As the students gathered in the dining hall, the aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air, providing a much-needed respite after the intense day they had just experienced. The tables were laden with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and roasted vegetables to fragrant rice and freshly baked bread. There were also bowls of colorful salads, a variety of fruits, and pitchers of cold water and juice to quench their thirst. The food was hearty and comforting, perfect for replenishing the energy they had expended during the day's battles.
Aurora, Saki, Angel, Aslan, Elif, Emma, Junko, Autumn, Yue, and Azrael found themselves naturally gravitating toward one another, forming a new group as they sat down to eat. Despite the exhaustion, there was an undercurrent of excitement as they began to discuss the battles they had witnessed.
Angel, ever the social butterfly, was the first to break the silence as he tore into a piece of grilled chicken. "Man, today was something else, huh? I mean, did you see the way Haru and Blaze went at it? I knew they were strong, but that was on a whole different level."
Saki nodded, sipping on some water. "I agree. The way they moved, their techniques... It was like watching two master swordsmen in a deadly dance. And then, when they unleashed their powers... It was just incredible."
Aurora, who was picking at her salad, chimed in. "I’m still processing it all. Luis and Blaze’s fight was just as intense. The way Luis adapted mid-fight, it was almost like he knew exactly what Blaze was going to do next."
Elif, who was munching on a slice of bread, added, "Yeah, Luis is a strategist, no doubt about it. But what about the others? Haru’s wind manipulation was so fluid, and the way he kept up with Blaze’s relentless attacks... He’s definitely going to be someone to watch out for."
Emma, always keen on analyzing the finer points, spoke up. "It’s not just about raw power, though. The mental game is just as important. Callus, for example, didn’t even break a sweat. He’s on another level of conditioning and control."
Yue, who had been quietly listening, finally joined in. "It’s inspiring, but also a little intimidating. Watching them fight like that makes me realize how much more I need to improve."
Aslan, who had been eating a bowl of rice and vegetables, nodded in agreement. "Same here. We’ve all got a lot of work to do if we want to reach that level."
Junko, who had been silent until now, softly spoke up. "It’s not just about power, though. I think today showed that teamwork and strategy are going to be just as important as individual strength."
Azrael, who had his cat curled up in his lap, added, "And not underestimating your opponent. Everyone here has a unique strength, and I think we’re all going to push each other to become better."
Autumn, who had been mostly observing, smiled gently. "We’re all in this together. Today was just the beginning, and we have so much more to learn from each other."
The group nodded in agreement, a sense of camaraderie forming between them. Despite the intense competition, they all understood that they were part of something bigger—something that would require them to grow, not just as individuals, but as a team.
Angel grinned, looking around at his new group of friends. "Well, I don’t know about you guys, but I’m ready to give it my all. Let’s make this the best two years of our lives."
The others raised their glasses in a silent toast, the unspoken promise of unity and determination hanging in the air as they continued to eat and chat, their spirits renewed and their bonds strengthening
The group gathered around the table, plates filled with a variety of foods—grilled meats, roasted vegetables, fresh bread, and an assortment of fruits. The atmosphere was lively as they discussed the events of the day, analyzing their battles, and offering advice to one another. However, the energy shifted slightly when Callus, Ashelyn, and Enri approached, their presence commanding attention.
"Mind if we join in?" Callus asked, his tone calm and measured.Aurora smiled warmly. "Of course. We could use your insight."
As they settled in, Angel leaned back in his chair, a playful grin on his face. "Alright, let’s break it down. We’ve all got room to improve, and today’s matches were intense. Let’s start with what we each noticed.”
As the group sat around the table, enjoying their meal and reflecting on the day's battles, the conversation naturally shifted to analyzing their performances. The atmosphere was focused, with everyone eager to improve. Saki, Callus, and Azrael, being some of the stronger members of the group, took the lead in offering advice.
Saki started by addressing Junko, who had struggled in her fight against Elif. "Junko, your twin sai technique is solid, but you need to be more unpredictable. You were too defensive, and that allowed Elif to dominate the match. You need to think about how you can use your clones more offensively, not just to protect yourself."
Junko nodded, her expression serious. "I realize that now. I was too focused on defending, and I didn’t take enough risks. I’ll work on integrating my clones into my attacks better."
