Ophelia Drakern
Realm: Qi Awakening Realm Stage 6
Age: 13
Level: 1
Health: 1800 / 1800
Stamina: 2050 / 2050
Martial Qi: 6300 / 6300
Strength: 21 + (21) = 42
Endurance: 20 + (21) = 41
Vitality: 15 + (21) = 36
Dexterity: 16 + (21) = 37
Mind: [17+1] = 18
Spirit: 0 + (126) = 126
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Ophelia's POV
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I took a good look at my status and I firmly nodded in satisfaction. I had reached the sixth stage of Qi Awakening and received a massive boost in my physical power and performance. After the bath, I admired my own figure which was getting more and more perfect every day. Why couldn't I meet a woman who was starting back at me from the window in my old life?
I quickly shook my head and playfully slapped my cheeks, what would my parents and siblings say if they saw and heard my thoughts. 'Hey! Our daughter is a perverted and narcissist lesbian pedophile. She wants herself.'. I shuddered at the thought and proceeded to dress up. Today I decided to go black. Dina and Maria always tell me that I have no taste, only wearing colorless clothes. But I do love my blacks and whites.
Tight black shorts and tight tank top were my choices today, well I always wore shorts and tops or t-shirts. Then I did mess with my short hair for a few moments to make sure it looks natural and wild enough but didn't spend any for makeup. My skin is practically unblemished so there is absolutely no need for me to spend time on it. Qi Awakening has all kinds of wonderful effects on people' appearances and I've heard that girls become more and more divine looking the further they take their cultivation. Even the thought just makes me tremble.
After a few poses in front of a mirror to assure myself that my body is and will be in the league of its own, I proceeded to leave for Drakern Family's Martial Pavilion. The ''Youth Evaluation'' would begin tomorrow so it was about time I would go and request a martial art for myself. Although my basics were incredibly solid because of my memories and training from two different lifetimes, it would still be good if I had something I could exhaust my Martial Qi with. It is just kind of...there...not doing much.
But that would be fixed today!
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Third Person
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Drakern Family's Martial Pavilion!
It was a large hall like building with four expansive floors. Two bottom floors were used to keep martial techniques that are of the [Common] quality, the third floor was reserved for the most powerful [Common] techniques and also most [Uncommon] techniques. Only on the fourth floor of the pavilion, the select few [Rare] techniques of Drakern family are kept along with most powerful [Uncommon] class martial techniques.
In total there are twelve different ranks of martial skills. And in each rank, there are four different grades of techniques. Lower Tier - Middle Tier - High Tier and Peak Tier. Between each of the twelve ranks, there is a large gap in both power and difficulty to master it. Those twelve ranks are known as:
Common - Uncommon - Rare - Earth - Sky - Heaven - Epic - Mystic - Legendary - Saint - Phantasmal and Celestial.
Even though ancient and powerful martial arts are known to exist in Sun Glory Empire there has never been a single martial artist who has possessed an [Epic] ranked martial art. Mideen Kingdom which is just a single country belonging to Sun Glory Empire, in turn, lacks a single [Heaven] ranked martial art.
Because of the lack of martial art techniques of [Epic] and above, it is usual for small sects, families, and schools to only know about the first six ranks, while being oblivious to the other six ranks.
Ophelia walked towards the pavilion's front door and easily pushed the big door open. Martial Pavilion from the inside looked like a massive library. Thousands upon thousands of different common and uncommon techniques could be seen everywhere.
An older gentleman wrapped in loose gray robes was sitting on one of the tables close to the entrance, and his gaze bored right onto Ophelia's face as if it tried to pierce a hole with his gaze. Ophelia felt this and smiled and gazed back at the old bookkeeper, who in turn was appraising the new girl who he couldn't remember seeing before.
''Hmm? You are... ah...'' Before the old bookworm could say anything he ran his eyes across Ophelia's whole body. At first, he was surprised, but he quickly collected himself. ''Why can't I remember seeing you in here before?''
The question was completely reasonable. Ophelia not only looked older than she was, she was also graded six of the Qi Awakening Realm. Such a genius would have made many visits to this old place and would have chosen multiple different arts to try before choosing her favorite.
''Elder, this young one is called Ophelia. Because of various situations, I couldn't visit to choose a technique before today. So I was thinking of choosing now.'' Ophelia said respectfully before bowing while cupping her fists.
The elder who was responsible for looking after the Martial Pavilion gave Ophelia an approving nod and stood up, walking towards a staircase before turning to look at Ophelia again. ''Since it is your first time, and since you're so pretty it would be a shame to choose something among the garbage. Come on up.''
Ophelia's face brimmed with a delighted expression and she followed the bookkeeper into the second floor...and then into the third floor. It was as expected, she would not be allowed to go the fourth floor just like that.
''Search for a material you would like to work with, I will be back to check on you shortly.'' Elder said and briskly left Ophelia on the third floor while quickly disappearing somewhere. Ophelia had seen some other people on the first two floors, but there were significantly fewer people currently on the third floor. But Ophelia didn't have time to care about them. What she needed to do now was to search for a suitable martial technique.
Ophelia searched for an hour. Since there was no time limit enforced upon her she took a good while deciding a technique. And she was torn between two different ones.
First one was a finger technique simply called [Illusionary Finger]. This finger technique launches an illusionary finger from the very finger tip of the performer who uses it. Although not able to cause damage to large area it is still a piercing technique that can be used from both short and mid range. It is one of the better [Middle Uncommon] techniques and would aid Ophelia nicely if she could comprehend just a little bit about it.
The other technique was called [Hard Leather Body] which was a defensive technique that hardens the skin of the user to similar to that of a hardened leather. In the end, Ophelia couldn't choose just one and she left for the downstairs to ask the Elder for his guidance.
After arriving at the first floor Ophelia was greeted by the same elder. After a brief explanation and a secret hint by the Elder, Ophelia decided to forget about Hard Leather Body. Although it was a good skill she was informed that even a better martial skill was being kept on the fourth floor of the pavilion. By doing well in the tournament she could almost certainly ask to be let into the fourth floor so she should wait to claim her prize.
Instead of Hard Leather Body, the elder handed a manual which Ophelia hadn't seen before. Information about the book immediately floated in a opened screen in the front of her. [Flaying Steam Palm] it was a palm skill which was a [Peak Uncommon] technique. Ophelia was taken back by this. This skill was definitely from the fourth floor, it was almost good enough technique to be a [Lower Rare] skill.
