INT. TRAINING ROOM - DAY

Kael is in the midst of intense training, sweat dripping from his brow as he practices his resonance abilities. Jack stands nearby, observing Kael's progress.

Kael: (grunting with effort) Almost got it!

Jack: (encouragingly) That's it, Kael! You're getting closer!

Ito stands off to the side, looking uninterested in the training session.

Ito: (nonchalantly) I don't need to train. I'm already ready for the duel.

Jack: (firmly) Ito, you need to take this seriously! Jairen is pushing himself to the limit to beat you!

Ito: (smirking) Jairen doesn't stand a chance. I'll take him down without breaking a sweat.

Jairen, determined, strains himself to his limits. He glances over at Ito, his eyes fixed on his rival.

Jairen: (thinking to himself) How am I possibly going to beat him?

Ito catches Jairen's stare from afar, his eyes narrowing slightly.

The students in the training room sense the tension and turn to watch the epic stare-off between the two.

The air is thick with anticipation, the silence noticeable as Jairen and Ito engage in a silent battle of wills.

Jairen's eyes bore into Ito's, his gaze burning with determination. Ito, unfazed, looks Jairen up and down, his expression dripping with disdain.

The students in the training room sense the escalating tension and begin to whisper to each other.

"Are they gonna fight?"

"Ito's asking for it, disrespecting Jairen like that."

"Jairen's not gonna back down, he's been training too hard."

The murmurs spread quickly, the room electric with anticipation. Jack and Kael exchange a concerned glance, but neither intervenes, knowing that this confrontation has been brewing for a while.

Ito's smirk grows wider, his eyes glinting with amusement. Jairen's face sets in a fierce mask, his jaw clenched in resolve. The air is heavy with the promise of a battle, the outcome far from certain.

Ito's voice rings out, "PILLAR OF EID!"

The floor erupts behind Jairen, a crimson pillar bursting forth with incredible force. Jairen dodges instinctively, his reflexes honed from countless hours of training.

The students' whispers explode into excited chatter.

"Oh my gosh, it's happening!"

"Ito's going all out!"

"Jairen's not backing down!"

The room becomes a flurry of activity, students scrambling to get out of the way as the two rivals face off. Jack and Kael watch with bated breath, their eyes fixed on the unfolding battle.

The red pillar looms behind Jairen, its presence both ominous and mesmerizing. Ito's smirk grows wider, his eyes gleaming with confidence. Jairen's determination only intensifies, his gaze locked on Ito with unwavering focus.

The air is electric, the tension palpable. The battle has begun, and only one can emerge victorious.

Jack's eyes widen in concern as Jairen charges towards Ito. He knows he needs to be prepared to intervene, but for now, he's holding back, watching the situation unfold.

Just as Jairen is about to reach Ito, the latter's voice rings out, "Earth, rumble upon my call..."

Jack's heart skips a beat as he recognizes the enchant. It's an earth resonance, one that can manipulate the ground itself. He's seen Ito use it before, but never in a real battle.

The ground begins to tremble, the floor cracking as a massive stone pillar erupts from the earth, blocking Jairen's path. Jairen leaps back, dodging the pillar by mere inches.

The students gasp in unison, their eyes fixed on the battle. Jack takes a step forward, his hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to intervene if necessary.

Ito's smirk grows wider, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "You think you can take me down, Jairen? I'll show you my true power!"

Jairen's determination only intensifies, his eyes blazing with a fierce light. "I won't back down, Ito! I'll show you mine!"

The air is charged with tension, the earth still rumbling from the aftermath of Ito's enchant. Jack knows he needs to be prepared for anything, as the battle between Jairen and Ito is far from over.

Ito's eyes widen in surprise, expecting Jairen to counter with a resonance of his own. But instead, Jairen's fist flies towards him, connecting with a loud thud. Ito's body crashes into the wall, the impact sending shockwaves through the room.

The wall, made of a specialized material designed to withstand intense forces, holds firm, preventing Ito from crashing through it. But the force of the punch still sends Ito stumbling back, his eyes dazed.

Jairen takes advantage of the momentary stunned state, unleashing a flurry of punches and kicks that Ito struggles to defend against. The students watch in awe, their voices silenced by the intensity of the battle.

Jack's eyes narrow, his grip on his sword tightening. He's ready to intervene if necessary, but for now, he's letting the two rivals clash. The outcome is far from certain, and Jack wants to see how far Jairen's determination will take him.

Ito, however, quickly regains his footing, his eyes flashing with anger. "You think a few punches will take me down, Jairen? I'll show you my true strength!"

Ito's voice drops to a whisper, his eyes fixed on Jairen with an unnerving intensity. "Call upon death, fall from star, raining skyline..."

Jack's eyes widen in alarm as he recognizes the chant. He knows what's coming, and it's not good. Without hesitation, he activates his ability, his body blurring as he moves beyond light speed.

In an instant, Jack appears in front of Ito, his hand clamped over the latter's mouth, stifling the completion of the chant. Jairen, poised for another attack, halts mid-strike, confusion etched on his face.

The students gasp in shock, their eyes darting between Jack, Ito, and Jairen. What was Ito about to unleash? And why did Jack stop them?

Jack's grip on Ito's mouth tightens. He knows what that chant would have summoned - a devastating, lethal force that would have annihilated Jairen. He couldn't let that happen.

Ito's eyes flash with anger, his struggles futile against Jack's superior strength. Jack's gaze meets Jairen's, a silent warning to back off. Jairen's eyes narrow, but he hesitates, sensing something ominous.

Ito's muffled voice manages to complete the chant, "FALL OF EID!" The skies darken ominously, as if nightfall has descended in an instant.

Nine rows of beaming pillars materialize, encircling Jairen and the other students. The pillars pulse with an otherworldly energy, casting an eerie glow over the scene.

The students cower in fear, their eyes fixed on the pillars as if mesmerized by the impending doom. Jack's grip on Ito's mouth tightens, his eyes locked on Jairen with a urgent warning.

Jairen's eyes dart between the pillars, his mind racing with the realization that he must dodge the next sequence of the chant or face certain death. The air is heavy with tension, the silence punctuated only by the hum of the pillars.

Jack knows that Ito's chant has unleashed a devastating resonance, one that will strike Jairen down if he fails to evade it. With a deep breath, Jack prepares to intervene, his ability at the ready to counter the deadly force that's about to unfold.

The pillars begin to glow brighter, their energy building towards a catastrophic release. Jairen's eyes lock onto Jack's, a silent plea for help. Jack nods, his eyes burning with determination. He'll do everything in his power to save Jairen.

A scarlet arrow, massive and blazing with energy, pierces the academy's ceiling and plunges towards Jairen with unerring precision. The students gasp in horror, their voices frozen in terror.

But just as all hope seems lost, Jairen's ghost eye flickers to life, its ethereal glow enveloping the arrow. The energy of the arrow seems to falter, its trajectory wavering, before suddenly dissipating into nothingness.

The ghost eye's glow fades, leaving behind a stunned silence. Everyone stares at Jairen in disbelief, their minds reeling from the impossibility of what just occurred. Ito's eyes widened in shock, his own confidence shaken.

Jack releases his grip on Ito's mouth, his voice laced with wonder. "What...just happened? How did you...?"

Jairen's eyes flutter open, his gaze unfocused. "I...I don't know. My ghost eye...it just...activated."

The students exchange awestruck whispers, their faces pale. They've never seen anything like this before. Ito's eyes narrow, his mind racing with the implications.

The air is thick with tension, the silence heavy with unspoken questions.

Jack's mind races with the implications of what he just witnessed. Nobody has ever survived the Fall of Eid, let alone canceled it out entirely. The sheer impossibility of Jairen's feat sends his thoughts reeling.

And then, it hits him - a stark realization that makes his eyes widen in awe. Ito never stood a chance. From the moment Jairen's ghost eye activated, the outcome was already decided.

Jack's gaze shifts to Ito, who still looks stunned, his confidence shattered. Jack's eyes narrow, his mind piecing together the truth.

"Ito," Jack says, his voice low and even. "You were never meant to win. Jairen's ghost eye...it's not just a simple ability. It's a game-changer."

Ito's eyes snap towards Jack, a mix of anger and fear brewing within them. "What do you mean?" he growls.

Jack's smile is grim. "I mean, Jairen's been holding back. And you just walked into a trap you couldn't escape."

The students' eyes dart between Jack, Ito, and Jairen, their minds reeling with the implications of this revelation. The battle may be far from over, but one thing is certain - the dynamics have shifted, and Jairen's secret weapon has changed the game entirely.

