Life Gallery 20 - Academic vs Superpower

Scene: Let the Battle Commence

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – DAY

The grand arena of St. Alaric Academy is alive with energy, buzzing with the roar of thousands of voices. The stands are packed to the edges with students, faculty, and VIP guests. Banners of red and blue representing the Superpower and Academic branches hang high, waving proudly as both factions shout their support. The cheers, chants, and occasional taunts echo against the arena walls, amplifying the fierce tension hanging in the air.

The fighters from both branches step into the arena's center, facing each other in a line, with Yue Monarchy Gentoshi and John Smith leading on each side. Beside Yue stands Ludociel Vanderbilt, her serene face a sharp contrast to her steely resolve. Lysander is her Academic counterpart, his face set in a smirk. The pairs align—Kimhyun Narukami across from Alexei, Shizuka Maidono facing off against Eric Liu, and Drole towering before Angela. They all exchange firm, determined looks, hands extended for a respectful shake.

Zing Zing, the Academy's spirited announcer, struts to the center, her voice booming through the speakers with practiced intensity.

Zing Zing (energetic, into the mic): "Ladies and gentlemen! We're here to witness one of the most historic clashes in St. Alaric Academy's history! Today, champions from both the Superpower and Academic branches will face off to represent not just their skills, but the heart and soul of their branches!"

The crowd erupts, their cheers mixed with taunts and laughter as each side fires verbal jabs at the other.

CUT TO: SUPERPOWER BRANCH STUDENTS

In the Superpower Branch stands, students shout their confidence, their voices fierce and impassioned. Many wear banners with Yue's emblem or have painted streaks of blue and silver on their faces.

Superpower Students (shouting, fists raised):

"Our King's gonna crush them!"

"Yue's the strongest in this school—no one stands a chance!"

"Go, Ludociel! Show them what real power looks like!"

CUT TO: ACADEMIC BRANCH STUDENTS

Across the arena, the Academic Branch students jeer back, filled with determination and pride. Many of them wear their branch's emblem proudly, flaunting it to the opposing side.

Academic Students (calling out with defiance):

"You're going down today, Superpowers!"

"Let's see how your 'strength' holds up against real innovation!"

"Alexei, show them how it's done!"

CUT TO: VIP SECTION

The VIP section is filled with notable figures from the world of hunters and academia. Hendrickson Vanderbilt, Guild Master of the prestigious Knights of Orleans, sits with a dignified, watchful expression, his gaze flicking to Ludociel with keen interest. Beside him sits Griffin Discordia, the powerful Guild Mistress of Cloud Tower, her demeanor cool and poised, her attention sharp.

CUT TO: ENTRANCE

A new wave of murmurs and awe flows through the crowd as Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi, Chief Manager of GGG, enters. He strides confidently, greeting the audience with a calm wave as he takes his place. Liam's gaze lingers on the Academic branch fighters, each clad in GGG-sponsored gear, his pride evident.

Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi (addressing the crowd, proudly): "Today, GGG Corporation is honored to sponsor the Academic Branch's weapons and armor, designed to push the limits of strength and resilience. Every piece is a fusion of technology and precision, proof of how far innovation can elevate human potential. May the best fighters win!"

The Academic students cheer louder, inspired by Liam's words, while the Superpower students respond with defiant shouts, their loyalty unwavering.

BACK TO: ZING ZING

Zing Zing (grinning as she takes in the fervor of the crowd): "Now, as you all can see, today's fight isn't just about skills! It's about pride, innovation, tradition, and power! Are you all ready?"

The arena shakes with the roar of the crowd, both sides chanting, their voices mixing in a chaotic symphony of support and rivalry.

BACK TO: ARENA FLOOR

Each fighter steps forward, facing their designated opponent:

Yue Monarchy Gentoshi and John Smith lock gazes, both calm and composed, each a silent testament to their respective branch's might.Ludociel offers Lysander a courteous nod, her face resolute as her wings unfurl slightly, revealing her supernatural poise.Kimhyun Narukami, in his half-wolf form, meets Alexei with a grin, both competitors' eyes gleaming with anticipation.Shizuka Maidono and Eric Liu shake hands with a shared look of determination, a silent promise of mutual respect.Drole and Angela exchange intense glances, the air around them charged as they prepare to battle.

