Chapter 15: Trial by Combat

Scene 1: The Training Grounds

Alistair arrived early at the Imperial Academy's training grounds, eager to assess the skills of the other students and to measure his own progress. The grounds were expansive, with separate areas for swordsmanship, magic, and aura training. A few students were already practicing, their aura flaring as they pushed themselves through drills.

Alistair chose a secluded spot and drew Kurokaji, feeling the familiar weight of the blade. He focused on channeling his aura into the weapon, black flames flickering along the edge. Today, he planned to push his abilities further, aiming to master Nightfall Slash, one of the sword's signature techniques.

As he swung the sword in a fluid motion, a wave of black flames shot forward, leaving a trail of charred earth. The power behind the strike brought a slight smile to Alistair's lips—his training with the mentor had paid off, but he knew he still had a long way to go.

Just as he prepared for another strike, a shadow fell across him. Alistair turned to see Cedric watching with a curious expression.

"You've got an impressive blade there, Alistair," Cedric said, his tone carrying a mix of admiration and challenge. "But raw power won't be enough here. You'll need more than that if you want to survive the academy."

Scene 2: A Heated Challenge

Alistair sheathed Kurokaji, meeting Cedric's gaze evenly. "If you've come to lecture me, you'll be wasting your breath."

Cedric chuckled, drawing his own twin blades. They gleamed in the morning light, the intricate runes along their edges hinting at enchantments. "Lecture you? No. I think a demonstration would be more appropriate. How about a duel?"

The challenge in Cedric's eyes was unmistakable, and a small crowd of students began to gather around them, eager to see the clash between the Agarest and Kylith heirs. Alistair felt the familiar thrill of competition surge within him—this was a chance to test himself, to prove his strength.

"I accept," Alistair replied, a cold smile forming. "But don't expect me to hold back."

Scene 3: The Duel Begins

The two young nobles faced each other in the center of the training grounds, the air thick with anticipation. Headmaster Leon had arrived, observing from a distance, his expression unreadable. He had allowed the duel to proceed, seeing it as an opportunity to evaluate the new arrivals' potential.

"Begin!" a senior student called out, signaling the start of the duel.

Cedric moved first, his twin blades flashing as he unleashed a flurry of strikes. His movements were precise and elegant, each swing of his swords flowing seamlessly into the next. Alistair parried the attacks with Kurokaji, his red eyes focused on analyzing Cedric's technique.

Alistair countered with a swift horizontal slash, his black flames surging forth. Cedric twisted out of the way, his blades deflecting the flames with a burst of his own aura. The crowd gasped at the intensity of their clash, the training grounds alight with flashes of red and black energy.

Despite Cedric's skill, Alistair could feel the advantage tipping in his favor. His aura burned hotter, and with each strike, he forced Cedric back a step. It wasn't long before Cedric found himself on the defensive, struggling to keep up with the relentless assault.

"You're strong, but you lack the killer's instinct," Alistair taunted, pressing the attack. "You've never faced true life-or-death battles."

Cedric's expression tightened, and he responded with a surge of energy, his blades crossing to unleash a powerful shockwave. Alistair gritted his teeth and braced against the impact, but his stance held firm. He retaliated with Nightfall Slash, sending a wave of black flames toward Cedric.

Scene 4: A Rivalry Solidified

The impact of Alistair's attack forced Cedric to his knees, his twin blades barely managing to deflect the flames. The crowd fell silent, stunned by the ferocity of the duel. Alistair approached, his sword pointed at Cedric's throat.

"It's over" Alistair said, his voice cold and unyielding.

Cedric looked up, his pride wounded but his resolve unbroken. After a moment, he lowered his blades and nodded. "I yield... but don't think this is over, Alistair. I'll get stronger, and next time, I'll be the one standing over you."

Alistair withdrew his sword, offering Cedric a hand. Cedric hesitated, then accepted the gesture, rising to his feet with a determined expression. The two locked eyes, and despite their clash, there was a mutual understanding—each saw the other as a rival who would push them to new heights.

As the crowd dispersed, Headmaster Leon approached, his expression thoughtful. "Well fought, both of you. But remember, true strength isn't just about winning duels. It's about knowing when to hold back... and when to unleash your power."

Alistair nodded, absorbing the headmaster's words. As he watched Cedric walk away, he felt a newfound respect for his rival—along with a determination to ensure that he remained ahead.

"Let's see if you can catch up, Cedric," Alistair muttered to himself, feeling the fire of competition reignite within him. "Because I have no intention of slowing down."