Ito's eyes narrow, his mind racing with the implications of Jack's words. "You're saying Jairen's ghost eye is stronger than my Fall of Eid?"

Jack nods. "It seems that way. And I'm not surprised. Jairen's been hiding his true strength, waiting for the right moment to strike."

Ito's face twists in anger and disbelief. "No...this can't be. I'm the strongest student in the academy!"

Jairen, still recovering from the battle, speaks up. "Ito, your strength is impressive, but my ghost eye is a different kind of power. One that can counter even your Fall of Eid."

The students watch in awe, sensing the shift in the balance of power. Ito's confidence is shaken, while Jairen's reputation as a formidable opponent spreads like wildfire.

Ito's eyes widened in disbelief, his mind reeling from the shock. His thoughts race with denial and anger, his face contorting in a mix of rage and despair.

"No...no way...this can't be!" Ito's voice rises, his words tumbling out at a frantic pace. "I'm the strongest! I'm the one who's supposed to be unbeatable!"

As he speaks, Ito's body begins to tremble, his fists clenched at his sides. His eyes dart wildly around the room, as if searching for an escape from the truth.

The students watch in horror, their faces frozen in shock. They've never seen Ito like this before, his confidence and arrogance shattered in an instant.

"Ito, snap out of it!" Jack tries to intervene, but Ito's too far gone.

"HOW?!" Ito's voice becomes a deafening scream, his mind consumed by the thought of being surpassed. "HOW COULD YOU BE STRONGER THAN ME?!"

The room falls silent, the only sound is Ito's maniacal laughter, echoing off the walls as he slowly descends into madness.

Ito's outburst reached a fever pitch, his voice hoarse from screaming. Kael, who has been watching from the sidelines, steps forward with a calm expression.

"Ito, that's enough," Kael says, his voice firm but measured.

Ito's response is to laugh maniacally, his eyes wild with rage. Kael's expression turns sympathetic, and with a swift motion, he delivers a precise strike to Ito's jaw, knocking him unconscious.

The students gasp in shock, their eyes fixed on Ito's limp form. Kael turns to them, his voice filled with apology.

"I'm sorry you had to see that. Ito's actions were unacceptable."

Meanwhile, Jewel rushes to Jairen's side, concern etched on her face. "Jairen, are you okay? That was incredible, but it must have drained you."

Lani follows close behind, offering Jairen a water flask. "Here, drink this. You look weakened."

Jairen accepts the water gratefully, his eyes still dazed from the battle. "Thanks...I didn't expect it to end like that."

The students begin to murmur among themselves, their voices filled with awe and wonder. Jack watches over them, a thoughtful expression on his face.

As Kael and Jack escort Ito away, the tension in the air slowly dissipates. The students breathe a collective sigh of relief, their minds still reeling from the intense battle and Ito's subsequent breakdown.

"Alright, let's get to work cleaning up this mess," Jack says, his voice firm but gentle. "We don't want to leave the training room in this state."

The students nod, their faces set with determination. They begin to work together, gathering debris and repairing damaged equipment.

Meanwhile, Kael and Jack lead Ito to the new dormitories, their footsteps echoing through the halls. The dorms are sleek and modern, designed to provide students with a comfortable and convenient place to stay during their studies.

As they approach Ito's room, Kael turns to Jack. "I'll take it from here, Jack. You go help the others with the cleanup."

Jack nods, his eyes filled with understanding. "Sure thing, Kael. Take care of him."

Kael's expression turns somber as he opens the door to Ito's room. "Ito, we need to talk."

The door closes behind them, leaving Jack to wonder what will happen next. Will Ito face consequences for his actions, or will Kael offer him a chance to redeem himself?

Ito's eyes blaze with anger, his voice dripping with venom. "What do you want, Kael? Can't you see I'm busy reveling in my own greatness?"

Kael's expression remains calm, his tone firm but measured. "Ito, you went too far. You almost killed Jairen over a duel. And in doing so, you risked losing your own spot in the rankings."

Ito's laughter is mocking, his eyes rolling in disbelief. "Rankings? Ha! I am the strongest, Kael. I am the one who will surpass Lady Ioanna herself!"

Kael's eyes narrow, his voice taking on a stern tone. "That may be your goal, Ito, but your methods are unacceptable. You nearly killed a fellow student, and for what? To prove a point?"

Ito's face twists in rage, his voice rising. "You don't understand, Kael! You don't know what it's like to be me, to have this power coursing through my veins!"

Kael's expression softens, his voice filled with empathy. "Ito, I understand more than you think. But that doesn't excuse your behavior. You need to learn control, and fast, before you hurt someone else - or yourself."

Ito's anger slowly dissipates, replaced by a hint of remorse. He takes a deep breath, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I know...I took it too far, Kael. But I can't help it. I need to be the strongest. I need to surpass Lady Ioanna, no matter what it takes."

Kael's expression is understanding, but also firm. "Ito, being the strongest isn't everything. You're putting your own well-being, and the well-being of others, at risk. You need to find a balance between your ambition and your actions."

Ito's eyes drop, his shoulders slumping in defeat. "I know, Kael. But it's hard. The pressure, the expectations...it's all so overwhelming."

Kael places a hand on Ito's shoulder, his voice filled with encouragement. "I know it's hard, Ito. But I'm here to help you. We'll work together to find that balance, okay?"

Ito nods slowly, a small smile on his face. "Okay, Kael. Thanks."

The tension in the room begins to dissipate, replaced by a sense of hope and understanding. Maybe, just maybe, Ito can learn to control his power and find a way to balance his ambition with his own well-being.

Kael walks out of Ito's room, feeling a sense of relief that the situation has been defused. As he makes his way back to the training room, he can't help but think about the events that transpired.

Upon entering the training room, he's surprised to see that it's spotless, with no trace of the earlier chaos. He chuckles to himself, remembering that Jack has super speed.

"Ah, Jack's handiwork, no doubt," Kael says with a smile. "That kid's speed is going to come in handy more times than I can count."

He shakes his head in amusement, impressed by Jack's efficiency. "I'm glad I don't have to worry about cleaning up after those two. They're a handful, but they've got potential."

With the training room back in order, Kael takes a moment to reflect on the day's events. He knows that Ito still has a lot to learn, but he's hopeful that the young student will eventually find his way.

As he stands there, lost in thought, Kael hears the sound of footsteps approaching. He turns to see Jack and the others walking towards him, their faces filled with curiosity.

"Hey, Kael. What's the plan now?" Jack asks, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Kael smiles, his mind already racing with the next step. "Well, I think it's time we got back to training. We've got a lot of work to do, and I have a feeling that things are about to get very interesting around here."

The security guard bursts into the training room, his face flushed with urgency. "Is Lady Ioanna in here?!" he exclaims, his eyes scanning the room frantically.

The students stare at him in confusion, their training sessions interrupted. "No, she's not here," Jack replies, his brow furrowed in concern.

The guard's eyes widen in alarm. "But...but I felt her energy in here! It felt like she was fighting! Where is she?!"

Ito's eyes narrow. "What are you talking about? Lady Ioanna didn't come here today."

The guard's face turns pale. "I know she wasn't scheduled to be here, but I swear I felt her energy! Something must have happened to her!"

Kael steps forward, his expression serious. "Let's try to stay calm. We'll figure out what's going on."

But the guard is already turning to leave, his voice urgent. "I have to find her! I have to make sure she's safe!"

He rushes out of the room, leaving the students staring at each other in confusion and concern. What is going on? And where is Lady Ioanna really?

The students' eyes widen as understanding dawns on them. "Wait a minute..." Jack says, his voice filled with realization. "It wasn't Lady Ioanna's energy at all, was it?"

Ito's eyes light up with comprehension. "It was us! Our energy clash must have mimicked Lady Ioanna's signature!"

Jairen's eyes widen in surprise. "That's why the guard sensed her energy! Our battle must have resonated at a frequency similar to hers."

Kael nods, impressed. "That's a remarkable insight, students. It seems that your intense battle has uncovered a new aspect of your abilities."

The students exchange excited glances, their minds racing with the implications. They had unknowingly tapped into a power that could mimic the energy of one of the strongest warriors in the land.

"What does this mean?" Jack asks, his voice filled with wonder.

Kael smiles. "It means that your potential is far greater than we ever imagined. Let's uncover more of your secrets, shall we?"

