The next day, the training grounds buzzed with passion throughout everyone. Groups of students practiced combat drills, their weapons clashing against training dummies and sparring partners. Arthur stood with his newly appointed squad, awkwardness thick in the air after their lackluster performance the prior day.
"Listen up," Verlan barked, cutting through the noise as he approached the group. "Today, we're moving beyond sparring matches. There's an important announcement regarding the kingdom's annual team tournament. Consider this your motivation to get your act together."
Ella's ears perked up. "A team tournament?"
"That's right," Verlan said. "An opportunity to showcase your skills and represent Solvaris Academy. Winning teams receive immense rewards, including resources, artifacts, and even a chance to have their names recognized across the kingdom."
Arthur noticed Damien's eyes gleam at the mention of recognition, while Grace merely smirked as if already planning her victory speech. Ella, on the other hand, practically vibrated with excitement.
"Sounds like my kind of challenge," Grace said with confidence.
Damien crossed his arms, taking a sharp glance at Arthur. "If we can function as a team, that is."
However, Arthur couldn't blame him. Their performance the previous day had been, to put it simply, disastrous.
Verlan continued. "This tournament isn't just about raw strength. You'll be facing other teams in scenarios designed to test your teamwork, strategy, and adaptability. Fail to work together, and you'll fall, hard."
Arthur felt the weight of Verlan's words.
"Given the 'promising potential' of this squad," Verlan added with a sarcastic tone, "you've been automatically entered as potential reps of the Academy."
Ella gasped. "Automatically? That's huge!"
Damien scowled. "Or a setup for failure."
Verlan ignored him, contuing, "You'll have two months to prepare. Expect rival teams of upper classes, as well as the other academies, to bring their best. And, of course, nobles will be closely scouting on the competition."
"Sounds fun," Grace said sarcastically.
Damien sook his head. "More like a mess..."
Ella raised her hand. "Professor, will we know who the other teams are beforehand?"
"Some," Verlan replied. "Others will remain a surprise. For now, focus on your training. And Arthur," he added, "try not to carry the team on your back. They'll need to pull their own weight too."
Arthur nodded, though he didn't miss the sharp glance Damien shot at him.
...
The squad gathered at one of the Academy's outdoor training fields. Arthur stood across from Damien, Ella, and Grace, their expressions determined.
"We need to sort this out," Arthur said, breaking the silence. "If we can't work together, we'll lose before the tournament even begins."
"No kidding," Damien muttered. "Maybe you should focus on fighting like part of a team instead of a lone hero."
Arthur frowned. "I didn't ask for that title."
"Enough," Ella interjected, stepping between them. "We all have strengths and weaknesses. Let's figure out how to use them to our advantage instead of arguing."
Grace clapped her hands. "Finally, someone sensible. Here's an idea: let's play to our strengths. Arthur can tank damage and summon an extremely powerful reinforcement. Damien handles tactical decisions and frontline combat. Ella, you're quick, perfect for recon and flanking. And me? Well, I'm good at everything."
"Modest as always," Damien muttered.
Grace smirked. "It's a burden."
Arthur stepped forward. "All right. Let's test this out. A mock scenario,Damien leads, Grace supports, and Ella and I follow his strategy."
Damien raised an eyebrow. "You're letting me take charge?"
"You're the tactician, aren't you?" Arthur replied.
For the next hour, the squad ran through simulated missions, gradually learning how to communicate and cover for each other's weaknesses. They were far from perfect, but by the end of the session, Arthur noticed a small shift in the group's dynamic.
Ella was quick to follow Damien's commands, while Grace surprised everyone by actually taking her role seriously. Damien, for his part, reluctantly admitted when Arthur's warrior provided crucial support.
"We might not be hopeless after all," Ella said with a grin as they wrapped up.
Damien sighed. "We'll see."
Grace stretched, a confident smile on her face. "Well, I don't know about you lot, but I'm feeling pretty good. Let's crush this tournament."
Arthur couldn't help but smile. They had a long way to go, but for the first time, he felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, this mismatched team could pull together in time.
...
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Arthur lingered on the training field, practicing his summoning technique. The shadowy form of his Abyssal Warrior loomed before him, its presence a reminder of the power he wielded, and the responsibility that came with it.
"Arthur," a voice called from behind. He turned to see Verlan approaching.
"You stayed late," the professor remarked.
Arthur nodded. "There's still so much I need improve."
Verlan studied him for a moment before speaking. "You have a long road ahead, Grimwood. But remember, strength isn't just about power, it's about trust. You'll need to trust your team if you want to survive what's coming."
Arthur glanced at the horizon, determination reflecting onto his eyes.
"I'll make it work," he said quietly.
Verlan gave a faint smile before turning away. "Good. Because this tournament is only the beginning."