''Why are you giving me this?'' Ophelia could only ask, trying to keep her voice as calm as possible. Elder would, of course, take this time to tease her and not give a clear cut answer.
''Maybe I thought that you were pretty, what other reason would there be for me to go to the fourth floor and gift you such a great martial technique?'' Elder said while trying to muster the most lecherous smirk he could. It really wasn't a good one.
Ophelia only gave him a pity smile, the elder's eyes didn't come off as perverted so there must have been something else going on here. Ophelia respectfully bowed and left in a hurry, she would need to utilize all the time she had remaining to learn at least a piece of the contents described in the skill manuals.
What Ophelia didn't hear were the old bookkeeper's mutterings about something. ''Ah, she is like a spitting image...''
Ophelia's Courtyard!
Ophelia was sitting in a lotus position while flipping pages of the manual describing [Flaying Steam Palm]. She learned that [Flaying Steam Palm] was just a single martial technique and that the book didn't contain any other moves. In fact, it was possible that [Flaying Steam Palm] was just a part of a larger and more comprehensive martial art meaning that someone just separated the [Flaying Steam Palm] from the original source and made it a [Peak Uncommon] single move technique. If it was part of a martial art it would probably be a part of a [Peak Rare] or maybe even [Lower Earth] level martial art.
[Flaying Steam Palm] was relatively easy to master, one would simply need to meditate, circulate Martial Qi in the arm and supercharge the Qi and release it rapidly from the Qi Points that reside in the bodies of martial artists. If Ophelia had a [Fire Soul] in her possession it would be easier to use this technique and she could possibly release steam without having to concentrate on the technique itself.
A few hours passed by as Ophelia read both manuals and then proceeded to circulate the qi around her body, concentrating vast majority of it into her arms according to the instruction found in the manuals. After a short while Ophelia could feel her understanding increasing, and when she finally checked the menu where her skills were sorted, two new ones were proudly present.
-Illusionary Finger-
Rarity: Uncommon
Grade: Middle
Level: Stage 1 / Stage 5
Type: Active
Cost: 500 Martial Qi
[Despite its reputation of being the weakest of any ''flying finger'' techniques, the very fact that it is one at all garners a certain amount of respect. Due to it being still a relatively common technique of the middle tier rank the distance of the shot illusion and its strength are relatively small.]
Stage 1: +16 feet distance, 408 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 2 Progress: 100 repetitions.
-Flaying Steam Palm-
Rarity: Uncommon
Grade: Peak
Level: Stage 1 / Stage 5
Type: Active
Cost: 1,000 Martial Qi per minute + 1,000 Martial Qi for a steam projectile.
[A technique which coats the arms of a martial artist with a hot steam formed by Martial Qi. The user also has to coat his own hands with another layer of Martial Qi so that the technique wouldn't burn him as well. Those who master this technique often use it to simply induce passive extra damage rather than use the actual projectile because it is more cost effective to keep the steam rather than release it.]
Stage 1 (Passive): +50 bonus heat damage to all passive damage done with hands.
Stage 1 (Active): +16 feet distance, 630 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 2 Progress: 100 repetitions.
Ophelia examined the information carefully, though she didn't have any clue how the damage was calculated at all. There must have been some complicated math at work there for sure.
''Ugh...a hundred repetitions...I have about fifteen hours remaining before tomorrow's competition so I have no idea if I can manage that, but I must try to increase my chances to do well.'' Ophelia flat out ignored the Illusionary Finger. Flaying Steam Palm had a lot higher damage so naturally, she would try to train that one.
With no time to waste Ophelia circulated and concentrated her Qi to her arms. In no time at all light steam was rising from her hands. The temperature on her arms was clearly quite high as her arms gleamed reddish color. As Ophelia opened her fists up a small puff of steam was released and trails of steam continued to erupt from her fingertips as she practiced punching and striking with them. A flurry of her punches ended with an open palm strike, releasing a palm-shaped erupting steam cloud that covered roughly five meters in front of her before dissipating.
In no time at all Ophelia had exhausted her entire Qi reserve and she fell down on her knees, quickly assuming a position of meditation. By breathing according to the teachings of Spiritual Breathing exercise Ophelia could boost her natural recovery with a hundred Qi and Stamina per minute.
Ophelia had never been in a situation where she had to recover her Qi quickly so she had never paid attention to her natural regeneration rate. By meditating a mere minute, the value of her Qi bar raised from 300 / 6300 to 518 / 6300.
Thankfully Ophelia was no slouch and numbers quickly swirled in her mind, doing various calculations. Although she didn't have the math formula, she could tell that her Qi regenerated 118 points naturally. And 218 points when combining with the Spiritual Breathing exercise. She was recovering exactly 13,080 points of Qi ever hour, or 6,540 Qi every half an hour.
To perform Flaying Steam Palm a hundred times he would need exactly 100,000 Qi. Ophelia smiled after coming to a realization that it would take her little less than eight hours to complete a hundred repetitions to increase a stage.
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Ophelia's POV
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-Flaying Steam Palm-
Rarity: Uncommon
Grade: Peak
Level: Stage 2 / Stage 5
Type: Active
Cost: 1,000 Martial Qi per minute + 1,000 Martial Qi for a steam projectile.
[A technique which coats the arms of a martial artist with a hot steam formed by Martial Qi. The user also has to coat his own hands with another layer of Martial Qi so that the technique wouldn't burn him as well. Those who master this technique often use it to simply induce passive extra damage rather than use the actual projectile because it is more cost effective to keep the steam rather than release it.]
Stage 1 (Passive): +50 bonus heat damage to all passive damage done with hands.
Stage 1 (Active): Flaying Steam Palm projectile has 12 feet distance, 630 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 2 (Passive): +75 Bonus heat damage to all passive damage done with hands.
Stage 2 (Active): Projectile has 32 feet distance, 840 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 3 Progress: 250 repetitions.
In a mere eight hours, I have managed to increase my Flaying Steam Palm from Stage 1 to Stage 2. This ability of mine simply doesn't care about bottlenecks at all. As long as I simply do enough repetitions and put in the work I will automatically make a breakthrough. This is definitely a cheat among cheats.
Among the thirteen-year-old participants, I can guarantee that I am the most powerful one. Even if there may be a few people who are nearly a year older than me I still don't think they have achieved Qi Awakening sixth stage. Thanks to my scouting information I have heard that most other children only spend around two to four hours in training, and spend rest of the time relaxing and socializing with their peers. Though there were obvious exceptions to this. Although nearly everyone in this world practices martial arts it is usually clear who take the martial way completely seriously.
