On the third day of the tournament, anticipation filled the air as the crowd eagerly awaited the conclusion of the last match of the Winners' Round 1. After this match, the draw would determine which competitors would face off in the next round. Pat and Samantha, the commentators, were ready and hyping up the crowd as they spoke into their mics.
"The last match of the first round, Winners' Round, is coming up next!" Pat announced enthusiastically. "How are you feeling about it, Samantha?"
"I'm excited to see how this one turns out," Samantha replied. "It's going to be a guy versus guy match, and I think it'll be quite the showcase."
"What's so exciting, Samantha? Neither of these competitors is the most popular among our fans," Pat commented, stating what he believed to be true.
"You're wrong, Pat," Samantha countered with a confident smile. "Let me introduce the two competitors, and you'll understand why this match is special."
"Without further ado, please do the honors!" Pat gestured, letting Samantha take the lead.
Samantha leaned forward, her voice building the suspense. "At the age of 17, from Alpine Crest University, he's a standout student who balances his studies with his life as a farmer, embracing tradition and simplicity. He's here representing the sport of Hornussen, also known as 'Farmer's Golf'. Please give a warm welcome to Lukas Müller!"
As the crowd cheered, Lukas strode confidently into the arena, wearing his traditional attire: a white shirt under a red vest, paired with brown leather shorts supported by black suspenders. In his hand, he carried the Träf, an unfamiliar but intriguing long, flexible tool used in Hornussen. The crowd buzzed with curiosity, many pulling out their phones to search for more information about the unique sport. Lukas' goal, besides winning, was to promote Hornussen to the world.
"And his opponent, from Nordvik University in Sweden," Samantha continued, her voice rising in excitement, "just 17 years old, and known for his adventurous spirit and unorthodox lifestyle, representing the sport of skiing. Please welcome the Daredevil, Erik Andersson!"
Erik walked out with swagger and confidence, his unbuttoned red ski jacket flapping slightly as he moved, revealing a white T-shirt underneath and blue ski pants. His white ski goggles rested coolly on top of his head, emphasizing his fearless persona. In both hands, he held a pair of green ski poles, the tools of his sport and his chosen weapon. The crowd cheered, excited to see the clash of styles between Erik's unorthodox, adventurous approach and Lukas' more traditional mindset.
The competition was about to begin—unorthodox versus traditional, a thrilling clash of styles and sports. The arena buzzed with excitement as the athletes, Lukas Müller and Erik Andersson, prepared for their showdown. The differences between their respective sports—Hornussen and skiing—added to the anticipation of this unpredictable match.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/0/0c/Lukas_M%C3%BCller_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c0/Versus.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/77/Erik_Andersson_Profile.png]
The billboard screen lit up, signaling the start of the match and displaying both competitors' faces. The text read: Lukas Müller vs. Erik Andersson.
"Samantha, now I get it," Pat said, his voice filled with excitement. "I'm really curious to see what happens here. Hornussen is a sport I've never even heard of, going up against the dangerous, high-speed world of skiing. This is going to be one hell of a ride."
"That's right, Pat!" Samantha agreed enthusiastically. "This match will be one to remember. But first, let me introduce their weapons."
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/4/4d/Tr%C3%A4f.png]
Samantha took the lead, breaking down the equipment each competitor would be using. "Lukas wields an instrument called the Träf, a 3-meter carbon stick used in the Swiss sport of Hornussen. The Träf is made from carbon fiber, offering strength and durability while remaining lightweight. Its flexible construction allows for powerful, long-range swings without compromising speed, giving Lukas an advantage in maintaining distance and control."
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/5/58/Ski_poles.png]
She then moved on to Erik's weapon, her tone filled with excitement. "Erik, on the other hand, wields a pair of ski poles made from high-quality carbon fiber. They're lightweight yet incredibly strong, allowing for quick, powerful strikes. Each pole is approximately 53 inches long, giving him excellent reach while maintaining agility and precision. The steel-reinforced tips make them formidable weapons, capable of delivering impactful jabs or piercing strikes. Not only that, Erik is the only dual wielder in this competition, adding a unique dynamic to his fighting style."
Samantha wrapped up her introduction, leaving the audience buzzing with anticipation. "With both athletes armed with such versatile tools, this match promises to be a battle of precision and power."
Pat jumped back in, equally hyped. "Thanks for the breakdown, Samantha! With these weapons and their completely different styles, we're in for a wild match. Let's get ready for Lukas Müller versus Erik Andersson!"