Callus turned his attention to Enri, who had faced Yue earlier in the day. "Enri, your hand-to-hand combat is decent, but you got caught off guard by Yue’s unexpected counter. You need to anticipate that your opponent might use unconventional tactics, especially when they’re cornered. Also, watch your footing; you lost balance a few times, which made it easier for her to land hits."
Enri sighed, clearly frustrated with his performance. "I wasn’t expecting that kind of retaliation. I need to keep my guard up and be more aware of my opponent's movements."
Azrael, who had been quietly observing, spoke up to give advice to Ashelyn. "Ashelyn, you’ve got incredible power with your magnetic abilities, but today’s fight with Lawrence showed that you rely too much on it. When Garo restricted your powers, you were at a disadvantage. You need to develop your close combat skills more, so you’re not dependent on your magnetism."
Ashelyn nodded, clearly taking the advice to heart. "You’re right. I’ve been too reliant on my powers. I’ll work on my physical combat techniques more."
Saki then turned to Angel, who had lost to her earlier. "Angel, you have great aerial maneuverability, but you need to be less predictable. I could see your patterns early on, which made it easier to counter your moves. Try mixing up your attacks and strategies more in the future."
Angel, normally carefree, nodded seriously, taking her words to heart. "I got too comfortable with my usual style. I’ll definitely work on being more unpredictable."
Callus offered advice to Autumn, who had struggled against Aslan. "Autumn, your singing abilities are powerful, but you need to work on your physical strength and combat skills. You can’t rely on your gift alone. Your opponent will always have the upper hand if you can’t match them physically."
Autumn nodded, her usual quiet demeanor even more reserved. "I know I need to get stronger. I’ll start focusing on my physical training more."
Finally, Saki addressed Aurora, who had given it her all against Callus but still fell short. "Aurora, you have grace and agility in your movements, and your technique is beautiful, but you exhausted yourself too quickly. You need to pace yourself better, especially against someone like Callus, who has immense stamina. Also, think about how you can better manage your energy throughout the fight."
Aurora listened intently, nodding. "I was too focused on trying to overwhelm Callus with speed and technique. I’ll work on pacing myself better and conserving my energy."
As the advice was given and absorbed, the group felt a renewed sense of determination. Despite their losses, they were all eager to improve and learn from their mistakes. The camaraderie among them was growing stronger, with everyone recognizing that they were all in this together, striving to become the best Arknights they could be.
Callus, having given his insights, added one final thought. "We’re all here to get better. Today’s battles were tough, but they’re just the beginning. Let’s keep pushing ourselves and each other. We’ve got a long road ahead, but if we support one another, we’ll reach our full potential."
The group nodded in agreement, the weight of the day's events settling in as they continued their meal. Despite the intensity of the battles, they were all united by a common goal: to grow stronger and rise to the challenges ahead.
//////////////
At another table, Lawrence sat with Penelope and Matteo, his expression serious as he dissected their performances with a level of detail that left little room for argument. His tone was blunt, almost harsh, but there was no denying the truth in his words.
“Penelope,” Lawrence began, his eyes narrowing slightly as he recalled her match against Luis. “Your energy manipulation is powerful, but you’re not using it to its full potential. You’re too focused on raw power, and that’s leaving you open to counters. Luis didn’t even have to break a sweat to take you down. You need to refine your control, focus on precision rather than just brute force.”
Penelope frowned, her pride clearly stung by his criticism, but she couldn’t deny it. She had gone into the match with Luis full of confidence, only to be outmaneuvered and defeated in a matter of moments. Watching Blaze’s fights had only driven the point home—raw power alone wasn’t enough.
“I’ll work on it,” she muttered, though her tone was more resigned than enthusiastic. “I know I need to get better.”
Lawrence turned his attention to Matteo next, his gaze equally critical. “Matteo, you’ve got potential, but you’re holding back. Your vine manipulation could be a game-changer, but you’re not using it creatively enough. You need to think about how to trap or restrict your opponents, not just hit them with brute force. Blaze didn’t just win his fights with power; he used his abilities strategically. You need to start thinking that way.”