When I first began to circulate Qi around my body it took me twenty-five circulations to step into the Qi Awakening realm. Whereas some kids did this in a week, I only spend an afternoon training while furiously circulating my Qi with maximum efficiency. Stage two took me fifty circulations and stage 3 was a hundred. Stage four was a hundred and fifty circulations and stage 5 had been three hundred circulations. Stage 6 was six hundred circulations and to reach stage 7 would take double of that. Even I would need at least two weeks to do that. Other people could be stuck for multiple months or years if they couldn't concentrate and circulate Qi properly.
After eight hours of training, I had about seven hours remaining before the actual tournament would begin. Of course, I wouldn't spend any of that time training. It would be time to bathe and sleep, I would be wearing similar tight black shorts and tank-top for tomorrow's event so I don't need to waste time thinking about it. I hope that Dina doesn't freak out about my casual clothing choice, she should know me by now.
After replenishing my body to best condition and bathing I still had about an hour left. I was tended by my personally assigned maid who insisted me of doing some make-up. So I let her do as she pleased.
''Miss. Although you are beautiful and...strong, it would still make many people happy if you took better care of your appearance.'' This girl! She was always honest and was unafraid of speaking when something was on her mind. One of the reasons I like her...aside from her big chest which I occasionally groped. Being a girl...and a young miss had certain perks. I naturally avoided being labeled as a sex offender.
''Aino, I am thirteen years old. Give me a break.'' I said shrugging my shoulders. Why would I care about such things as flaunting my appearance to others. Especially since I am not planning on marrying. My glare didn't face this bold maid though.
''You mean you're ALREADY thirteen. It is not unusual for...'' Before she could even finish I signaled her to stop talking. Right, this was that kind of world. In olden times people married young in Old World as well. But at least a modern society let the children be children, and not force them to mature into adulthood before their bodies or minds were ready.
Aside from my inherent love for martial arts, this...marrying problem is the other main reason I have to do well in the Youth Evaluation tournament. If...when I am officially recognized as a genius within the family I doubt that there will be any talks about me marrying anyone for a foreseeable future. At least I hope that's the case.
''I yearn for a life of martial arts, not a mundane life as some idiots bed warmer.'' I scoffed at Aino while I stood up. ''I assume Father and Mother haven't returned?''
''Of course, Miss.'' Aino bowed respectfully. ''There has not been any word of Lord and Lady. I believe they don't intend on returning to this year's Youth Evaluation.'' Aino continued with an apologetic face. As Ophelia's personal maid, she knew that Ophelia hadn't seen her parents for seven whole years now.
''Well, their work is important...I guess.'' Yeah, it is a guess. Is it a bit curious that they haven't told me where and what they actually do for work? Only things I have been told is that their work is really important and that both of them are rather important figures.
''Oh, I almost forgot. Your esteemed brother has returned.'' I could see Aino's face brightening as she told me the news. I wonder which one it is? Being a family member of a large clan full of martial artists with an extended lifespan meant that a head of a family would have a lot of children to guarantee a succession. I, for example, am the youngest of my siblings...if my parents haven't been busy these past seven years that is. I am not entirely clear about the age of my parents but the fact that I have thirteen siblings gives me a pretty good idea.
The reason for this large herd of children is because Father is the first son of the current family patriarch and is first in line to inherit the position as the head of the family. But since he is never at home I doubt he wishes to inherit the position. So it might be passed onto my eldest brother instead.
''Miss, aren't you going to ask which one of your brothers returned?'' Aino asked while tilting her head.
''Um...which?'' I asked her dryly. If my instincts were correct it would be...him.
''One who returned is the 9th brother, Roman.'' Aino beamed, as my expression stayed the same. It was within my expectations. Roman was two years older than me at age fifteen so this was the last time he could participate in the Youth Evaluation and try to win some resources and to catch the eye of a combat school scout. Although even if he didn't catch anyone's eye he could still attempt the entrance exams to get accepted to an institution.
Roman had performed rather well in his last two Youth Evaluations. When he was thirteen years old he managed to reach the early third stage of Qi Awakening. And last year he was at the fifth stage of Qi Awakening and managed to make it into top ten. Roman was considered great talent among the Drakern family's generation of youth. I fully expect that he has made it into the sixth stage of Qi Awakening because of pure peer pressure as he wanted to walk in footsteps of our three big brothers and our eldest sister.
I have actually never met my oldest and third oldest brothers, I only know they are named. Roald and Albert. If I heard correctly Roald, Albert and second eldest brother Tyrin were all monsters in their own class when they participated in Youth Evaluation. Roald and Tyrin had only a single year age gap so the competition between the two had been fierce. Both of them apparently reached the peak level of Qi Awakening stage fourth when they were only thirteen, while Albert actually entered the fifth stage in his first year. Eldest sister Terrine also reached peak fourth stage of Qi Awakening.
If I didn't have the ability to see my progress and immediately make a breakthrough when I have trained enough, I would be nowhere near the fifth level of Qi Awakening, without even mentioning the sixth stage of Qi Awakening. Though, considering my love for martial arts I have enough confidence of making to the fourth stage of Qi Awakening even without this cheat.
''Aino, we are going. It is better to be the early bird that gets the worm than the lazy worm to be taken. If I get the chance I wish to mingle with my brother.'' I said and left my courtyard for the second time this month.
''Yes!'' I heard Aino's voice ringing from behind me as we both vanished from the courtyard.
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Third Person
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In the main family courtyard an elevated arena made out of white tiles had been erected. Various cushioned seats were placed on the ground with tables filled with meat and drink. The further away the seats were the more elevated they became thanks to wooden scaffolding that had been build. This makeshift arena would be dismantled and build every year with different kinds of fashionable flavors.
This year's theme was simple. Masculinity and physical power. Powerful colors like red, yellow and orange were present in drapes and carpets. Images of a powerful burning lions and white tigers were also present along with a beautifully carved sizable statue of a red dragon which radiated warm energy.
Seats were gradually being filled and most elders of the family had already arrived along with the Drakern family patriarch who was also Ophelia's grandfather. Alaric Drakern sat down on an elevated seat where he could see the action best. He was greeted by various respectful gazes of different proportions.
Despite Alaric Drakern's advanced age, he didn't look a day older than fifty. His long hair and short black facial hair hadn't lost a single ounce of dark pigmentation. His brown eyes were sharp and brimmed with life.