Yue (calm, with a hint of formality): "May the best branch emerge victorious."

John (nodding, a slight smirk): "Agreed. Let's make this a fight worth remembering."

As each pair separates, Zing Zing's voice fills the arena one last time.

Zing Zing (her tone now serious, commanding): "Before we begin, fighters, we ask you to take the oath—an oath to honor this match, to uphold the spirit of competition, and to accept the results with respect, no matter the outcome."

The fighters place their fists over their hearts, their voices unified as they recite the oath together.

Fighters (in unison): "We stand here with respect for our branch, our rivals, and ourselves. Win or lose, we will honor the result of this battle and carry our pride with dignity."

With their vow declared, the fighters separate, each moving to their designated spot in the arena.

Zing Zing (calling out, voice filled with excitement): "And with that, let the Battle of Branches… BEGIN!"

With a thunderous cheer from the crowd, the fighters take their stances, each preparing to showcase their skills, their loyalty, and their resolve in the ultimate clash for their branch's honor.

Scene: Academic Branch vs Superpower Branch - The King vs the Marine

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – MORNING

The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as the fighters make their way back to their seats. The massive arena seems even more packed as students lean over the edges of their seats, the entire academy holding its breath for the first clash. Zing Zing, the academy's lively announcer, takes center stage, her voice reverberating across the arena.

Zing Zing (grinning, voice booming): "Alright, ladies and gentlemen! It's time for the first showdown in the Battle of Branches!"

The crowd erupts in cheers and chants, each side rallying behind their fighters.

Zing Zing (raising her hand to quiet the crowd): "Our opening match is one of the most anticipated clashes in the academy's history! Representing the Academic Branch, wearing the Abyssal Marine Armor, we have… JOHN SMITH!"

As John strides into the center of the arena, the sight of his towering figure encased in the Abyssal Marine Armor sends waves of astonishment through the crowd. The armor's powerful frame gleams under the arena lights, its crimson finish almost intimidating, exuding strength and purpose. Academic students cheer wildly, while some Superpower Branch students look on with narrowed eyes, a touch of unease creeping in.

In the VIP box, Hendrickson Vanderbilt and Griffin Discordia exchange surprised glances, taking in the sight of the cutting-edge armor. Even they seem momentarily taken aback by the GGG Corporation's impressive feat of engineering.

Hendrickson (whispering to Griffin, impressed): "That armor… GGG outdid themselves with this one. It's like watching a machine of war come to life."

Beside them, Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi smirks, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes as he observes the armor that his corporation provided.

Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi (addressing the crowd with a proud smile): "The Abyssal Marine Armor, sponsored by GGG, crafted to push physical limits to the extreme. A new standard in battle technology, combining power, agility, and resilience."

The Academic Branch students roar in pride, while Superpower Branch students exchange worried murmurs.

But then, a voice rings out over the chatter. Yue Monarchy Gentoshi, the King of the Superpower Branch, grins as he steps into the arena, unarmed and relaxed, looking almost casual in comparison to John's armored form.

Yue (grinning, calling out): "Oh? The Abyssal Marine Armor? So, the twins actually think they can challenge me? This'll be fun."

Zing Zing (nodding excitedly): "And his opponent, the King of the Superpower Branch, known for his unrivaled speed and deadly precision… YUE MONARCHY GENTOSHI!"

The Superpower Branch erupts in cheers, chanting Yue's name in a wave of fervent support.

Superpower Students (shouting):

"Our King! Yue will crush them!"

"Show them what real power looks like, Yue!"

Zing Zing (voice filled with gravity): "Before we begin, fighters, take the oath. This is a test of skill and spirit. By entering this match, you pledge to respect the result, no matter the outcome."

The arena goes silent as John and Yue place their fists over their hearts, reciting the oath together, their voices carrying over the hushed crowd.

John and Yue (in unison): "We stand here with respect for our branch, our rivals, and ourselves. Win or lose, we will honor the result of this battle and carry our pride with dignity."

With the oath declared, the arena feels the weight of their commitment. The two competitors step back, each taking their stance. The anticipation in the air is electric.

Zing Zing (grinning widely): "And now… LET THE BATTLE BEGIN!"

With a sharp crack of energy, the match is on.

