Chapter 162 - Chapter 162 Battle.

A group of students exchanged glances, appreciating the acknowledgment that change was necessary for the betterment of the university.

"We are committed to providing an environment that challenges you, fosters growth, and encourages collaboration rather than conflict. From this moment forth, the focus will be on your education, training, and personal development as you embark on your journey at Warhaven University," the principal affirmed, and a sense of renewed purpose echoed through the hall.

Elysia observed the reactions of her fellow students, recognizing that her actions had prompted a significant shift in the university's policies. It was a weighty realization, and she wondered how this change would influence the dynamics of student life at Warhaven.

The whispers among the students reflected a mix of relief, curiosity, and a shared sense of anticipation for the future.

"We understand that this shift may raise questions, and we encourage open dialogue. The safety and well-being of our students will always be our top priority," Principal Henderson added, addressing any lingering concerns.

The hall resonated with a subdued yet hopeful energy as the students absorbed the impact of this announcement. The evolution of Warhaven University had begun, and the journey for each student promised a different, more supportive experience.

As Principal Henderson delivered the news of ending the razing tradition, a faint smirk played on his lips, revealing a hint of his subtle, mischievous side. The students in the hall, still processing the significant change in university practices, couldn't help but notice the intriguing shift in the principal's demeanor.

"Now, while we bid farewell to one tradition, let it be known that Warhaven University is a bastion of tradition and innovation. We embrace the evolution of our methods while cherishing the foundations that have made this institution legendary," he declared, his tone carrying a mixture of pride and confidence.

Elysia, sitting in the front row, observed the principal's demeanor keenly. It was evident that the end of the razing tradition didn't mark the dismantling of all established practices. The students exchanged curious glances, wondering what new surprises awaited them.

"Let us not forget the essence of our martial heritage, the spirit that has fueled the success of countless warriors who have walked these hallowed halls. The Combat Test, the Gates, and various challenges will continue to be integral parts of your journey here," Principal Henderson continued, his words evoking a sense of continuity and anticipation.

A group of students, sensing the underlying challenge in the principal's words, exchanged knowing looks. It seemed that while one door had closed, another, perhaps more formidable, was about to open.

"As you embark on your academic pursuits, remember that Warhaven University is not just a place of learning but a forge where the strongest blades are tempered. Tradition and innovation coexist, shaping the destiny of every student who calls this institution home," he concluded, his eyes scanning the room with a gaze that hinted at the mysteries yet to unfold.

The students, caught between relief and curiosity, couldn't deny the magnetic pull of the upcoming challenges. The blend of tradition and innovation had always been the hallmark of Warhaven, and Principal Henderson's words only fueled the intrigue among the new recruits.

Elysia, contemplating the principal's smirk and cryptic remarks, understood that the journey ahead would be anything but ordinary.

The dynamic nature of Warhaven University, it seemed, had merely adapted to the changing tides while retaining the essence that made it legendary.

As Principal Henderson concluded his speech, the atmosphere in the Orientation Hall shifted. Elysia's sharp eyes caught the subtle movements of students who appeared affluent, their hands discreetly reaching for the hilts of weapons that hinted at both status and skill.

Whispers rippled through the crowd, creating a murmur of curiosity and tension. Elysia, sitting in the front row, observed the unfolding scene with a keen understanding of the unspoken dynamics. The prestigious aura of the rich students clashed with the newfound sense of equality after the abolishment of the razing tradition.

Among the wealthy elites, a young man named Adrian, adorned in finely tailored clothing with an elaborate hilt protruding from his side, exchanged smirks with his similarly well-off companions. They seemed eager to establish dominance in the absence of the traditional initiation challenges.

Elysia, sensing the brewing tension, maintained her composure. Her crimson eyes scanned the room, capturing the varied reactions of students caught between excitement and unease. Some welcomed the change, while others clung to the remnants of the old ways, uncertain of the future that now lay before them.

As Adrian, the self-proclaimed leader of the affluent group, rose from his seat, the air thickened with anticipation. "Well, well, it seems Warhaven is in for a new era. If we're not going to be tested by tradition, let's create our own trials," he proclaimed, a glint of challenge in his eyes.