Ophelia was also sitting in the stands with her maid, those who sat close to her were naturally Hina, Maria, and Dina. Followed by their own personal assistants and servants. Ophelia's eyes were keenly watching her grandfather. She couldn't see through him at all, actually, this was true for most elders in Drakern Clan. Although she couldn't see through his cultivation realm it was obvious that he was the strongest person among all who had joined the festivities today. Even the envoy of Tertiary Dragon Sect felt like nothing compared to Alaric.
Although Ophelia didn't say it out loud, she had a weird feeling about the Youth Evaluation. Actually, the whole time she had been part of the Drakern family she felt something was amiss. Today the feeling was especially powerful when she saw the elders of the family sitting close to each other, speaking in secrecy.
For a Drakern family which hides this many powerhouses that she cannot see through at all, how is it possible for their Martial Pavilion to only contains so few rare techniques? And that almost no one from their own family could practice them? Only when they obtain high evaluation and seventh and above stage in Qi Awakening Realm can they freely enter the fourth floor of the Martial Pavilion.
However, after reaching the Body Reconstruction Realm, the fourth floor would quickly become obsolete. There was definitely something secret that most of the family members were being kept dark about. This was all the more reason for Ophelia to perform better here.
In the end, Ophelia was not able to meet up with Roman. Instead, she decided to keep company with her three cousins who would also participate in the youth evaluation. Her three cousins had all felt Ophelia growing in strength, but none of them ever asked guidance from her. Each of the girls had their own pride and wished to grow on their own and Ophelia respected and liked that about her friends. It is also the reason they never spoke about their own cultivation progress to each other so Ophelia was completely in the dark about their progress.
Conversations became more and more rapid among the people when almost all 10,000 seats had been filled. People wished for their own children to do well, as well as cursing for others to fall. But the most interesting conversation was held between four people. Patriarch Alaric, his two sons, and the Tertiary Dragon Sect's envoy.
''Gareth. Who do you think will win this year? Roman has shown a lot of promise past two years, but compared to his three elder brothers he is lacking. But he is still passable, reaching the sixth level of Qi Awakening is above average result for certain.'' Alaric asked from a man who was sitting on his left side. Gareth was the name of the elder who was in charge of the Martial Pavilion and was actually one of Ophelia's many uncles and had given her guidance a day before. Ophelia rarely met with the most influential people of her family so it was actually reasonable that she wouldn't even recognize her own uncle. Heck, thanks to her parents being constantly away she had almost forgotten what her own Father and Mother looked like.
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''Hmm, we will see,'' Gareth said mysteriously while spotting Ophelia from the crowd. Gareth knew that they had something special on their hands with Ophelia. Last time a talent like this appeared was with Ophelia's third oldest brother Albert. 'Old Brother's children are all little monsters.' Gareth snickered to himself and continued to talk with his father. ''I have to agree that Roman is strong. Although Roald, Tyrin, and Albert are in their own leagues, Roman is by no means a slouch. I wonder how high he has cultivated his offensive techniques?''
''Father, Brother. My daughter Hina is also competing this year. Although she is really quiet, she is always diligent and I think she will make an impact today.'' The other gray robed figure on Alaric's right side said with a confident impression. Although he didn't elaborate where that confidence came from.
''Reyes, she is your daughter? Little Hina is already thirteen? Wasn't she born with enlarged meridians and high-quality spiritual veins? I have been waiting for her performance in this evaluation since her birth.'' Alaric spoke gleefully. Although enlarged meridians and high-quality spiritual veins weren't as good as a special constitution, it was still a physical advantage which would help tremendously when circulating Qi ensuring that Hina would have a lot easier time practicing Basic Qi Circulation. Suddenly a female voice joined the conversation.
''Drakern Clan has such exceptional young talents, especially this year's batch seems to be well above the traditional average.'' A beautiful woman, seemingly in her early twenties spoke. Her voice was like wind chimes and sounded very delicate. She was wearing a bright azure robes with a beautiful golden three clawed dragon symbol woven into it. She was the Tertiary Dragon Sect's envoy, Miun Kitara.
''Ah, Little Kitara. How many invitations have you been thinking about handing out this year?'' Alaric asked with a content voice, he would always feel pride when other people were saying good things about his family.
''Hmm, I am not sure. Mr. Roman is certainly going to be attending Golden-ridge Dragon Martial House when the entrance exams take place next week. Well not like he needs to participate in the entrance exams. And if Miss. Hina's level exceeds third stage Qi Awakening I am certain that she should be accepted into the combat school as well. Anyone who exceeds the third stage of Qi Awakening at the age of thirteen is a blessed genius and we need to carefully cultivate them.''
Miun spoke, partially answering the question. Roman was in, others were maybes.
Soon a ringing of large gong sounded over the whole courtyard. This was the sound which signaled that the Drakern clan's Youth Evaluation was officially underway. In this tournament age and gender were irrelevant, and people would pick lots which would place them into a certain bracket, against a certain opponent. Due to the sheer amount of participants the tournament became a single elimination tournament.
Officials were scattering around helping participants drawing lots while drawing different brackets. A number of people were staggering: Over TWO THOUSAND children would be participating in the tournament. Soon it was decided that eight different brackets would be established that enough spots would be vacated by the weaker participants to make the number exactly 2,048. Each bracket would contain 256 participants and one would need eight wins to become a bracket winner.
Eight bracket winners would then continue into the Champion's Bracket and fight for the glory there. In total, one would have to win 11 fights without losing even once. All bracket winner would be rewarded with a Rare technique and Spring Vitae Root. However top three would gain special rewards that wouldn't be disclosed to the public.
Ophelia had never thought about the tournament this way. She knew that the Drakern Clan was an expansive family clan and had tens of thousands of family members. But for there to be over two thousand children participating it would be truly a massive event spanning multiple days. Even some combat schools wouldn't dream of holding a tournament this large. Ophelia could hardly wait for what the tournaments in the Dragon Sects would be like? Tens of thousands? Hundreds of thousands? Maybe even millions of people? If a tournament were a single elimination how many fights would that be? How long would it take?
After dozens of fights had been fought, Ophelia's number was finally called up.
''Oh, oh! Ophelia, that's your number!'' Dina bounced up and down on her seat in excitement.
''Go, get 'em!'' Maria encouraged, patting Ophelia on the shoulder as she stood up from her seat. Ophelia could have sworn she heard a faint and bored sound as she passed Hina. ''Do your best, or whatever.''
Ophelia didn't bother to answer any of her friends and simply nodded while walking closer to the arena and hopping onto the stage. On the stage, she looked back at her friends and all of their eyes had a weird gleam to them. 'These witches, they want to see me lose! Sorry to disappoint, but I am going to win this.''