The arena roars as John's Abyssal Marine Armor rockets into motion, blasting forward in a surge of energy. The powerful engines roar, propelling him toward Yue with blistering speed. For a moment, he feels the thrill of power and confidence surge through him, his mind racing with determination.

John (thinking): "Lysander and Angela warned me—Yue is ruthless, the strongest in this school. They crafted this armor to give me a fighting chance, to counter his power. I have to take him down before he…."

Suddenly, John's rush comes to a jarring halt. The engines still roar, but he feels himself locked in place, as though an invisible force is holding him midair. His heart pounds as he realizes what's happened.

Yue (smirking, crossing his arms as he watches John's helpless struggle): "Rushing me head-on? Nice idea, but pointless."

With a flick of his wrist, Yue unleashes his telekinesis, and John's armor is violently yanked backward as if it were weightless. He crashes to the ground with a force that echoes across the arena. The audience gasps, watching in awe and dread as Yue moves with terrifying speed, crossing the distance in an instant to where John lies stunned.

Yue (smirking, crouching over the fallen figure): "You're not the only one who can rush, John."

With one fluid motion, Yue's fist drives through the reinforced exoskeleton, the Abyssal Marine Armor crumpling under his strength as though made of paper. John struggles to comprehend what's happening as Yue grabs hold of him, tearing him bloodily from the armor's remains.

Yue (grinning, tilting his head): "Impressive armor. But nowhere near enough to challenge me."

He tosses John aside as if discarding something insignificant. The audience murmurs in shock, some Academic Branch students looking horrified as they see their champion's grand armor left in shattered pieces. The Superpower Branch students cheer, exhilarated by Yue's overwhelming display of dominance.

Yue (nonchalantly): "So, now that your toy is gone, the Hard Taping Custom will heal you soon enough. Got any better ideas?"

John (struggling to breathe, eyes wide with fear): "I... I..."

Yue looks down at him, the briefest flicker of disappointment flashing in his eyes. His voice is calm but holds a note of boredom, as if the fight has already lost its intrigue.

Yue (sighing): "Haizz... This is it? I thought the twins had some brilliant plan. But no, just a flashy decoy. At least if Lysander, Angela, or Alexei had been in this fight, it might've been… interesting."

He fixes John with a sharp, almost pitying look, his voice dropping to a softer tone.

Yue: "Look, just surrender. Leave while you still can. Fighting you isn't worth my time."

John's breaths come in shallow, terrified gasps. He stares at Yue, caught between the impulse to keep fighting and the realization of how utterly outmatched he is. The crowd watches, breath held, as Yue's casual indifference seems more menacing than any display of force.

John, bloodied and shaken, glances around at the crowd, the cheers from his branch now replaced with silence and worried murmurs. His heart pounds as he looks back at Yue, who stands there, arms crossed, looking unimpressed and even slightly bored.

Yue tilts his head, raising an eyebrow.

Yue (smirking): "Still standing? Impressive, but it's pointless. Surrender now, and save yourself any more humiliation."

John's gaze drops to his broken armor lying in pieces around him. The weight of reality settles in, and he realizes that without his armor, there's no chance. Even with it, he hadn't been able to get close. The pride he felt walking into the arena, surrounded by his Academic Branch peers, now feels like a distant memory.

He takes a deep breath, forcing himself to accept the situation.

John (voice quiet but steady): "I... surrender."

The crowd goes silent, and after a moment, a low murmur sweeps through the audience as Zing Zing's voice booms over the speakers.

Zing Zing (announcing): "And there you have it, folks! John Smith of the Academic Branch concedes, making Yue Monarchy Gentoshi the victor of this first match!"

The crowd erupts, with the Superpower Branch cheering and chanting for their king. As John limps back to his side, he's met with pats on the shoulder and supportive nods from his branch. But the sting of defeat lingers as he realizes just how wide the gap between them truly is.

Scene: The Victory Aftermath

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA CAFETERIA – LUNCHTIME

The Superpower Branch corner of the arena cafeteria is buzzing with laughter, cheers, and excited chatter. Students are practically celebrating as they replay the highlights of the morning match, Yue's overwhelming victory fresh in their minds. Groups of students sit around tables, faces alight with pride and excitement as they revel in the Academic Branch's humiliation.

