The colossal ice golem, Anne's last desperate defense, shattered with a single, effortless strike from Michel's katana. The air crackled with raw power as he advanced, his every movement a blur of lethal intent. Anne, realizing the futility of her attacks, resorted to a barrage of ice shards. However, Michel, with a flick of his wrist, deflected the barrage, each shard shattering upon contact with his invisible barrier.
A sinister smile crept across Michel's face as he closed the distance between them. He summoned a sphere of concentrated energy, a weapon of pure destruction. With a swift motion, he hurled the sphere at Anne, who was too stunned to react. The explosion sent her flying, her unconscious body skidding across the arena floor.
Chen, who had been observing the battle from the sidelines, watched in awe and despair. The gap between him and his brother seemed to widen with each passing moment. A surge of determination ignited within him. "I must become stronger," he vowed, his eyes burning with a newfound resolve.
As the dust settled, the results of the entrance exam were announced. A few exceptional individuals, including Anne and Chen, were granted special exemptions due to their extraordinary talents. Michel's team, led by his undeniable skill and prowess, secured their place in the prestigious Ronald Academy.
"Welcome to Ronald Academy, where you will hone your skills to the fullest," the announcer declared, his voice echoing through the arena.
The crowd dispersed, each participant eager to return home and prepare for their journey to the academy. Chen, his brother Michel, and their father, Druig, were among them. As they were about to depart, Chen approached his father with a bold request.
"Father, I wish to transfer to a different academy," he declared, his voice steady.
Both Michel and Druig were taken aback by Chen's sudden announcement. Michel, ever the provocateur, questioned his brother's intentions. "Why?" he asked, a smirk playing on his lips.
Chen's eyes flashed with determination. "I want to surpass you," he replied, his voice unwavering.
Michel's smirk widened. "I accept your challenge," he said, his tone serious. Chen was surprised by his brother's unexpected response.
"You are strong, Chen," Michel admitted. "I underestimated your potential. Now, I recognize you as a worthy adversary."
Chen was stunned. He had never expected such a candid acknowledgment from his brother. A newfound respect blossomed between the two, a bond forged in the fires of competition. As they embarked on their separate journeys, they knew that their paths would inevitably cross again, and when they did, it would be a clash of titans.