Chapter 44: Joint Combat Exams 11

The intensity in the arena was palpable, and it held the spectators, professors, and even the judges in rapt attention. It seemed like time had slowed down as both Tristan and Evadne faced each other, locked in a fierce battle of wills and prowess.

The tension built with each passing moment. Ten seconds, thirty seconds, and even a full minute ticked by without a single move from either fighter. The audience, perched on the edge of their seats, could hardly contain their anticipation for the next explosive clash between these two extraordinary combatants.

Then, suddenly, it happened. In a bluish-white flash that seemed almost too fast for the human eye to follow, Tristan made his move.

His sword struck like a lightning bolt, but it was met with a powerful defense as Evadne reacted swiftly. She soared into the air, her aura enveloping her in thick, layered protection like a fortress of steel.

It was a breathtaking display of skill and power, leaving the crowd in awe of her remarkable abilities.

Evadne's counterattack was also lightning fast, as she once again closed the distance between her and Tristan.

With a powerful swing of her massive axe, the weapon was now enveloped in destructive-looking red flames, making it an even more terrifying sight.

"HAHAHAHA! Please don't die, Tristan!" Her maniacal laughter echoed throughout the arena as she shouted.

The impact of her attack was cataclysmic. An ear-shattering BOOOM!! rocked the arena, and the entire place was consumed by a searing inferno of red flames.

The fire roared and surged, threatening to reach the audience. Fortunately, the protective barrier that separated the spectators from the combatants held firm, blocking the flames from harming the onlookers.

But cracks began to form in the barrier, revealing that it might not hold out for much longer. The professors and staff acted quickly, reinforcing the barrier to prevent a disaster.

The judges, too, were eager to end the fight, as any more destruction could lead to the suspension of the exams. At this rate, there might not be an arena left by the time the battle concluded.

The students in the audience were overwhelmed by the sheer intensity and scale of the fight, with their amazement and anxiety growing with each passing second.

The battle had taken a perilous turn, and it was unclear who would emerge victorious in this fierce clash of titans.

As the red flames raged, obscuring their vision and intensifying the tension, the audience leaned forward in their seats, straining to see what transpired inside the blazing inferno. Whispers filled the air, as spectators shared their speculations.

"Is anyone still standing?"

"I can't see a thing in there!"

"Could Evadne have been defeated?"

The uncertainty of the situation added to the atmosphere of the unknown. Professors and students alike watched with bated breath, waiting for any sign of movement or change within the smoky crimson veil that now enveloped the center of the arena.

In an unexpected turn of events occurred. A brilliant flash of bright yellow light enveloped the entire arena, dispelling the red flames and returning the space to clarity.

At the center of this radiant light stood Tristan, his golden sword gleaming and his face marked by a contented smile.

He was surrounded by a shimmering golden aura that emitted an incredible sense of power and serenity.

Although there were visible signs of burns on Tristan's body, they seemed insignificant in the presence of the healing power of the golden light.

His wounds rapidly closed, and the audience could witness his recovery as his skin regenerated and the burns faded away.

Tristan and Evadne stared at each other with an unspoken mutual respect, their auras still surging and wrapping around their bodies, Tristan's golden light clashing with Evadne's crimson red aura. It was clear they were both prepared to continue the intense battle.

But before the fight could escalate further, a sudden explosion of ice erupted in front of them, transforming into giant icy thorns. It was a chilling display of magic, and it immediately caught the fighters' attention.

"That's enough," a commanding voice echoed throughout the arena. It was Professor Paul, a senior figure from the magic department who had slowly descended to the arena floor. His presence demanded attention and respect.

"The judges have made their call, the winner is Tristan" Professor Paul announced, his voice as cold and icy as the magic he had just displayed.

His blue eyes bore upon the two fighters, making it clear that his word was final. The crowd fell silent, and Tristan's victory was sealed.

"Tristan, go to the principal's office later. The principal wishes to have a talk" Professor Paul said.

Tristan, though visibly fatigued, acknowledged Professor Paul's instructions with a nod.

He knew that demonstrating advanced light magic abilities could potentially bring about complications, especially given his status as the sword master Siena Scaith's disciple, who's known throughout the continent as the Holy Empire's number 1 nemesis.

The display of light magic, typically only possible for priests and paladins, could potentially lead to several political issues. The school certainly wouldn't want to deal with any problems related to the Holy Empire.

He would have to address this matter with the principal and handle any consequences that might arise.

The crowd erupted into a mix of emotions. Some cheered, having witnessed a thrilling contest of strength and skill.

Others, who had supported Evadne, were disheartened but not disappointed, for she had fought valiantly. The professors and judges offered their respects to both fighters and ensured they received the necessary medical attention.

As Tristan stepped away from the battlefield, his body visibly strained from the fight, he cast a final glance at Evadne.

Their duel had been more than a spectacle; it was a testament to the potential of the younger generation within the academy.

Meanwhile, as Evadne made her way to the exit, she received a warm reception from the crowd, who appreciated her incredible performance.

Though she had not emerged as the victor, her reputation had only grown, and there was no doubt that her next challenge would be awaited with eager anticipation.

Despite the concerned voices and offers of help from the medical staff and the crowd, Evadne chose to ignore them all and went on her way.

She made her way to the infirmary, determined to tend to her injuries herself.

She didn't even allow the medical staff to assist her, a clear indication of her independent and strong-willed nature.

The students and staff watched her retreating figure, impressed by her resilience and determination.

The arena returned to a state of relative calm, but the echoes of the battle's intensity lingered. It was a defining moment for both fighters and an experience that would remain etched in the memories of those who witnessed it.

As the announcer called out the next contenders for the combat exams, my eyes widened in surprise when I heard the names.

"The next contenders for the combat exams, please get ready in the waiting room as your names are called: Louise Obelia, Bella Raiseinler"

"What?"

I couldn't help but mutter aloud, and I wasn't the only one. The entire audience seemed equally baffled. Wasn't the exam supposed to be among first years and second years? What was going on?