As the referee blew the whistle, signaling the start of the fight, the tension in the arena rose. Standing at opposite ends of the 40-foot circular battlefield, Lukas and Erik readied themselves for the impending clash. The arena itself added to the challenge—its uneven surface a mix of grassy patches, sandy ground, and concrete areas. Scattered across the battlefield were sports balls and crates, providing potential obstacles or tools that could be used strategically in the fight.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/6/6a/Erik_performing_Glacier_Rush%2C_utilizing_his_speed_and_agility%2C_dashes_forward_with_his_ski_poles_extended%2C_delivering_a_rapid_series_of_jabs_and_strikes.png]
Erik made the first move, charging forward without hesitation or understanding Luka's fighting style or weapon of choice. He unleashed Glacier Rush, utilizing his speed and agility, with his ski poles extended, delivering a rapid series of jabs and strikes aimed at overwhelming Lukas. This reckless but bold strategy reflected Erik's fearless nature—eager to test his opponent's abilities, no matter the risk.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/b/b8/Bernese_Guard.png]
Lukas, initially taken aback by Erik's relentless offensive, quickly deployed Bernese Guard, a defensive stance inspired by the protective techniques used in Hornussen. Using his Träf with precise movements, Lukas deflected and parried the incoming strikes, maintaining his composure.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/18/Erik_performs_Alpine_Leap%2C_leaping_high_into_the_air_and_comes_down_with_a_powerful_strike_using_his_ski_poles.png]
"This is fun! Let's see how you handle this!" Erik taunted, his grin wide with the thrill of the battle. Suddenly, he leaped high into the air with impressive athleticism, performing Alpine Leap, descending with a powerful strike using his ski poles, aiming to catch Lukas off guard from above.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/d/da/Swiss_Glide.png]
The unexpected aerial assault forced Lukas to respond defensively again. With swift precision, he executed Swiss Glide, a maneuver that allowed him to reposition himself gracefully, evading Erik's attack and leveraging his deep understanding of terrain and movement. Erik's ski poles slammed into the ground, narrowly missing their target.
The crowd roared with excitement as the match remained a stalemate in its early moments, neither combatant managing to land a decisive blow. The tension grew, with the promise of an explosive battle to come.
"What a battle! I wonder how long Lukas can withstand the relentless barrage of attacks from Erik. He's been absolutely unrelenting with his offense!" Pat exclaimed, the excitement evident in his voice.
"Yes, Pat," Samantha replied with her sharp analysis, "Erik is truly impulsive in his approach, showcasing his sheer aggression. He's been attacking nonstop, starting with Glacier Rush, dashing forward with rapid jabs of his ski poles, and following up with the unexpected aerial move, Alpine Leap, targeting Lukas from above with precision. However, Lukas has shown remarkable composure and athleticism, countering with Bernese Guard to deflect the rapid strikes and Swiss Glide to narrowly avoid the aerial assault. This match is a testament to the skill and agility of both combatants in the Athenaeum Games."
Stolen story; please report.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c9/Erik_performing_Avalanche_Strike%2C_channeling_his_momentum_into_a_powerful%2C_downward_swing_with_his_ski_poles%2C_mimicking_the_force_of_an_avalanche.png]
Erik, undeterred by Lukas' defenses, pressed on with relentless energy. Not giving Lukas a moment to recover, he transitioned into Avalanche Strike, channeling all his momentum into a powerful, downward swing with his ski poles, mimicking the destructive force of an avalanche as he aimed to shatter Lukas' defenses.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/5/5c/Mountain_Echo.png]
But Lukas had other plans. In a swift and strategic maneuver, he struck a nearby surface with his Träf, creating a resounding and disorienting Mountain Echo. The loud "Thang!" reverberated throughout the arena, startling not only Erik but the audience as well, who instinctively covered their ears. The unexpected sound momentarily disoriented Erik, halting his attack mid-stride and leaving him vulnerable.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/38/Valley_Sweep.png]
Recognizing the opening, Lukas capitalized on the moment with Valley Sweep, executing a low, sweeping strike with his Träf that mimicked the smooth, sweeping landscapes of Swiss valleys. The strike connected with precision, knocking Erik off his feet and sending him sprawling to the ground—the first significant hit of the match.
The crowd erupted into cheers, applauding Lukas' ingenuity and skillful counterattack. The momentum of the battle had shifted, with Lukas now in control.
Pat jumped to his feet, excitement bursting through his voice. "What an unexpected turn of events! Lukas lands the first decisive blow!"