''Ophelia Drakern vs Damel Drakern!'' They were both announced and received next to no response. Ophelia was just a thirteen-year-old kid and didn't flaunt her status as a grandchild of the current Patriarch. Damel, on the other hand, was already fifteen years old and his performance in last two Youth Evaluations wasn't anything amazing.
Ophelia was doing her best in suppressing the level of her Martial Qi. While it worked on youngsters, more seasoned veterans saw through her level rather quickly. However, Damel wasn't one of those. Damel instantly released his full Qi and showed the level of his cultivation. Last year Damel was only a third stage Qi Awakening realm warrior but had now stepped onto the fourth stage.
''How is this possible...'' Reyes who was sitting next to Alaric hurriedly stood up. His eyes were fixated on Ophelia. 'How did this happen? What did she do?' Those two questions were furiously spinning on his minds.
''This is?'' Alaric too was surprised. It was faint thanks to her suppressing her Qi, but Alaric could still make out the state of her meridians and spirit-veins. ''How did Idris' daughter grow to be so powerful...this...''
Gareth on the side was smiling lightly. Almost all of Idris' children were exceptional when it came to martial art cultivation. When Gareth was younger he had often sworn to father the strongest children for the family and had caused various scenes with Idris when they were young. But as Gareth grew older he saw children of his brothers and sisters as treasures and his competitive spirit vanished. 'I shouldn't compare talents of our children, how childish I was.'
''Look it is starting, they're both ready to go!'' Miun chimed in and focused on the two youths.
Damel who was dressed in a loose, and sleeveless blue robes spun his arms around a few time and took a stance. Damel's clear blue eyes were fixated on Ophelia's figure. She was anything like typical girls he usually saw around him. Despite being only thirteen years old she was nearly as tall as he was, losing only by one or two inches.
Just as Damel had finished his preparation a sound came from an announcer: ''Fight!''
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[[Author Note: Search up and listen to Xtrullor's – Attack. A fitting BGM for the fight.]]
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In an instant Ophelia sped forward from her previous position and closed in the three hundred feet wide gap in just less than three seconds. Damel's eyes widened and he desperately raised both of his arms to block a punch which Ophelia threw at him. A nasty sound of meat being flattened sounded in the air as Damel's legs took off the ground and his whole body was sent flying for nearly sixty feet.
''What?'' A sleepy audience was immediately awakened by a shocking display of strength. Ophelia knew that their physical strengths were leagues apart. When reaching the fifth and sixth stage of Qi Awakening Ophelia's strength had been enhanced by eleven more points than Damel's. Ophelia also had trained in physical strength way before she had been gifted with the Basic Qi Circulation technique.
Ophelia who had strength value of forty-two possessed enough strength to lift and hit at about one ton of force compared to Damel's low seven hundred.
Damel quickly began to collect himself. Though his arms were hurting it was only superficial damage, his biggest problem was not the pain or the damage itself but the shakiness the impact caused in his arms.
Damel didn't plan on fading away without a proper fight. Instead of giving up he steadied his hands and took his pose again. This time he knew about Ophelia's speed and he would counterattack with his martial technique.
''Hm, taking a pose again? Trying to counter me?'' Ophelia knew, but she also didn't really care. Damel's body was weaker, slower and less durable. Ophelia, on the other hand, could go for a couple of exchanges with Damel and still be fine. Seeing as Damel didn't intend on making the first...well the second move it would be up to Ophelia to end this farce. 'Fine, I will humor you...' Ophelia though while speeding towards Damel once more.
As Ophelia approached Damel, the latter groaned and a Martial Qi surged to his fist. ''If you're a warrior then prove it! Take my punch! Spike Crust Fist!''
Qi on Damel's arm transmuted into a spiked object formed out of stone and mud. Spike Crust Fist was a lower graded technique, it's rarity was completely ordinary. It was Uncommon Lower ranked skill. Deciding that humoring her opposition once was fine, Ophelia headed right in for the clash. Even though it seemed reckless there was something that Ophelia truly wished to test. Ophelia's fist collided furiously with Damel's. To the surprise of no one, it was Ophelia's time to go flying.
Ophelia's arm flung back furiously and Damel's fist contacted Ophelia's stomach, sending her flying even further than Damel had been flung before. Ophelia quickly checked her status and was alarmed. 'Not good, not good at all!'
Even if her own fist had mitigated some of the damage it hardly did anything to stop the full blunt of the attack crashing at her. Her current health had dropped below a thousand at 970 health remaining. Ophelia could hear murmurs from the crowd.
''This is quite surprising, Damel has actually managed to reach fifth stage mastery with the Spike Crust Fist. That must hurt quite a lot. If you look past his cultivation level, reaching the fifth stage at an offensive technique is quite remarkable.'' Someone from the crowd was rather loud so Ophelia could hear it clearly.
'I see, no wonder half of my health is gone. He is not going to hit me with that for the second time.' Ophelia steadied her feet and also took up a fighting pose by raising her right fist forward and keeping her left closer to her armpit.
''I won't let you do whatever you want!'' Damel roared and ran towards Ophelia, a new crust of dirt was formed on his arm. Ophelia sneered, Damel's Qi reserves shouldn't let him use that technique so liberally. He probably only had one strike more after this one.
''Illusionary Finger'' Ophelia used her right hand to send a mirage of a finger towards Damel. The finger was formed with a red Qi and looked ethereal. It was clearly a technique Ophelia had recently learned.
A sudden apparition startled Damel, but only for a second. Illusionary Finger was a well-known technique and was usually a first finger technique martial artists learned. Because of this, it was a simple technique to counter. One would simply have to overpower it with more force.
''Break for me!'' Damel's dirty fist collided with an enlarged finger illusion, creating a loud bang. Illusionary Finger dissipated while Damel continued forward with his arm still partially covered in mud, and spiky rocks. He was on a course to smash against Ophelia once more.
As Damel rushed through the broken apparition he was expecting to see a shock plastered on Ophelia's face. However, when his eyes met her's he knew that something was up. A confident and calm smile then bloomed on her face, also her eyes had a hint of mockery in them. At least that is how it appeared to Damel.
''Haa...here you come again then, trying to hit me with that big right straight, again. Do you know how difficult it is for an adult to fight seriously against a child, especially when you have to beat that said child? Sorry in advance.'' Ophelia muttered. Damel didn't have time to fully appreciate what Ophelia had just said as he saw the tanned tomboy duck and weave around his telegraphed haymaker.
