Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

"In this competition," the second announcer continued, "each year's students will compete separately in their own brackets. However, the top two from each year's bracket will advance to an ultimate final, all-year showdown to determine the ultimate champion of the Celestial Arcane Academy!"

The crowd erupted in cheers once more, the prospect of intense one-on-one battles captivating the audience. The students, too, seemed eager, their expressions filled with determination and readiness.

"Preliminary rounds for the Individual Combat Competition will begin shortly," the first announcer explained. "Each match will be a test of skill, strategy, and resilience. The winners will advance to the next round, and the top two from each day of preliminary rounds will move to the quarter-finals."

"The preliminary matches will be held throughout the day," the second announcer added. "We will be announcing the schedule and match-ups momentarily. Students, please prepare yourselves and make your way to the designated combat arenas when your name is called."

The magical screen above the arena flickered, displaying the names of the students and their respective match-ups for the preliminary rounds. The crowd watched intently as the pairs were revealed, eager to see who would face off against whom.

"Now, let's reveal the first set of matches!" the first announcer's voice boomed. "For the first-year students, the preliminary rounds will take place in Arena 1. Here are the initial match-ups!"

The screen showed the names of the first-year students and their opponents:

Adrian Lighthaven vs. Felix Stormguard

...

Eluna Redfox vs. Lina Fei

....

Emeric Ironheart vs. Nedrich Ember

Kuba Bane vs. Kale Case

Sophie Brightshield vs. Darken Thorne

....

______ __ _

The list continued. In short, today the fourth of the registered first years would battle and the rest in the next three days.

The same was true for the other senior years. Though their matches would be held after each year, in order.

As the first matches of the Individual Combat Competition were announced, the excitement in the Colosseum surged anew. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager to see how the students would perform in one-on-one combat. The stakes were high, and the promise of thrilling battles had everyone on the edge of their seats.

The first announcer continued, "Remember, students, this is a test of your combat skills and strategic thinking. Use everything you've learned to outwit and outmaneuver your opponent. Good luck to all participants!"

The students whose names were called made their way to Arena 1, a larger combat area set up specifically for the preliminary rounds. There were four smaller arenas in each large arena. Since the matches were many, they decided to hold the four matches at the same time.

The atmosphere was charged with tension and excitement as the first batch of participants took their places in their respective fighting arenas.

Adrian's match was also among the first batch, so he calmly ascended to the fighting arena where his name was called.

His opponent was looking hesitant and scared from his expression. Adrian doubted whether he could even fight in that state.

"I... I for-forfeit." His opponent couldn't hold it anymore and shouted loudly.

"..." Both Adrian and the judge looked at the boy surprised.

'You could at least try to put up a fight. At least your dignity would be saved.' Adrian thought internally looking at his classmate. 'And I'm not that scary, ok? I was even planning to go easy on you, you know.'

"The winner is Adrian Lighthaven."

The crowd was momentarily stunned by Felix Stormguard's sudden forfeiture so they didn't know whether to cheer or not. The abrupt end to the match left many in the audience curious about Adrian's capabilities, as they hadn't yet seen him in action.

Adrian stepped down from the arena, a mixture of disappointment and amusement in his expression. He had been looking forward to a good fight to showcase his close combat, but it seemed he would have to wait for the next round.

'But, as long as I win, it's all fine.' However, Adrian wasn't disappointed with the free victory.

The announcers quickly moved on to the next set of matches, eager to keep the momentum going.

The following matches commenced simultaneously in the four smaller arenas within Arena 1.

Emeric won his fight in 15 seconds earning the recognition of the spectators. Eluna who participated in framing Adrian also won her battle though not as imposing as Emeric.

Soon, the first round of matches came to an end.

As the first round of matches concluded, the announcers prepared to call the next set of competitors. The energy in the Colosseum remained high, with spectators eagerly anticipating the upcoming battles. The preliminary rounds were progressing swiftly, and it was clear that the competition would only get fiercer.

The second round of matches was announced, and the participants took their places in the four smaller arenas within Arena 1. Adrian watched with a mix of curiosity and mild frustration as his classmates competed, wondering if his next opponent would put up more of a fight.

To his surprise, when his next match was called, his opponent also chose to forfeit. This pattern repeated in his subsequent matches, leading to murmurs and whispers among the spectators. It seemed as if his peers had reached some sort of agreement, deciding not to face him in combat.

Adrian couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and annoyance. While he appreciated the free victories, he had been looking forward to testing some of his new skills and strategies.

As the number of competitors dwindled, the matches became more intense. Meanwhile, Emeric continued to dominate his opponents with his powerful spearmanship technique, quickly establishing himself as a formidable contender. Sophie Brightshield's skill with light magic also shone through, her precise and strategic use of spells earning her several victories.

Finally, the moment arrived when only four students remained: Adrian Lighthaven, Eluna Redfox, Emeric Ironheart, and Sophie Brightshield. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, knowing that the next matches would determine who would advance to the quarter-finals.

"Next up, we have Adrian Lighthaven versus Eluna Redfox, and Emeric Ironheart versus Sophie Brightshield!" the first announcer declared, his voice filled with excitement. "These matches will decide who moves on to the quarter-finals!"

Adrian and Eluna stepped into their respective arena, facing each other with different expressions. Eluna, who had previously been involved in framing Adrian, looked particularly eager to prove herself and somewhat wary.

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Adrian knew she was probably afraid he would beat her up because of her actions. Though he didn't intend to beat her into a pulp, getting back at her was on his list. Why chase the luck when it comes delivered right to you? he thought.

"Let the match begin!"