The L

Kaito, adorned in a vibrant turquoise outfit, stood tall as the sound of his name reverberated through the arena, causing a symphony of applause and cheers that filled Rena's ears. The thunderous clapping and enthusiastic shouts of the crowd seemed to shake the ground beneath her feet, creating a palpable sense of excitement.

As Rena stood there, a surge of exhilaration coursed through her veins, evoking a swarm of tiny centipedes scurrying with restless energy. The air crackled with the intensity of the moment, filling Rena's senses with a mix of admiration for Kaito's victory and sympathy for Taki, who had just suffered a defeat.

With a letter securely tucked into her pocket, Rena couldn't contain her joy any longer. "Finally," she whispered to herself, her voice filled with triumph. A radiant smile spread across her face as she reveled in the long-awaited news. "I've received the notice I've been eagerly anticipating. I've been approved to participate in the prestigious card battle tournament at Card Tower!"

Taki, crawling on his belly, maneuvered his way through the underbrush, finally reaching Rena's side. Rena extended a helping hand, her touch conveying concern and compassion as she assisted him to his feet, her eyes filled with genuine worry for his well-being.

"Have you heard about the upcoming card battle tournament at Card Tower?" Rena asked, her voice brimming with excitement, while Taki grumbled and dusted off his knees, trying to distance himself from the battle ring.

Taki's eyes widened in curiosity, his parched mouth longing for a refreshing sip of water after the intense competition. The crowd of students and adults continued to cheer for Kaito, their voices blending into a symphony of support that enveloped the room. Taki rolled his eyes, directing his attention to Rena.

"No, I haven't," Taki replied, a hint of annoyance in his voice as he brushed off the dust from his knees and stepped away from the battle card tournament ring.

"What's it about?" he inquired, his gaze scanning the long, narrow tables, a mix of white and platinum, adorning the otherwise pristine white floor. Through the windows, they could see the school grounds stretching outside, a reminder that they were still within the confines of their educational institution.

Rena, her hands clasped together with anticipation, explained with an infectious smile, "It's a grand tournament where card fighters from all over gather to compete for the ultimate prize." She motioned for Taki to join her, leading him towards a quieter area of the room, away from the boisterous celebrations.

The tables, lined up in an orderly fashion, displayed remnants of snacks, donuts, and various refreshments that had been left behind for the enjoyment of the participants. Most of them had been partially consumed, bearing the marks of eager guests. Rena snapped her fingers, capturing Taki's attention, and nodded towards the vacant seats.

"I've been waiting for this moment for a long time, and I'm determined to give it my all. I want to prove that I'm the best card fighter out there," Rena declared with a sense of unwavering determination and uncontainable happiness in her voice.

Taki nodded, wearing a pensive expression on his face. "That sounds like a formidable competition. But I have no doubt that you can do it, Rena. Despite your late start, you've trained diligently, and you're one of the most skilled card fighters I know."

"Thank you, Taki," Rena replied, a grateful smile playing on her lips. She embraced Taki briefly, expressing her heartfelt appreciation for his unwavering support, before releasing him.

"It won't be an easy journey," she acknowledged, her voice tinged with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Suddenly, Taki's voice rang out, calling to the victorious Kaito. "Hey, Kaito, the blue card fighter! So, your invitation finally arrived, huh? The one for next year's card battle tournament?"

Rena's gaze followed Taki's, landing on Kaito, who was laughing jubilantly at the end of the hallway. As the escalator descended, the trainers handed him his prize, and he made his way back to the main floor.

"Hmph," Kaito scoffed, his voice laced with arrogance. "Is that so, Taki?" He took a deep breath, crossing his arms and wearing a smug expression. A mischievous chuckle punctuated his words. "Well, Taki, let me make it clear. You won't be joining us."

Taki was about to retort, but Kaito vanished before he could utter a word. Frustration etched on his face, Taki muttered to himself, "Argh! That guy is as cool and collected as a cucumber."

However, Rena couldn't suppress her excitement forthe upcoming tournament. She had been eagerly awaiting this moment for a long time, and she was determined to face all the challenges and surprises that awaited her at Card Tower.

As she walked alongside Taki, her hand gently clasping his, she couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation building within her. The air crackled with the promise of fierce competition, and she knew that she was ready to embrace the challenge that lay ahead.