In a massive open stadium, Shiki and Midas stand face to face, the tension between them palpable. The atmosphere crackles with intensity as they prepare for the imminent clash. From a distance, the Duke and the other Elites watch with keen interest, each placing their bets on who will emerge victorious. The Duke's confident gaze rests on Shiki, while the others favor Midas.
Midas breaks the silence, his voice calm yet charged with energy. "I haven't introduced myself yet. I am Midas, the 4th member of the Elites."
Shiki nods, his eyes steady. "My name is Shiki. I hope you can provide me with a valuable experience."
They bow to each other, a mutual gesture of respect, despite the stakes. As the Duke raises his hand, signaling the start of the battle, the air seems to thicken with anticipation.
"Here I come," Midas says, vanishing in an instant. Before Shiki can blink, Midas reappears behind him. Instinctively, Shiki leaps away, creating a safe distance between them.
Midas smirks, a hint of admiration in his tone. "You were able to react. Not bad."
Shiki narrows his eyes, trying to track Midas's movements, but the speed at which Midas moves is beyond comprehension. His frustration is evident, but he remains composed.
"What's wrong?" Midas taunts, his voice echoing around the stadium. "You look troubled..."
Shiki meets his gaze with an intense glare. "Yes, I am troubled... because I never imagined humans could move like this."
Midas surges forward, closing the distance between them in the blink of an eye. As their eyes lock, Midas speaks with quiet conviction. "You're mistaken. Humans are capable of anything when they adapt and overcome their struggles. They become stronger and smarter with each challenge they face. Even now, I-a mere human-am able to move like this because of the nano-liquid technology created by humans. And aren't you the same as me?"
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Shiki's expression hardens as he processes Midas's words. With a burst of energy, he charges forward, his fist aimed directly at Midas. But Midas is a blur, his movements so swift that it seems impossible for Shiki to land a hit. Shiki's frustration mounts as he realizes the true extent of Midas's abilities.
The battle had barely begun, but Duke and the elites could already see the outcome. It was clear that Shiki would be the one to lose.
Duke’s booming laughter echoed through the arena. “Hahaha! Come on, Shiki! Surely, you can do more than this!”
Midas glanced at Duke, his tone respectful but firm. “Duke has high expectations for you, Shiki, and I must admit, you’ve shown potential. But this battle ends now. Prepare yourself for my final move.”
Shiki stood his ground, eyes burning with determination. “Bring it on, Midas!”
In an instant, Midas vanished, reappearing in front of Shiki with lightning speed. But before Midas could strike, Shiki leaped into the air and delivered a powerful punch to his face. Midas was sent flying across the arena, surprise and respect mingling in his gaze.
“How did you copy my move?” Midas asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity as he steadied himself.
Shiki met his gaze with calm confidence. “You rely on nano liquid to move like that, but that alone isn’t enough. I observed your technique and noticed that your body is enhanced by nano liquid and viburnum. I waited for the right moment, and when you used the same move, it gave me the opening I needed.”
Duke’s laughter rang out again, this time with genuine pride. “Well done, Shiki! You’ve proven your worth!”
Midas nodded, a respectful smile forming on his lips as he extended his hand toward Shiki. “It seems you’ve surpassed my expectations. You’ve earned your place here. Welcome to the academy, Shiki.”
As Midas walked away, one of the elite approached him, her expression a mix of frustration and disbelief. "What was that pathetic excuse for a fight? Why didn’t you dodge that punch?"
Midas smiled calmly, his eyes gleaming with a mix of pride and respect. "If I went all out against a newbie without giving him a fair chance, I wouldn’t deserve the title of an elite. Besides," he added, his voice dropping to a more serious tone, "I did use one of my more powerful moves at the end. But he countered it—landed a hit, too. You’ve seen it yourself; he has potential, doesn’t he?"
She scowled, crossing her arms. "Tch, I know he has potential, but that doesn’t mean you should let yourself lose." With an irritated huff, she turned and stormed off, her footsteps echoing in the corridor.
Midas watched her leave, then shifted his gaze back to Shiki, who was still catching his breath. So, you really are the one they created, he mused silently. Shiki, I pity you for being the first. But, at the same time, I also hope you find your true purpose in this world......