After trying to connect again Damel could feel Ophelia's forearm smash onto his right elbow, distorting the trajectory of his punch giving his opponent a major opening. Ophelia didn't waste any time as she dashed in and pushed her left hand into Damel's gut, once...twice...then thrice. Between each blow, Damel would miss his strikes against Ophelia who simply and gracefully dodged everything he had thrown at her.
After missing yet another haymaker Ophelia dashed even faster and Damel felt like time had come to a halt. She right before him half crouching. ''Nighty, night.'' was the last words he heard before darkness came.
Damel's head flew backward as his whole body was lifted off the ground. A spray of blood erupted from Damel's mouth as he flew straight upwards till he reached the height of around sixteen feet.
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[[BGM: STOP!]]
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''Woah, what a magnificent uppercut''
''Referee, call the match!''
''Someone, anyone! Please catch him!''
''Offy is the best!''
''He is already dead!''
Just as Ophelia was ready to catch his falling kinsman, someone else ghosted into the arena, catching Damel. It was a curvaceous woman wearing a pure white clothing, worry clearly visible on her face. After a brief second, she sighed in relief: ''Just unconscious...''
This woman was a doctor in charge of contestants bodies and was always ready to jump in when the fighting got too rough. She had almost rushed in when Ophelia was blown back, but for some reason, she had halted.
''That's the match! Winner by KO: Ophelia Drakern!'' Referee announced. And the crowd cheered.
''Ophelia is this strong?!'' A youth from the audience gasped, his voice clearly shaken. It belonged to the warrior who was on the stage previously. He was Ophelia's next opponent.
''Despite her muscular look, this is absurd! Her power never appeared to be this tyrannical when she took part in those training sessions held by one of the elders! Ah! She stopped coming to sessions about a month ago...'' Another young man chimed in.
''Who are her parents?'' ''Some Elder perhaps?'' ''Does she even have parents?'' ''I don't know!'' ''Maybe she is an orphan?'' ''Hey, ain't you an orphan?'' ''What? No! My parents are working away. Just like yours are!'' ''She is so powerful! Did she came across a lucky chance or did she train longer than us? Maybe someone gave her the Qi Circulation technique when she was just a child?'' ''She is still a child though.'' ''Wouldn't that be cheating?'' ''In your opinion all fourteen and fifteen-year-old participants are cheaters?'' ''I didn't say that!'' ''You implied it though...''
A crowd started a commotion. Soon dozens upon dozens of questions were thrown into the air, each asking and raising ridiculous assumptions about Ophelia. She could feel thousands of eye pairs scrutinizing her and it made her feel uncomfortable.
The beautiful lady doctor who was carrying unconscious Damel on her embrace turned to Ophelia. ''Come with me to the infirmary, I wish to check up on the wound on your stomach.''
''Eh?' Ophelia the noticed the place where Damel had punched her. Both crushing and piercing damage were present and even some stones had been embedded onto her bleeding flesh. Ophelia felt a cold pain emanating from the wound, it seemed like her adrenaline was quickly wearing out.
''R-right away!'' Ophelia stuttered and followed the doctor through the curtains and made her way to the infirmary.
Maria and Dina were both amazed by Ophelia's performance. Maria had an idea that Ophelia was powerful but not to that extent. She thought herself to be well above average and was proud of her strength especially since she wasn't a part the main family branch.
Dina thought about surrendering immediately if she came across any fourth stage Qi Awakening warriors, without even mentioning stage five or stage six.
Hina, on the other hand, was quiet, listening to the crowd and observing the reactions and of course the next warriors. Hina' eyes widened a bit when she heard a certain topic among the crowd. ''Weird...''
''Hm? What is it?'' Dina turned her head and her brown locks almost hit on Hina's face.
''Nothing...just an old topic I discussed with Ophelia suddenly came to mind,'' Hina said calmly and tried to listen more.
''With Offy? What kind of topic?' Dina nosied.
Hina sighed and decided to promptly ignore her chatty friend and listened to the loud crowd.
''Rii! Blank is ignoring me...oh what are you doing?'' Dina's attention switched to Maria instead.
''Ignoring you, failing miserably at it too. And what in the hell is a Rii? Shut it and prepare, it is your turn to crash soon enough.''
''Wah! Rii is mean as well...''
''She is exceptional. You mentioned that she is Roman's little sister?'' Miun inquired, her eyes full of gleamy sparkliness.
''A...ahem! Why, yes. She is the daughter of my eldest born. A dragon like son doesn't give a birth to a tiny lizard.'' Alaric quickly composed himself and managed to sound somewhat calm and collected.
''She...she is..'' Reyes gritted his teeth. 'She is in the way!' Was what Reyes almost yelled out. It seems that his daughter will not be the one to wear the halo of spotlight tonight.
''Little brother...don't think too much of it. I can see Hina's cultivation from here and she is truly exceptional talent as well.'' Gareth consoled as his eye was releasing hazy red light.
''Son, although you possess a remarkable inner eye you shouldn't use it to pry into the secrets of women. Especially your nieces.'' Alaric whispered in a patronizing tone while restraining himself. He too wished to strip away the veil and inspect the cultivation progress of her grandchildren.
''Despite Roman and Ophelia being this eye-catching, I will make sure to be fair and inspect all fights. Hina will have my full attention when it is her turn to fight, as will the members of the branch families.'' Miun chimed in and arranged her thoughts and mental notes, preparing herself to observe next matches.
'' Next up to the stage! It is Maria Drakern vs...''
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Doctor's Office!
''Ow! Ow-ow-ow!'' Ophelia whimpered as the doctor was pulling pieces of stones from her stomach.
''Oi you! Tone down the whining, I am almost done removing the stones!'' Doctor hissed as she pulled the last stone off with her pincers. ''Don't you move now, I will now close the wound.''
A faint amount of viridian colored Qi gathered on doctor's hand, which she then guided into the wounds on Ophelia's stomach.
Ophelia could feel a cooling sensation spreading across her midsection, and if she wasn't attentive enough she would have slipped into dreamland. It was very comfortable.
''Ah, it's comfortable...thank you Doc,'' Ophelia mumbled while wishing that the sensation would never end.
''This is just another job for me, so you don't need to thank me.'' Lady Doctor said while finishing up the Qi treatment.
''You can move around if you wish. If I were you I would be more careful in the future and not show that kind of recklessness in a fight again. If you want to make it to the end that is.'' The doctor sighed and walked toward unconscious Damel and began to slowly treat him.