Student 1 (grinning): "Our King didn't just beat him—he crushed him! That 'Abyssal Marine Armor' was supposed to be the Academic Branch's best, and Yue made it look like scrap!"

Student 2 (mocking): "Guess all that fancy tech can't save you when real power's involved. They threw their best at us, and look what happened. Who's next?"

Student 3 (with a smirk): "If that was their strongest, what chance do they have against Ludociel, or Kimhyun? They're kidding themselves if they think they can win!"

The group bursts into laughter again, the sound echoing across the room. Across the cafeteria, a few students from the Academic Branch overhear, their faces reddening with anger. The mocking laughter fuels their resentment, and they exchange frustrated glances, muttering among themselves.

In the Academic Branch's corner, the Academic Branch students' frustration is evident as they gather, whispering and scowling. Their pride has taken a hit, and whispers of doubt linger in the air. Just then, Ludociel, the Queen of the Superpower Branch, approaches with her usual calm and graceful composure. She steps forward, her presence commanding their attention, and gestures for silence.

Ludociel (calm but firm): "Enough of this, everyone. I understand the excitement, but don't forget that we're here for our education, not to fuel petty rivalries. We're one academy, and these fights should be respected for what they are—a test of skill, not a declaration of superiority."

The Superpower Branch students quiet down, some looking chastened, while others still bristle with pride. Ludociel continues, her tone unwavering.

Ludociel (her voice steady): "Yue's victory today was his. He earned it through his own strength and discipline. But that doesn't mean his victory is a reflection on the rest of us. If anything, his performance shows us how far we still have to go if we want to be on his level."

The students listen, her words sinking in as they begin to realize the gap between themselves and their King. She turns to the crowd with a serious expression.

Ludociel (gently but firmly): "Focus on your training, improve yourselves, and avoid getting lost in this rivalry. Yue's strength is his own, and we each have our own paths to follow."

A student in the back raises a hand, his face curious and slightly hesitant.

Student (calling out): "Queen, who are you fighting in the match?"

Ludociel's gaze shifts toward him, a hint of a smile playing on her lips as she considers her answer. She speaks with calm conviction.

Ludociel: "I'll be facing Lysander Chocolate Gentoshi—a member of Yue's court and a Gentoshi, just like our King. Lysander is far from an easy opponent. We've fought side-by-side against the Eagle Step guild, so I know firsthand what he brings to a fight."

Murmurs ripple through the crowd, as some students realize the challenge she's up against. Ludociel looks around, her gaze encouraging yet filled with purpose.

Ludociel (raising her voice slightly): "So, take this as motivation. Each victory in this match will be hard-earned, no matter who we face. If you want to stand as equals to Yue, or anyone on his level, then let today be a reminder. Dedicate yourselves fully, and we'll grow stronger, not just as individuals but as a branch."

A sense of resolve spreads among the students as Ludociel's words sink in, and the lunch hour ends with quieter, more focused conversations. The rivalry may still linger, but the students now feel a renewed commitment to proving themselves through strength and discipline, just as their Queen advised.

Scene: Academic Branch vs Superpower Branch - The Queen and A Thousand Swords

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ARENA – AFTERNOON

The arena buzzes with anticipation, the crowd's energy still electrified by Yue's earlier victory. Superpower Branch students cheer boisterously, waving banners and chanting Ludociel's name with pride. They're certain their Queen will dispatch her opponent quickly, especially when facing "a nerd like Lysander." The Academic Branch fans, however, watch quietly, their eyes sharp and attentive. Even in their silence, there's an air of restrained confidence.

CUT TO: SUPERPOWER BRANCH STUDENTS

Superpower Students (excitedly):

"Our Queen's going to handle that bookworm in seconds!"

"She's light itself—what chance does a tech nerd like him have?"

"Go, Ludociel! Show him why you're the Queen!"

CUT TO: ZING ZING

Zing Zing, the academy's animated announcer, gestures toward the center of the arena as her voice echoes across the stands.

Zing Zing (calling out with enthusiasm): "Alright, everyone! It's time for the second match! Representing the Superpower Branch, our very own Queen, the radiant light manipulator—LUDOCIEL VANDERBILT!"

