The sun rose bright and glorious over the bustling town, casting warm rays over the cobblestone streets as the academy came alive for its grand event: the Royal Academy Festival. Birds chirped in harmony with the hum of excited voices as townspeople and visitors alike flooded toward the academy gates, eager for a day of spectacle and celebration.
As Riku and Aina strolled through the crowded streets leading to the academy, Riku couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. Everywhere he looked, colorful banners waved in the gentle breeze, shops and stalls lined the streets selling food and festival trinkets, and the atmosphere buzzed with energy.
"Riku," Aina said with a smile, noticing his wide-eyed wonder, "the festival is held every year to showcase the skills of the academy's students. It's a big deal—especially the tournament. The top students compete, and the winner earns the right to graduate as a professional adventurer. It's how they prove themselves to the world."
Riku nodded, trying to imagine himself in such a competition. As they approached the academy gates, the courtyard had transformed into a grand arena, filled with cheering crowds, elegantly decorated seats, and stands for the visiting dignitaries. A massive platform stretched across the middle, where the day's events would unfold.
The fanfare reached a crescendo as the king himself appeared, making his way to the grandstand in a gilded carriage, his presence drawing awed silence from the crowd. Beside him was Haruto, who nodded solemnly as he took his place alongside the king. A lady with a melodic voice, stationed at the commentator's cabin, welcomed everyone. With a flourish, she called out, "Welcome, one and all, to the Royal Academy Festival! Let the games begin!"
As she finished, the trumpets sounded, filling the air with lively, upbeat tunes. Songs blended with the excited cheers of the audience, building an atmosphere brimming with anticipation. Riku found himself smiling, his heart pounding with anticipation.
The commentator's voice echoed across the arena once more, drawing everyone's attention. "Our first event is a 5v5 exhibition battle! Teachers of the Royal Academy against adventurers from the guild!"
The crowd erupted with applause, and the commentator continued, "The rules are simple! Each team must protect their crystal. The first team to destroy their opponent's crystal wins!"
Riku's eyes widened as he realized what was happening. Haruto, the headmaster, stepped forward, leaving the king's side, and Aina smiled at Riku before making her way toward the arena, joining her fellow adventurers. The commentator began introducing each member of the teams, their names resonating with the crowd as they took their positions on the platform.
Team A: The Teachers of the Academy
Kazan, the Fire Blade: A tall man with a powerful stance and a blade etched with fiery runes at his side. His dark, intense eyes held a spark of battle-ready energy. Known for his skill in both swordsmanship and fire magic, Kazan's fiery blade was legendary among the academy.
Reika, the Soulforge Mage: A graceful woman with flowing silver hair and piercing blue eyes. Reika's presence was serene, almost mystical, and her magic could manifest weapons and objects from the strength of her spirit, an ability unique to her.
Rikuto, the Ward of Reflection: Younger and smaller in stature, Rikuto was Reika's younger brother. With sharp, intelligent eyes behind his glasses and a quiet confidence, he wielded a unique defensive magic that reflected attacks back at their source.
Hayate, the Immune Body: A towering wolf demi-human with a muscular build and fierce amber eyes. Known for his formidable strength and resilience, Hayate was renowned for his immunity to poisons and various forms of magic.
Haruto, the Headmaster: In his traditional robes, Haruto's calm demeanor and sharp, dark teal eyes spoke of wisdom and power. His role as headmaster and leader of the teachers' team was a testament to his abilities and leadership.
The crowd cheered enthusiastically for each teacher, their reputations well known and respected throughout the academy.
Team B: The Adventurers of the Guild
Mizuki, the Water Weaver: A young woman with long, sleek blue hair and a calm, calculating gaze. An A-rank adventurer, Mizuki had mastered water magic, her flowing movements matching her graceful but powerful abilities.
Takeru, the Four-Armed Swordmaster: A demi-human with four muscular arms, each hand gripping a different blade. His short, dark hair framed his intense, determined face, and his skill in swordsmanship made him a formidable A-rank adventurer.
Kagami, the Barrier Sage: Standing with quiet confidence, Kagami was an S-rank adventurer with short, ash-colored hair and a faint scar across his cheek. His ability to create powerful barriers was unmatched, and his experience was evident in his composed presence.
Souta, the Sword of Tenacity: A B-rank adventurer with a stocky build, Souta wore his status with pride despite lacking magical abilities. His deep brown eyes gleamed with a fierce determination, and he held his sword with the practiced ease of one who had trained tirelessly.
Aina, the Miracle Maiden: Dressed in her signature attire, Aina's golden hair and warm smile drew cheers from the crowd. Her reputation as the Miracle Maiden was widespread, and her inclusion in the adventurers' team added an air of excitement to the match.
The crowd's cheers grew louder as each member of Team B was introduced, their unique skills and reputations as adventurers adding a thrilling edge to the festival.
The commentator's voice soared over the arena. "The leaders of our teams are none other than Haruto and Aina! This is sure to be a battle for the ages!"
Both teams took their positions, each side standing around their respective crystals, their stances exuding confidence and readiness. Riku, watching from the stands, could hardly contain his excitement. He had heard stories about adventurers and academy teachers, but seeing them up close was awe-inspiring.
As the teams readied themselves, the commentator's voice echoed once more. "On my signal… Begin!"
The trumpet blared, the crowd roared, and the festival officially commenced.