The students' eyes are wide with awe and excitement, their minds reeling from the revelation. "This is huge!" Jack exclaims, his voice filled with wonder. "We're not just dealing with ordinary students here, we're dealing with potential warriors on the level of Lady Ioanna!"

Jewel and Lani exchange a nervous glance, their eyes fixed on Jairen. "One of them is on our team," Jewel whispers, her voice barely audible.

Lani's eyes widen in realization. "Jairen, you're...you're one of them, aren't you?"

Jairen's expression turns serious, his eyes gleaming with a newfound intensity. "I think I am," he says, his voice filled with determination. "And I'm not going to let anyone or anything get in my way."

The students nod in agreement, their faces set with determination. They know that they're in this together now, and they're ready to face whatever challenges come their way.

"We're in this together, team," Kael says, his voice filled with pride. "Let's uncover the secrets of our school and our own potential. We're not just students, we're warriors in training!"

The students cheer, their voices echoing through the training room, as they embark on a journey that will change their lives forever.

A Week Later..

The students' eyes widen in surprise as they find themselves teleported to Lady Ioanna's arena once again. The top 3 students, Ito, Jack, and Kael, stand in the center of the arena, their faces set with determination.

Lady Ioanna appears before them, her eyes blazing with intensity. "Welcome, students," she says, her voice firm. "Today, you will face me in combat. Only some of you will emerge victorious."

The students nod, their hearts racing with excitement and nerves. They know that fighting Lady Ioanna will be their toughest challenge yet.

Ito, Jack, and Kael take their positions, ready to face the formidable warrior. Lady Ioanna draws her sword, its blade shining in the light of the arena.

"Let the battle begin!" she declares, charging towards the trio.

Ito's eyes widen in surprise as he tries to summon his earth resonance, but Lady Ioanna's swift strike and authoritative command cancel his attempt. "Cancel!" she shouts, her sword slicing through the ground, sending shockwaves through the floor.

Kael and Jack leap out of the way just in time, avoiding the tremors that shake the arena. Ito stumbles back, his eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna with a mix of frustration and admiration. "How did you...?" he starts to ask, but Lady Ioanna interrupts him.

"No time for questions, Ito," she says, her sword flashing in the light. "You should be focusing on survival."

With a swift motion, she unleashes a barrage of strikes, each one aimed at the trio. Ito, Jack, and Kael scramble to defend themselves, their movements swift and precise. But Lady Ioanna's skill is unmatched, and she presses her advantage, pushing the students to their limits.

Lady Ioanna's sword soared through the air, leaving her empty-handed, yet her confidence and intensity remained unwavering. "Fine, just hands, then?" she said with a sly smile.

Kael's eyes widened in disbelief, "SHE THREW HER SWORD?!!" he exclaimed, stunned by Lady Ioanna's bold move.

Undaunted, Lady Ioanna charged at the trio, her fists flying with precision and power. Ito, Jack, and Kael tried their best to defend themselves, but Lady Ioanna's skill and speed proved to be a formidable challenge.

One by one, she took on each student, her movements lightning-fast and her technique flawless. Ito's earth resonance was canceled once again, Jack's water resonance was countered with a swift kick, and Kael's wind resonance was disrupted with a series of rapid punches.

The students stumbled back, their faces set with determination, but Lady Ioanna's prowess left them struggling to keep up. It was clear that she was holding back, testing their limits, and pushing them to reach new heights. The question was, could they rise to the challenge?

Lady Ioanna's boot kick sent Ito flying across the arena, his body crashing into the ground. Before he could even attempt to get up, she swiftly grabbed Kael's leg and hurled him into Ito's path. Kael's flailing body collided with Ito's, sending both students tumbling across the floor.

Jack, who had been watching in awe, finally snapped out of his trance and rushed to his friends' aid. "Hey, no fair! Leave them alone!" he shouted, charging at Lady Ioanna with fierce determination.

Lady Ioanna smiled, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Ah, Jack, you're so predictable," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "But don't worry, I'll get to you soon enough."

With a flick of her wrist, she sent Jack flying into the nearby wall, joining his friends in a crumpled heap. The three students struggled to get up, their bodies battered and bruised, but Lady Ioanna showed no signs of relenting. "You want to be warriors?" she taunted. "Then show me what you're made of!"

Jack focused his energy, his eyes locked on Lady Ioanna. "Water, flow at my voice!" he commanded, his voice resonating with authority.

In response, a shimmering ring of water materialized around him, its surface rippling and churning as if alive. The water seemed to obey Jack's every move, swirling and eddying in anticipation.

Meanwhile, Kael's eyes flashed with determination. "Wind, hear me! Roar with a gust never seen!" he shouted, his voice carrying across the arena.

Instantly, a mighty gust of wind erupted from Kael's outstretched hand, its force so powerful that it sent Lady Ioanna's hair and robes flying back. The wind howled and whipped through the arena, creating a miniature whirlwind that threatened to sweep everything in its path.

The two resonances, water and wind, stood ready to clash with Lady Ioanna's formidable skills.

As Lady Ioanna charged at Jack and Kael, Ito shouted from behind them, "Pillars of Eid!"

In an instant, the arena was filled with a criss-crossing pattern of intense, red beams of energy. The Pillars of Eid, summoned by Ito, encircled Lady Ioanna, trapping her in a cage of fiery energy.

The beams hummed with power, their heat rising as they danced around Lady Ioanna's body. Her eyes widened in surprise, her gaze fixed on Ito with a mixture of admiration and frustration.

Jack and Kael took advantage of the reprieve, their resonances flaring as they launched a renewed attack. Water and wind collided with Lady Ioanna's physical prowess, the three forces clashing in a spectacular display.

Lady Ioanna's smile grew wider, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Well played, Ito," she said, her voice dripping with intrigue. "But don't think this will hold me for long."

With a swift motion, she began to manipulate the energy around her, her movements blurring as she sought to break free from the Pillars of Eid. The outcome was far from certain, as the battle raged on.

Lady Ioanna's eyes gleamed with intensity as she called upon her resonance, her voice dripping with anticipation. "Starfall... Finale, colliding twins Yin and Yang!"

The arena held its collective breath as two magnificent swords materialized in Lady Ioanna's hands. One sword shone brighter than the sun, its blade radiant with a light that seemed almost divine. The other sword was as black as midnight, its darkness so profound it seemed to absorb the light around it.

The twins, Yin and Yang, hummed with energy, their opposing forces balanced in perfect harmony. Lady Ioanna's gaze locked onto Jack, Kael, and Ito, her eyes burning with a fierce intensity.

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"Are you ready to get serious?" she asked, her voice low and husky.

Jack's eyes widened, his Adam's apple bobbing as he gulped nervously. Kael's eyes flashed with determination, his wind resonance flaring in response. Ito's earth resonance pulsed steadily, his eyes fixed intently on Lady Ioanna.

The stage was set for a clash of epic proportions, the outcome hanging precariously in the balance. The twins, Yin and Yang, seemed to whisper a silent challenge, their blades shimmering with an otherworldly power. The battle was about to reach new heights, and only the bravest and strongest would emerge victorious.

Lady Ioanna slashed the ground with Yin, and a blinding light enveloped the arena, like a flashbang grenade exploding. The students in the bleachers shielded their eyes, crying out in pain.

As the light faded, Lady Ioanna slashed the air with Yang, and a dark veil descended, like curtains closing over the arena. The darkness was so profound that it seemed to have a physical presence, making it hard to breathe.

Kael stumbled forward, his arms outstretched like a blind man. "I can't see!" he shouted, his wind resonance faltering.

Jack and Ito stumbled and staggered, their eyes burning from the intensity of the light and darkness. Their resonances wavered, struggling to find a foothold in the chaotic energies unleashed by Lady Ioanna's swords.

Lady Ioanna stood tall, her eyes gleaming with a fierce intensity. She wielded her swords with precision and grace, their power coursing through her veins like liquid starlight.

The twins, Yin and Yang, seemed to be extensions of her very being, their power dancing in the arena like elemental forces unleashed.

The battle had become a maelstrom of light and darkness, the students struggling to find their footing in the face of Lady Ioanna's overwhelming power.

Jairen's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed intently on Lady Ioanna and the students. His expression was a mask of concentration, his mind racing with strategies and tactics. He seemed to be absorbing every detail of the battle, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each fighter.

Jewel's voice was laced with disbelief and a hint of fear. "We're supposed to fight that?" she said, her eyes wide with wonder. "I mean, I know we're supposed to be the next generation of resonance warriors, but... that's just insane!"

