The Silver Ranking Tournament (1)

The Silver School Fighting Event

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The Teachers' Discussion

The dimly lit conference room of Silver School was filled with an air of authority. Seated around a long, polished table were the instructors—each one an esteemed expert in their respective fields, and each carrying their own ideals of strength, discipline, and education. At the head of the table sat Croxus, the Oldest First Silver Ranker of Silver School, known for his unshakable presence and strategic mind. His silver beard rested against his broad chest as he crossed his arms.

"We need a Fighting Event," Croxus stated firmly, his deep voice echoing across the chamber. "The students must be tested—not just in theory, but in real combat. Strength and skill are the foundation of Silver School."

Professor Kaelen, a sharp-eyed man with neatly combed black hair, adjusted his glasses and smirked. "A competition, huh? That should push the students to their limits. But we need proper safety measures." As the Mana Theory Instructor, Kaelen was one of the most analytical minds in the school, always calculating risks before making a decision.

Madame Lyris, the Combat Tactics Instructor, leaned forward, her vibrant crimson hair cascading over her shoulder. "No real warrior is forged without battle. I agree with Croxus. The students need to apply their mana control and fighting styles under stress. But there should be rewards. Something to motivate them."

Master Dren, the Weapons Specialist Instructor, grunted in agreement. The burly man, covered in battle scars, rested a massive greatsword against his chair. "Let them clash. See who's worthy. But we should categorize them. Silver and Bronze-ranked students shouldn't be thrown into the same matches without balance."

Professor Elandor, the Mana Enhancement Instructor, stroked his white beard, his piercing blue eyes filled with wisdom. "True. A free-for-all would only serve to discourage the weaker students. We should divide them into groups based on ability."

Croxus nodded. "Then it's settled. We will host the Silver School Fighting Event—a tournament-style battle where students will fight one another to prove their strength. Winners will be granted ranks and privileges within the school."

Kaelen smirked. "And the rules? No killing, obviously."

Madame Lyris chuckled. "Obviously. But injuries? Let them taste pain. That's part of the lesson."

Master Dren grinned. "Then let's get started. We'll announce the event tomorrow. Let's see who rises… and who falls."

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The Announcement & Student Reactions

The next morning, the school courtyard was abuzz with excitement. A massive mana-imbued announcement board had been placed at the center, glowing with the words:

> SILVER SCHOOL FIGHTING EVENT

Tournament Begins in Three Days!

Open to all Silver School students

Fight for honor, rank, and recognition

Winning students receive unique rewards

May the strongest prevail!

Varek stood amidst the crowd, his arms crossed as he read the sign. Around him, the students whispered in excitement.

"A tournament? This is our chance!" one student murmured.

"I bet Keiran's already planning how to show off," another snickered.

As expected, Keiran was leaning against a nearby pillar, his usual smirk plastered across his face. "Tch. Fighting event? Finally, something interesting. Bronze boy, don't even think about backing out." He shot a glance at Varek.

Varek rolled his eyes. "I wasn't planning to."

Keiran smirked. "Good. It'd be boring without you."

Just then, a voice cut through the murmurs. Vikas, the ice-mana user, approached with an easy stride, flipping his blue hair out of his face. "I hope you're all ready. I don't plan on losing." His voice was cool and confident, but his gaze was sharp.

Keiran snorted. "You? Lose? Guess I'll be the one to put you in your place."

Vikas chuckled. "We'll see."

Varek exhaled, glancing at the announcement once more. A fighting event… He clenched his fists, feeling the pulse of his Bronze Mana and the forbidden Shadow Vault within him. He knew one thing for sure.

This tournament was just the beginning.