Ludociel steps forward, her form cloaked in a warm, ethereal light that swirls around her like a halo. She lifts her chin, a confident smile on her face as she glances toward the opposite side of the arena, where her opponent will soon emerge. She knows Lysander is skilled, but she's prepared to meet him head-on.

The Superpower Branch students cheer louder, their enthusiasm growing as Ludociel's light intensifies, casting a soft glow over the arena.

CUT TO: ARENA DOORS

Suddenly, as the doors to the Academic Branch fighter open, an unexpected darkness descends over the arena. The cheers falter, and an uneasy silence fills the air as the once-bright sky above them grows dim, almost ominous. From the gathering shadows, thousands—no, hundreds of thousands—of shimmering, winged swords manifest, hovering in a mesmerizing, eerie pattern that fills the sky like a glittering galaxy. The sight leaves even the most seasoned spectators wide-eyed.

CUT TO: VIP SECTION

Hendrickson Vanderbilt and Griffin Discordia lean forward in their seats, their usually composed expressions stunned by the sheer magnitude of Lysander's preparation.

Hendrickson (astonished): "That… that's an army of magic swords."

Griffin (murmuring, impressed): "With this kind of firepower, that weapon is bordering on S-rank potential."

CUT TO: LYSANDER

Lysander steps into the arena, a pleased smile playing on his lips as he surveys the effect his entrance has had on the crowd and his opponent alike. He casually raises his wand, Azure, the source of the innumerable swords floating above. His gaze meets Ludociel's as he gives her a polite nod, his tone light and playful.

Lysander (grinning): "Ah, my dear Queen! I didn't expect us to be opponents so soon… or, honestly, at all."

Ludociel stands firm, but her eyes widen slightly at the sight above her. She knows Lysander well, but this display is far beyond anything she's seen from him.

Ludociel (incredulous): "What… what is this, Lysander?"

Lysander chuckles softly, his eyes gleaming as he explains.

Lysander (raising his wand): "You remember my lovely Azure? It's a B-ranked wand capable of generating B-ranked magic swords. Each sword might lack durability, but its sharpness is formidable. And though creating each one is draining, controlling them once they're formed? That's a different story altogether."

The Superpower Branch crowd's enthusiasm dims slightly as murmurs spread among them, recognizing the tactical advantage such a weapon holds.

CUT TO: YUE IN THE SUPERPOWER BRANCH STANDS

Yue crosses his arms, his expression a mix of frustration and reluctant admiration.

Yue (grumbling to himself): "So, it's true. They went easy in my match to save this trick for Ludociel. I thought I'd have some fun with my dear cousin… clever move, Lysander."

CUT TO: LYSANDER AND LUDOCIEL IN THE ARENA

Lysander (grinning wider): "I've spent the entire week preparing for this match, Queen. My Azure may only be B-ranked, but a hundred thousand B-ranked attacks add up, don't you think? I'm curious… one S-rank versus a hundred thousand B-ranks. Which do you think will prevail?"

Ludociel takes a breath, centering herself. She has never backed down from a challenge, and today won't be the exception. She meets Lysander's gaze, her eyes filled with resolve.

CUT TO: ZING ZING

Zing Zing, momentarily stunned by the display, quickly regains her composure, lifting the mic with practiced poise as she addresses the fighters.

Zing Zing (clearing her throat): "Well, this is certainly shaping up to be an unforgettable clash! But first, let's remember the oath, fighters. By entering this match, you pledge to respect the result, no matter the outcome."

CUT TO: LUDOCIEL AND LYSANDER

They place their fists over their hearts, their voices steady as they recite the oath together, though each wears a different expression—Lysander's confident and amused, Ludociel's resolute and undeterred.

Ludociel and Lysander (in unison): "We stand here with respect for our branch, our rivals, and ourselves. Win or lose, we will honor the result of this battle and carry our pride with dignity."

With the oath declared, they each take their stances, tension rising as the air around them crackles with energy.

Zing Zing (voice booming): "And now… LET THE BATTLE BEGIN!"

The crowd explodes into cheers as the match officially starts. Ludociel summons her light, surrounding herself in a protective glow, her wings unfurling gracefully as she prepares for the onslaught. Above her, the thousands of swords begin to glint and pulse, ready to descend at Lysander's command.

