Nathan didn't like how quickly the day of the combat trials came around. As students gathered in the central square, the school grounds were bustling with activity. Their faces were a mixture of nervous expectation and hardly controlled joy. The trials served as a means for students to demonstrate their ability and establish their value, and they were an integral part of life at the Aurelian Academy.
Nathan compared it to being on a precipice and gazing into a chasm.
Aurora gave him a soft poke with her elbow and remarked, "You look like you're about to hurl." Her crimson braid shone in the sunlight, and she seemed as composed as ever. "Calm down. You've put forth a lot of effort. You can do this.
Nathan forced a smile. "It's easy for you to say. You are not the one trying to avoid being crushed.
Aurora gave an eye roll. "You're stronger than you think, Caelum. Just don't freeze up out there."
Even though her comments didn't really help with the tightness in his stomach, he nodded. Every training session had been more intense than the last, and the last few days had been a haze. His stats were gradually increasing as he clawed his way to Level 3. Despite the system's assistance, he was aware that the trials would provide a unique set of difficulties.
As the teachers took the stage, their voices magnified by magic, the plaza erupted in applause.
One of them said in a loud voice, "Welcome to this year's combat trials." You will encounter obstacles today that are intended to try your fortitude, talent, and willpower. Keep in mind that this is about progress, not just winning. Take lessons from your mistakes and strive for greater things.
Nathan's hands balled into fists as he swallowed hard. The other pupils stood up around him, their faces tightening with determination.
Students were paired for one-on-one dueling while the teachers started yelling names. The magical barriers that contained the bouts shimmered faintly as each match took place in one of the academy's open venues. As the first pair entered the ring, Nathan saw their precise and angular movements as their weapons clashed.
Aurora leaned over to him and murmured, "You'll be up soon." "Don't overthink it. Just focus on what you've learned.
Nathan's pulse quickened as he whispered, "Right." He forced himself to take deep breaths, steadying his nerves.
The world seemed to go silent when his name was spoken.
With the pressure of the moment bearing down on him, Nathan entered the arena. Marcus, a tall, broad-shouldered youngster whose reputation for physical power preceded him, was his opponent, and he was already waiting. Nathan came over with his wooden sword slung loosely over his shoulder, and Marcus smiled.
With a confident tone, Marcus remarked, "Well, this will be quick." "Caelum, try to avoid embarrassing yourself too much."
Nathan remained silent. His thoughts racing, he gripped his own weapon tighter. The system's guidance from his training sessions echoed faintly in his thoughts: Stay balanced. Read your opponent. Don't let fear control you.
"begin!" the instructor yelled.
Marcus sprung into action right away, his sword cutting through the air with unexpected speed for a man his size. Nathan sidestepped, moving more quickly and accurately than he had a few days prior. The second blow jarred his arms but did not overwhelm him as he blocked it.
Marcus launched an assault, his blows strong and unrelenting. As Nathan ducked and parried, searching for a gap, his thoughts were racing. His attention narrowed on the battle in front of him as the cheers of the crowd faded into the background.
"Tip: Exploit patterns in your opponent's movements," the system's voice chimed in his mind.
Before each swing, Nathan's gaze shifted to Marcus's feet and observed the little change in his posture. He changed his timing, avoiding the following blow and launching a swift strike of his own. He grunted in astonishment when the blade of his wooden sword hit Marcus's side.
"Good shot," Marcus snarled, his smile wavering.
Nathan didn't respond. The tiniest glimmer of confidence was beginning to bloom inside him. He was fighting back, not just getting by.
The match dragged on, each clash of their swords sending shocks up Nathan's arms. Even though his endurance was waning, he resisted giving up. He sidestepped another blow and turned on his heel to strike Marcus's shoulder cleanly. The bigger boy staggered, clearly frustrated.
"Enough!" the instructor called, stepping forward. "Winner: Nathan Caelum."
After a brief period of silence, the audience burst into applause and whispers. With his chest heaving, Nathan lowered his blade and gazed at Marcus, who appeared to be as shocked and enraged.
Marcus reluctantly mumbled, "Not bad, Caelum," and brushed past him as he exited the stadium.
For a few while, Nathan remained there as the truth of his triumph set in. He had succeeded. He had prevailed.
He walked toward Aurora, who was smiling back in the stands.
She playfully punched his arm and added, "Told you you've got this." "Let's see if you can keep going now."
Even though his legs felt like jello, Nathan laughed. The difficulties were far from ended, and he was aware that they would only get more difficult. But he felt like he belonged for the first time.
Nathan watched the remaining bouts throughout the day with a mixture of admiration and resolve. Occasionally, the system would chime softly, documenting his development and encouraging him to get better. There was no reason for him to check the status page. He was thinking about the next battle, the next triumph.
One step at a time.