The Titan named Gladius and Alex found themselves under unexpected pressure witnessing Cedric's astounding results. The parents, seated among the spectators, experienced a mix of anticipation and concern. However, their worry was tempered by the knowledge that Cedric was just one participant within the academy's predetermined quota, granting their child another opportunity to excel.
Guiding them through the intricate phases of the test, Harry led the group to the second part, a vast training ground adorned with ten imposing steles. Rectangular in shape, these structures were composed of 1000 years tempered ice steel, reinforced with runes designed to absorb mana. Harry's authoritative voice resonated, explaining the task at hand, "These steles are formidable, crafted to withstand your magical prowess. Your goal is to inflict the most damage possible. Don't hold back; they possess a regenerative effect, so go all out."
Cedric, positioned last in the order this time, stepped forward. Drawing a wooden sparing sword, a seemingly unassuming choice, he garnered some skeptical looks from the crowd. However, in the spectator stands, Andrew and Rebecca, Cedric's parents, recognized the gravity of the situation. Cedric had encountered a similar scenario on the first day of training when he had to strike a dummy made from the same material. This familiarity evoked a sense of nostalgia in him.
Imbuing the wooden sword with ambient mana and a touch of intent, Cedric swung with precision and force. At first, there was a deceptive lack of change, prompting Alex to comment, "Huh, good for him being arrogant because of the first stage results." Gladius, too, nodded in agreement. Yet, just as they believed Cedric's strike was ineffective, the stele began to detach, crumbling into sections as if sliced in two by an unseen force.
The crowd erupted in a mixture of gasps and applause as the true impact of Cedric's strike became apparent. The stele, now visibly damaged, showcased the incredible control and power Cedric possessed. In the aftermath of the strike, Harry, seizing the moment, stepped forward with a motivational speech, "Witness the resilience and skill displayed by Cedric! This is a testament to the potential within each of you. Embrace the challenges, for they are opportunities to grow and surpass your own limitations."
Encouraged by Harry's words, the subsequent participants approached the steles with newfound determination. Speeches, both encouraging and inspirational, reverberated across the training ground, creating an atmosphere charged with magical energy and determination. The steles, once formidable and invincible, now bore the marks of each participant's unique journey, with Cedric's triumph serving as a beacon of excellence.
In this transformative moment, the parents, Andrew and Rebecca, swelled with pride, witnessing not only Cedric's success but the collective spirit of resilience and growth within the academy. The steles, symbolic of challenges conquered, stood tall amidst the magical chaos, shaping a narrative of triumph, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence within the mystical realms of the academy.
Following Cedric's impressive strike on the stele, the subsequent phase of the test unfolded, with participants taking turns, ten at a time. Cedric, ever the analytical mind, took this opportunity to keenly observe and evaluate each participant's performance and techniques. He sought inspiration, hoping to glean insights and identify any exceptional fighters among the cohort.
Alex, a formidable presence with a military background, wielded a spear with a finesse that showcased his family's martial heritage. His strikes were calculated, relying on the fundamentals of warfare and sheer strength. The stele bore witness to his prowess, as a hole of approximately 15 cm deep marked the culmination of his efforts. Cedric, noting the strategic precision in Alex's approach, marveled at the effectiveness of the spear in the hands of a skilled practitioner.
Gladius, on the other hand, chose a more direct and primal approach. His punches left fist marks on the stele, gradually dissolving into nothingness. Cedric, recognizing the raw power within Gladius, acknowledged the simplicity and efficacy of such a straightforward method.
However, amidst the formidable contenders, Cedric's attention was captivated by a small beast girl, hailing from the tiger tribe. Clad in a saber, she exhibited a mastery of martial arts that astonished Cedric. Her movements mirrored the grace and strength of a striking tiger, creating a vivid image of ferocity and precision. Despite her Bronze 3 rank, a testament to her standing within the academy, she managed to leave a slash measuring 5 meters long and 4 cm deep on the stele.
Intrigued by her exceptional martial prowess, Cedric couldn't help but appreciate the beauty and artistry in her technique. His analytical mind raced, contemplating the fusion of magic and martial arts displayed by this young warrior. As the small beast girl completed her demonstration, Cedric couldn't help but wonder about the untapped potential within the academy.
As the test continued, speeches reverberated through the training ground, creating an atmosphere charged with determination and camaraderie. Harry, sensing the transformative nature of the moment, addressed the participants, "Witness the diversity of skills and talents within this cohort. Each of you brings something unique to the table. Let this be a reminder that growth and excellence can be found in the collective pursuit of mastery."
Encouraged by Harry's words, the participants approached their challenges with renewed vigor. The steles, now marked by a myriad of techniques and styles, stood as a testament to the rich tapestry of abilities within the academy. Cedric, fueled by newfound inspiration, awaited his next opportunity to showcase his evolving skills and contribute to the collective spirit of excellence within the mystical realms of the academy.