Chapter 117: Chapter No.117 Slaughter House (4)
The announcement crackled through the air, bringing an abrupt end to our playful banter. I took a moment to gather my thoughts, feeling the weight of the trials ahead pressing on my shoulders.
"Looks like it's time to focus," I said, trying to shift my mindset from lightheartedness to the seriousness of the challenges we faced. "Let's head to the arena."
make your way to the arena immediately. The trials will begin shortly. Good luck!"
The announcement crackled through the air, bringing an abrupt end to our playful banter. I took a moment to gather my thoughts, feeling the weight of the trials ahead pressing on my shoulders.
"Looks like it's time to focus," I said, trying to shift my mindset from lightheartedness to the seriousness of the challenges we faced. "Let's head to the arena."
We stood up, the camaraderie still lingering in the air as we made our way through the camp, weaving between groups of other participants. Each step felt heavy with anticipation, but having Lily beside me made it easier to bear. I could sense her excitement mingling with anxiety, and I squeezed her hand reassuringly.
Alina bounced ahead, her fiery energy infectious as she called back to us. "Come on, slowpokes! We can't be late for the show!"
Raven smirked, shaking her head. "She's got more energy than the sun. I just hope it doesn't burn us all out."
Liliana walked next to me, her expression thoughtful. "You did well with Lily back there. It's important to keep her spirits up, especially after everything."
I nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility tighten within me. "I just want her to feel safe. It's more than just the bruises; it's the fear that lingers."
Sionna, who had taken my other hand, chimed in softly, "You're doing a great job, Samael. We're all here for each other."
As we approached Arena No. 28, the atmosphere shifted. The sounds of cheering and the distant clash of metal filled the air, and the anticipation was palpable. It felt like stepping into a different world, one where the stakes were higher, and every moment counted.
We entered the arena, and the sight was breathtaking. The stands were filled with spectators, their faces a blur of excitement and tension. The arena itself was a sprawling expanse, marked by various obstacles and challenges set up for the participants.
I could see other teams warming up, practising their skills, while the announcer's voice boomed over the loudspeakers. "Welcome, participants, to the final phase of the Selections! In this trial. Individual strength is paramount because It is a solo tournament. Only the Top 50 participants will allowed to attend the most prestigious Academy on all continents!
Prepare to showcase your abilities and prove your worth!"
The crowd erupted into cheers, a wave of enthusiasm washing over us. The announcer continued, "You will face a series of challenges designed to test your combat skills, strategy, and resilience. Each trial will push you to your limits, and only those who impress the judges will secure their place in the Academy!"
I felt my heart race as I surveyed the arena. Various obstacles loomed ahead: towering walls, treacherous pits, and training dummies rigged to strike back. This was going to be intense.
"First up, the agility challenge!" the announcer called, and participants began to take their positions. "Competitors, you have five minutes to navigate the course. Speed and precision are key!"
Alina was practically bouncing on her heels. "This is going to be amazing! I'll show them what real agility looks like!"
Raven stretched her limbs, her expression fierce. "Let's see who can keep up."
"I see you all at the finish line," I said as my body leaned forward as lightning arcs danced around me, a subtle reminder of the abilities I possessed. I felt the energy thrumming within, and I was ready to unleash it.
"Just remember to stay focused," Liliana advised, her eyes serious. "Don't let the excitement distract you."
"Got it," I replied, locking eyes with her for a moment. Her unwavering support bolstered my confidence.
As the first name was called, participants surged forward, darting into the obstacle course. I watched intently, noting their strategies and how they handled the various challenges. Alina shot ahead, her agility impressive as she leapt over barriers and expertly dodged the swinging arms of the training dummies.
"Go, Alina!" I cheered, feeling a rush of pride.
One by one, competitors navigated the course, each showcasing their unique styles. I was up next, and as my name echoed across the arena, I took a deep breath, shaking off the adrenaline that coursed through my veins.
With a nod to my friends, I stepped onto the starting line. The announcer's voice boomed, "Samael Ashwood, prepare!"