Matteo listened intently, though his expression was tight with frustration. He knew Lawrence was right—watching the fights earlier had shown him just how far he still had to go. Blaze’s performance had been nothing short of spectacular, and Lawrence was right there on that level. He couldn’t afford to coast on natural talent alone.
“I get it,” Matteo replied, his voice tense. “I need to push myself harder.”
This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Lawrence nodded, his critical expression softening just slightly. “We’ve all got a lot to work on, but if we want to be on that level—Blaze’s level—there’s no room for complacency. You’ve both got the potential, but potential means nothing if it’s not realized.”
Penelope and Matteo exchanged a glance, both of them clearly absorbing Lawrence’s words. They might not have liked his harsh tone, but they knew he was right. After watching Blaze’s fights, they both understood that they had to step up if they wanted to be contenders.
Lawrence, for his part, wasn’t just criticizing them for the sake of it. He saw the potential in both of them and knew that pushing them hard was the only way they would reach it. In his mind, being on the level of Blaze, Haru or Luis wasn’t just a goal—it was a necessity.
“We’ll get there,” Penelope said after a moment, her voice more determined now. “I won’t let that happen again.”
“Same here,” Matteo added, a steely resolve in his tone. “We’ll step up.”
Lawrence nodded, satisfied for now. “Good. Keep that mindset. We can’t afford to fall behind, not with the competition we have here. Let’s make sure that next time, it’s us setting the standard.”
As they continued eating, Penelope and Matteo exchanged glances before Penelope finally spoke up, curiosity lacing her tone. "Lawrence, after watching those fights… do you think you could beat them? Haru, Luis, and Blaze?"
Lawrence paused, his fork halfway to his mouth as he considered the question. His expression remained thoughtful and analytical. He had confidence in his abilities, and after watching the battles, he was even more certain that he could take them down.
“Could I beat them?” he repeated, setting his fork down with a sense of finality. “Yes, I’m sure I could. Each of them presents a different challenge, but I have strategies in mind for all of them.”
Matteo leaned in, eager to hear Lawrence’s thoughts. “So, how would you do it? What would be your strategy?”
Lawrence leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms as he began to break it down. “Against Haru, the key is his close combat prowess. He’s exceptional in close quarters, more so than anyone else in this class, but that’s where he can be most vulnerable too. He relies on his instincts and quick reflexes, but if I use my water abilities to create constant pressure and control the battlefield, I can keep him off balance. I’d use my trident defensively, keeping him at bay while wearing him down with precise, controlled strikes. Haru’s strength is his adaptability in close combat, so I’d focus on using my defense and counterattacks to frustrate him, forcing him to make mistakes. My goal would be to keep him from getting into his rhythm, and when the time is right, capitalize on his openings.”
Penelope nodded, absorbing the insight. “What about Luis? He’s got that long-range precision and explosive power.”
“With Luis,” Lawrence continued, “it’s all about denying him the space he needs. He’s brilliant at long-range combat, so I’d need to close the distance quickly but not recklessly. My water manipulation can help me create barriers or waves to push him off his mark and disrupt his aim. Once I’m in mid-range, I’d use my trident to control the flow of the fight, keeping him from finding the distance he’s comfortable with. Luis is unpredictable, but he’s less effective up close, especially when he can’t get the space to unleash his full power. I’d make sure to use every tool at my disposal—water to dampen his explosions and my trident to keep him off balance. If I can force him into a close-range fight, I’m confident I can overpower him.”
Matteo looked impressed but still curious. “And Blaze? He seemed relentless in his fight.”
Lawrence’s expression tightened slightly, but there was no hesitation. “Blaze is powerful, no doubt, but he’s all about aggression. He overwhelms his opponents with speed and firepower. To beat him, I’d use his aggression against him. My water abilities naturally counter his fire, but it’s more about controlling the pace of the fight. I’d stay defensive, letting him exhaust himself while I keep the battlefield under control. Blaze relies on his opponents being reactive, but I’d force him to react to me. The key is to stay calm and let him tire himself out, then strike when he’s overextended. I’d use my trident creatively, not just as a weapon but as a tool to control the water around us—maybe even create puddles or slick surfaces to trip him up or slow him down. Blaze’s strength is his relentless offense, but if I can turn that against him, I can wear him down and take him out.”