Jairen's silence was his only response, his focus solely on the battle unfolding before them. His eyes darted between Lady Ioanna's swords, Jack's water resonance, Kael's wind resonance, and Ito's earth resonance, his mind processing every detail at lightning speed.

Jewel's eyes lingered on Jairen's face, searching for any sign of doubt or fear. But Jairen's expression remained impassive, his focus unwavering. She sighed, her shoulders slumping in resignation. "I guess we have no choice but to try."

And with that, Jewel steeled herself for the battle ahead, her eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna with a newfound determination. Jairen's silence was his only acknowledgement, his focus still fixed on the fight, his mind racing with strategies and tactics.

As suddenly as it had begun, the chaotic battle ceased. The darkness dissipated, and the blinding light faded. The arena returned to its normal state, the only sound the heavy breathing of the combatants.

Jack and Kael lay on the ground, their resonances faltering. Ito stood alone, his earth resonance still pulsing strong. He gazed triumphantly at Lady Ioanna, his chest heaving with exertion.

"I TOLD YOU I CAN BEAT HER MYSELF! I'M THE LAST ONE!!" Ito shouted, his voice echoing through the arena. His eyes blazed with confidence, his fists clenched in victory.

Lady Ioanna's expression remained impassive, her eyes fixed on Ito with a hint of surprise. She seemed to acknowledge his strength, her gaze lingering on him for a moment before shifting to Jack and Kael.

The two warriors struggled to their feet, their resonances still weak. They exchanged a look, their eyes filled with a mix of frustration and admiration for Ito's bravery.

The arena fell silent, the only sound the heavy breathing of the combatants. The outcome of the battle seemed certain, with Ito standing tall as the last one standing. But Lady Ioanna's eyes hinted at a hidden plan, a secret weapon waiting to be unleashed. The battle was far from over.

Ito's voice rang out across the arena, his words echoing off the walls. "Call upon death, fall from star raining skyline, Fall of Eid..."

The earth trembled, the air thickening with anticipation. Jack and Kael watched in awe, their resonances still weak but their eyes fixed on Ito with newfound respect.

Lady Ioanna's gaze narrowed, her eyes fixed intently on Ito. But this time, she didn't interrupt. She seemed to be waiting, her expression hinting at a hidden strategy.

The chant grew louder, Ito's voice resonating with power. The ground shuddered, a massive beaming pillar erupted from the earth beneath her feet. The pillar rose almost incinerating Lady Ioanna,a shining red pillar that glowed with a fierce, crimson light.

The arena fell silent, the only sound the hum of the pillar's energy. Lady Ioanna's eyes gleamed with a newfound respect, her gaze fixed on Ito with a hint of admiration. The outcome of the battle was far from certain, as Ito's power seemed to rival her own.

The Fall of Eid had begun, and the fate of the battle hung in the balance.

The prison of beams activated, a lattice of intense energy beams encasing the arena, converging on Lady Ioanna from all directions. But, in a stunning display of agility and reflexes, she dodged each beam with ease, her movements almost ethereal.

Ito's eyes widened in disbelief as Lady Ioanna weaved through the beams, her grace and precision defying the odds. He had never seen anyone evade the prison of beams so effortlessly.

Undeterred, Ito called upon the final sequence of the Fall of Eid. A massive, shimmering arrow materialized in the sky, its tip glowing with an intense, golden light. The arrow plummeted towards Lady Ioanna, its trajectory unwavering.

But, in a feat of incredible strength and skill, Lady Ioanna reached out with one hand and grasped the arrow, halting its descent mere inches from her face. She gazed at the arrow with a hint of amusement, her voice laced with sarcasm.

"Geez, I guess this attack will never work."

The arena fell silent, the only sound the hum of the energy beams still converging on Lady Ioanna. Ito's eyes were wide with disbelief, his mind reeling from the impossibility of what he had just witnessed. The outcome of the battle had taken a dramatic turn, as Lady Ioanna's power and skill seemed to surpass even the mighty Fall of Eid.

Jewel's eyes were wide with disbelief, her mouth agape as she stared at Lady Ioanna in awe. "Did she really just... grab THE FALL OF EID?!!!!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement.

The crowd erupted into a frenzy of cheers and applause, the arena shaking with the sheer energy of their enthusiasm. Some spectators were on their feet, their faces flushed with amazement, while others were stunned into silence, their minds struggling to comprehend what they had just witnessed.

Jairen's eyes gleamed with a newfound respect, his gaze fixed intently on Lady Ioanna. "Incredible," he breathed, his voice barely audible over the din of the crowd. "She's truly a force to be reckoned with."

Ito's face was pale, his eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna with a mix of shock and admiration. He seemed to be reevaluating his strategy, his mind racing with the implications of her incredible feat.

Lady Ioanna herself stood tall, the giant arrow still grasped in her hand, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. She seemed to be savoring the moment, her eyes gleaming with a quiet confidence. The crowd's adoration was palpable, and she reveled in their admiration.

"Fall," Lady Ioanna uttered, her voice soft yet commanding.

Ito's eyes widened, his body crumpling to his knees as if an invisible force had struck him. He gazed up at Lady Ioanna, a mix of shock and admiration on his face.

Lady Ioanna's smile grew wider, her eyes gleaming with pride. "This team advances to the Advanced League of Learning. Congratulations!"

The crowd erupted into a deafening cheer, their applause and whistles shaking the arena. Jewel and Jairen rushed forward, grinning from ear to ear, and lifted Ito to his feet. The three of them embraced, basking in the glory of their triumph.

As the crowd's cheers continued to echo through the arena, Lady Ioanna's gaze lingered on the trio, her expression hinting at a deeper understanding. "Your journey has just begun," she said, her voice barely audible over the din of the crowd. "The true challenges lie ahead."

Lani, the confident and determined leader, stepped forward, a hint of a smile on her face. "Lady Ioanna, since we're already on stage, may my team proceed with our challenge next?"

Lady Ioanna's gaze shifted to Lani, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered the request. After a brief moment, she nodded, her expression hinting at a hint of curiosity. "Very well, Lani. Your team may proceed. But be warned, the challenges will only intensify from here."

The crowd murmured in anticipation, their eyes fixed on Lani and her team. Ito, still basking in the glory of his triumph, stepped aside, his eyes fixed on the next team with a mix of excitement and curiosity.

Lani, Jairen, and Jewel took their positions, their eyes humming with energy. Lady Ioanna's eyes fixed intently on them, her voice commanding: "Begin."

Lani, Jairen, and Jewel remained still, their eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna with a hint of mischief. It was as if they were waiting for something, or perhaps savoring the moment.

Lady Ioanna's laughter echoed through the arena, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Did you not hear me? Begin!" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of playful exasperation.

The crowd chuckled, sensing the lighthearted banter between Lady Ioanna and the trio. Jairen's lips curled into a sly grin, while Jewel's eyes twinkled with mirth. Lani, however, remained straight-faced, her gaze fixed intently on Lady Ioanna.

The tension was evident, the air thick with anticipation. It was clear that Lani's team was up to something, but what exactly, only they knew.

Jewel uttered, "Just a little more..." her voice barely audible, her eyes fixed intently on Lady Ioanna.

Jairen yelled, "NOW!" and the trio sprang into action, rushing towards Lady Ioanna with a synchronized burst of speed.

Lady Ioanna, caught off guard and still recovering from her previous match, tried to predict their moves. But she was a fraction too late.

Lani's boot connected with Lady Ioanna's chest, sending her crashing to the ground. The crowd gasped in shock, their voices echoing through the arena.

Lady Ioanna's eyes widened, her expression a mix of surprise and admiration. "Well played," she muttered, her voice barely audible.

The trio stood over her, their resonances humming with energy, their eyes gleaming with a sense of triumph. The crowd erupted into cheers, sensing the upset. Had Lani's team just pulled off the impossible?

Lani's eyes widened in shock, "How did you...?!" she managed to stammer, her voice cut short as Lady Ioanna's kick sent her flying across the arena.

Lani's body sailed through the air, her eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna's smiling face, her mind struggling to comprehend the speed and agility that had just been displayed. She blinked, and in that instant, Lady Ioanna was already in front of her, her kick landing with precision and power.

Lani's gasp for air was audible as she crashed to the ground, her body trembling from the impact. Jewel and Jairen rushed to her side, their faces etched with concern, as Lady Ioanna stood over them, her eyes gleaming with a hint of playful warning. "Don't underestimate me, Lani," she said, her voice low and husky. "I may have been caught off guard once, but not twice."

