Scene: The Third and Final Day of the Fight
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – DAY
The arena is alive with energy as students pour in, waving banners and chanting. The crowd is louder and more fired up than ever, with each branch fiercely confident in its fighter. Banners in the colors of red and blue ripple across the stands as students from the Academic and Superpower Branches clash in a spirited exchange of taunts and cheers.
Academic Students (clapping and cheering):
"Alexei just destroyed their Jack!!"
"All of their royals have fallen. We have won!!"
"No one stands a chance against the Academic Branch!"
On the opposite side, the Superpower Branch students shout back with just as much pride and defiance.
Superpower Students (chanting):
"Our King won the first fight—victory is ours!"
"Alexei barely scraped by! Yue still crushed him!"
"Your 'Marine Armor' is just flash and no fight!"
The atmosphere crackles with rivalry as the crowd grows more restless, each branch vying to drown out the other. Above them, Zing Zing's voice rings out, her excitement palpable as she steps up to her microphone to address the audience.
Zing Zing (cheerfully): "Welcome back, Alaric Academy! This is the final day of our branch clash, and it's down to the wire—two wins each! The stakes couldn't be higher!"
The crowd erupts again, with students from both branches cheering wildly.
CUT TO: VIP SECTION
In the VIP section, Balor, Seiko, Griffin, and Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi sit in a line of honored seats, watching the unfolding excitement below. Balor glances sidelong at Liam, a smirk on his face as he leans in.
Balor (mockingly): "Well, Liam, how's your Marine Armor holding up? Just big enough to intimidate but not much else, it seems."
Liam's jaw tightens, but he manages a cool response.
Liam (shrugging): "Say what you want, Balor, but that 'big armor' was only one part of our lineup. Shizuka used our weapon as well. One loss hardly makes our tech 'useless.'"
Balor is about to retort when Seiko, seated beside him, interjects with a calm smile.
Seiko (calmly): "Gentlemen, we're here to witness skill, not trade barbs."
Griffin (nodding): "And besides, we might learn something from today's match—if we pay attention."
Balor grumbles but falls silent, keeping his eyes on the arena.
CUT TO: THE ARENA
Zing Zing's voice is full of energy as she introduces the final fighters.
Zing Zing (excitedly): "And now, the deciding match of our tournament! Representing the Superpower Branch, we have the powerhouse Drole Ennadai! A third-year student and fifth in his branch rankings, known for his sheer strength and endurance!"
Drole steps into the arena, towering over the audience with his impressive frame, his confidence radiating as the Superpower Branch cheers him on.
Zing Zing (continuing, with admiration): "And facing him, from the Academic Branch, is none other than Angela Grimhilde Gentoshi! Winner of last year's Academy Beauty Contest. Known as the 'prestigious flower' of the Academic Branch, Angela is here to prove that elegance and skill are more than a match for strength!"
Angela strides into the arena, graceful and poised. She is the picture of calm confidence, her every movement elegant. Her beauty catches the attention of every onlooker, and even Drole, normally stoic, looks momentarily flustered.
Drole (blushing, hesitantly): "Are you… sure you want to fight me? You don't have to, you know."
Angela offers him a gentle smile, her voice warm but resolute.
Angela (sweetly): "Thank you, Upperclassman, but I am here to fight. Not just for myself, but for our branch~"
At her words, the Academic Branch erupts in cheers, their loyalty and admiration clear as they shout their support.
Academic Students (cheering passionately):
"Fight, Angela! Show them our queen's strength!"
"Angela, we're with you!"
"Our queen versus the gorilla! You've got this!"
Angela readies her stance, her calm gaze fixed on Drole as the two prepare to face off. The final match has begun, and the arena is alive with anticipation, each branch eager to witness the outcome of this last, decisive battle.
Scene: Academic Branch vs Superpower Branch - Deadly Flower
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – MORNING
The arena buzzes with energy as Angela and Drole face off, the stark contrast between her delicate beauty and his imposing strength setting the stage for the final match. Angela stands calmly, her presence captivating, while Drole's expression is set in determination. From the stands, students of the Superpower Branch scoff, unimpressed by her looks.
Superpower Branch Students (mocking):
"This isn't a beauty contest, Angela!"
"Hey, did the winner of last year's beauty pageant get lost on her way to a tea party?"
"She's pretty, but that won't help her win against Drole!"