Ludociel tightens her grip on her rapier, her golden triskelion blazing as she prepares her attack.

Ludociel (thinking, determined): "I didn't want to go all out, but if you've prepared this much, I can't hold back."

She raises her hand, summoning a brilliant, focused beam of light from the triskelion emblem, aiming directly at Lysander.

Ludociel (shouting): "Take this! Sparking Drive!"

The beam surges toward him, slicing through the shadows with blinding brilliance. But as it nears Lysander, a dense black barrier appears, absorbing the light effortlessly. Ludociel's eyes widened in disbelief.

Lysander (mocking, calm): "Light's fast, but it's predictable. It can't directly damage anything—you either heat it up or use it to set up other attacks. But its true flaw? Shadows and darkness absorb it completely. Did you forget that?"

Ludociel grits her teeth, barely able to contain her frustration.

Lysander (raising his wand, voice commanding): "Now, my turn. Dandelion."

With a single command, the spectral swords rain down toward Ludociel like a merciless storm. She leaps into the air, her wings unfurling as she tries to dodge, her rapier flashing as she deflects what she can. But there are too many; several blades slice through, grazing her armor and cutting through her defenses.

Ludociel (wincing in pain): "Such overwhelming preparation…"

In desperation, she summons her Sanctuary, a crystal-like octahedron that envelops her in a protective shield. The rain of swords halts as Lysander smirks, his weapons hovering around her, poised like a pack of wolves ready to strike.

Lysander (smirking, taking a bite of chocolate): "Predictable, Queen. That crystal shield of yours is tough, but maintaining it drains your mana faster than it does mine. I can keep this up as long as I need." 

As he talked, he took out a chocolate bar and ate.

Lysander (grinning) "Magic chocolate bar to refill mana. Want to wait a few days to see who drops first?"

Ludociel's frustration mounts as she realizes how deeply he's prepared. But her eyes narrow with renewed resolve.

Ludociel (thinking): "If light won't break through… then I'll have to close the gap."

Summoning every ounce of her remaining strength, Ludociel lets out a burst of energy, unleashing Flashing Light. The arena fills with a blinding radiance as she propels herself forward, her figure a streak of light slicing toward Lysander.

Ludociel (thinking, determined): "He's smart, but he's underestimated my strength. He's not physically strong, and he's left himself wide open."

Ludociel's rapier gleams as she raises it, aiming directly at Lysander's chest, ready to strike the decisive blow.

Ludociel (yelling): "I win here, Lysander!"

But her rapier slices through empty air as Lysander's figure shimmers and vanishes, leaving her stunned mid-strike.

Ludociel (startled): "What…? Where did he—"

Lysander (voice echoing): "Dandelion!"

The illusion fades, and the real Lysander stands at a distance, grinning as he gestures, commanding his swords to surround Ludociel. Before she can react, they descend upon her from all sides, piercing her defenses with relentless precision.

Lysander observes her struggle, holding up two small vials filled with strange chemicals.

Lysander (grinning, explaining): "I anticipated your every move, my dear Queen. Red Fury 03 and Blue Fear 07—chemicals used to manipulate emotions like anger and fear. When combined, they create illusions, and I've used spores to spread their effects through my swords." He chuckles. "A perfect illusory stage, wouldn't you say?"

Zing Zing watches the conclusion in awe, quickly recovering to announce the results.

Zing Zing (calling out): "And the victor, with a flawless display of preparation and tactics—LYSANDER!"

The crowd erupts, the Academic Branch roaring in triumph while the Superpower Branch sits in shocked silence. Lysander raises his wand, acknowledging the cheers, while Ludociel, battered but still standing, acknowledges her defeat with a respectful nod.

CUT TO: VIP SECTION

Hendrickson and Griffin exchange looks of acknowledgement, each impressed by the depth of strategy in the match.

Hendrickson (murmuring): "An illusionist on a battlefield. The Academic Branch has proven itself."

Griffin (nodding): "It was more than power—it was foresight."

BACK TO ARENA

Lysander stands nearby, a faint glimmer of respect in his eyes as he surveys his fallen opponent. With a slight flick of his wrist, the spectral swords embedded in Ludociel's body shimmer and dematerialize, dissolving into particles of blue light that drift upward and vanish. He steps closer, his gaze softened, and reaches out his hand to her.