Lady Ioanna's thoughts drifted to the mysterious figure with the purple ghost eye, her mind racing with anticipation and a hint of trepidation. She had heard the whispers of a prophecy, one that spoke of a fateful encounter between her and the enigmatic individual. The possibility of finally uncovering the truth behind the prophecy had her heart pounding with excitement.

"Finally, I get to face him," she thought to herself, her eyes gleaming with determination. "The one who has haunted my visions and fueled my determination. The one who will reveal the secrets of my destiny."

With a deep breath, Lady Ioanna refocused on the present, her gaze returning to Lani, Jewel, and Jairen. The trio was struggling to get back to their feet, their faces set with determination. Lady Ioanna's smile grew wider, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "The game is far from over," she thought, her mind already racing with strategies and countermeasures. The battle was about to intensify, and Lady Ioanna was ready to unleash her full potential.

Jairen's voice cracked like a whip, "Jewel, stop hesitating! There's no time to be scared!" His eyes blazed with determination as he charged forward, Lani by his side. The two of them were a force to be reckoned with, their movements a perfectly choreographed dance of battle.

Jewel's eyes widened, her face pale as she watched her friends rush into the fray. She took a step back, her hands trembling as she struggled to summon the courage to join the fight. Her ability, once a source of strength, now felt like a fragile flame, threatening to flicker out at any moment.

The arena was a whirlwind of action, Lady Ioanna's movements a blur as she clashed with Lani and Jairen. The air was electric with tension, the crowd holding its collective breath as the battle raged on. And Jewel, frozen in indecision, was the only one who could tip the scales.

The arena erupted into a frenzy of cheers and gasps as Lani's eyes gleamed with a bright blue light. "I'm Ready!" she declared, her voice ringing out across the stadium. The air seemed to vibrate with anticipation as she summoned her ghosts, the very fabric of reality seeming to bend to her will.

"Her ghost?! No, GHOSTS?!" the students in the bleachers exclaimed, their voices full of wonder and excitement.

And then, in a burst of ethereal energy, two magnificent blue spirit lions materialized before Lani. The female lion, Calico, let out a mighty roar, her voice like thunder, while the male lion, Caspian, echoed her call, his deep growl sending shivers down the spines of the onlookers.

Jairen's eyes widened in awe as he watched Lani's ghosts spring to life, their spectral forms glowing with an otherworldly energy. Without hesitation, Calico and Caspian charged at Lady Ioanna, their ghostly claws swiping at her with a speed and ferocity that left the audience gasping.

Lani's eyes blazed with determination as she fully activated her ghosts, her connection to them evident in the way she seemed to be one with the spirit lions. The arena was ablaze with energy, the battle between Lani's ghosts and Lady Ioanna reaching a fever pitch. The outcome was far from certain, but one thing was clear: this was a fight for the ages!

This part of the episode is a special tribute to me and my wife’s two kittens that unfortunately passed away Cali and Casper may our two babies rest in peace and play eternally forever with the other kitties in the kitty section of heaven

As Calico zooms after Lady Ioanna, leaving behind a trail of blurry afterimages, Jewel's eyes widen in awe. She thinks to herself, "Now I can't activate my ability, it'll take up the whole arena!" Her mind races with the implications of unleashing her power, her eyes darting around the crowded stadium.

Jewel's ability, known as "Nova," has the potential to decimate the entire arena, causing widespread destruction and chaos. It's a double-edged sword, capable of turning the tide of battle in an instant, but also putting innocent lives at risk. Jewel's fear of losing control and causing harm to her friends and the audience has kept her from using it so far.

With Calico and Caspian taking center stage, Jewel's dilemma intensifies. She wants to support her friends, but the risk of unleashing Nova is too great. For now, she remains frozen in indecision, her ability simmering just below the surface, waiting for the moment when she might finally find the courage to unleash it.

With a deep breath, Jewel summons the courage to unleash a smaller version of her fearsome ability, Nova. She flicks her index and middle finger, and a tiny, sparkling ball of energy erupts from her fingertips. "Mini Nova!" she declares, as the small, beaming orb shoots towards Lady Ioanna.

The timing is perfect, as Lady Ioanna is currently preoccupied defending against Calico's swift attacks and Jairen's powerful blows. The Mini Nova strikes Lady Ioanna with precision, releasing a concentrated burst of energy that sends her stumbling backward.

The arena erupts in a chorus of gasps and cheers, as the crowd witnesses Jewel's bold move. Calico and Caspian take advantage of the opening, pressing their attack with renewed ferocity. Jairen joins in, his movements fluid and deadly. Lady Ioanna, however, refuses to back down, her eyes blazing with determination as she summons a fierce counterattack. The battle rages on, with Jewel's Mini Nova proving to be the turning point!

Lady Ioanna's eyes narrow as she recovers from the Mini Nova's impact, her mind racing with questions. "Why is this team not ranked higher?" she wonders, her gaze fixed on Jewel, Lani, and Jairen. "Jewel, in particular, should be top 3, not #6! And the way they work together, it's like they're a well-oiled machine..."

Lady Ioanna's thoughts are a mix of surprise, curiosity, and suspicion. She can't understand why a team with such potential and skill is not higher in the ranks. She starts to question the ranking system, wondering if there's more to it than meets the eye.

As she charges back into battle, her movements become more precise, more calculated. She's determined to uncover the truth behind this team's seemingly low ranking. The fight takes on a new level of intensity, with Lady Ioanna pushing the trio to their limits.

"Reveal your true strength!" she demands, her voice echoing through the arena. "I want to see what you're really capable of!"

As Calico and Caspian let out a mighty roar, a surge of energy courses through Lani, Jairen, and Jewel. Their eyes gleam with determination, their movements becoming more swift and precise. The spirit lions' roar has awakened a hidden potential within the trio, granting them a temporary boost in strength and agility.

Lani's eyes shine with a fierce light, her connection to Calico and Caspian deepening. Jairen's sword gleams with an otherworldly energy, its blade humming with an intense power. Jewel's Mini Nova ability crackles with increased intensity, her fingers glowing with a vibrant light.

The arena erupts in a chorus of cheers and gasps, the crowd sensing the sudden shift in the battle's dynamics. Lady Ioanna's eyes widen, her gaze fixed on the trio with a mix of surprise and admiration. She realizes that she has underestimated this team, and that they are capable of much more than she initially thought.

With their newfound strength, the trio launches a fierce counterattack, their movements fluid and deadly. Calico and Caspian continue to roar, their energy fueling the team's assault. The battle reaches new heights, with Lady Ioanna fighting to keep up with the trio's enhanced abilities.

The arena erupts into chaos as Jewel unleashes a barrage of Mini Novas, the rapid-fire blasts of energy striking Lady Ioanna with precision. Meanwhile, Jairen fearlessly clashes swords with the queen, their blades meeting in a shower of sparks. The crowd watches in awe, their minds reeling from the unprecedented spectacle.

For the first time, someone has dared to directly challenge Lady Ioanna, the queen of all districts, the strongest in the land. The crowd's whispers turn into a deafening roar as they question everything they thought they knew about the queen's invincibility.

"Is Jairen stronger than we thought?"

"Can he actually defeat Lady Ioanna?"

The comparisons begin, with some shouting that Jairen's skills surpass even the queen's. Others argue that Lady Ioanna is simply toying with him, waiting for the perfect moment to strike back.

The tension is rising, the air electric with anticipation. Calico and Caspian continue to roar, their energy fueling Jewel's Mini Novas and Jairen's swordsmanship. The battle rages on, with no clear victor in sight. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, knowing that they are witnessing something historic, something that will be etched in their memories forever.

The arena falls silent, the only sound being the echoes of the recent attacks. Lady Ioanna stands tall, her armor gleaming in the light, her eyes gleaming with a hint of amusement. With three swift movements, she perfectly parries Jairen's sword, dissipates the Mini Nova attacks, and dispels Calico's spirit form, leaving only Caspian remaining.

The trio sits in stunned silence, their eyes wide with disbelief. Jairen's sword hangs limp in his hand, Jewel's fingers still glowing with residual energy, and Lani's eyes fixed on the spot where Calico once was. They all halt their attacks, their momentum lost in the face of Lady Ioanna's sudden counterattack.

Lady Ioanna dusts off her armor, her movements graceful and deliberate. She surveys the trio, her gaze lingering on each of them before speaking in a voice that sends shivers down their spines.