Angela meets their taunts with a serene smile, undeterred as she focuses on Drole, who seems slightly flustered by the comments.
Zing Zing (voice filled with gravity): "Before we begin, fighters, take the oath. This is a test of skill and spirit. By entering this match, you pledge to respect the result, no matter the outcome."
Angela and Drole exchange a nod, a moment of mutual respect passing between them before they recite the oath together, voices clear and steady.
Angela and Drole (in unison): "We stand here with respect for our branch, our rivals, and ourselves. Win or lose, we will honor the result of this battle and carry our pride with dignity."
The crowd falls silent, captivated by the solemnity of the moment. Zing Zing lets the weight of their words settle before she raises her microphone with a bright, eager smile.
Zing Zing (loudly): "And then… let the battle begin!!!"
The arena erupts in cheers as both Angela and Drole ready themselves, eyes locked in fierce determination. Each is prepared to give everything they have, knowing that only one can secure victory for their branch in this final, decisive match.
Drole swings his massive sword in a powerful arc, his body surging with energy as he increases the weapon's mass. The sheer momentum of his movements generates a rush of wind, the ground shaking slightly beneath his feet. Across from him, Angela remains unfazed, her expression serene as she gauges his technique.
Suddenly, Angela dashes forward in a blur, closing the distance with unexpected speed. She lands a rapid sequence of strikes on Drole's body—head, stomach, shoulder, arm, thigh—her movements fluid and precise. But to the crowd's surprise, the attacks seem to have no effect as she leaps back, her stance composed.
Academic Branch Students (surprised): "That did nothing?"
Superpower Branch Students (mocking, laughing):"She might be pretty, but those weak punches won't even scratch him!"
Drole, still swinging his massive sword, gives her a puzzled, almost sympathetic look.
Drole (softly): "Hey, miss… I know you don't want this fight… so—"
But a strange sensation begins to spread through Drole's body—a tightness, like a choke. His grip slackens, and he struggles to keep control of his sword as his vision blurs. Blood begins to well in his eyes, seeping out and trailing down his face. His sword clatters to the ground as he stumbles, his skin paling.
The arena falls silent, the crowd watching in stunned shock as Drole sinks to his knees, his eyes filling with blood tears. Angela smiles sweetly, her voice calm and poised as she steps toward him.
Angela (smiling, sweetly): "Gentleman, you are underestimating me~ Want a little history lesson?"
Drole's bloodshot eyes follow her as she circles around him, her footsteps measured, almost delicate.
Angela (softly, like explaining to a child): "The year is 1228. Vampires roamed the dark ages, preying on the living… And in Austria, a group of mercenaries, under the Habsburg dynasty, developed a special form of martial art to fight them."
Angela continues her explanation, her tone smooth and precise, as if she's reciting a cherished memory.
Angela (continuing): "You see, vampires strengthen their bodies and use blood magic by controlling their own blood. So, this martial art was designed to counter it. By striking multiple points on the body, air bubbles form within the blood vessels, causing embolisms, myocardial ischemia, and cerebral infarction… Slowly breaking the body down from within."
Drole's eyes widen in horror, the full extent of Angela's words sinking in as his blood vessels begin to burn.
Angela (smiling softly): "So, upperclassman, you have a choice. You can try to stand up, fight me while your body breaks down piece by piece… or you can surrender and get to the hospital, fast."
The crowd watches in stunned silence, the impact of Angela's words hanging heavily in the air as Drole's face contorts with realization.
A chilling silence falls over the arena as Drole stares in horror at his own trembling hands, blood beginning to seep from his skin in tiny, crimson rivulets. His veins pulse, visibly darkening beneath his skin as the pain spreads through his body like fire. Every breath he takes feels like it's scorching his insides.
His massive frame begins to shake, his knees buckling under the weight of Angela's calculated attacks. His vision blurs as he looks up, catching Angela's calm, composed smile—a serene contrast to the agony flooding his senses.
Drole (gasping, voice trembling): "Stop… I… I surrender!"
Without waiting, he clutches his chest, stumbling toward the edge of the arena as he gasps for breath. The crowd, initially stunned into silence, watches with expressions of shock and horror as he rushes off the field, desperate to escape the invisible assault raging within his veins.