Lysander (gently, offering his hand): "Well fought, Queen. Let me help you up."

Ludociel blinks, her breath ragged, and glances at his extended hand. Despite her injuries, there's a glint of defiance in her eyes as she slowly lifts herself, gripping his hand with the strength that remains. With Lysander's steady support, she rises to her feet, standing unsteadily but with her head held high.

Ludociel (voice strained but resolute): "You certainly… didn't hold back, Lysander."

Lysander (with a faint, respectful smile): "You would not want me to. Plus, Against a Queen, I could hardly afford to. And you made sure I didn't have a moment's rest."

They share a brief, silent moment of mutual respect, both acknowledging the other's strength, resilience, and the depth of preparation that had gone into the battle.

Scene: Dinner with the King's Court

INT. GENTOSHI ESTATE – DINING ROOM – EVENING

The warm glow of the chandelier lights the dining room where Yue, Lysander, Angela, Alexei, and Floria sit around an elegantly set table, their plates adorned with a fine spread of food. The cousins laugh, joke, and exchange competitive glances as they eat, enjoying the rare chance to be together after an intense day.

Yue (grinning, with mock seriousness): "You know, my dear cousins, with talent like yours, you three should just join me as royals. Kick the rest out! Wouldn't it be fun to rule the academy together?"

Lysander (chuckling, shaking his head):"Much as I'm flattered, I'll pass. I just had the benefit of a week's preparation for my little 'sword garden,' that's all." (pauses thoughtfully) "Besides, Ludociel's style is more defense than offense. It was really just sword versus shield out there. No matter how skilled she is, a reactive stance will always wear down against an active one."

Yue (nodding, amused): "Fair point. So then, who's up for dealing with Kimhyun? Angela?"

Alexei (scoffing, with a playful edge): "Me. Big bro may love his traps, but I'm taking him head-on. I want a real fight. No tricks—just man to man."

Yue (smirking): "More like man to dog, wouldn't you say?"

Lysander (raising an eyebrow, a playful grin): "Your Majesty, isn't that a little… species-ist?"

Yue (laughing, leaning back): "Shut up, Advisor. I'm King; I say what I want!"

The room fills with laughter as the cousins continue to joke, their spirits high despite the intense competition.

The door swings open, and Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi strides in, his expression one of satisfaction. He straightens his suit, carrying an aura of restrained excitement.

Liam (smiling as he takes a seat): "Lovely, children. I see you're all having a good time, and well deserved, I'd say. I've got news." (leans in, with a proud glint in his eye) "Our company's stock has been skyrocketing since the first match. The phone hasn't stopped ringing—seems every rich kid at the academy is asking about Azure."

Lysander (grinning, twirling his wand, "Azure"): "Understandable. But Azure's designed specifically for me, Uncle. It is not profitable to sell. Every wand would need to be customized down to the smallest detail to be used by each customer."

Angela (smiling confidently): "Don't worry, Uncle. Tomorrow's a perfect opportunity to push another one of our products: the Marine Armor."

Liam (frowning slightly): "But… didn't that armor just get ripped apart by Yue?"

Angela (calmly): "It did, but we're pairing it with Eric Liu. He's up against Shizuka Maidono, who relies on water manipulation. The armor's high defense and resistance to her element could work perfectly. If he plays his cards right, Shizuka will drain her mana just trying to get through his defenses."

Yue (smirking, pretending to be scandalized): "So you're taking on the weakest one, Angela? Quite the cowardly move."

Angela (smiling, unfazed): "I prefer to think of it as strategic. If Eric keeps her busy and drains her resources, then I may not even need to fight at all."

Floria (grinning): "Sounds like we've all got a few tricks up our sleeves."

The table erupts in laughter as the cousins exchange more stories and strategies, the rivalry between the branches now fueling their excitement for what's to come.

Scene: Encouragement for the Queen

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH INFIRMARY – EVENING

Ludociel sits propped up on a cot, a faint bandage around her arm, though her calm composure and serene smile don't show any signs of defeat. She's gazing out the window when the door opens, and Shizuka, Hugo, and Fenix slip inside. They approach her, their expressions filled with concern.

Hugo (stepping forward, anxious): "Are you alright, Ludociel?"

