**Chapter 10: The Flame Sprint**

The following morning, Helios and the other contestants gathered at the training grounds, eager to find out what the day's challenge would be. Each day brought a new test, pushing them to grow stronger and more skilled. Despite the hardships, Helios felt himself becoming more in tune with his Sun Qi, and he was determined to keep improving.

As they assembled, the instructor stood before them, a calm yet serious expression on his face. Behind him, the training area had been transformed into a long, narrow track that stretched far into the distance. Alongside the track were rows of torches, their flames flickering in the early morning light.

"Today's challenge is called 'The Flame Sprint,'" the instructor announced. "This will test your speed, endurance, and control over your Sun Qi. You will be sprinting along this track, but there's a twist. The torches are infused with Sun Qi, and as you run, they will release bursts of flame. Your task is to reach the end of the track while avoiding these flames. Only those who can channel their Sun Qi to enhance their speed and agility will make it to the finish line."

Helios felt a jolt of excitement and nervousness. Sprinting through a gauntlet of flames sounded intense, but he was ready for the challenge. He glanced at his teammates, who were also gearing up for the run.

The instructor continued, "Remember, the flames are not ordinary fire. They are imbued with Sun Qi and will react to your energy. If you're not careful, the flames can burn you. Focus your Sun Qi to protect yourself and keep moving forward. If you get hit too many times or fall behind, you'll be disqualified."

Helios took a deep breath, calming his nerves. He had to stay focused. The real Solar Games were still years away, but every training session was crucial in preparing him for the ultimate challenge. He couldn't afford to lose focus now.

The contestants lined up at the start of the track, each one determined to give it their best. Helios positioned himself in the middle, his muscles tense and ready to spring into action. The instructor raised his hand, and with a sharp whistle, the Flame Sprint began.

Helios shot forward, his legs pumping hard as he raced down the track. The first few meters were easy, with no flames in sight. But soon, the torches on either side of the track began to glow brighter, and bursts of flame shot out toward the runners.

Helios quickly channeled his Sun Qi into his legs, feeling the energy surge through him. His speed increased, and he dodged the first burst of flame with ease. The heat was intense, but he stayed focused, keeping his eyes on the path ahead.

Around him, other contestants were also sprinting, some narrowly avoiding the flames, while others weren't as lucky. A few yelps of pain echoed down the track as runners were hit by the flames. Those who couldn't handle the heat were forced to slow down, and some were even knocked out of the race entirely.

Helios gritted his teeth, pushing himself harder. He could feel the heat of the flames on his skin, but he kept his Sun Qi flowing, using it to protect himself from the worst of the burns. His heart pounded in his chest, but he didn't slow down. He couldn't afford to.

As he neared the halfway point, the flames grew more intense, shooting out in rapid succession. Helios ducked and weaved, his reflexes sharp as he avoided the bursts of fire. But then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw Sylvi struggling. She had been hit by a flame, and her pace had slowed.

Helios hesitated for a split second, then made a decision. He couldn't leave his teammate behind. He veered toward Sylvi, slowing his pace just enough to reach her side.

"Come on, Sylvi, we can do this!" Helios shouted, offering her his hand.

Sylvi looked up, her face a mix of pain and determination. She grabbed Helios's hand, and together they started running again, with Helios helping to pull her along.

The flames continued to barrage them, but Helios focused his Sun Qi, creating a small shield around them. It wasn't perfect, but it was enough to deflect the worst of the flames as they sprinted toward the finish line.

The other contestants who had managed to stay ahead were already crossing the finish line, but Helios and Sylvi didn't give up. With one final burst of energy, they pushed through the last wave of flames and crossed the line together.

As they stumbled to a stop, both of them breathing heavily, the instructor approached. "Well done, Helios, Sylvi. You showed not only speed and endurance but also teamwork. The Solar Games are not just about individual strength but also about working together. Remember that."

Helios nodded, still catching his breath. He was exhausted, but he felt a sense of accomplishment. He had made it through the Flame Sprint, and he had helped a teammate along the way. 

As the day ended, the contestants gathered to reflect on their performance. Some were nursing burns, while others were simply tired from the intense sprint. But despite the challenges, everyone had learned something valuable.

Helios sat with his teammates, feeling a sense of camaraderie. They were all in this together, training hard for the chance to compete in the Solar Games. The road ahead was long, but with each passing day, they were getting closer to their goal.

As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the training grounds, Helios felt a renewed sense of determination. He knew that there would be more tough days ahead, but he was ready for them. With his friends by his side and his Sun Qi growing stronger, Helios was more determined than ever to become the next Sun Holder.