CUT TO: THE AUDIENCE
As Drole rushes out of the arena, his heavy footsteps fading down the hall, murmurs and gasps ripple through the crowd. The shock of Angela's precise, lethal technique sinks into every corner of the arena.
Hugo (eyes wide, in disbelief): "What the—?"
Fenix (grinning, almost in admiration): "Oh wow, I did not know I'd witness this firsthand."
Shizuka (glancing at him, bewildered): "You… know about it?"
Fenix (still watching Angela with a strange respect): "First time seeing it, but I've heard stories. My older brothers—the ones who turned, you know, same line as me by my sire—they told me about something like this. A brutal martial art… used in the crusades, I think. They said humans had a way to kill vampires without even a scratch. I thought it was just a myth."
Shizuka's expression shifts from shock to deep contemplation as Fenix's words sink in. The implications of such ancient, deadly techniques still being alive and well in the modern world send a chill through her.
VIP SECTION
In the VIP box, even the prestigious audience looks stunned.
Hendrickson (murmuring, surprised): "How…"
Liam (grinning with clear satisfaction): "Quick and easy—our slogan, no?" He chuckles, looking down with pride as he watches Angela in the arena. "My niece made quick work of him. Just like we planned."
Griffin, seated next to him, raises an eyebrow, impressed but thoughtful.
Griffin (leaning in, quietly): "A powerful move. But quite unsettling… her skill has an ancient touch, doesn't it? I wonder if the rest of your family is trained in these 'old-world' arts, Liam."
Liam's eyes twinkle mischievously, but he gives nothing away.
Liam (calmly): "Who knows~ Wanna try?"
Seiko (frustrated): "Ugh… No, thank you."
Balor (grumbling, with a mix of annoyance and admiration): "Hmph. I hate to admit it, but… that was impressive. That girl has more than just a pretty face."
Zing Zing, still stunned, shakes off the silence and turns back to her mic with newfound excitement.
Zing Zing (recovering her enthusiasm): "There you have it, folks! A swift and masterful victory by Angela Grimhilde Gentoshi of the Academic Branch! Her skill and technique have left us all speechless!"
The Academic Branch erupts into cheers, their pride in Angela evident as they chant her name. Among them, boys shout praises, some visibly blushing as they watch their "queen" revel in her win. Meanwhile, the Superpower Branch students stare in silence, the raw demonstration of Angela's power leaving them with a newfound respect—and fear—of their academic rivals.
Scene: Aftermath of the Match - The King's Court
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH – PRIVATE LOUNGE – LUNCH
The private lounge is filled with an air of triumph, the students of the Academic Branch basking in the morning's victory. Alexei leans back in his chair, laughing with unrestrained satisfaction.
Alexei (laughing loudly): "Did you see that gorilla? Completely blindsided! The look on his face—priceless!"
(grinning with mock bravado) "Oh, the Superpower Branch never stood a chance against our sis here. That lumbering fool didn't even know what hit him!"
(he leans over, wagging a finger with a smirk) "And to think they call him one of their top five? Come on!"
Floria (rolling her eyes, with a gentle smile): "Alright, Alexei, tone it down a notch. I think everyone got the picture."
Alexei chuckles, giving her a playful wink before sinking back into his chair, unrepentant.
Lysander (calmly, with a small nod of admiration): "Swift and quiet—deadly as always, sis."
Floria (softly): "Yeah, Angela, you did great. It was… very impressive."
Angela (smiling warmly): "Thank you, you two~"
As they chat, the door opens, and Yue strolls in, an amused glint in his eye as he takes in the scene.
Yue (grinning): "Well, well—celebrating a little victory here, are we?"
Alexei (grinning, mocking): "Hey, loser, this isn't your table."
Yue (shrugging, unfazed): "Shut up, brat. The king sits where he wants."
Lysander chuckles and gestures for Yue to join them.
Lysander: "So, is our little 'advertisement' a success?"
Yue (analytically): "It's… mixed. For one thing, the Marine Armor debut completely tanked."
Alexei (groaning, crossing his arms in frustration): "Ugh! Do you have to remind me? Eric couldn't have made it look any worse."
Yue (with a smirk): "But, on the bright side, our stock has surged. Requests are pouring in for replicas of Azure, Alexei's custom gear, and even that wakizashi Shizuka used."
Angela (perking up): "Well, that's some good news, at least."
Lysander (nodding thoughtfully): "Trading two armors for a market boost… It's still a win if it turns a profit."
