The holographic simulation seamlessly transitioned to the next match, casting the arena in a shifting tableau of biomes. The names of the next candidates appear on the screen reading.
"Naomi vs Lianne"
Naomi, with her analytical mind and precise control over Ether, stood opposite Lianne, the healer with a strategic mindset. The GCU official's voice echoed, offering insights into the upcoming confrontation. "Naomi, a tactician whose intellect scored high on the written exam and was the driving for behind her team's strategy last match, will face off against Lianne, a skilled healer with the ability to manipulate Ether for defensive purposes."
As the desert biome materialized around them, the candidates prepared for the battle ahead. The simulated sand beneath their feet and the arid air heightened the tension, creating an environment that mirrored the challenges of the real world.
Lianne, her gaze focused and determined, took a defensive stance, attuned to the ebb and flow of Ether within the holographic environment. Naomi, a calculating strategist, observed her opponent, seeking potential weaknesses to exploit.
The clash began with a surge of energy as Naomi made the first move. Ether manifested around her, forming protective barriers and enhancing her agility. Lianne, anticipating the calculated assault, responded with a combination of defensive maneuvers, manipulating the Ether to create shields against Naomi's strategic strikes.
The holographic leaves rustled with the intensity of the ethereal skirmish, and the onlookers in the observation area leaned in, captivated by the interplay of tactics. The desert biome bore witness to the unfolding contest, showcasing the unique strengths and abilities of each candidate.
As the battle progressed, it became evident that Naomi's analytical approach and Lianne's defensive prowess created a dynamic and evenly matched confrontation. The desert biome, with its swirling sand and shimmering illusions, served as the backdrop to their ethereal duel.
In a moment of strategic brilliance, Naomi executed a series of calculated Ether manipulations, attempting to exploit a potential opening in Lianne's defenses. However, Lianne, attuned to the nuances of Ether, countered with a surprising burst of healing energy, restoring her stamina and turning the tide of the battle.
The screens displayed the unfolding drama as the clash reached its climax. Both candidates pushed the boundaries of their abilities, showcasing the diverse applications of Ether in combat. The final moments of the match approached, leaving the outcome hanging in the balance.
In the closing moments of the match, Naomi unveiled a meticulously planned Ether sequence. The desert biome trembled as she channeled cosmic energy, creating intricate patterns of light that danced across the holographic sands. Lianne, caught off guard by the sudden surge, struggled to maintain her defensive stance.
With a swift and precise maneuver, Naomi exploited a momentary opening in Lianne's defenses. Ether manifested in a dazzling array of radiant tendrils, entwining around Lianne and leaving her momentarily immobilized. The purple light on Lianne's vest signaled the end of the match.
Naomi emerged victorious in the desert biome, her calculated and strategic approach proving effective against Lianne's formidable defenses. The holographic leaves settled into a tranquil simulation, and the ethereal skirmish concluded with a testament to Naomi's tactical brilliance.
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The GCU official's voice filled the arena once again, "A strategic masterpiece from Naomi! Well done on securing the victory in this one-on-one challenge. Candidates, prepare for the next set of matchups."
As Lianne made her way back to where we were standing, I could see her face turn sour. She didn't speak when she made it and instead looked at the holographic screen that showed her loss in silence.
Soon, the next match candidates were announced.
“Oliver Vs Ethan.”
As the two candidates stepped up, I heard Zane scoff, and he side-eyed me. “The only interesting opponent has been taken.”
By "interesting opponent," I assumed he meant the boy Ethan, the one he had a one-on-one match within the woodland during the last round.
The holographic arena shifted once again, transforming into a murky swamp with misty tendrils snaking through the air. Oliver and Ethan faced each other, their reflections rippling in the shallow waters beneath them.
The GCU official's voice echoed through the simulated swamp, "Oliver, relying on his agility, is attempting to navigate the treacherous terrain. However, Ethan, with his plant affinity, seems to have a distinct advantage in this biome."
As the match began, Oliver darted through the swampy landscape, leaping from one unstable patch of ground to another. The mist-clad atmosphere added an eerie ambiance to the confrontation. Ethan, in contrast, remained rooted in place, seemingly in tune with the plant life around him.
With a mere gesture, Ethan commanded vines to emerge from the swampy water, entwining Oliver's limbs and restricting his movements. The agility that had served Oliver well in previous battles became a hindrance as the swampy terrain and Ethan's control over the plant life limited his mobility.
The battle reached a swift conclusion as Ethan, displaying mastery over his plant affinity, enveloped Oliver in a thicket of vines. The purple light illuminated on Oliver's vest, signaling Ethan's victory. The simulated swamp biome echoed with the sounds of Ethan's triumph as the holographic simulation transitioned back to the neutral arena.
The GCU official's voice filled the space once more, "Ethan has demonstrated exceptional control over his plant affinity, securing a decisive victory. Candidates, prepare for the next match."
As Ethan and Oliver made their way back, my name illuminated on the holographic screen, signaling the next match.
“Zane vs Alex.”
I inhaled deeply, mentally preparing for the imminent clash with Zane. His strength had left a lasting impression, especially after our encounter in the woodland during the initial phase of the evaluation.
Before I could embark on the path to the arena, Lianne offered words of encouragement, “If you can tap into what you accessed during the woodland, then you could undoubtedly keep up with him. Just focus on your ether.”
I nodded, appreciating her support. "Thanks for that."
She continued, sharing wisdom from her family elders, "The elders in my family always say to us young ones, ‘Focus on your inner strength, and the ether will reveal itself and guide you.’”
Taking a moment to absorb her words and the seemingly profound advice, I overheard Zane engaging in conversation, not with me, but with Ethan.
“Your techniques remind me of those of the Leafdan Family. You wouldn't happen to be…?”
“Yes. My real name is Ethan Leafdan. And I assume you're Zane Emberson.”
Zane chuckled, a hint of camaraderie in his tone. “We'll have our one-on-one some other time,” he declared, making his way to the center of the room.
Following suit, I moved toward the designated arena, the anticipation of the impending confrontation coursing through me. As I approached, the holographic transition began, shifting the environment to a neutral arena setting. The simulated landscape dissolved, leaving a flat, featureless surface in its wake.