Earth's Greatest Magus

Instructor Aspen, representing Hall 68, wasted no time, openly revealing his intentions.

"I heard you promised these kids a dream to reach the top hall. I came here to open their eyes, not to be fooled by such promises,"

His proposal was straightforward: a 5 versus 5 match, a test of strength and skill that was one of the known ways to advance halls. "Why wait for the Magus Academy tournament? Show us now that you have what it takes," Aspen challenged, his tone daring Emery and his acolytes to prove themselves.

Clearly, this challenge was more than just a test of combat prowess. It was a deliberate attempt to undermine Hall 120, to cast doubt on their abilities, and prove that they lacked the strength to compete in the higher stages of the Magus tournament. If they couldn't even win against a middle hall like Hall 68, then they had no business dreaming about reaching the top halls.

Emery knew he had no obligation to accept such a challenge, especially considering that he hadn't even begun training the acolytes yet. However, refusing this challenge would only serve to further dampen their spirits, potentially leading these acolytes to be poached by other halls.

The magus's words stung with provocation. "There is no need to be scared," he continued, his tone dripping with condescension. "You have Dillion with you, and I see some other senior acolytes. Just send your best five, and let this be a great learning opportunity for them all."

Hearing this, the seniors' emotions surged to the surface. "Master, please send me. I will give them a lesson!" one exclaimed passionately.

"Pick me! I am ready to fight!" another declared, determination shining in their eyes.

One by one, each senior stepped forward, expressing their readiness to take on the challenge. Even Kingrig and Ha Ron who just joined, were willing to be picked. Emery couldn't help but feel a pang of pride mixed with concern at their eagerness.

Emery decided not to intervene. Win or lose, this would be a valuable lesson for them all.

"Alright, Dillion, you lead. Choose your team,"

As Dillion and the other seniors began to discuss amongst themselves, Emery's gaze drifted to Shinta, who appeared to be observing the situation with keen interest.

It took only a minute for Dillion to select his team. Knowing better than to underestimate their opponents, he chose the ones he relied on the most: Kat and two other third-year acolytes. For the final position, he selected Damo, a decision made with careful consideration.

Instructor Alpes, visibly excited, offered his five acolytes some last-minute advice before sending out his first challenger.

The young man with blonde hair, despite not appearing particularly strong, exuded confidence. Although he was only in his second year, he had never stood out among his peers. Nevertheless, Dillion and his third-year friends were cautious not to underestimate him, quickly gathering whatever information they could about their opponent.

"His name is Hans," they learned. Apparently, Hans had previously belonged to a higher hall but had been demoted to the middle hall. Last year, he hadn't garnered much attention and had mostly kept to his training.

With limited information to go on, Dillion decided to send forth Norm, a muscular third-year acolyte hailing from a warring lower realm planet. Stepping forward confidently, Norm declared, "I will start!"

Despite his modest aptitude, Norm possessed considerable battle prowess and extensive combat experience. As a rank 9 acolyte with four of his pillars formed, he wielded his long spear with formidable skill and precision as he charged towards his opponent.

His adversary, armed with two curved swords, proved to be a worthy match, meeting Norm's assault with equal ferocity. The clash between their weapons echoed throughout the yard as they sparred, each testing the other's limits.

"You are strong for a second year!" Norm remarked, acknowledging his opponent's skill even as they fought.

As the battle progressed, Norm gained a better understanding of his opponent's fighting style. Channeling his energy, his spear began to crackle with electricity, a lightning-based technique that showcased his mastery of combat and earned him recognition from the middle hall.

Utilizing his lightning-infused spear with swift and precise movements, Norm strategically examined his opponent's defenses, seeking to draw out their true strengths and weaknesses.

In response to Norm's aggressive assault, Hans swiftly employed wind-based techniques, spinning his blades, enhancing his sword slashes to effectively parry Norm's fierce attacks. The two combatants appeared evenly matched in strength and skill, each countering the other's moves with precision.

However, Norm eventually managed to create an opening by striking one of Hans's swords away, seizing the opportunity to launch a direct charge. Yet, to his surprise, the disarmed sword suddenly flew back, piercing deep into his back.

SPLLAATT!!

"He is a spirit reader!" someone exclaimed, recognizing Hans's formidable ability.

With this unexpected attack, Norm was forced to admit defeat, acknowledging Hans's superiority in combat. According to the rules of the duel, Hans was granted the option to continue fighting against the next opponent if he so desired.

Appearing slightly winded but still ready for more, Hans called out, "Who's next?"

Kat, feeling irritated by Norm's defeat, was poised to jump into the fray. However, before he could make a move, Dave, the other third-year acolyte, intervened. "I know I'm the weakest among us three, but I'm confident I can defeat this tired spirit reader," he declared with determination.

Dave was a water-proficient acolyte, skilled in defensive spells and long-range attacks. He seemed like the ideal choice to counter a spirit reader. With confidence, he stepped forward to face Hans.

However, their battle took an unexpected turn when Hans revealed yet another surprise.

Hans, disclosing himself as a dual-element fighter, unleashed a surprising combination of light and wind techniques. With a swift incantation, he cast a luminous spell that enveloped him in a radiant glow, simultaneously healing his wounds and imbuing his flying sword with a dazzling brilliance.

The empowered sword sliced through the air with unprecedented force, shattering Dave's water shield upon impact. The sheer intensity of the attack sent Dave stumbling backward, his defenses completely breached. With a sense of loss settling over him, Dave could only watch helplessly as his opponent's onslaught overwhelmed him.

As the dust settled, Hans stood tall and triumphant, his energy seemingly revitalized compared to his earlier bout with Norm. It became evident to everyone that Hans had been deliberately conserving his strength, feigning exhaustion in order to lull his opponents into a false sense of security.

With a grin of triumph, Hans gloated over his adversaries, his voice dripping with contempt.

"These third years are not so impressive. please send me a stronger opponent."