Floria (smiling softly): "So, what's next? I mean, we still need to ease the tension and make peace between the two branches, right?"
Yue: "Exactly. I think it's time for a public statement—Angela and I will give a speech. A handshake in front of everyone should remind them that skill and technique matter more than sheer power. And we'll make it clear that having the best gear alone doesn't guarantee a win. I mean, Eric's defeat made that pretty obvious."
Alexei (grinning): "Sounds about right. And maybe some of them will start working on their skills instead of just complaining."
Angela (smiling): "Then it's settled. Let's give them the reminder they need."
Scene: Aftermath of the Match - Drole's Injury
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – MEDICAL WING – RECOVERY ROOM – LUNCH
The bright hospital lights cast a sterile glow over the medical wing. Machines hum softly as Ludociel and Kimhyun walk down the hallway, their footsteps echoing in the quiet. They stop at the recovery room and peer in to find Drole sitting upright in bed, his massive frame covered in bruises and wrapped in bandages. A few other injuries, freshly patched, still peak out. Despite his intimidating size, he looks almost… humbled.
They step in, and Drole looks up, managing a weak smile, though pain is evident in his eyes.
Kimhyun (raising an eyebrow): "Drole… didn't expect you to be looking this roughed up. Didn't they just beat you in the match?"
Drole lets out a low, humorless chuckle, wincing as he shifts in bed.
Drole (sighing): "Turns out Angela's technique wasn't just about pain—doctors said she left air pockets in my veins. They had to, uh…" (pauses, wincing) "...'redistribute' the force, so to speak. Apparently, the best way to avoid clotting was, well, hitting me again."
Ludociel and Kimhyun exchange looks, both stunned by the brutal method.
Ludociel (gently, a hint of sympathy): "She… used a martial art designed for vampires. It's meant to make internal injuries worse the more someone struggles against it. They developed it to bring down foes who rely on brute strength, just like you."
Drole (nodding slowly, looking down at his hands): "I thought my power could bulldoze through anything, especially someone who just… looked fragile. But she didn't even have to use any gear or a fancy weapon. Just pure skill."
Kimhyun leans against the wall, his arms crossed, absorbing Drole's words. He realizes the lesson wasn't just for Drole but for anyone in the Superpower Branch who believed raw strength alone could secure victory.
Kimhyun (thoughtfully): "She dismantled that strength with a technique crafted over centuries. You could say she embodied both innovation and tradition."
Drole (shaking his head with a small, rueful smile): "It's humbling. I won't lie—it's hard admitting it. But brute strength… it has limits. Her skill was more refined, and that's what took me down. And here I was, thinking tech was all flash."
Ludociel places a hand on Drole's shoulder, her gaze kind but firm.
Ludociel (gently): "Strength is essential, but technique is what can turn the tide. Angela showed us that there's no single path to strength—her way might be different from ours, but it's no less powerful."
Drole nods, a newfound respect for Angela clear in his expression. The three of them stand there in silence, each of them reflecting on the surprising outcome of the match.
Kimhyun (grinning, trying to lighten the mood): "So, when are you back on your feet? I mean, after all this 'medical beating'?"
Drole lets out a low, genuine laugh, though he winces as he does.
Drole (smirking, with a spark of his old confidence): "Soon, I hope. But when I do, I'm not just going to rely on strength alone. I'm done underestimating the Academic Branch—and maybe it's time we start refining our own skills."
Ludociel and Kimhyun exchange a proud glance. The Superpower Branch may have lost a match, but in this moment, they gained something more important: a determination to grow beyond their reliance on raw power.
Scene: Aftermath of the Match - Andrea's Remark
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – CAMPUS COURTYARD – LUNCH
The courtyard hums with life as students mill about during the lunch break. Andrea stands beside Hugo, having come to visit and watch the matches. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Hugo leans against a railing, still absorbing the morning's matches and the recent conversation with Andrea.
Hugo (sadly, burden): "All three of them—Lysander, Angela, Alexei—they won. They're at the peak of their power now… Right after casting me out."
Andrea nods, his expression reflective as he takes in Hugo's quiet tone.
Andrea (gently): "They've all reached new heights, yes. But it's not what you think, Hugo."
Hugo's face tightens, an old worry surfacing.