Samantha leaned into her mic with her usual composed demeanor. "Lukas maintained his calm under pressure and was able to exploit an opening in Erik's relentless aggression," she analyzed. "The Mountain Echo was a brilliant, sudden move that disrupted Erik's momentum, while the follow-up Valley Sweep, a low and precise strike with the Träf, caught Erik off guard and knocked him to the ground."
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/98/Peak_Performance.png]
Erik quickly picked himself up, shaking off the effects of the sweeping blow. "Ouch! That really hurt! I wasn't expecting you to land the first hit!" he admitted, unafraid to voice his thoughts. A competitive grin spread across his face. "Time to get serious!" With that, Erik lowered his white ski goggles over his eyes, his demeanor shifting as he activated Peak Performance, channeling his inner strength to temporarily boost his agility and speed.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/cc/Glacier_Slide.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/2/25/Herder%27s_Call.png]
With newfound energy, Erik initiated Glacier Slide, using his ski poles to propel himself across the battlefield with incredible speed, positioning himself strategically to close the distance with Lukas. Remaining calm, Lukas executed Herder's Call, swinging his Träf in a wide arc to control the battlefield and force Erik into a more manageable position, much like managing a flock of sheep.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/ce/Blizzard_Barrage.png]
However, Erik's enhanced agility allowed him to maneuver deftly around the Träf's range. With his increased momentum, he launched into Blizzard Barrage, a whirlwind of strikes with his ski poles that mimicked the chaotic, disorienting nature of a snowstorm. This time, Lukas's defenses faltered, the storm-like onslaught knocking him backward against the arena wall.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/e/e4/Daredevil_Dive.png]
Sensing victory within his grasp, Erik capitalized on his advantage and attempted Daredevil Dive. He dove forward with his ski poles, rolling upon landing and immediately launching into another flurry of strikes. But his reckless approach created a glaring opening, one that Lukas was quick to seize.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/5/5e/F%C3%B6hn_Wind_Rush.png]
With the perfect opportunity presented, Lukas unleashed his ultimate move, Föhn Wind Rush, embodying the sudden and powerful nature of the Swiss Föhn wind. His rapid, unpredictable assault seemed to come from all directions at once, overwhelming Erik with strikes from the Träf's solid surface. The precision and speed of Lukas's attack left Erik unable to retaliate.
Erik's ski poles fell from his hands as his body hit the ground, lying face down in defeat. The referee stepped forward, raising his arm and announcing loudly, "Match over!"
Paramedics rushed into the arena, carefully lifting Erik onto a stretcher to ensure his safety. The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement filling the arena as Lukas stood, catching his breath, victorious yet visibly fatigued from the intense battle.
Pat raised both hands high, his voice booming with excitement. "What a final match of the winner's round! As we wrap it up, Lukas Müller takes the win!" The crowd erupted in cheers, their energy matching Pat's enthusiasm.
Samantha stood, clapping with genuine admiration. "What a match! Lukas's calm precision and use of his traditional skills gave him the edge over Erik's daring and speed." She glanced at Pat, then turned back to the audience, her tone shifting to her signature analytical style.
"Let's break this down," Samantha continued, gesturing as she spoke. "Erik's Daredevil Dive was a bold move—diving forward with his ski poles toward Lukas. But it was a high-risk, high-reward strategy, a real 50/50 play. Unfortunately for Erik, Lukas capitalized on the moment brilliantly. Erik's diving motion left him vulnerable, unable to transition into defense in time. That's when Lukas executed his ultimate move—the Föhn Wind Rush. It was a rapid and relentless assault, mirroring the sudden and powerful nature of the Föhn wind itself. Lukas's strikes seemed to come from every direction, leaving Erik no chance to recover."
Samantha paused for effect, then concluded. "Ultimately, Erik's risk didn't pay off, and Lukas's ability to seize the opportunity turned the tide of the battle decisively in his favor. A remarkable win for Lukas Müller!"
Pat grinned, nodding in agreement. "Couldn't have said it better myself, Samantha. A risky move by Erik, but Lukas's cool head and precise execution were the perfect counter. What a way to close out the round!" The two commentators smiled at the roaring crowd, the energy in the arena electric as the conclusion of the winner's round set the stage for the next segment. With the crowd buzzing with excitement, Pat stepped forward, raising his voice above the noise. "Ladies and gentlemen, what a match we just witnessed! But the action doesn't stop here. Up next, we'll be announcing the matchups for Winner's Round 2 and Loser's Round 1!"