The moment the signal was given, I burst forward, my instincts kicking in. I cleared the first obstacle effortlessly, feeling the wind whip past me. I could hear the crowd roaring, their cheers blending into a singular wave of sound.
As I approached the first wall, I executed a swift jump, using a burst of Lightning magic to propel myself higher. My feet barely touched the top before I launched myself off, landing gracefully on the other side. The audience erupted in applause, and I could see the judges nodding in approval.
Next came a series of swinging pendulums. I timed my movements carefully, dodging and weaving through the obstacles. The training dummies were up next, and I focused, channelling my Lightning Affinity to my leg sending concentrated arcs of thick lightning that utterly destroyed the dummies leaving only smoke and its parts flying in the air.
Each hit sent a shockwave through the arena, drawing gasps and cheers from the spectators. I could feel the energy building within me, invigorated by the crowd's excitement.
With the final dummy reduced to scraps, I sprinted toward the last section of the course: a series of vertical walls that would test my climbing skills. I focused, channelling my affinity again, creating a small burst of energy at my feet as I leapt up, catching the edge of the first wall. My fingers gripped tightly as I pulled myself up with a swift motion.
As I scaled the walls, I could hear the announcer's voice rising in intensity. "And here comes Samael Ashwood, navigating the final obstacles with remarkable agility!"
I reached the top and, with one final push, leapt down to the finish line, landing with a flourish. The crowd erupted into applause, and I took a moment to catch my breath, relishing the adrenaline coursing through my veins.
"Time!" the announcer called. "Samael Ashwood finishes with a time of just under one minute and thirty-six seconds! IT IS A RECORD BREAKER!!! Last few years, no one has come close to this mark! Let's hear it for him, folks!"
The arena erupted into deafening cheers, and I couldn't help but let a grin spread across my face. I raised my arms in acknowledgement, soaking at the moment. Alina, Raven, and Liliana were on their feet, cheering for me, their faces lit up with excitement.
"You did it, Samael!" Alina shouted, practically bouncing in place. "That was incredible!"
"Next up, you'll have to show them your strength," Raven teased, her competitive spirit shining through.
Liliana stepped closer, her eyes sparkling with pride. "You were amazing. I knew you could do it."
As I made my way back toward them, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. The first challenge was out of the way, and I had proven my abilities not just to the judges but to myself as well. Still, I knew this was just the beginning; there were many more trials to come.
"Let's keep that momentum going!" I said, my voice filled with determination. "Who's up next?"
The announcer's voice boomed again, drawing my attention. "Now, we move on to the strength challenge! Participants will demonstrate their physical prowess by lifting weights and breaking through barriers. Each competitor will have three attempts to impress the judges!"
I felt a surge of excitement as the announcement echoed through the arena. The strength challenge was a different beast altogether, one that would test not just raw power but also technique and strategy. I glanced at my friends, who were brimming with anticipation.
"Let's see who can really pack a punch!" Alina said, her fists clenched with enthusiasm.
"I hope they're ready for what we can do," Raven added, her competitive fire evident.
Liliana nodded, her expression serious yet supportive. "Remember, it's not just about strength. Focus on your form and control."
"Got it," I replied, the weight of her advice sinking in. With my affinity for Lightning, I could enhance my physical strength significantly, but I needed to channel that energy effectively.
As we waited for our turn, I watched the other competitors showcase their abilities. Some lifted massive weights with ease, while others struggled, grunting under the pressure. A few participants attempted to shatter barriers made of enchanted wood, their efforts met with varying degrees of success. The crowd was engaged, cheering for each display of strength, creating an electric atmosphere.
Finally, my name was called, and I stepped forward. "Samael Ashwood, to the strength challenge area!" enjoy-on-NovelFire
I approached the designated spot, where weights of various sizes lay stacked. The judges observed closely, their expressions inscrutable. Taking a deep breath, I chose the heaviest weight available, feeling the solid mass in my hands.
"On your mark, Samael. Show us what you've got!" the announcer encouraged.
Want a dragon to lift weights?! Quite a funny moment~
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[To Be Continued]
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