Penelope and Matteo listened intently, clearly impressed by Lawrence’s analysis. It was clear that Lawrence had thought through each opponent carefully, considering their strengths and weaknesses and how he could exploit them. His confidence wasn’t just bravado; it was grounded in a deep understanding of combat and strategy.
“So you really think you could take them down?” Penelope asked, a hint of admiration in her voice.
Lawrence nodded, his expression resolute. “I do. I’m sure of it. They’re all strong, but I’ve trained for this. My abilities, my trident, and my strategy give me the edge I need. I’ve watched them, studied their movements, and I know where they’re vulnerable. It won’t be easy, but I’m confident I can outmaneuver and outthink them.”
Matteo grinned, feeling a surge of determination. “Well, if you’ve got that level of confidence, I guess we’d better step up our game too. We can’t let you have all the glory.”
Penelope smirked. “Yeah, we’re not going to let you outshine us, Lawrence.”
Lawrence allowed a small smile to break through his usual stoic demeanor. “Good. Keep that attitude. We’ll all get stronger together, and when the time comes, we’ll show them what we’re capable of.”
As the meal continued, Penelope and Matteo exchanged glances before Penelope voiced the question that was on both of their minds. "Lawrence, you’ve got strategies for Haru, Luis, and Blaze, but what about Callus? Do you think you could beat him?"
Lawrence paused, his expression turning even more serious. He leaned back in his chair, considering the question carefully. After a moment, he spoke, his voice steady and thoughtful.
"Callus," Lawrence began, "is a different challenge altogether. So far, he seems nearly invincible. He hasn’t even had to use his powers yet, and that’s what makes him so formidable. He’s not just strong—he’s enduring, patient, and hasn’t shown any signs of weakness."
Penelope and Matteo nodded, understanding the gravity of what Lawrence was saying. They had all seen Callus dominate his opponents with what seemed like effortless strength and endurance.
Lawrence continued, "But here’s the thing: everyone has a weakness. It may not be obvious now, but it’s there. When that weakness is revealed, I’ll be ready with a plan. The key with someone like Callus is not just to outlast or overpower him but to outthink him. It’s about waiting for the right moment, the right opportunity to exploit that weakness. When it shows itself, that’s when I’ll strike."
Penelope looked impressed but also a bit apprehensive. "But what if that moment never comes? What if he really is unbeatable?"
Lawrence’s gaze hardened with resolve. "No one is unbeatable. It’s just a matter of finding the right strategy, the right approach. Callus may seem invincible now, but I’ll keep watching, keep analyzing. When the time comes, I’ll have a plan, and I’ll be ready."
Matteo grinned, feeling a surge of confidence in his friend. "Well, if anyone can figure it out, it’s you, Lawrence."
Penelope nodded in agreement, her respect for Lawrence growing even more. "Yeah, we believe in you. When the time comes, you’ll find a way."
The three of them finished their meal with renewed determination, each of them focused on the challenges ahead. They knew they had a lot of work to do, but with Lawrence’s guidance and their own resolve, they were ready to take on whatever came their way.
//////////////
In the dimly lit medic room, the soft hum of healing devices filled the air. The room was sterile, with the faint scent of antiseptic hanging in the background. Four of the most powerful Arknights of their generation lay on the recovery beds, each of them bandaged and hooked up to various medical apparatuses designed to expedite their healing.
Luella was the first to stir, blinking her eyes open to see the ceiling. She let out a soft groan, still feeling the aftereffects of Azrael's overpowering darkness. As she turned her head, she saw Haru lying on the bed next to her, his usual cocky grin already in place despite the bandages on his chest and forehead. Across the room, Blaze, still smoldering with residual heat, was lying on another bed, looking just as defiant as ever, while Luis, the last to wake, was sitting up, his demeanor calm and composed.
"Well, this is a sight," Haru chuckled, his voice slightly hoarse. "I guess we all pushed a bit too hard today."
Luella, still a bit groggy, managed a shy smile. "What... what happened after I went out? The last thing I remember is that... overwhelming darkness."
