Chapter 22: The Thunderous Encounter

The morning sun cast its golden rays over the academy, illuminating the path to the grand arena where the tournament was set to unfold. Students moved in groups, their excitement and chatter filling the air. Among them were Alex and Crystal, walking in silence.

Crystal's expression was unreadable as usual, but Alex could tell from the slight tension in her posture that she was deep in thought.

"You ready for this?" Alex asked, breaking the silence.

Crystal's crimson eyes flicked toward him briefly before she gave a small nod. "Always."

As they neared the arena, a sudden flash of lightning and a sharp crack of thunder startled the crowd. A young man appeared before them, his feet sparking with energy. His presence was commanding, his aura brimming with confidence and power.

It was Marcus, one of the elite students from the Alpha class. Known for his mastery of the Thunder Tay, Marcus had a reputation for being both skilled and arrogant.

"Crystal Heart," Marcus said, his voice cold and condescending. He crossed his arms, his sharp eyes fixed on her. "I was wondering when I'd run into you."

Crystal's gaze remained steady, but Alex noticed her jaw tighten ever so slightly.

Marcus took a step forward, his expression darkening. "You've got a lot of nerve showing your face here after what happened. Everyone knows you're the reason your mission failed. If it weren't for you, my friends would still be alive."

Crystal didn't respond, her pale face devoid of emotion.

"Got nothing to say, huh?" Marcus sneered. "Of course not. You're nothing but a coward who hides behind her so-called rare Tay. The academy may have turned a blind eye, but I won't. You're a disgrace."

Alex felt anger bubbling inside him. He stepped forward, his voice steady but firm. "That's enough. You don't know the full story."

Marcus turned his gaze to Alex, his lips curling into a smirk. "And who are you? Her pet? Don't stick your nose where it doesn't belong, Epsilon."

Before Alex could retort, Marcus raised his fist, lightning crackling around it. "People like her don't deserve mercy," he snarled, aiming his strike at Crystal.

In a blur of motion, Alex intercepted him, grabbing Marcus's wrist mid-strike. The lightning dissipated as Alex's grip tightened.

"Don't you think it's pathetic to pick a fight with someone you already outclass in strength?" Alex said, his voice calm but laced with warning.

Marcus's smirk faltered, his eyes narrowing. He yanked his hand back, glaring at Alex. "You've got some nerve," he growled.

Crystal, who had been silent, stepped forward and placed a hand on Alex's shoulder. Her touch was light, but it carried a silent message.

"This isn't your fight," she said softly.

Alex hesitated, his gaze meeting hers. After a moment, he stepped back, releasing Marcus.

Crystal turned to face Marcus, her red eyes blazing with an intensity that made even him falter for a split second. "If you have a problem with me, we'll settle it in the tournament," she said, her voice cold and unwavering.

Marcus sneered. "Fine by me. But don't expect mercy, Crystal. You'll regret ever stepping foot back here."

With that, he disappeared in a flash of lightning, leaving behind the faint smell of ozone.

Alex exhaled slowly, his muscles relaxing. "You sure about this?" he asked Crystal.

Crystal nodded, her gaze distant. "This is my fight, Alex. I have to face it."

Alex studied her for a moment before nodding. "Alright. But if you need help, you know where to find me."

For the first time, Crystal's expression softened slightly, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks."

The two continued their journey to the grand arena. The tension from the encounter still lingered in the air, but as they reached the arena's massive gates, the electrifying energy of the crowd and the sheer magnitude of the event pushed the moment aside.

Inside, the arena was alive with excitement. Students filled the stands, their cheers echoing through the space. Holographic screens displayed the day's matchups, and the announcer's voice boomed over the sound system, hyping up the crowd.

Crystal tightened her fists, her resolve hardening. She knew this tournament wasn't just a test of skill—it was her chance to prove her worth, to silence those who doubted her and ridiculed her for the failed mission.

Alex walked beside her, his own determination burning quietly. He didn't know the full story of what had happened on Crystal's mission, but he trusted her. He had seen something in her that others hadn't, and he wasn't about to let her face the ridicule alone.

As they moved toward the preparation area, Alex couldn't help but glance at Crystal. She was composed, her expression calm but her eyes sharp. He knew she was ready to face whatever came her way.

The Second day of the tournament was about to begin, and the stakes had never felt higher.

Unbeknownst to them, in the shadows of the arena, whispers about "Epsilon Shadow" were still spreading. Students and staff alike were buzzing with speculation, and some wondered if the mysterious player would reveal themselves during the tournament.

Even though some of them where already thinking that maybe it could be Alex, because he was the only that use the black shadowy stuff in his previous match against Sarah.

For now, though, Alex and Crystal had their focus set. They were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that this tournament was only the beginning of a much larger battle.