Rajiv and his friends walked through the bustling streets of A1 City, taking in the sights. The city was massive, with towering buildings, ancient stone pathways, and distinct districts that resembled places from England. Each district had its own history, blending tradition with modernity.
As they explored, Rajiv's eyes landed on a large poster displayed in the town square.
"A1 City Grand Competition! Fighters from across the land—Prove your strength! Entry requires a sword or battle tools!"
Rajiv frowned. "I don't have a sword…"
Just as he was thinking about what to do, a voice behind him spoke.
"Hey, you need a sword?"
Rajiv turned sharply. Standing there, smirking, was Sogo.
Rajiv's eyes widened. "Brother!" He ran up and hugged him.
Sogo chuckled. "Relax, idiot. You forgot something." He pulled out a wrapped object and tossed it to Rajiv.
Rajiv unwrapped it—a sword. But it was old.
"This… is old," Rajiv muttered.
Sogo shrugged. "Yeah. It's old. But it still cuts."
Before Rajiv could say anything else, Sogo turned away. "I've got things to do. See you later." He waved and walked off.
Rajiv sighed, looking at the sword. "Well… it's better than nothing."
---
The Plan
Back at their hideout, Rajiv placed the sword on the table while Jiro spread out a city map.
"This is our target," Jiro said, pointing to a noble district. "Edmund Lancaster. He's one of the nobles controlling this city."
Rajiv studied the name. "So, we take him down?"
Yokudo nodded. "If we do, the noble clan's influence weakens. And more importantly—"
Jiro smirked. "—we show the world we are still alive."
Rajiv clenched his fists. "Then we move forward."
---
The Challenge
The next day, Rajiv arrived at the competition registration. The place was crowded, warriors from different regions standing in long lines.
As he stepped forward, a familiar, mocking voice rang out.
"Well, well… if it isn't the 'no energy child.'"
Rajiv turned. Anil, one of the noble fighters, smirked at him.
"You actually think you'll get selected?" Anil laughed. "You should have stayed home. This competition isn't for weaklings."
Rajiv's hands curled into fists, his anger rising.
Before things escalated, a voice interrupted them.
"That's enough."
A young man stepped forward—blonde, sharp blue eyes, wearing a noble's uniform. He looked at Rajiv and Anil with an unreadable expression.
"The competition is not easy," he said. "But it's not for cowards either."
Rajiv and Anil stared at him.
The real challenge was about to begin.