Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

'The main cast has taken the stage. And...'

"... I just don't wanna miss it," I muttered, hoping she would accept this as an answer.

Aria nodded, shifting her gaze back to the arena.

Though I know what will happen in the novel, life is unpredictable. Who knows if they can show us a miracle? They aren't the main cast for nothing, right?

Regardless, I have achieved what I wanted - we changed the overall outcome of the event. So I'm happy with whatever outcome they show us. As long as they don't lose badly, that is.

If it weren't for the restrictions, we wouldn't have won; even ending up in a draw would have been a miracle. That's the gap between us and the second years.

We've only been Awakeners for about five months, while they are a year ahead of us. Some may call it an excuse, but it's a fact that can't be denied.

Unless you have great luck and heaven-defying talent... even then, our current MC isn't that OP or has thick plot armor to help him.

And that's why many people liked the 'Aetheric Chronicles.'

It was more grounded and realistic, even in a fantasy setting. The characters had to work hard for their victories and face real consequences for their actions. It wasn't about instant power-ups or deus ex machina moments; it was about growth and perseverance.

I shook off my thoughts and focused on the arena as the match began. Both teams started cautiously, exchanging simple attacks to test each other's strength. Ceil's team moved with precision, their experience evident in their coordinated maneuvers. They weren't taking any unnecessary risks, but their every move was calculated to probe the weaknesses of their opponents.

Aurelius and his group weren't that bad either. They were good. The training with us must have worked out well for them. They responded with equal caution, their formation tight and their movements disciplined. They knew they were up against formidable opponents and couldn't afford to make any mistakes.

"Let's see how they handle this," I muttered under my breath, my eyes fixed on the unfolding battle.

Ceil's team slowly began to take the upper hand. Their strategy was clear: wear down their opponents with relentless pressure and force them into making mistakes. Ceil herself alone was a force to be reckoned with, her every attack precise and powerful. She moved with the grace of a seasoned warrior, her confidence and skill shining through.

The match continued on with Senior Ceil and her team launching surprise attacks from time to time.

The time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, the sixth minute approached, and it was clear that Ceil's team had gained the advantage. They had managed to isolate and exploit the weaknesses in Aurelius's team's formation, gradually pushing them back and forcing them into defensive positions.

Then suddenly, Ceil's team executed a coordinated assault, their experience and training paying off. They moved as one, their attacks synchronized and devastating. Aurelius's team tried to regroup and mount a counterattack, but it was too late. The momentum was firmly in Ceil's favor, and she wasn't about to let it slip away.

With a final, decisive strike, Ceil's blade cut through Aurelius's defense, knocking him to the ground. The rest of her team followed suit, overwhelming their opponents with a series of well-coordinated attacks.

Soon, the match was over.

The crowd erupted in applause, their cheers echoing through the arena. Senior Ceil's team had won decisively, their strategy and experience carrying them to victory. It was a hard-fought battle, gaining respect and awe from everyone.

But, the outcome didn't change. Aurelius's team lost as I anticipated.

This will serve them, him, as a big motivation and wake-up call. Losing to a stronger opponent will push them to train harder, to understand their weaknesses, and to improve. This defeat will be a crucial step in their journey, just as it had been for so many others in their life.

"Well, that was impressive," I said, nodding in approval.

Then I shifted my attention to my group.

"Hmm?" I noticed Ardel had fallen asleep in his seat, probably due to exhaustion. His head was tilted at an awkward angle, and soft snores escaped his mouth.

Smiling to myself, I shifted my focus to Lila and Kairen.

'!' What a shocking sight I saw...

Lila was leaning on Kairen's shoulder, her right hand resting on top of his. Her eyes were closed, but she wore a satisfied and relieved smile. Kairen, usually so serious and composed, looked down at her with a gentle expression, though it was all that.

For a moment, I felt like an intruder in a private moment. They both looked so peaceful, a stark contrast to the intense battles we had just witnessed. It was a reminder that even in the midst of competition and training, there was room for moments of comfort and connection.

But doing it in the open like this... And in front of single individuals like me...

Damn it! I'm really jealous!

I let out a quiet sigh, trying not to disturb the serene moment between Lila and Kairen. They deserved their rest and the comfort they found in each other. Still, I couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. It was a stark reminder of the loneliness that surrounded my life.

"Hey, Adrian." Just then a low voice made me turn my other side, to Aria.

Wait... Maybe I wasn't as lonely as I thought.

"Aria, can you help me to the infirmary?"

"Hmm, I was going to say that," Aria replied, her tone gentle but firm. She stood up and extended her hand toward me.

Gratefully, I took her hand, feeling the warmth of her touch. Together, we walked out of the arena, leaving behind the cheers and applause that still echoed in the vast space.

As we made our way through the corridors, the adrenaline from the battle finally began to wear off, and I could feel the full weight of my injuries. Each step was a reminder of the strain and exertion of the day, but Aria's presence beside me was definitely the most comforting.

'...'

"Hey, are you free this Sunday?" I asked her without looking at her.

"Yes. Why?" Aria answered, her gaze falling to me.

"..."

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to phrase my next words. But I knew I had to push past my awkwardness if I wanted to build a stronger connection with her.

"I was thinking... maybe we could hang out? You know, outside of training and all this." I glanced at her, hoping I didn't sound too nervous.

Aria looked surprised for a moment, but then a warm smile spread across her face. "Sure, let's do it."