twist the knife further, he added, "By the way, I saw them on quite an intimate outing last night."
As Jon and Elara were heading for the arena's exit, they were intercepted by two imposing figures. One of them, with dark hair and piercing eyes, stepped forward, extending a hand in a friendly gesture, but his eyes told a different story.
"Jon, right? I'm Nolan. I've heard a lot about you," he said, his tone friendly but with a clear undertone of condescension. Beside him, Roderic, with a sly grin, chimed in, "I had the pleasure of spending a delightful evening with Gwen. She has some captivating tales about you."
Jon, keeping his cool, replied with a smile, "It's always nice to meet new faces. And Gwen is a dear friend; I'm sure she has many intriguing stories to share."
Nolan, with a cunning look, turned to Elara, "I recall our arranged meetings, set up by our families. A distinguished woman like you should be with someone of your own standing. Don't you think we should seriously consider the alliance our parents have in mind? Perhaps a dinner to reminisce and discuss the future?"
Elara, gracefully replied, "Nolan, I've always appreciated our families' considerations. But as you know, matters of the heart can't be dictated. I appreciate the invitation and will give it some thought."
Not to be outdone, Roderic added, "Jon, you're lucky to have Elara's company. And Gwen's too. They have such... eclectic tastes." The insinuation was so blatant that Jon wanted to laugh in their faces.
Jon, unfazed, agreed, "Yes, Gwen is truly remarkable. And I cherish every moment I spend with Elara."
Nolan, slightly frustrated by Jon's calm demeanor, tried again, "Well, Jon, I hope you recognize the worth of those around you. And understand that some alliances are more beneficial than others."
Jon, with a serene smile, responded, "Thank you for the advice, Nolan. I always value people for who they are, not for what they can offer."
Jon's relaxed posture and constant smile suggested he wasn't giving Nolan and Roderic his full attention. His gaze often drifted, focusing on other parts of the room or the people around, as if the two weren't worthy of his complete attention. This subtle yet clearly intentional behavior began to irk Nolan and Roderic, who were used to being the center of attention.
Trying to regain some control and assert himself, Nolan straightened up and said firmly, "I am Nolan Mirascolis, heir to one of Aeloria's most influential families. I see that despite your... background, you have notable talent. But know that Elara is not just a classmate to me. She holds special significance, and for someone to be so close to her, I need to ensure their skills are worthy."
Jon, with his unwavering smile, simply nodded in acknowledgment, as if he'd just received a casual compliment.
Nolan, feeling even more provoked by Jon's calm reaction, continued, "Elara means a lot to me. And for someone to be so close to her, I can't help but want to test if your skills truly match what she deserves."
The atmosphere grew tense. The surrounding murmurs quieted as all eyes turned to the escalating confrontation between the two.
With a challenging look, Nolan, now losing patience and composure, suggested, "How about we settle this in the arena? A duel, right here, right now. Let's see if you're truly worthy of standing by Elara's side."