"You are... impressive. But still, no match for me."

The crowd holds its collective breath, sensing the shift in power. The trio's shock and awe are palpable, their minds racing to comprehend the queen's incredible display of skill. Caspian, the sole remaining spirit lion, lets out a low growl, as if sensing the tension. The stage is set for the next phase of the battle, with Lady Ioanna ready to take the offensive.

Caspian's thunderous roar echoes through the arena, and the crowd erupts into a frenzy of cheers and chants. The energy is electric, and the air is palpable with tension. Calico's spirit form begins to re materialize, its ethereal body glowing with a fierce light.

Lady Ioanna's eyes widen in surprise, her expression a mix of shock and admiration. She can't help but chuckle, a low, throaty sound that sends a shiver down the spines of the trio. "Well, well, well. It seems I've underestimated you all. You've got spirit, I'll give you that."

The crowd is on its feet, screaming and whistling as Calico fully materializes, its eyes blazing with determination. The spirit lion lets out a mighty roar, as if challenging Lady Ioanna to bring her best game. The queen's smile grows wider, her eyes glinting with excitement.

"Very well, let's see what you're truly capable of. Let's end this!"

The battle is far from over, and the crowd knows it. The tension is at an all time high, the energy in the arena crackling with anticipation. The trio, with Calico and Caspian by their side, prepares to face Lady Ioanna's counterattack, ready to give it their all.

Lani's eyes welled up with tears as she gazed at Calico and Caspian, her mind flashing back to the early days when they were just two tiny kittens. She remembers the first time she saw them, their tiny paws and curious eyes, their soft fur and playful antics. She recalls the countless hours she spent playing with them, training them, and caring for them.

As she visualizes their journey from kittenhood to their current majestic forms, her heart swells with pride and love. She thinks about the countless battles they've fought together, the struggles they've overcome, and the unbreakable bond they share.

The tears streaming down her face, Lani's voice trembles with emotion as she whispers, "My little ones... my precious Calico and Caspian... you've grown so strong, so brave... I'm so proud of you both!"

The crowd, sensing Lani's emotional moment, erupts in a chorus of "Awws" and applause, their hearts warmed by the tender moment. Even Lady Ioanna's expression softens, her eyes showing a glimmer of understanding and respect for the bond between Lani and her spirit lions.

Lady Ioanna, with a fierce determination in her eyes, charges towards Jairen, her sword at the ready. But before she can reach him, Jewel seizes the opportunity to strike, unleashing a slightly larger Nova ball that hurtles towards the queen.

The Nova ball strikes Lady Ioanna with immense force, sending her stumbling backward. Her eyes widen in surprise, and her sword arm wavers momentarily. The crowd gasps, sensing the shift in momentum.

Lady Ioanna quickly regains her composure, her gaze locking onto Jewel with a newfound intensity. "You think a little trick like that will save your friends?" she sneers. "I'll show you my true power!"

With a swift motion, Lady Ioanna redirects her attention to Jewel, her sword flashing in the light. Jewel, anticipating this move, readies herself for the incoming attack. The two engage in a fierce clash, their movements lightning-fast as they exchange blows.

The battle rages on, with Jairen, Lani, Calico, and Caspian watching anxiously, waiting for their chance to rejoin the fray. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, knowing that the outcome of this battle is far from certain.

Jairen, with his quick thinking and strategic mind, notices Jewel's struggle against Lady Ioanna's swordsmanship. He knows Jewel's strengths lie in her range attacks, not close combat. To even the odds, Jairen charges towards Lady Ioanna, his sword flashing in the light.

"Hey, Ioanna! Let's dance!" Jairen taunts, his eyes gleaming with determination.

Lady Ioanna, caught off guard by Jairen's sudden intervention, hesitates for a moment. Jewel takes advantage of the brief reprieve, leaping back to create distance and regroup.

With Jairen now engaging Lady Ioanna in close combat, Jewel readies her next Nova ball, her eyes fixed on the queen. Calico and Caspian, sensing the shift in momentum, let out a mighty roar, their energy boosting Jewel's powers.

The battle rages on, the trio working in perfect sync. Jairen keeps Lady Ioanna occupied, while Jewel prepares to unleash her next attack. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, the tension clear. Will the trio's teamwork be enough to take down the formidable Lady Ioanna?

The crowd's gasp is due to Jairen's audacity in addressing Lady Ioanna with the familiar name "Ioanna", omitting her title and honorific. It's a sign of disrespect, implying that Jairen doesn't recognize her authority or status.

Lady Ioanna's eyes flash with anger, her face set in a stern mask. She takes a step forward, her sword at the ready. "You dare to address me in such a manner, Jairen?" she says, her voice icy and commanding.

The crowd holds its breath, sensing the tension between the two. Jairen's bold move has raised the stakes, and the battle is about to intensify.

Lady Ioanna's sword slices through the air, missing Jairen's hair by mere inches as he ducks just in time. But she quickly gains the upper hand, using her agility and strength to deliver a swift sweep kick that sends Jairen crashing to the ground.

The crowd gasps as Jairen falls, his sword slipping from his grasp. Lady Ioanna stands over him, her sword raised, ready to strike. Jewel and Lani watch in horror, their eyes fixed on their fallen comrade.

Calico and Caspian, sensing their friend's distress, let out a fierce roar, their energy surging towards Jairen. The spirit lions' power envelops him, helping him to roll out of the way just as Lady Ioanna's sword comes down.

Jairen scrambles to his feet, his eyes locked on Lady Ioanna. "I'm not going down yet!" he declares, his determination evident in his voice. The crowd erupts in cheers, urging him on.

Jairen's ghost eye blazes to life, freezing time for a brief 3 seconds. In this momentary window, Jairen seizes the opportunity to unleash his secret technique. With a fierce cry, he unleashes a powerful punch, channeling his energy into a concentrated blast of air that sends Lady Ioanna flying across the arena.

“PULSE!!”

As time resumes, the crowd is left stunned, wondering what just happened. Lady Ioanna crashes to the ground, her eyes wide with shock, her sword slipping from her grasp. The crowd erupts into a chorus of gasps, whispers, and pointed fingers.

"What was that?!"

"How did he do that?!"

"Is that a new technique?!"

Jairen stands tall, his chest heaving with exertion, his ghost eye still aglow. "That, my friends, is Pulse!" he declares, a confident grin spreading across his face.

The crowd goes wild, sensing that the tide of the battle has shifted. Jewel and Lani exchange a look of awe, their eyes shining with excitement. Calico and Caspian let out a triumphant roar, their energy surging in celebration. The arena is electric with tension, the outcome of the battle hanging in the balance.

Jairen's thoughts flashback to his intense training session just three days prior, where he relentlessly practiced his time-stopping ability, honing his skills and building up his endurance. He recalls the countless punches he threw into thin air, perfecting the technique that would become his secret weapon, Pulse.

Back in the present, Jairen's mind races with doubts and uncertainty. "I know I can only do it with time stopped... there's still a chance that might not work though," he thinks to himself, his eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna as she struggles to get back to her feet.

Lani and Jewel watch in awe, their eyes darting between Jairen and Lady Ioanna. "How did he do that?!" Lani whispers, her voice barely audible. Jewel's eyes are wide with excitement, her mind racing with the possibilities.

Lady Ioanna, despite her struggles, manages to stand up, her eyes blazing with determination. "You may have landed a lucky hit, Jairen," she says, her voice steady, "but it won't happen again."

The crowd holds its collective breath, sensing the intensity of the battle. Jairen's Pulse technique has changed the dynamics of the fight, and everyone is eager to see what happens next. Will Jairen's new move be enough to take down Lady Ioanna, or will she find a way to counter it? The tension is palpable, the outcome hanging precariously in the balance.

Ito's eyes widen in shock as he watches the battle unfold on the screen in the advancement room. His expression darkens, a hint of anger creeping into his face. "How did he...?!" Ito mutters, his voice laced with disbelief.

Jack, sitting beside him, raises an eyebrow. "Looks like Jairen's got some tricks up his sleeve," he says, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Kael, on the other hand, looks concerned. "That's a lot of power for a single move. If Jairen can use that technique consistently, it could change the course of the battle."

Ito's eyes narrow, his mind racing with strategies and countermeasures. "We need to be prepared for anything. Jack, Kael, let's analyze Jairen's technique and find a way to counter it. We can't let him gain the upper hand like that again."

The three of them lean in, their eyes fixed on the screen as they dissect Jairen's Pulse technique, determined to find a way to counter it and secure Lady Ioanna's victory.