Hugo (hesitant, unsure): "Then… was I holding them back? Was I the weakness they had to cast out?"
Andrea's face softens, and he shakes his head with a calm but firm reassurance.
Andrea (sighing, patient): "No, Hugo… it's the opposite."
Hugo looks up, surprise in his single eye.
Hugo (startled): "What do you mean?"
Andrea pauses, choosing his words carefully.
Andrea (thoughtful): "Our family runs on an ideology—survival of the fittest. When the accident happened… they didn't cast you out to remove weakness; they cast you out because they were afraid. They saw a flaw in themselves that they couldn't accept. They began compensating for it with… everything else."
He gestures vaguely, as if the weight of their ambition and obsession is too complex to define.
Andrea (sighing, weary): "It's dreadful, Hugo. They live in constant stress, doing everything to make sure that another… 'mistake' could never happen again. And that burden of perfection—it's heavy. They didn't rise to power in spite of you. They rose to power because they were terrified of their own limits."
Hugo stands silently, taking in Andrea's words. The realization fills him with both sadness and a flicker of understanding. Just as the silence settles, Shizuka and Fenix run up, breaking the stillness with their cheerful greetings.
Shizuka (brightly): "Hey, Hugo! Oh, hello, Andrea."
Fenix (grinning, bowing slightly in playful deference): "Good morning, noble cyclops' brother. Did you enjoy the match?"
Andrea chuckles, his mood lifting slightly as he nods.
Andrea (smiling): "Very much. Angela was as deadly as ever. And congratulations, Shizuka—you were fantastic."
Shizuka's cheeks flush with pride, and she bows her head slightly, beaming.
Shizuka (gratefully): "Thank you so much!"
But Fenix's eyes narrow thoughtfully, his curiosity piqued by Andrea's praise.
Fenix (curious, surprised): "As… always? Are you saying Angela's been training in that brutal technique all this time?"
Andrea nods with a small smile, a faint glimmer of pride and sorrow mingling in his eyes.
Andrea: "Kinda…? Angela told you the story about the mercenary, right? The mercenary group she mentioned? Our ancestor was one of them. If you look back in our genealogy, you'll find his name recorded."
Fenix's eyes widen, a mixture of admiration and unease crossing his face.
Fenix (whistling): "So, the Gentoshi are… deadly by blood, huh?"
Andrea nods, though his face darkens slightly.
Andrea: "Most of us have known about that martial art since we were born, some trained it. Angela did not train it before… Maybe she trained after casting Hugo out?"
Fenix raises a brow, then grins at Andrea, nudging him playfully.
Fenix (playful): "So, cyclops's brother, you know the technique too?"
Andrea (smiling mischievously): "Maybe? Care to give it a try?"
Fenix (laughing, hands up in mock surrender): "No, thanks, sir. I'm not eager to face the moves that supposedly wiped out my kin back in the Dark Ages~"
They all share a laugh, the tension dissipating as Hugo's spirits lift slightly in the friendly company. The warmth and humor in their small group offer a quiet reminder that family can come from bonds that go beyond blood.
Scene: Aftermath of the Match - Teachers' Worry
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – TEACHERS' LOUNGE – LUNCH
The teachers' lounge is calm, a quiet refuge amidst the buzz of the campus. Professor Aster, an experienced instructor from the Superpower Branch, sits with a thoughtful expression, while Mr. Sato, the energetic PE teacher of the Academic Branch, leans back in his chair, arms crossed. Across from them, Professor Linden, the student council's calm, even-tempered counselor, sips his tea with a reassuring smile.
Mr. Sato (frowning): "Can't say I'm too thrilled about how the fights ended. I mean, the students were intense, no doubt. But do you think the Superpower Branch will really accept this outcome?"
Professor Aster sighs, clearly sharing Sato's concerns. He sets down a report, rubbing his temples.
Professor Aster (serious): "They were invested, all right. That branch takes pride in its strength. But after today, losing this battle, well… I worry about how they'll handle it. With the headmistress overseas and Professor Roderick occupied with his investigations, there's not much buffer if things get tense."
Professor Linden glances between his two colleagues, his expression thoughtful but calm.
Professor Linden (reassuring): "I understand the concern, but remember—the student council organized this event precisely to address the tension. This whole 5v5 match was a solution, not a provocation. And don't forget, each fighter took an oath to honor the outcome, which shows their commitment. The student council made sure this was done by the book."
