Chapter: The State Tournament Begins
One year had passed since Aryan and Ananya first met. In that time, they had grown stronger—as individuals and as friends. Each day after class, they trained together, pushing their limits and learning to control their unique powers.
The Seals of Power
Aryan had made remarkable progress. He could now partially control the first three of his five seals, unlocking more strength without losing control. But he knew—with each seal opened, the risk increased. The fifth seal… he hadn't even dared to touch.
Ananya, too, had grown—honing not just her combat skills, but her ability to perceive hidden energy. As a descendant of the White Fox Clan, she could see the true nature of others' power. But the clan's rule was clear:
> "Never reveal what you see."
She had seen something inside Aryan—something vast, ancient, and dangerous. But she never told him.
---
The Tournament Announcement
As the new academic year began, a wave of excitement passed through the academy:
> The State Tournament was announced.
A gathering of the best students from across the region. A chance to prove one's strength, earn recognition—and for some, settle old rivalries.
Aryan, Ananya, and their classmates were selected to represent their school.
But not just any opponents awaited them.
Riyan, heir to the Lion Clan, known for his overwhelming aura and kingly presence.
Kaira, the fierce successor of the Tiger Family, with unmatched speed and strength.
And many more, each with reputations that reached far beyond their age.
---
The Night Before the Tournament
As the sun set over the city, Aryan found Ananya sitting on the academy rooftop, her legs dangling over the edge. She was staring at the horizon, silent.
He walked over and sat beside her.
"Feeling nervous?" he asked gently.
She hesitated, then nodded.
"What if I can't win this? What if I disappoint everyone?"
Aryan smiled softly.
"Just do your best. Don't overdo it. Play it safe. That's enough."
His words settled into her like a quiet warmth. She looked at him with soft eyes.
"You too, Aryan. Don't go all out like last time."
And then she smiled.
Aryan blinked. Her smile—it made his heart skip.
"She's... so cute," he thought, turning away slightly to hide his red face.
In that moment, he made a decision.
> "After the tournament ends... I'll tell her how I feel."
---
The Opening Matches
The tournament began the next day in a massive coliseum, packed with spectators and buzzing with energy. Round after round, students clashed in spectacular battles of skill and power.
Aryan fought strategically—only unlocking one seal in his early matches, just enough to win without drawing attention. Ananya moved like a dancer, graceful yet lethal, her icy style catching many off guard.
But they both knew…
> The real challenges were yet to come.
Riyan and Kaira were advancing too—defeating their opponents with ea
se. The audience murmured that the final rounds would be unlike anything seen before.