The final test loomed before us: the duel. Unlike the previous sections, this wasn't about solving equations or resource management. It was about direct competition, pitting system users against one another in simulated scenarios.
The announcement caused a stir among the applicants. Rumors swirled as students speculated about what kind of duels would take place. Some boasted about their systems, while others quietly reviewed their strategies.
Eunha and I had managed to keep our rivalry low-key at least, until now. As we lined up outside the simulation arena, I could feel her presence behind me like a storm cloud.
"I hope you're ready for this," she said casually.
I turned to face her. "You sound confident. Too bad they probably won't let us face off directly."
She smirked. "Would you really want to? Or are you afraid I'd win?"
Before I could retort, the proctor interrupted. "Silence in the line. Names will be called in pairs. Each duel will last no more than thirty minutes."
The tension in the room thickened as the first names were called. A towering boy with sharp eyes stepped forward, followed by a petite girl with short hair. The boy's system aura glowed green likely a Fitness System. The girl's glowed purple, marking her as an Artistry user.
The proctor explained, "Each duel will take place in a randomized simulation designed to challenge your system's unique attributes. Use your skills wisely."
My name was called halfway through the pairings.
"Seo Seojun, Kang Minho."
I stepped forward, my opponent towering over me. Minho was broad-shouldered, his posture exuding confidence. His Fitness System was no joke rumor had it he could bench press a car.
"Try not to embarrass yourself," he said, his voice low and steady.
I didn't respond, keeping my focus sharp. The Scholar System wasn't flashy, but it had one advantage: it was ruthlessly efficient.
We were escorted to separate chambers. The simulation room was a stark white space filled with holographic panels and sensors. I sat in the chair provided, gripping the armrests as the proctor explained the rules.
"Your duel will simulate a survival scenario. Both participants will be placed in the same environment and tasked with finding a way to escape. First to achieve a successful escape wins. Any questions?"
I shook my head.
"Good. The simulation will begin in 3… 2… 1…"
The room dissolved into a dense jungle, the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves filling my ears. My system interface appeared in my vision.
[Quest: Escape the jungle simulation before your opponent.]
[Hint: Analyze the environment for hidden tools and paths.]
The Scholar System sprang into action, immediately scanning my surroundings. It highlighted a nearby cluster of vines and noted their tensile strength perfect for climbing. A map of the area slowly materialized in my mind, showing potential paths forward.
I wasted no time, cutting down a vine with a sharp rock and tying it to a sturdy branch. The system pinged again:
[Hint: Look for water sources to find an escape route.]
Meanwhile, Minho wasn't far behind. In the distance, I heard the crack of branches and heavy footfalls. His Fitness System made him faster and stronger, but it didn't enhance his strategy. That was where I had the advantage.
I forged ahead, my focus on identifying patterns in the terrain. When I reached a wide river, the system displayed a notification:
[Obstacle: Cross the river safely.]
A fallen tree served as a potential bridge, but the system flagged its instability. Instead, I crafted a makeshift raft from nearby bamboo, using vines to bind the pieces together. It took precious minutes, but it was worth the effort.
Halfway across the river, I spotted Minho on the horizon. He'd reached the riverbank and was eyeing the fallen tree. To my surprise, he didn't hesitate. He sprinted across the shaky log, his enhanced reflexes keeping him balanced.
I cursed under my breath. He was gaining on me.
The system chimed:
[Hint: Use the terrain to slow your opponent.]
I quickly scanned the riverbank ahead and spotted a loose boulder on a slope. Using a heavy stick, I wedged it free, sending it crashing down the hill. The noise startled Minho, forcing him to stop and adjust his position.
It wasn't much, but it bought me time.
When I finally reached the simulation's endpoint a glowing portal hidden behind a thicket of trees I collapsed in relief. The system confirmed my success:
[Quest Completed: Escape Successful.]
[Bonus: Outsmarted Opponent. Focus +3, Intelligence +2.]
As the jungle dissolved, I found myself back in the white room. Minho arrived moments later, his expression dark.
"You got lucky," he muttered.
"Luck had nothing to do with it," I replied, leaving the room before he could say more.
Outside, I spotted Eunha watching the duels on a monitor. She raised an eyebrow as I approached.
"Well?" she asked.
"Victory," I said simply.
She gave a slow clap, clearly unimpressed. "Let's see how you do against real competition."
Before I could respond, the proctor called her name.
"Seo Eunha, Kim Jiyeon."
Her opponent was a petite girl with bright purple hair and a glowing blue aura a Charisma System user. This duel would be interesting to watch.
I leaned back against the wall, watching the screen as the next round began.
The duel wasn't just about survival it was about proving who had the stronger system and the sharper mind. My victory had secured my place in the rankings, but Eunha's duel would show whether she could keep up.
And judging by her determined expression as the simulation began, I knew she wouldn't hold back.