Lady Ioanna's eyes widen in shock as she gazes at the crater-like indentation on her chest plate, the armor cracked and broken. She reaches out a hand to touch it, and the damaged armor crumbles away, leaving her chest plate completely demolished.

The crowd gasps in unison as Lady Ioanna's armor falls away, revealing a sleek, long-sleeved shirt underneath. The once-formidable queen now stands exposed, her vulnerability evident.

Jairen's eyes widen in surprise, his mind racing with the implications. "That... that was one heck of a punch!" he exclaims, his voice laced with a mix of awe and concern.

Lani and Jewel watch with bated breath, their eyes fixed on Lady Ioanna's exposed form. "Is she... okay?" Lani whispers, her voice barely audible.

Lady Ioanna's face sets in determination, her eyes blazing with a fierce light. "Don't think this means I'm defeated," she growls, her voice low and menacing. "I'll show you my true power!"

The crowd holds its collective breath, sensing the battle is far from over. Lady Ioanna's exposed state may have left her vulnerable, but it's clear she's far from defeated. The question on everyone's mind: what will she do next?

The arena, silent as Lady Ioanna waves her sword, dispelling the remaining powers on the field. The trio sits in stunned disbelief, their minds struggling to process what just happened.

Lady Ioanna's expression softens, a hint of admiration in her voice. "Good job, you three. You advance."

Jairen's confusion is palpable, his eyes darting between Lady Ioanna and his friends. "Wait, what? Did we... Did we win?"

Lani and Jewel erupt into cheers, their faces beaming with joy. "We did it! We actually did it!" Lani exclaims, hugging Jairen and Jewel tightly.

The crowd, initially perplexed, joins in the celebration, their cheers and applause echoing through the arena. Some spectators look on in confusion, still trying to understand what transpired, but the infectious energy of the moment soon sweeps them up in the excitement.

As the trio basks in their unexpected victory, Lady Ioanna's expression turns introspective, her hand instinctively reaching for her chest. The realization dawns on her: Jairen's punch had indeed hurt her, perhaps more than she cared to admit. A hint of respect and curiosity creeps into her eyes as she gazes at Jairen, her mind already turning to the possibilities of their next encounter.

Lady Ioanna's thoughts are consumed by the prophecy, her advisor's words echoing in her mind like a warning bell. "A dual purple-eyed fighter... will hurt you, change your destiny..." She tries to shake off the feeling, telling herself it's mere superstition, but the image of Jairen's purple eyes and his devastating punch linger in her mind.

She recalls her initial dismissal of the prophecy, thinking it mere fantasy, but now she's not so sure. The old lady's words haunt her, refusing to be silenced. "Be weary..." The warning resonates deep within her, making her question her own fate.

As she gazes at Jairen, celebrating with his friends, Lady Ioanna's expression turns contemplative. She starts to wonder if the prophecy is indeed true, if Jairen is the one destined to alter her path. The thought sends a shiver down her spine, a mix of fear and curiosity coursing through her veins.

For the first time, Lady Ioanna sees Jairen in a different light, her mind racing with the possibilities. Is he the key to unlocking a new destiny, or a harbinger of doom? The uncertainty gnaws at her, for the first time in history, Lady Ioanna was scared.

Jairen strides into the advancement room, his team by his side, their faces beaming with pride. Ito, Jack, and Kael await them, their expressions a stark contrast. Ito's eyes are cast downward, a hint of humility washing over him. Jack and Kael, however, struggle to contain their amusement, their lips twitching with suppressed grins.

Jairen's gaze locks onto Ito, his eyes blazing with a quiet intensity. "Looks like the student has surpassed the master," Jairen says, his voice low and even.

Ito's eyes flicker up, a nod of acknowledgement his only response. Jack and Kael's restraint finally breaks, and they burst into laughter, their eyes shining with mirth.

"Well, well, well! Looks like Jairen's got the upper hand now!" Jack exclaims, his voice full of jest.

Kael chuckles, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Guess that Pulse technique was more than just a lucky shot!"

Jairen's expression remains stoic, but a hint of pride and satisfaction simmers beneath the surface. His team's cheers and congratulations fill the room, their joy infectious. Even Ito can't help but crack a small smile, his respect for Jairen evident in his eyes. The dynamics have shifted, and a new chapter in their rivalry has begun.

Ito extends his hand, and Jairen accepts, their handshake firm and respectful. Ito's eyes gleam with a newfound sense of rivalry, his mind already racing with strategies to surpass Jairen.

But Jairen's next words catch him off guard. "Ito, your real rival isn't me. It's yourself."

Ito's expression falters, confusion etched on his face. Jack, however, erupts into uncontrollable laughter, tears streaming down his face. "What are you?! An old man?! 'Your real rival is yourself'! Oh man, that's deep, Jairen!"

Kael chuckles, shaking his head. "Only you, Jairen, could make a rivalry sound like a philosophical crisis."

Jairen's expression remains serious, his eyes locked on Ito. "You have potential, Ito. But you need to confront your own limitations and doubts. That's the only way you'll truly grow stronger."

Ito's face sets in determination, his grip on Jairen's hand tightening. "You're right. I won't forget these words, Jairen. I'll surpass you, and I'll surpass myself."

The handshake ends, but the impact of Jairen's words lingers, a spark igniting within Ito's heart. The rivalry has evolved, and the stakes have grown higher.

Jairen glances at the clock on the wall, his brow furrowing in concern. "It's been an hour. The next fight should have started by now."

Lani and Jewel exchange worried glances, their minds racing with the possibilities. "Do you think something's wrong?" Lani asks, her voice laced with concern.

Jewel's eyes narrow, her gaze fixed on the door leading to the arena. "Maybe Lady Ioanna's not ready yet. Or maybe... something happened to her."

Jairen's expression turns serious, his mind racing with the implications. He recalls the intensity of their battle, the unexpected outcome. Could Lady Ioanna be injured? Or is something more sinister at play?

The trio's worries are interrupted by the sound of footsteps outside the room. The door slides open, and a security guard enters, a somber look on his face.

"Lady Ioanna has postponed the advancement indefinitely. She wishes to... regroup and recharge before continuing. The battles will resume when she is ready, and the students will still have the opportunity to face her and advance to the next league."

Jairen, Lani, and Jewel look at each other, a mix of relief and confusion on their faces. They knew that Lady Ioanna was a formidable opponent, but they didn't expect her to postpone the advancement stage.

"Well, that's a surprise," Jairen says, breaking the silence. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see when she's ready to continue."

Lani nods, her eyes still fixed on the guard. "Do you know what happened? Is she okay?"

The guard hesitates, his expression neutral. "I'm not at liberty to disclose that information. But rest assured, Lady Ioanna will return when she is ready."

“Well at least we passed”,Jairen says, the tension is broken, and the room fills with laughter.

"Indeed, we did!" Ito says with a chuckle, relieved that they had already advanced to the next round.

"Well, that was a close call!" Jack adds, shaking his head in disbelief.

Kael grins. "Yeah, but we made it out alive! And with a great story to tell!"

The group continues to chat and laugh, their spirits high despite the unexpected twist. They're all aware that Lady Ioanna's postponement is not just a minor setback, but they're choosing to focus on the positive for now.

As they talk, they start to speculate about what could have caused Lady Ioanna's sudden decision. Some think it might be related to her injuries, while others believe it could be something more personal.

But for now, they're just happy to have made it through the first round, and they're looking forward to the next challenge that awaits them.

The waiting game continues! Jairen and the others sit patiently, passing the time with small talk and occasional jokes. The tension is palpable, but they're all trying to stay relaxed and focused.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the door slides open and Shay walks in, his team by his side. The room erupts in a chorus of greetings, with Jairen, Ito, Jack, Kael, Lani, and Jewel all welcoming Shay and his team warmly.

"Hey, Shay! Long time no see!" Jairen says with a grin.

Shay smiles back, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "Jairen, my friend! Ready to take on the next challenge?"

The two teams chat and catch up, exchanging stories and strategies. The atmosphere is friendly, but beneath the surface, they all know that the next match will be intense.

As they talk, Lady Ioanna's attendant reappears, a hint of apology in his voice. "Sorry for the delay, everyone. The next match will begin shortly. Please, take your positions."

The teams nod, their expressions turning serious. It's time to focus and get ready to face whatever lies ahead.

“We didn’t even get the chance to face Lady Ioanna.” Shay's revelation sends shockwaves through the room! Jairen, Ito, Jack, Kael, Lani, and Jewel all stare at Shay in disbelief, their mouths agape.