Blaze, ever blunt, smirked. "You missed quite the show, princess. Your brother looked like he was ready to cut down Azrael after what he did to you, but Garo stopped him. Then, I took down Haru here, and after that... well, let’s just say I gave Luis a run for his money."
Luis, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up. "Run for my money? If I recall, it was me who sent you flying with that last arrow."
Blaze’s competitive nature flared up instantly. "You got lucky, Tadashima. But luck only gets you so far. Next time, I’ll make sure there’s no bow for you to grab."
Luis smirked, his cool demeanor unshaken. "Luck or not, a win's a win, Blaze. Maybe next time, you’ll figure out how to keep up with more than just brute force."
Haru, enjoying the banter, leaned back against his pillow, wincing slightly from the pain. "You two can keep at it all day, but I’m telling you now, I’m going to be the one who takes down Callus. That guy’s conditioning is insane, but I’ve got a few tricks left up my sleeve."
Luella, feeling a bit more comfortable, looked over at Haru. "You’re really confident, aren’t you? Even after everything that happened today."
Haru grinned, his carefree attitude shining through. "Always. Confidence is half the battle. Besides, I know what I’m capable of, and I’m just getting started."
Blaze rolled his eyes but couldn’t help but smile. "You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that. But don’t forget, we’re all gunning for the top spot. No one’s going to make it easy for you."
Luis, sensing the budding camaraderie between them, leaned back against his bed, nodding in agreement. "We’re all here to be the best. But maybe that’s not such a bad thing. We push each other, get stronger, and when the time comes, we’ll be ready for whatever the world throws at us."
Luella, though still a bit shy, felt a sense of belonging as she listened to the boys talk. She looked at Luis, admiring his calm confidence. "I never expected to be in this kind of group, but I’m glad I’m not alone. We might have all fought today, but I think we’re starting to understand each other better."
Luis glanced over at her, a small smile playing on his lips. "I think you’re right. We’re all different, but we’re on the same path. Let’s make sure we make the most of it."
Haru, unable to resist, quipped, "Look at us, getting all sentimental. Let’s not forget we’re still competitors. But yeah, it’s good to know we’re in this together."
Blaze, with his ever-present fire, added, "Sentimental or not, I’m here to win. But maybe having you all around won’t be so bad. Just don’t get in my way when the real fights start."
The four of them shared a rare moment of camaraderie, a mutual understanding that despite their differences, they were all aiming for the same goal. It was a strange kinship, born out of battle and mutual respect, and it was clear that they would all be pushing each other to new heights.
As the conversation flowed, the door to the medic room opened, and in walked Jiro, balancing a tray filled with dishes. Haru immediately perked up at the sight of his friend.
“Jiro! What are you doing here?” Haru asked, surprised but clearly pleased.
Jiro grinned as he walked over. “They let me in to bring you all some food. Figured you’d be hungry after everything you’ve been through.”
Blaze, lounging on his bed, raised an eyebrow at the sight of Jiro. “And you are...?”
“I’m Jiro, Haru’s, uh, friend, and I guess you could say I’m the guy who makes sure he’s eating and staying out of trouble,” Jiro said with a laugh, handing Blaze a plate.
“Trouble seems to find him regardless,” Blaze remarked dryly as he took the food, glancing at Haru with a smirk.
Jiro, unfazed, continued to distribute the plates. When he got to Luella, he paused slightly, clearly a bit in awe. “I didn’t get to see what happened, but... are you okay? You look like you had a rough time out there.”
Luella smiled softly, appreciating the concern. “I’m fine, just a little worn out. Thank you, Jiro.”
Jiro beamed. “No problem at all. I’m just glad I can help out in some way.”
As Jiro placed a plate in front of Haru, he leaned in slightly. “So, Haru, how’d you end up in here? What happened?”
Haru glanced at Blaze, who was already smirking, before turning back to Jiro. “Blaze happened. We had a pretty intense fight, and I lost.”
Jiro’s eyes widened in surprise. “You? Lost? But I thought you were, like, unbeatable or something!”
Blaze chuckled from across the room. “That’s what I keep trying to tell him, but he doesn’t listen.”
Haru, not willing to let Blaze have the upper hand, grinned at Jiro. “Don’t let him fool you. I was holding back. If I hadn’t, Blaze wouldn’t be sitting here right now.”
