As the spectators settled into their seats, an air of anticipation enveloped the stadium, each individual immersed in the imminent clash. Their eyes scanned the arena, fervently cheering for their favored institutions, setting the stage for the impending battle royale.
Kazuki, a contender with the promise of stardom, expressed his excitement by saying,
"Man, this is gonna be spectacular," meticulously tying his shoelaces.
His presence caught the attention of Ace, prompting a momentary curiosity about this potential rising star from the Storm Breakers. However, their interaction was interrupted by the resonant voice of the commentator, commanding attention.
"In three minutes, return to the battlefield," echoed the announcer, signaling the impending commencement of the match.
Ace, recognizing the urgency conveyed by the commentator, shifted his focus from socializing to the necessary preparations. The countdown concluded, and as the students returned to the battlefield, the cheers of the spectators crescendoed.
Fan clubs strategically positioned throughout the stadium added to the fervor, amplifying the support for their respective academies. The atmosphere, charged with enthusiasm, promised a truly spectacular event.
The students, embodying the spirit of unity, gracefully stretched and exercised their bodies in anticipation as the commentator, with a voice resonating with optimism, initiated the proceedings.
"Embrace the challenge ahead, for each of you is destined for five matches. Victory belongs to the one who rises highest."
Smiles were exchanged among the participants as they shared in the camaraderie, eagerly curious about their prospective opponents. The jubilant spectators, echoing a symphony of encouragement, stood poised for the exhilarating battle royale about to unfold.
"With the impartiality of fate, the system shall now weave connections among you," the commentator declared, his gaze shifting to the expansive screen, ushering in the random pairing that would shape the journey ahead.
"In a moment of eager anticipation, the commencement of the pairing unfolds," remarked the commentator with poised excitement as the system initiated its intricate process.
The students, brimming with suspense, sensed the palpable tension radiating through the expectant spectators. A sudden chill permeated the air, heightening the suspense as the system diligently progressed.
Every gaze in the room was fixed upon the enigmatic machine, their names flickering randomly on the illuminated screen. An air of anxiety lingered until, at last, the machine rendered its verdict.
"Behold the outcome! The esteemed participants in this captivating match are none other than..."
The fervent crowd erupted into cheers, urging the commentator to unveil the names with heightened enthusiasm.
"AKIRA AND HANA!!!!" The commentator's voice resonated with contagious excitement, casting an aura of thrilling anticipation over the assembled audience.
"No. Am I engaging in a bout with a girl?" Akira inquired with a touch of reluctance as he observed Hana approaching the arena.
"Oh, do not assume my capabilities are diminished simply because I'm a girl," countered Hana, a person of remarkable beauty paired with an assertive demeanor.
"Not again," sighed Akira, acknowledging their shared status as classmates in the academy.
While possessing unparalleled beauty and skill, Hana was not without her imperfections. Despite her exceptional abilities, the fifteen-year-old was prone to irritation and occasional rudeness. Although gossip circulated about her, she appeared indifferent to such chatter, maintaining an air of self-assuredness.
"Hey, Akira, I'm talking to you," Hana asserted, teetering on the brink of frustration.
"Contestants, we find ourselves amid a match," the commentator intervened, attempting to redirect their focus.
"Hmm. Akira, are you purposely ignoring me? That's not to my liking," Hana declared, disregarding the commentator's plea for attention.
As tension escalated, the commentator seized the microphone, delivering a stern warning,
Hey, if you don't shut your mouth, little girl, I'll shut it up for you."
A hush fell over the spectators at this unexpected turn. The commentator surveyed the audience, cleared his throat, relinquished the microphone, and announced,
"The match will commence at my signal."
"3"
"2"
"1"
Amidst the spirited atmosphere, the audience erupted in cheers. The participants, deeply engrossed in the unfolding competition, were Akira and Hana.
Without hesitation, Hana initiated a forward move, aiming to strike. Akira, displaying remarkable agility, skillfully evaded the attack. The two participants engaged in a prolonged exchange of blows.
The match persisted for a substantial duration, nearly an hour. Akira, exhibiting signs of fatigue, provided Hana with an opportunity to counter. She successfully breached his defenses and delivered a decisive blow.
In a moment of quiet reflection, Akira expressed his dissatisfaction, stating,
"But how?"
As Akira grappled with the outcome, a composed voice reached his ears, affirming,
"I emerged victorious, and you faced defeat."
His initial desperation for victory shifted towards a more neutral stance as he remarked,
"Man,"
"I don't care. I still have four more matches."
He promptly rose from the battleground and departed. Hana was left bewildered by the unexpected turn of events, and the audience chuckled. What was meant to be a triumphant moment for Hana took an unforeseen twist as Akira walked away, seemingly victorious.
Feeling more infuriated than ever, Hana returned to her seat.
"And the victor is Hana," declared the commentator.
"At least I secured the win in this match," Hana said, attempting to console herself.
Following the preceding matches, additional rounds took place. The audience, maintaining their customary enthusiasm, sustained a continuous stream of cheers throughout the ongoing competition.
Among the contestants—Akira, Haruto, Aoto, Fuji, Akihiko, Rin, Himari, Hana, Reina, Kazuki, Chinatsu, and Ace—a collective experience of challenge and exertion was shared, with only two exceptional participants, Ace and Kazuki.
These distinguished individuals achieved a flawless record, emerging victorious in every match they contested. Unlike their counterparts, who had faced defeat at some point, Ace and Kazuki remained undefeated.
While the system had not initially paired these formidable competitors against each other, the heightened expectations of the spectators prompted an exception. Consequently, the two were compelled to engage in combat.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have orchestrated a final match featuring the standout performers of our show, Ace and Kazuki," the commentator announced with enthusiasm.
The audience once again expressed their delight at the revelation, though the news came as a surprise to the contestants, Ace and Kazuki.
"So, I have to fight that guy?" echoed in the thoughts of both participants, as the crowd continued their exuberant cheers.