"WHAT?!" they exclaim in unison, their voices echoing off the walls.

Shay and Melody burst out laughing, enjoying the stunned reactions. "Yeah, we were just as surprised!" Shay says, grinning. "I mean, we were all ready for a tough fight, and then... nothing!"

Melody chuckles. "Lady Ioanna just smiled and said we could advance to the next round. We didn't even get to show off our skills!"

The room erupts in a mix of laughter and disbelief, with the others still trying to wrap their heads around the unexpected twist. Jairen shakes his head, a smile spreading across his face.

"Well, I guess that's one way to get ahead in the rankings!" he says, chuckling.

Ito's eyes narrow, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Do you think she's saving her strength for the next round?"

Shay shrugs. "No idea, but we're not complaining! We'll take the free pass and run with it."

The group continues to chat and speculate, their excitement and anticipation building as they wait for the next match to begin.

The room erupts in a collective sigh of relief as Lady Ioanna's voice crackles through the intercom. "Finally!" they exclaim in unison, their faces filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

Shay and Melody hand Alumi a water bottle, concern still etched on their faces. "Drink up, Alumi. We need you hydrated and ready for anything."

Alumi takes a grateful sip, her eyes locked on the intercom as Lady Ioanna's voice continues to echo through the room. "The next team will face me in battle in 30 minutes. Get yourselves ready. I'm pretty sure this next match will be just as crazy."

The intercom comes on as Lady Ioanna’s voice rings through the arena and its speakers “The next team may come to the stage!”

The crowd erupts in cheers as Ruben, Duke, and Icarus make their way down the steps, their determination and excitement palpable. They fist bump and scream "YEAH!" This shows their unity and readiness for the battle ahead.

As they reach the center of the arena, the tension builds. Lady Ioanna's gaze meets theirs, her eyes gleaming with a hint of anticipation and challenge. The air is electric with suspense, the crowd holding their breath in anticipation of the battle to come.

The stage is set, the players are ready, and the queen's eyes seem to say, "Let's see what you're made of, Team 4!" The atmosphere is intense,the team’s nervousness is showing, but they won’t back down

2 Hours Later..

The door to the advancement room bursts open, and Ruben, Duke, and Icarus rush in, their faces flushed and sweaty, their breathing labored. They look like they've just gone through an intense battle, their eyes still gleaming with adrenaline.

They collapse onto the nearest seats, exhausted but exhilarated. "Woooh!" Duke exclaims, throwing his arms up in the air. "That was insane!"

Ruben grins, his eyes shining with pride. "We did it, team! We made it through!"

Icarus nods, still catching his breath. "Lady Ioanna's challenges are no joke, but we worked together and nailed it!"

The three friends share a triumphant high-five, their bond and camaraderie palpable. They've faced a tough test and emerged victorious, their spirits soaring.

The tension and excitement of the moment are suddenly released in a humorous way! Duke's laughter turns to a comical look of shock and disgust as he vomits on the floor, triggering a chain reaction of laughter from the others.

Jairen's "ewwww" is the first reaction, followed by a chorus of giggles and guffaws from the rest of the team. Ruben and Icarus burst out laughing, holding their stomachs in amusement.

The room erupts in a fit of laughter, the tension and stress of the battle forgotten in the face of Duke's unexpected and comedic relief.

The speaker books through the advancement room “May the next team come to the sta-“

The young boy bursts out of the bleachers, his eyes shining with determination. "I wanna challenge you! Face me!" he shouts, his voice carrying across the arena.

Lady Ioanna, seated in her throne-like chair, looks up at the boy with a mix of surprise and amusement. "And who are you, little one?" she asks, her voice echoing through the arena.

The boy doesn't hesitate, his voice ringing out across the arena: "There's someone there with the same last name as me, he's on Team 2! TELL ME WHO THEY ARE?!"

Lady Ioanna raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what's your last name?"

The boy's response is fierce and loud: "YARAGASHI!!!"

As he shouts, four pillars of fire erupt behind him, shooting straight up into the air with an intense roar, illuminating the arena!

The arena erupts in a chorus of gasps and shouts as the four pillars of fire burst forth behind the boy, illuminating his determined figure. The flames dance high into the air, casting flickering shadows on the walls.

Lady Ioanna's eyes narrow, her gaze fixed intently on the boy. "Yaragashi, you say?" she repeats, her voice measured. "Very well, I shall reveal the identity of the one who shares your last name."

She pauses, her eyes scanning the advancement room door. "Jairen Yaragashi, step forward!"

Jairen steps out of the advancement room, walking back onto the stage with a questioning look on his face. "What's going on here?"

Lady Ioanna gestures towards the boy, a hint of amusement in her voice. "It looks like you have a sibling wanting to challenge me, Jairen."

Jairen's eyes widen in surprise, his gaze fixed on the boy. "A sibling? What's your name, little guy?"

The boy's chest puffs out, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I AM SAGE YARAGASHI!!" he declares, his voice ringing out across the arena.

The crowd murmurs in excitement, sensing a dramatic showdown. Lady Ioanna's smile grows wider, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "Well, well, well. Looks like we have a family feud on our hands! Let's see how this plays out, shall we?"

Jairen's expression is a mix of shock, confusion, and curiosity, his eyes fixed on Sage. "Sage Yaragashi…”

Jairen's eyes widen as his mind races back to a long-forgotten memory. A flashback hits him like a ton of bricks:

He sees his older brother Yaro holding a tiny baby in his arms, protecting him from harm as their village is invaded. Jairen remembers the chaos, the fear, and the uncertainty.

His gaze snaps back to the present, and he stares at Sage with newfound understanding. "Wait a minute..." he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're... you're the baby Yaro was protecting. Our baby brother."

Sage's eyes flash with recognition, and he nods slightly. Lady Ioanna's smile grows even wider, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Ah, the plot thickens! Family reunions are always so... complicated."

Sage yells “I came to prove myself!, I’ll either fight her.. Or you.”

Jairen's eyes widen in disbelief as Sage declares his intention to challenge him. "What?! ME?! You're my brother, I wouldn't fight you!" he exclaims, his voice laced with confusion and concern.

Lady Ioanna intervenes, stepping down from her throne and placing a hand on Jairen's chest. "Go back, Jairen. You've already passed the test. I'll handle this."

Jairen hesitates, his mind racing with questions and doubts. He looks at Sage, his baby brother, and sees the determination and fire in his eyes. He can't understand why Sage would want to fight him, or what drove him to this point.

As he steps back, his eyes never leaving Sage's face, he whispers, "Sage, what's going on? Why are you doing this?"

But Sage doesn't respond, his gaze fixed on Lady Ioanna as she prepares to face him. Jairen's mind is a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts, struggling to make sense of this unexpected turn of events. Sage gains the courage to finally explain himself “If my brother is going to be in the advanced leagues I want to be in too, I will be the strongest there is!”

Lady Ioanna's eyes sparkle with amusement as she nods, "Wow, your family really has a determination thing going on! I like your spirit, Sage! Very well, let's see if you have what it takes to join the advanced leagues."

She cracks her knuckles, a hint of excitement in her voice. "But don't expect any special treatment just because you're Jairen's brother. You'll have to prove yourself worthy, just like he did."

Sage's face sets in a fierce determination, his eyes blazing with resolve. "I won't lose! I promise you!"

The crowd murmurs in anticipation, sensing a thrilling battle ahead. Jairen watches with a mix of concern and pride, his mind still reeling from the sudden turn of events. He can't help but wonder what drove Sage to this point, and what troubles his baby brother has gone through.

The air is electric with tension as Sage and Lady Ioanna lock eyes. The crowd holds its collective breath, sensing the intensity of the moment.

Sage's eyes burn with determination, his small chest heaving with excitement. Lady Ioanna's gaze is calm, yet piercing, her eyes seeming to bore into the young boy's very soul.

The silence is palpable, the only sound the soft crackling of the flames that still dance behind Sage. It's as if the very fabric of the arena is holding its breath, waiting for the battle to begin.

And then, in a flash of movement, Lady Ioanna raises her hand, and the air is filled with the sound of crackling energy. "Let's begin," she says, her voice dripping with anticipation.

The crowd erupts into cheers as the battle between the young boy with fire in his heart and the almighty ruler begins. The outcome is far from certain, but one thing is clear: only one can emerge victorious. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the fate of the advanced leagues hangs in the balance.