Mr. Sato (reluctant, nodding): "I know, I know. The oath, the council's oversight… they covered every base. But let's face it, Professor. This is about more than just winning or losing a fight. It's about pride, and when pride gets hurt… well, you know what happens next."
Professor Aster raises an eyebrow, concern flickering in his gaze.
Professor Aster (cautious): "He's right. Some of those students have trained for years to be the best. And losing on such a public stage—especially after all the hype—it's a tough pill to swallow. I fear a few of them might take it… personally."
Professor Linden leans forward, a calm but firm look in his eye.
Professor Linden: "And that's precisely why the council made such a point of the fighters' oath. They chose the strongest representatives for each branch—students who others respect and follow. These students committed themselves to honoring the result, whatever it may be. By extension, they set an example for the others."
Mr. Sato (sighing, resigned): "I'll give them credit; those council kids did think this through. But what happens if someone still challenges the outcome, oath or not?"
Professor Linden (smiling calmly): "If it happens, we'll handle it. But I trust the students to hold up their end. After all, the entire point of this duel was to settle things peacefully, to avoid an all-out rivalry."
Professor Aster nods slowly, his expression softening.
Professor Aster: "You're right, Linden. With the council involved, I suppose we're in safe hands."
Mr. Sato (grumbling but accepting): "Let's hope they keep those hands steady. It's a big job, keeping peace around here."
Professor Linden chuckles, his calm demeanor unshaken.
Professor Linden (smiling): "One step at a time, gentlemen. Our students have shown more resilience than we sometimes give them credit for. I believe they'll rise to the occasion."
The three teachers share a look, a mix of hope and cautious optimism, as they settle into their seats, the weight of the academy's future resting in the hands of its students.
Scene: The End of the Match
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – AFTERNOON
The sun dips low in the sky, casting warm hues over the arena as the crowd erupts into applause, their cheers filled with a newfound respect for both branches. The fighters from each branch, bruised and weary, gather at the center, a hint of pride mingling with their exhaustion.
Yue, calm and composed as ever, steps forward to face John, who stands tall despite the battered remnants of the Abyssal Marine Armor. Yue extends his hand, and John shakes it firmly.
Yue (smiling, respectful): "You gave it your all, John. It was a good fight."
John (nodding, breathing heavily): "Likewise, Yue. You're… as strong as they say."
Not far from them, Ludociel and Lysander exchange a handshake as well. Ludociel's usually confident stance is softer, a quiet respect in her eyes.
Ludociel (smiling slightly): "Good fight, Lysander. That is some real strategy you pulled off."
Lysander (smirking): "Couldn't make it easy for you, right?"
Kimhyun stands before Alexei, his usually confident expression showing a flicker of exhaustion. Despite the soreness in his muscles, he reaches out to shake Alexei's hand.
Kimhyun (grinning through the pain): "Still can't believe you fought me with that spear, Alexei. You're tougher than you look."
Alexei (smirking): "And you're even more of a monster than I heard. Let's call it even."
Shizuka stands across from Eric, who's barely able to meet her gaze, still feeling the weight of his narrow loss. She offers him a sincere smile, extending her hand.
Shizuka (encouraging): "You did great, Eric. You fought with heart."
Eric (smiling weakly): "Thanks, Shizuka. I'll… remember this."
Finally, Angela stands before Drole, her hand extended gracefully. Drole, still visibly battered from their match, moves slowly, his injuries evident but his pride intact. He takes Angela's hand with a hint of a smile.
Angela (gentle, genuine): "Thank you for the match, Drole. You fought honorably."
Drole (nodding, his voice a bit raspy): "Couldn't hold back against you. It was… impressive, Angela."
With all hands shaken and respect solidified, the crowd's applause swells. The fighters step back, creating a small space in the middle as Yue and Angela turn to address the students. The arena grows quiet as they prepare to speak.
Yue (projecting his voice): "Today, we didn't see one branch beating the other. We saw students putting their best into their skills, courage, and dedication. But raw power, no matter the source, isn't what we should strive for."
Angela steps up beside him, her voice calm but resonant as she speaks to the assembly.
Angela: "Today was about more than technology or innate talent. It was about skills honed through practice, and the experience gained from learning. These are the true strengths each of us should strive for. Let this result be a reminder that every branch has something valuable to offer."