Jiro, ever the believer in Haru’s abilities, nodded. “I knew there had to be a reason! Haru wouldn’t lose unless he had to hold back.”
Blaze rolled his eyes, clearly annoyed but also somewhat amused by the exchange. “Sure, keep telling yourself that.”
Luella, watching the back-and-forth with a smile, couldn’t help but giggle at how easily Haru and Blaze fell into their banter. Luis, on the other hand, found himself increasingly drawn to Luella’s presence, noticing how her gentle laughter added a warmth to the room.
Haru noticed the way Luis looked at Luella, and while he didn’t say anything, he made a mental note of it. For now, though, he was content to enjoy the banter with Blaze and Jiro, the tension from the earlier battles easing away as they all settled into a more relaxed camaraderie.
Jiro, eager to learn more, turned to Blaze with genuine curiosity. “So, Blaze, what’s your power? I didn’t get to see the fight, but I heard you’re pretty strong.”
Blaze shrugged, slightly uncomfortable with the attention but willing to indulge Jiro’s curiosity. “It’s fire. I can generate and control flames, and use them to enhance my attacks.”
Jiro’s eyes widened in admiration. “That’s awesome! I’ve never seen anything like that before.”
Blaze, slightly embarrassed by the praise but hiding it behind a smirk, replied, “Yeah, it’s pretty cool. Takes a lot of control, though.”
Haru, never one to miss an opportunity, quipped, “Maybe next time, Jiro, you can watch me show Blaze how it’s really done.”
Jiro laughed, clearly enjoying the camaraderie between the two. “I’ll be there for sure!”
The room was filled with light laughter and banter, the earlier tension replaced by a growing sense of mutual respect and budding friendship. Despite the fierce battles and intense rivalries, in these moments, they were just a group of young Arknights, trying to navigate their way through the challenges ahead.
As Haru started feeling better, he looked over at Jiro and asked, “Do we have our next lesson lined up?”
Luis, lounging in his bed, was quick to answer, “Nah, we’re on dinner and break after that intense training session. You’ve got time to recover.”
Before Haru could respond, the door opened, and in walked Aurora, her presence instantly lighting up the room. She smiled at Haru, and he was once again stunned by her beauty, feeling like she was waking him up from a deep sleep.
“You’re looking better,” Aurora said warmly, her smile making Haru’s heart race.
Haru, never one to miss a chance, attempted to flirt back. “Well, seeing you just sped up my recovery.”
Luis, always ready with a quip, teased, “Sounds like someone’s trying to set up a date.” He smirked, clearly enjoying watching Haru stumble over himself.
Haru, determined to get the upper hand, looked at Blaze and said, “Maybe we should both leave so these two lovebirds can have some alone time.”
The room fell silent for a moment before Luella and, to everyone’s surprise, Luis both blushed at the implication. Luis quickly tried to hide his embarrassment, but it was too late; the damage was done.
Aurora, taking everything in stride, simply smiled and said, “As agreed, Haru and I were going to the library if he’s feeling up to it.”
Haru, eager to prove he was more than ready, stood up confidently, though his legs wobbled slightly from the effort. Jiro was immediately at his side, steadying him.
“Easy there, Haru,” Jiro said with a grin. “I’m here to make sure you don’t topple over.”
Aurora laughed softly at their interaction, and Jiro, always the curious one, took the opportunity to introduce himself. “You must be Aurora. Haru talks about you a lot. I guess you’re the one he’s obsessed with.”
Haru shot Jiro an annoyed look but quickly turned it into a teasing one. “Jiro, you’ve got a big mouth, you know that?”
Jiro shrugged, unfazed. “Just calling it like I see it.”
Aurora, clearly amused by the banter, didn’t seem to mind the attention. “Well, if you’re up for it, Haru, let’s go to the library. I think some quiet time will do us both good.”
Jiro, ever the helpful one, chimed in, “I’ll take you both by carriage. It’s faster, and you’re still recovering.”
Haru and Aurora agreed, and with that, they prepared to head out, Haru leaning slightly on Jiro for support as they made their way to the carriage. The rest of the room watched with varying degrees of amusement and interest, the budding dynamics between the group becoming more apparent with each passing hour.