Samantha leaned in, her voice carrying a note of intrigue. "This is where it gets tense, Pat. The random draw can make or break a competitor’s path forward. A strong opponent in the winner's bracket could spell a fierce battle ahead, while for those in the loser’s bracket, it might mean it’s time to pack their bags and head home."
The audience quieted slightly, anticipation thick in the air. In the competitor’s seating area, those still in the tournament shifted in their seats, some sitting forward with eager expressions, others wearing calm masks to hide their nerves. The random draw loomed, a wildcard that could pit anyone against anyone—a test of luck and readiness. The random draw meant uncertainty; for many, it was the difference between an achievable victory and an uphill battle against a fearsome rival. The stakes were even higher in the loser's bracket—one loss, and it was game over.
Pat’s voice cut through the anticipation. "Will the fates be kind, or will the matchups push our fighters to their absolute limits? Let’s find out soon! Stay with us as we reveal the lineup for the next thrilling rounds!"
The screen lit up, the audience leaning forward collectively as the matchups began to shuffle into place. The tension in the room rose, setting the stage for the next wave of drama, competition, and glory in the arena.
The arena erupted with cheers and murmurs as the matchups for Winner’s Round 2 and Loser’s Round 1 flashed onto the giant screen. Competitors glanced across at each other, some with knowing smirks, others with steely determination. The stakes had risen, and everyone knew that in three days, they’d be facing their next test.
Winner’s Round 2 – 4 Matches:
Carter Brooks Versus Lukas Müller
Carter’s strength and fast-paced moves clashing with Lukas’s calm precision and mastery of his Träf promised a battle of raw power versus disciplined control.
Naomi West Versus Olivier Leclerc
Naomi’s relentless energy and tennis racket techniques meeting Olivier’s elegant and strategic fencing style—this one would be a chess match of skill and wit.
Veronica Hart Versus Eliza Hart
The twin sisters, Veronica and Eliza, would finally face off. Their rivalry simmered beneath the surface, and this clash was bound to bring out both their best and their most personal sides.
Javier Morales Versus Arjun Patel
A fiery matchup of Javier’s relentless padel strikes against Arjun’s calculated cricket bat swings, with both competitors sharing a love for strategy and powerful moves.
Loser’s Round 1 – 4 Matches:
Jake Harada Versus Lin Xiaoyun
Jake’s versatile and aggressive baseball bat techniques against Lin’s quick and elegant badminton precision—a match where creativity might determine survival.
Natalia Ivanova Versus Madison Thompson
Natalia’s grace and calculated ribbon techniques squaring off with Madison’s playful yet forceful ringette moves—a graceful duel with high stakes.
Preston Montgomery Versus Erik Andersson
Preston’s calculated billiard strategies and Erik’s daring ski-pole combat—both unorthodox, both creative, and both determined to stay in the competition.
Chloe Choi Soo-Min Versus Taylor Hudson
Chloe’s charm and precision with her golf club facing Taylor’s boundless energy and lacrosse stick mastery—a vibrant and energetic clash of styles.
With the announcement, some competitors glanced across the arena, their eyes locking momentarily as they sized up their potential future opponents. In the Loser's Round, the stakes were even higher—each competitor knowing that one more mistake could spell the end of their journey. Tension was felt, and every interaction carried the weight of what was at stake.
Olivier, ever enigmatic, glanced at Naomi, his expression unreadable. Their eyes met, and he offered a small smile. Only Olivier knew whether it was a gesture of camaraderie, mockery, or something more strategic. Naomi, unshaken, simply stared back, her resolve unwavering.
Meanwhile, Xiaoyun's gaze lingered on Jake, studying him with a quiet intensity. Jake, oblivious at first, finally noticed and responded with a friendly wave and an easygoing smile—showing no trace of hostility toward his competition. His relaxed demeanor stood in stark contrast to the tension in the air.
Lukas, still in the arena and recovering from his battle with Erik, held his Träf firmly in hand. His eyes scanned the crowd, settling on Carter in the spectators' section. Without a word, his gaze conveyed an unmistakable message: the fight he had just won was only the beginning, a prelude to what was yet to come.
With three days until the next round, the competitors had precious little time to reflect, re-evaluate their strategies, and fine-tune their skills for the battles ahead. The weight of the tournament loomed large over them all, with each fighter preparing to bring their absolute best to the arena.
Samantha added, “With three days to prepare, there’s no doubt we’ll see some intense training and strategic thinking. It’s all about how well they can read each other and how quickly they can adapt. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will crumble under the pressure? We’re about to find out."
Pat grinned. "Get ready, because the real battle begins now. We’ll see you soon, folks, for the next round of the Athenaeum Games!"