''Tha...see you again Doc...probably,'' Ophelia said while bowing as she left the infirmary. 'I can't miss Hina's fight.' Ophelia thought as she hurried her steps.
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After arriving back into the arena Ophelia walked towards her friends. She saw Maria and Dina sitting on their cushions and squeezed next to them.
''Offy, you're back. You missed so much though...well...me! You actually missed my fight. And Rii's fight as well.'' Dina puffed her cheeks and pouted playfully.
''Oh? Excuse me for missing such an important occasion.'' Ophelia teased playfully. ''Since you're on such high spirit I imagine both of you were victorious?'
''Of course, and it was surprising to see that this dummy had actually reached the third stage of Qi Awakening,'' Maria said and slapped Dina on her shoulder.
''I am not a dummy!'' Dina protested while slapping Maria's hand away, pouting even more.
''Of course you're not,'' Ophelia smirked. ''So where is Hina?'' She continued.
'''Ah, you returned at a good time,'' Maria said, pointing at the stage. ''Hina's bout it next.''
Announcer walked onto the stage to welcome to competitors. ''Fighting next are Hina Drakern & Illya Drakern, good luck for both of these young ladies.'' It was a brief introduction that seemed completely unnecessary.
Hina walked onto the stage serene calm on her face, it didn't seem like she was worried of Illya at all. Hina put her left leg and arm forward and turned sideways. She taunted Illya with a single finger, beckoning her to bring it.
Illya who sported a light green hair and red robes also turned red from anger. She reminded Ophelia of fresh strawberry. Illya released aura which indicated her to be on late Qi Awakening Stage 3. Which would have been impressive if Illya was thirteen, however she was already fifteen years old.
Hina slowly released a violent, yet calm energy. Her energy completely shrouded Illya's. Ophelia's eyes widened in surprise. ''Qi Awakening fifth stage.''
''Damn, I was sure I was stronger than her,'' Maria grumbled. While Dina leaned backward till she was laying in a sleeping position.
''It is just a dream...Blank is stronger than me...can't be.'' Dina murmured.
Ophelia chuckled at Dina. Since when had Dina become so delusional that she thought her talent was match for Hina? ''Maybe next year.'' Ophelia encouraged.
''FIGHT!''
As the announcement came, Hina phantomed from her previous position and was streaking towards Illya. It took Illya by such surprise that she could only raise her hands to block the shot.
Hina stepped forward and spun around, sending a backhanded elbow strike towards Illya's left ribs. Hit was perfect and Illya's guard game undone thanks to Hina's painfully stunning blow. Hina didn't let up and immediately reverse her spinning motion and sending a punch straight at Illya's face.
''Windless Fist,'' Hina said with no emotion as her fist suddenly sped up, cutting through the air in front of her, and slamming Illya right at her kisser. And just like that, it was all over.
Illya's body stuttered and she fell onto all fours. Her legs were shaking rapidly and no matter what she did she could no longer stand up.
''Winner by TKO; Hina Drakern!''
As the announcer ended the announcement, the crowd broke into cheers. It was so fast! It was easily the quickest bout of the day so far. Hina who wasn't sweaty at all walked back to her friends.
''Good job!'' Ophelia said smiling.
''Nice fight, Hina! Let's see if we can fight on Champion's Bracket.'' Maria said.
''What, Hina fought already? I missed it, do it again.'' Dina complained.
''Mm,'' Hina mumbled, nodded twice and sat next to Ophelia.
As she did she leaned closer to Ophelia's ear. ''Remember the thing we talked about, just the two of us? Your suspicions seem more and more likely.'' Hina whispered.
''Hhhhh-'' Ophelia sighed. ''It seems that many people are in the same boat as us. Well...qualified people that is.'' She continued and looked at the stage where two boys were beating the shit out of each other.
Hina trembled a bit, gripping her own hands. ''If what you speculate is true then...what does it mean?'' Hina inquired quietly.
''Ah, well, you see.'' Ophelia stalled to organize her thoughts. ''It would mean that we, and this whole place-''
''AND THAT IS THE MATCH! Leynarin Drakern wins the match!'' Announcer screamed and the whole audience erupted in cheers.
Leynarin was one of the winner candidates, holding seed number 2, right after Roman. Although Leynarin was still at the fifth stage of Qi Awakening, he was actually at the very pinnacle and could break into the sixth stage at any moment.
''A-are you certain?'' Hina's voice wavered, as she looked directly at Ophelia's face.
''Yeah'' Ophelia answered dryly. ''I do think I know why they would do this, but it is still a hard pill to swallow.''
''What are you two whispering about?'' Maria asked and leaned towards her two friends. Dina also got curious and leaned over Maria's legs to listen in.
''Oh? Nothing, nothing important at all.'' Ophelia lied. ''We were just discussing how long it takes Roman to finish his fight, speaking of which...''
''AND NOW, ONTO THE NEXT MATCH!'' Announcer howled. ''Roman Drakern vs Dakria Drakern!''
Two people then swiftly stepped onto the stage. Dakria was a boy of fourteen years of age and at the third stage of Qi Awakening. Roman was fifteen years old, stage six of Qi Awakening. Everyone knew that this would not even be a match.
Roman was around 6.1 ft tall and had a lean appearance. Just like Ophelia, Roman also had a raven black hair, but unlike Ophelia's short hair Roman's was long enough to flow onto his back. Roman wore an elegant black robe with golden trimmings. Roman had a handsome face, although his sharp, slightly slanted eyebrows along with his dismissive expression made him look a little scary.
Dakria looked puny in stature compared to Roman. 5.2 ft tall, but had a bit of muscle to support himself. Audience feared that this would be ugly.
''BEGIN!'' Announcer screeched.
''Illusionary Finger'' A voice mumbled, as a huge illusion formed from the terrifying amount of Qi.
Dakria's whole figure drowned inside the flying illusion and he was quickly blown out of the stage.
A single move, single moment. Blink it and you will miss it.
Doctors rushed towards Dakria who was obviously unconscious. Poor boy couldn't even begin to fight before he was already unconscious. While Dakria was being taken care of Roman leisurely walked down from the stage. He already knew he was going to have a lot of time to fool around.
And sure enough. The next two participants who were at Qi Awakening realm three forfeited. There was no point in fighting if you had to fight Roman, so might as well give up. Because of this Roman would get a free pass on round two.
''Ophelia, your brother is impressive. Which level has Roman's Illusionary Finger reached?'' Maria asked with interest in her eyes.
