The training hall of Stronghold was quiet, save for the hum of energy that always seemed to permeate the air. John, Anne, Alex, and Gordon stood in a loose circle, their attention fixed on Benji, who stood before them with an air of authority.Benji crossed his arms, his gaze sweeping over his students. He had trained them well, but this tournament would test them in ways they hadn't yet experienced. A week remained until the tournament in Mira, and the air was thick with anticipation."Alright, listen up," Benji began, his tone serious but calm. "I know you've all been training hard for this, but it's time to get real. The Bender League Tournament is unlike any other event. It's not just about raw power—it's about strategy, adaptability, and pushing past your limits."Gordon, ever eager to prove himself, smirked and cracked his knuckles. "I'm ready for anything. Bring it on."Benji shot him a look. "Don't get cocky, Gordon. This tournament has taken down some of the best benders in history. Strength alone won't get you far if you don't stay sharp."John shifted his stance, his expression thoughtful. "What do we know about the tournament this time? Are the rounds the same as before?"Benji shook his head, leaning against the wall behind him. "That's the thing—the preliminary rounds are always kept a secret until the day of the event. It's part of the challenge. They want to test not just your skills, but how well you can adapt to the unknown. You won't know what you're up against until you're in the thick of it."The students exchanged uneasy glances. Not knowing what was coming was a dangerous prospect, especially with something as important as the tournament.Anne, who had remained quiet up to this point, spoke up. "And the competitors? Who are we up against?"Benji uncrossed his arms and began to pace slowly. "You're not just competing against your fellow students from Stronghold. Benders from six other cities will be there, each with their own unique abilities. You've been trained in manipulating raw energy, but don't underestimate the specialized skills of the other cities."He paused, his expression hardening as he began to describe the other competitors."There's Aqualis—they're masters of water bending. Their precision and fluidity in combat make them dangerous opponents, especially in terrain where water is abundant."John nodded. "We've faced some water benders before, but not on their home turf.""Exactly," Benji continued. "Then there's Ignis Peak—fire benders who have honed their flame techniques to devastating levels. They're aggressive, and they'll burn through anyone in their way."Gordon grinned. "Sounds like my kind of fight."Benji shot him another look. "You'd better keep that in check. The Ignis benders don't play around. Then there's Skyshear—air benders who are known for their speed and agility. They'll be difficult to catch, and if you don't keep your head on straight, they'll outmaneuver you before you even know what's happening."Alex chuckled, leaning back on one of the training mats. "Great. So we're dealing with fast and furious, along with water and fire. What else?"Benji's expression darkened. "You'll also be facing benders from Terra—earth manipulators. They're tough and resilient, able to turn the very ground beneath your feet into a weapon."Anne frowned, her arms crossing over her chest. "That sounds... problematic.""It is," Benji replied. "But there's one more you need to be aware of—Veilstead."At the mention of the isolated city, a ripple of unease passed through the group. Veilstead was a mystery to most. Very few knew much about it, and those who did were rarely forthcoming with information."Veilstead has always kept to itself," Benji explained, his voice lowering slightly. "No one knows what kind of benders come from there. They've never been involved in any of the major events or conflicts, but they've chosen to participate in this year's tournament. That alone should be enough to make you cautious.""Great," Alex muttered under his breath. "We've got an entire city of unknowns. That's just what we needed."Benji smirked. "This tournament isn't meant to be easy. It's designed to challenge you, push you to your limits. That's why I've been training you the way I have. You'll face fire, water, air, earth, and who knows what else. But remember, you have something they don't."John raised an eyebrow. "And what's that?"Benji's smirk widened slightly. "Raw energy. While they rely on elemental forms, you can manipulate energy in its purest state. That gives you an edge, but only if you use it wisely."The students stood silently for a moment, the gravity of Benji's words sinking in. The tournament was going to be tougher than they had anticipated, with unpredictable rounds and benders from all over, each specialized in their own way."We've still got a week," John said, breaking the silence. "That's time enough to train and prepare."Benji nodded. "Exactly. I want you all in top form before we head to Mira. We'll focus on honing your energy manipulation, and I'll put you through some scenarios that will push your adaptability. The prelims are going to be a surprise, but that doesn't mean you can't be ready for anything."Gordon, always eager to prove himself, grinned. "I say bring it on. I'm ready for whoever they throw at me."Anne shot him a sideways glance. "You'd better hope that confidence holds up when you're face-to-face with an earth bender from Terra.""I'll be fine," Gordon replied, shrugging off her concern. "It's the others who should be worried."Benji stepped forward, his voice firm but encouraging. "You've all worked hard to get here, and I believe in each of you. Just remember—this isn't just about winning. It's about representing Stronghold. It's about showing the world that raw energy manipulation is just as powerful as any element."He paused, meeting each of their gazes. "Don't underestimate yourselves. You're ready for this."The students nodded, a sense of determination settling over them. The tournament was looming, and the unknown challenges ahead would push them to their limits. But with Benji's guidance, they knew they stood a chance."Alright," Benji said, clapping his hands together. "Let's get back to training. We've got work to do."As the group dispersed, the tension in the air had shifted slightly—from apprehension to determination. Each of them knew that the week ahead would be grueling, but the thought of the tournament—the chance to prove themselves—was enough to fuel their resolve.As they moved back toward the training mats, Alex shot a playful grin at John. "Guess we're about to find out if all that fiery energy of yours can actually do some damage."John smirked in return. "We'll see, Alex. Just try to keep up."Benji watched them for a moment, a quiet sense of pride swelling in his chest. His students had come a long way, and now they were about to face their greatest test yet.The Bender League Tournament was just around the corner, and together, they would be ready.