Ludociel (smiling reassuringly): "Oh, I'm fine, Hugo. It's nothing. Don't worry about me."

Shizuka (frowning slightly, thoughtful): "The Academic Branch really went all out, didn't they? Using that many swords… it was intense."

Ludociel (shaking her head): "It wasn't really about the weapons, Shizuka…"

Shizuka (surprised): "Huh?"

Ludociel (explaining, a touch of admiration in her tone): "Lysander… he's a true strategist. If you remember my fight against the Eagle Step hunters… actually, Shizuka, you were unconscious back then, so you wouldn't have seen it. But Hugo, you remember, right?"

Hugo (nodding, remembering): "Yeah… The sound-control hunter and the mercury-controller. They had numbers, a defensive edge, and still couldn't overpower you outright."

Ludociel (nodding, continuing): "Exactly. They did have those advantages but only tried to break my rhythm with constant harassment. Lysander, though… he played his cards completely differently. Even with enough firepower to overwhelm me, he attacked carefully, one calculated move at a time, all to lead me into his trap."

Shizuka (wide-eyed): "Three traps… and you fell for each one?"

Ludociel (smiling ruefully): "Three different traps, and I stepped right into all of them. That's real strategy, Shizuka. He's skilled and dedicated, almost frighteningly so. And after all that, I can accept my defeat without any resentment."

Fenix (grinning, with a touch of admiration): "Ahh, the intelligence of humans... truly fearsome!"

Ludociel (nodding slightly, her gaze gentle): "It was a good fight. I gave it my all, and he beat me fair and square. Lysander's incredibly smart; no hard feelings there."

She turns to Shizuka, her gaze softening with a hint of concern.

Ludociel: "That's why you need to be careful tomorrow, Shizuka. You'll fight in the afternoon, after Kimhyun in the morning. Whoever your opponent is, you can be sure they won't hold back."

Shizuka (her face hardening with resolve): "Yes! I understand. I'll be prepared for anything."

Ludociel (smiling warmly): "Good. Just trust yourself, Shizuka."

The room falls quiet for a moment as the friends take in Ludociel's words. Her calm strength and quiet wisdom fill them with renewed confidence, and as they leave, each of them carries her words in their heart, ready for the battles to come.

Scene: The Jack's Resolve

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH DOJO – EVENING

The dim glow of the dojo lights casts shadows across the polished wooden floor as Kimhyun stands alone, his sword gripped tightly in one hand. He swings it in controlled, precise arcs, beads of sweat gathering on his brow as he practices with unwavering focus. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of his thoughts.

Kimhyun (breathes out, voice low): "The Queen… defeated. Lysander really is something else."

He pauses, gripping his sword tighter, his mind racing with reflections of the previous fight.

Kimhyun (thinking): "If Lysander's strategy could overwhelm even Ludociel… then I can't afford a single mistake. She has always been the one to stand her ground, to absorb any blow and come out stronger. If he found a way to beat her so thoroughly…"

His voice trails off, and he sheathes his sword, moving to his locker with a grim sense of purpose. Opening it, he reveals a black suit with bold red stripes—a sleek and refined piece of armor with an air of understated power.

Kimhyun (studying the suit, his tone thoughtful): "B-ranked light armor… almost like a military suit." He runs his hand over the smooth fabric, nodding to himself. "A gift from Lysander, perfect for my speed. He said it'd suit me, but I didn't think I'd have to use it so soon."

Kimhyun slips the suit on, feeling its weightless fit contouring to his movements, giving him both freedom and protection. His resolve sharpens as he recalls Alexei's reputation—a fellow Gentoshi, notorious for his overwhelming strength and precision.

Kimhyun (voice steady, as if making a vow): "My opponent tomorrow is Alexei. If he was the one who beat down the first-years so easily, and his brother defeated the Queen… I have to go all out. No holding back. Anything less, and I'll lose for sure."

With a final glance at his reflection, Kimhyun tightens his gloves and shifts into a ready stance, his mind already playing out the fight to come. The suit clings perfectly to his frame, emphasizing the focused energy building within him. He takes a deep breath, his eyes flashing with fierce determination.

Kimhyun (to himself, a small smirk forming): "Alright, Alexei… let's see if you, Gentoshi brother really has what it takes."