''Could be either stage four or five. My Illusionary Finger is still just at its first stage so I don't know the difference between stages.'' Ophelia answered and watched as Roman walked to meet Alaric.
''I have returned Grandfather, Elders,'' Roman announced and bowed deeply towards Alaric. Although he had returned this was the first time they had met since Roman returned from his training trip.
Alaric's face was all smiles. Another one of his sons has produced yet another genius. ''Come hither.'' Alaric beckoned, and Roman obeyed.
Alaric looked at him up and down and nodded. ''Good, good. It seems you have trained without pause. You are definitely ready to begin learning more advanced techniques. Miss. Kitara also promised that you would be enrolling into Golden-ridge Dragon Martial House. I have good faith that you will make rapid advancements while you are there. Tertiary Dragon Sect ain't far away.''
''Thank you for your praise Grandfather.'' Roman nodded, turning his eyes to Envoy. ''It is a pleasure to meet someone from a big sect, hello.'' Roman continued and bowed to Miun.
''My, how well mannered.'' Miun giggled. ''Keep working hard, you are one of the top candidates to win the whole tournament.'' She encouraged.
''I thank you for the kind words.'' Roman then turned to look at Alaric and his uncles. ''Grandfather, Pavilion Master and Head Instructor, may I be excused? I would love to catch up with my sister.'' Roman asked.
Alaric simply gave him a nod and pointed Roman towards Ophelia's direction. ''She is over there, surrounded by her friends.''
Roman gave his third, and best bow and hastily left to meet Ophelia.
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Fights were getting done quickly, and soon hundreds of fights in the first run were done. And a second round began. Ophelia and her friends were watching the battles progress as Roman approached the group from the side.
''Good to see you, Sister,'' Roman announced himself as the group of girls turned their heads towards Roman. Each of their reactions was different. Hina simply turned away after acknowledging his presence, Dina energetically waved, Maria only gave him a surprisingly timid nod, while Ophelia rolled her eyes.
''Hello Ninth Brother, are you here to take part in the tournament for glory or merely to start trouble?'' Ophelia poked.
''Miss. Ophelia!'' Aino gasped at Ophelia's attitude. ''Mr. Roman, please sit here.'' She insisted while scooting over from Ophelia's side.
''Thank you, and thank you for taking care of my little sister,'' Roman said as he sat down next to Ophelia. As he did so his hand wandered on Ophelia's head and ruffled her hair. ''How are you then, Little Imp?'' Roman teased.
''Shut it! Also hands of my hair.'' Ophelia slapped Roman's hand away. Roman only chuckled a bit to her sister. Ophelia could never handle Roman's hands on style of affection. Being formerly a single child, and a man, she felt weird when she was being cuddled by a handsome elder brother.
''Shy as always, despite being so strong. You actually have closed the gap between us.'' Roman smiled happily and leaned in to hug Ophelia. Only to be greeted by her hand, and being pushed away.
''Maria, please tag me out.'' Ophelia pleads, in vain, while Maria was distracted by something else and nothing Ophelia said registered on her.
''Mm...'' Roman mumbled and disengaged her little sister. His eyes wandered and appraised her little sister. ''I still find it amazing how heavens can be so unfair. Only thirteen and so strong already. However, your training in martial techniques is lacking. Your Illusionary Finger is just at the initial stage.'' Roman spoke.
''Haa...I know.'' Ophelia sighed.
''Although your improvement in Qi Awakening Realm has been quick you cannot get over your head alright? Third Brother managed to rise to the fifth stage while he was thirteen but he also trained his martial art to high levels. Listen up, even though increasing strength by racing through the stages is a great feeling, you cannot disregard the actual techniques. Alright?'' Roman continued.
''I know that, but it is just that I haven't had time to train my skills to a high level yet,'' Ophelia argued.
''Though I am going to win this thing even without mastering the martial arts I currently possess.''
''Ha! Confident as always.'' Roman smirked. ''I promise I won't whoop your butt too badly, it will be over quick.''
''Heh...as if.'' Ophelia continued.
While Ophelia and Roman entered to sibling rivalry mode, the tournament continued. More and more youths were being eliminated, meanwhile, winners were getting more and more tired. Soon enough it was Ophelia's turn to fight again.
''Excuse me, I forfeit!'' A shaking voice came from before the stage. It was the boy who was supposed to be Ophelia's next opponent. After seeing what she did to Damel he had been shaken. Roman's viciousness also further cemented his decision to pull out from the tournament. He would only be hurt if he and Ophelia fought each other.
''Esmier Drakern forfeits, winner by forfeit, Ophelia Drakern.'' The announcement came before Ophelia could even stand up.
''Gratz Imp, I guess you scared away the competition as well. I doubt we will see much action in next two days. It is all about the Champion's Bracket for us.'' Roman said as he once again ruffled his sister's hair.
''Good for you.'' Maria scoffed.
''Nice win, well earned.'' Dina chimed in.
''...'' Hina gave Ophelia a silent stare and resumed watching the fights.
Ophelia couldn't even bother to slap Roman away anymore. She was disappointed that she couldn't test out her Flaying Steam Palm. Ophelia then stood up, escaping from Roman's grasp.
''I hate you guys, you are always so mean,'' Ophelia said with a sense of melodrama. ''I have no time for this.'' And walked away.
''Good idea.'' Roman agreed and also stood up. ''Aino, you are going to figure out if Ophelia's or my opponents suddenly gain some courage alright? We are off to train.'' And also walked away from the stage.
''Y-yes Mr. Roman.'' Aino quickly bowed.
''And here they go, must be nice to be nice to be Qi Awakening stage six warrior, must be nice,'' Maria muttered.
''Well she works way h-harder than us, so it makes sense.'' Dina consoled.
''Speak for yourself, I always work hard. That is why I am stronger than you.'' Maria argued.
''Rii is stronger than Dina? Is Rii certain?'' Dina said with a playful attitude.
''Yes, much stronger. But Hina could wipe a floor with either of us. It is just too depressing. Say Hina, how come you're also so strong? I barely see you trai-'' Maria cut off her sentence as she noticed the spot where Hina had sat, was empty.
''Haa, so we are the only ones who have to be here.'' Maria sighed as she heard her name being called by the announcer.
''I am off, wish me luck,'' Maria said with confidence.
''Sure, block the shots coming to your face. It won't look so bad when-'' Dina teased playfully.
''Oh, fuck you!'' Maria cursed and stormed towards the stage, tired of Dina's nonsense. But before she made it to the stage she turned back to Dina and blew a raspberry.