Shadows of Ascension

33. Determination - The mysterious fighter

Maya and her team arrive on the battlefield, their anticipation palpable as they sense the aura of the mysterious guy looming over them. The organizer's voice rings out, signaling that the battle is about to commence.

As Maya and her team launch their assault, Maya calls out, her voice determined but tinged with apprehension, "Stay focused, everyone! We can do this if we work together!"

Her teammates nod in agreement, their resolve unwavering as they press forward. One of them, a young hunter named Ethan, shouts, "Let's show them what we're made of!"

But their optimism is met with an icy calm from the mysterious opponent. "You're outmatched," he states flatly, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "You're not even worth my time."

Undeterred, Maya pushes on, her words filled with determination. "We have to keep fighting! Don't give up!"

Despite their efforts, the mysterious opponent's skill is unmatched, his movements fluid and precise as he effortlessly evades their attacks. With each strike he deflects, their hope begins to wane.

As the battle reaches its climax, Maya's voice cuts through the chaos, her tone tinged with frustration. "We can't let him win like this! Keep pushing!"

But their efforts are in vain as the mysterious opponent swiftly incapacitates each member of the team with calculated precision. Maya, though defeated, remains defiant as she meets Aiden's gaze from across the arena, silently vowing to come back stronger.

Aiden hurriedly makes his way to the medical area, concern etched on his face. "Maya, are you alright?" he asks as he approaches her.

Maya looks up, her expression a mix of frustration and disbelief. "I can't believe it, Aiden. That guy, he's like a monster. We didn't stand a chance," she says, her voice tinged with frustration.

Aiden frowns, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "We'll get him next time. You'll see," he assures her.

But Maya shakes her head. "Be careful, Aiden. Train hard. He's not someone to take lightly," she warns, her eyes serious.

Aiden nods solemnly. "I will, Maya. I promise," he vows before turning to leave.

As he rejoins Luca, the weight of Maya's words lingers in his mind. "Luca, she's right. That guy is no joke," Aiden says, his voice heavy with concern.

Luca nods in agreement, his brow furrowed with worry. "I know, Aiden. He's strong, stronger than anyone I've faced before," he admits.

"It feels like my brother" says Luca. "It seems to me that he is as strong as my brother was, who was a B rank hunter."

Aiden's curiosity is piqued by Luca's mention of his brother. "B rank, you say? That's impressive," he comments, intrigued.

"Yeah, he was something else," Luca replies, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

As the days pass, the tension mounts among the remaining teams. The organizer's voice cuts through the tense atmosphere. "With only four teams remaining, it's time for the semifinals. Are you ready?" he asks.

Luca nods, determination shining in his eyes. "Let's give it our best shot. We're up against those guys next. We need to study that mysterious guy a little more," he suggests.

Drake and Aiden exchange determined glances before nodding in agreement. "Yeah, let's do it," they echo, ready to face whatever challenges await them in the upcoming battle.