Yue (nodding in agreement): "We hope you'll all carry this lesson forward. Continue to improve yourselves—not just for rivalry, but to become better versions of who you already are."
Their words resonate across the arena, and students from both branches nod in understanding. A sense of unity fills the air as the applause grows, bridging the divide between the branches.
Scene: The End of the Match - Celebration
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – GREAT HALL – NIGHT
The Great Hall is filled with the hum of voices and laughter, the joyful aftermath of the day's intense battles. The usual barriers between the branches have dissolved, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.
In one corner, Lysander nudges Kimhyun with a mischievous grin.
Lysander (smirking): "Kimhyun~ Petting time. Show me your ears and tail~"
Kimhyun gives an exaggerated sigh, but his golden wolf ears and tail slowly appear as he mutters under his breath.
Kimhyun (playfully grumbling): "Just for you, rich boy. But don't get any ideas."
Lysander chuckles and reaches up to gently scratch behind Kimhyun's ears, who, despite his protests, lets out an involuntary, contented growl.
Lysander (smiling): "See? Even the mighty Jack likes a good ear scratch."
The two break into laughter, attracting a few amused glances from nearby students.
Elsewhere in the hall, Alexei's friends, Leontius Hale and Drakos Windsor, are engaged in an animated conversation with Alyssa Kane and Severin Ashford from the Superpower Branch.
Leontius (thoughtful): "So, superpowers give you an edge in combat, but tech can sometimes balance things out, right?"
Alyssa nods, contemplating.
Alyssa (agreeing): "True, but relying on gadgets alone isn't enough. Sometimes, raw power is what counts."
Severin (chiming in): "But there's beauty in both. Tech can amplify skill, while superpowers can enhance instinct. It's about knowing when to rely on one and when to embrace the other."
They all nod, finding common ground as they continue to exchange perspectives, each realizing they have something to learn from the other.
On the opposite side of the hall, Kenjiro and Ryuto approach Vivienne, their expressions filled with remorse.
Kenjiro (earnestly): "Vivienne, we were wrong to target you. We let rivalry get in the way, and we apologize for the harm we caused."
Vivienne regards them with a slight smile, a touch of forgiveness in her eyes.
Vivienne (nodding): "Thank you. Apology accepted. Next time, let's settle things on fairer terms."
They exchange relieved smiles, the tension between them fading as they shake hands.
Meanwhile, a group of students from the sculpting club, led by Aria and Ren, gathers around Elena Vark, a talented student from the Superpower Branch known for using her wind ability in her art.
Aria (apologetically): "Elena, we wanted to apologize for dismissing your wind technique before. We were so focused on traditional methods that we didn't see the creativity in what you were doing. Do you think you could… teach us?"
Elena's eyes widen with surprise, but she soon beams, nodding enthusiastically.
Elena (smiling): "I'd love to. Art isn't just about one approach—it's about pushing boundaries. Let's get creative together."
The sculpting club members smile, excited for this new perspective as they plan future projects with Elena.
At another table, Caius, a Superpower Branch student from the Aikido club, approaches Leonidas and Milo from the Academic Branch.
Caius (awkwardly, scratching the back of his head): "Hey, Leonidas, Milo… I wanted to apologize for not taking our sparring seriously. I relied too much on my strength and ignored the technique. I understand now that it was disrespectful to you both."
Leonidas and Milo exchange a glance, nodding in understanding.
Leonidas (smiling): "We get it, Caius. We also apologize for calling you… well, an ape. Let's respect each other's strengths from now on."
They shake hands, the mutual respect evident as they smile and promise to make future matches fairer and more challenging.
At the center of the celebration, Yue stands, a contented smile on his face as he watches the students mingling and bonding. Beside him, Ludociel observes the scene with a satisfied expression.
Yue (grinning): "So, Ludociel, pleased with the outcome?"
Ludociel (nodding, thoughtful): "More than I expected. I never thought you'd approve of this kind of solution. And yet… here we are."
Yue chuckles, his gaze scanning the happy faces filling the hall.
Yue: "Sometimes, a little conflict brings out the best in people. Let's hope they remember this unity when it's time for the next challenge."
The two share a silent moment of pride, watching as students from both branches talk, laugh, and build bonds that will make them all stronger. The celebration carries on late into the night, marking a new era of respect and collaboration at St. Alaric Academy.