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The arena buzzed with anticipation as students and instructors gathered to witness the Druig brothers' duel. The rivalry between Chen and Michel had become the talk of Ronald Academy, and everyone was eager to see how it would unfold.
Chen stood on one side of the arena, his heart pounding with excitement and nerves. He could feel the strange energy within him, the elemental power that had become his secret weapon. On the opposite side, Michel exuded confidence, his eyes filled with disdain as he glared at his brother.
"Begin!" the instructor's voice boomed, and the match was underway.
Michel charged first, his sabre gleaming as he swung it towards Chen. But Chen was ready. He dodged gracefully, the flames at his fingertips flickering to life. With a swift motion, he countered, the fire enhancing his strikes. The crowd gasped as the air around Chen shimmered with heat and light.
Michel's expression twisted with fury. "What trickery is this?" he snarled, attacking with renewed ferocity. But Chen's movements were fluid, almost dance-like, as he evaded Michel's blows and struck back with precision.
The battle raged on, each brother pushing the other to their limits. Chen's newfound power gave him an edge, but Michel's years of training and experience made him a formidable opponent. Sparks flew, and the sound of clashing metal echoed through the arena.
As the fight reached its climax, Chen felt the energy within him surge. He channeled it into a final, powerful strike, flames erupting from his dagger as he lunged at Michel. The impact sent Michel sprawling, his sabre clattering to the ground.
The arena fell silent, all eyes on Chen as he stood victorious. The instructor approached, a look of astonishment on his face. "Chen Druig, you have proven your worth today. This match is yours," he declared.
Michel lay on the ground, seething with anger and humiliation. "This isn't over, Chen," he spat, his voice filled with venom.
Chen helped his brother to his feet, a hint of a smirk on his lips. "I'll be waiting, little brother," he replied, his tone both mocking and confident.
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**A few weeks later, as the brothers continued their training at Ronald Academy**
Chen's prowess continued to grow, his control over the elemental energy becoming more refined with each passing day. His personality also evolved—he became more confident, even a bit shameless in his interactions, often making light-hearted jokes. But he remained cold and unyielding towards those who threatened him, including his brother.
One evening, as Chen practiced alone in the academy's training grounds, he felt a sudden jolt in his mind. A voice, calm and authoritative, echoed in his thoughts.
**"Welcome, Host. The System has been activated."**
Chen froze, his eyes widening in shock. "Who... what are you?" he whispered, looking around to see if anyone else could hear.
**"I am the System, here to assist you on your journey. Together, we will unlock your true potential and guide you towards greatness."**
Chen's mind raced. This was the power he had sensed, the strange energy that had been growing within him. "What do I need to do?" he asked, his heart pounding with excitement.
**"Follow my instructions, complete the tasks I assign, and you will gain strength beyond your wildest dreams. But remember, your journey will be fraught with challenges. Only by overcoming them will you achieve true power."**
Chen nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "I'm ready. Let's do this."
**"Very well, Host. Your first task is to complete the elemental mastery trials hidden within the academy. Succeed, and you will unlock the first level of your true potential."**
With newfound resolve, Chen set off to find the hidden trials. His journey had truly begun, and he knew that with the System by his side, he could achieve anything.
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