The murmurs intensified, echoing a mixture of agreement and disagreement among the students. Elysia, her senses heightened by years of combat and instinct, could almost taste the volatile energy in the room.

A voice rang out from the crowd, breaking through the murmurs. "No need for unnecessary challenges. We're here to learn, not to prove ourselves through meaningless tests," spoke a confident young woman named Amelia, her expression defiant yet composed.

The diverse reactions formed a canvas of uncertainty and ambition. Elysia, now standing as a symbol of both strength and change, contemplated the choices the students would make in the absence of the familiar razing trials.

The dynamics within the hall were shifting, and the atmosphere crackled with the untamed spirit of a new beginning. As students navigated the uncharted territory ahead, the echoes of tradition blended with the anticipation of evolving destinies, painting the canvas of Warhaven's future with uncertainty and promise.

The principal smiled and said that it seems some of the students made their research and the second tradition every year is for the students to fight it out to decide who is the strongest in each year.

Principal Henderson's revelation about the second tradition stirred a fresh wave of whispers and exchanged glances among the students. Elysia observed as the realization dawned on many faces, and the air in the hall became charged with a renewed sense of anticipation.

Adrian, the young man with an air of privilege, smirked confidently. "Now, this is more like it. Let's see who truly stands at the pinnacle," he declared, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of ambition and arrogance.

Amelia, the confident voice from before, rolled her eyes. "Great, another needless tradition. We're supposed to be here to learn and grow, not to engage in constant battles," she remarked, her words resonating with those who shared her sentiments.

The principal's smile widened, as if he anticipated these varying reactions. "Warhaven University is about more than just academic pursuits. We believe in honing both the mind and the body. The tradition of yearly battles serves as a test of strength and strategy," he explained, his tone resonating with conviction.

The room seemed divided between those who embraced the challenge, eager to prove themselves in combat, and those who questioned the necessity of such confrontations. Elysia, standing amidst this divergence of opinions, maintained a composed demeanor, her crimson eyes reflecting a depth of understanding.

As the students engaged in discussions and debates, alliances began to form, hinting at potential collaborations or rivalries that would shape their time at Warhaven. Elysia, a seasoned warrior, recognized the signs of brewing conflicts and silently weighed the dynamics at play.

Adrian, seizing the opportunity, took a step forward. "Let the battles begin! A true warrior doesn't shy away from challenges," he declared, rallying those who were eager to assert their dominance.

Amelia, however, wasn't ready to concede. "We're here to learn and grow together. Let's not forget the essence of education," she countered, appealing to those who sought a more collaborative and supportive environment.

The hall resonated with clashing ideals, setting the stage for a clash of values that would shape the trajectory of Warhaven University.

Elysia, though drawn into this unfolding drama, maintained a measured presence, ready to navigate the shifting tides of tradition and ambition that lay ahead.

Elysia immediately pulled out her Death's Scythe and summoned an army of Skeleton Warriors, Skeleton Archers, and Skeleton Mages that all began to fight.

The sudden appearance of Elysia's skeletal army sent shockwaves through the hall. Skeleton warriors clashed with students who unsheathed their weapons, creating an unexpected battleground within the Orientation Hall. The principal, Henderson, stood on the stage, watching with an intrigued expression as chaos unfolded.

Amelia, who initially advocated for a peaceful approach, now found herself dodging a swing from a Skeleton Warrior. "This is absurd! Are we supposed to fight our way through every disagreement?" she exclaimed, parrying an attack with her staff.

Adrian, on the other hand, reveled in the skirmish. "Finally, a challenge worthy of our skills! Embrace the chaos!" he shouted, engaging in a fierce duel with a Skeleton Mage.

The air resonated with clashes of weapons, magical incantations, and the occasional yelp from a student caught off guard. Elysia's skeletal minions displayed a surprising level of coordination, proving to be formidable opponents. The other students, faced with this unexpected turn of events, had to quickly adapt to the unscripted combat.