Chapter 16: The Tournament of Elements
The journey back to the Grand Academy was a quiet and reflective one for Vaelrith and Elysia. The lessons learned from the Mystic Wolf and the wisdom imparted to them resonated deeply, shaping their thoughts and strategies for the challenges ahead. As they approached the familiar gates of the Academy, a sense of anticipation filled the air.
Upon their return, they were greeted by their classmates and instructors, who were eager to hear about their adventures. Vaelrith's new form and abilities drew awe and admiration from everyone. His transformation into a Dragon Wolf Lord had elevated him to a level of power and respect that few could match.
However, there was no time to rest. The Grand Academy was abuzz with preparations for the upcoming Tournament of Elements, an annual event that pitted students against each other in a series of magical and physical challenges. This year, the stakes were higher than ever, with the ultimate prize being a day in the legendary Cave of Growth. This ancient, mystical cave was said to exponentially enhance one's abilities and provide profound insights to those who entered, making the tournament's reward more coveted than ever before.
Elysia and Vaelrith spent the following days training rigorously, honing their skills and strategies. The tournament would be a test of their newfound powers and the lessons learned from the Mystic Wolf. They knew they had to be at their best to succeed.
The day of the tournament arrived, and the Grand Arena was filled with students, faculty, and spectators. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and anticipation. The arena, a vast and imposing structure, was divided into several sections, each representing a different element: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, and Lightning.
Vaelrith stood ready, his Dragon Wolf form towering over the other contestants. As a Beast Tamer, Elysia was allowed to bring him as her familiar, a point that had caused some contention among the students.
"It's unfair to fight Elysia and Vaelrith together," one student argued to the instructors. "Elysia alone is already a formidable opponent, and now we have to face a monster like Vaelrith as well?"
Professor Armand, the head instructor, raised a hand for silence. "I understand your concerns," he said calmly. "However, Elysia is a Beast Tamer, and part of her abilities includes commanding powerful beasts. Vaelrith, in his Dragon Wolf form, is considered her familiar. This tournament is not just about individual strength, but also about understanding and utilizing your unique abilities. Elysia has the right to bring Vaelrith into the duels as her companion."
The students murmured among themselves but ultimately accepted the explanation. The tournament rules were clear, and they couldn't argue against the Academy's decision.
The first round of the tournament was announced: the Elemental Duels. Each student would face off against another in a one-on-one match, testing their command over the elements and combat prowess.
Elysia and Vaelrith's first opponent was a Fire mage named Kaelin, known for his aggressive and relentless fighting style. As the duel began, Kaelin launched a barrage of fireballs at Vaelrith. Elysia, standing at the edge of the arena, channeled her Nature Magic to create a protective barrier of intertwining vines around Vaelrith, absorbing the heat and flames.
Vaelrith reacted swiftly, summoning a barrier of wind to further deflect the attacks. His movements were fluid and precise, a testament to his training and new abilities. Elysia used her Share Eye Sight skill to coordinate their movements, guiding Vaelrith with pinpoint accuracy.
Kaelin continued his assault, intensifying the heat and speed of his fireballs. Vaelrith, with Elysia's guidance, used his enhanced agility to dodge the attacks and close the distance between them. He summoned a lightning bolt, striking Kaelin's staff and disrupting his concentration. With a powerful leap, Vaelrith closed the gap and delivered a decisive strike, knocking Kaelin to the ground and securing his victory.
Their next duel was against a Water mage named Lyra, who specialized in fluid and adaptive combat techniques. She created a series of water whips and tendrils, attempting to entangle and overwhelm Vaelrith. Elysia's Empathy skill allowed her to sense Vaelrith's intentions and movements, synchronizing their actions seamlessly.
Vaelrith responded with a combination of Lightning and Wind magic, neutralizing the water attacks and turning the battlefield in his favor. Elysia manipulated the surrounding plant life, using Nature Magic to create obstacles and trip Lyra up.
Lyra attempted to create a tidal wave to sweep Vaelrith off his feet, but Elysia countered with a powerful gust of wind, dispersing the water and sending Lyra stumbling. With a swift and calculated strike, Vaelrith incapacitated her and won the duel.
The final duel of the round was the most challenging. Elysia and Vaelrith faced an Earth mage named Dorian, known for his impenetrable defenses and unyielding strength. The battle began with Dorian creating towering rock formations and barriers, attempting to corner Vaelrith.
Vaelrith used his dragon form's strength to shatter the boulders and break through Dorian's defenses. However, Dorian's control over the earth was formidable, and he quickly reformed the barriers. Elysia's Bonding skill allowed her to share Vaelrith's senses and instincts, enhancing their coordination.
Elysia used her Intermediate Nature Magic to manipulate the terrain, creating pitfalls and entangling roots to hinder Dorian's movements. Vaelrith summoned a lightning storm, the energy crackling through the air and striking Dorian's barriers repeatedly.
The intense battle pushed both fighters to their limits, but Vaelrith's strategic use of his Lightning magic, combined with Elysia's support, finally overwhelmed Dorian's defenses. With one last powerful strike, Vaelrith broke through and secured his victory.
The crowd erupted in applause, the sound echoing through the arena. Vaelrith and Elysia stood victorious. The tournament had tested them in every way possible, but they had emerged not only as winners but as true masters of their abilities.