Flames in the Arena

Days passed in cautious silence.

After their first clash with the Iustitia Clan, the NT Gang knew better than to rest easy. They trained relentlessly. Blaidd pushed his Ice Magic further, unlocking techniques that chilled the air around him just by breathing. Rikushi's control over Fire had become so refined that he could light flames without motion--heat followed his thoughts.

Even Toku, though still void of mana, had begun to handle his spear with more confidence. He couldn't summon magic, but his heart never wavered (sometimes). He wanted to protect his friends.

One morning, the gang made a weekend trip to Eagle City for supplies. The metropolis was louder than usual--banners waving high, fireworks popping, and streets buzzing with excitement.

"Whoa," Toku muttered, snatching a flyer from a nearby board. "The Arena Games are back!?"

The 775th Annual Arena Games. The city's most anticipated tournament, held every year since Nova Terra's founding. The winner received $10 million, three powerful Relics, and--most incredibly--a chance to duel one of the World Leaders for a chance to join The Table. There were 21 in total. The most elite, influential, and dangerous beings on the planet.

"You thinking what I'm thinking?" Rikushi asked, glancing at the others.

Everyone nodded, except Toku, standing there clueless.

But there was a catch.

Each team could only have four members. With so many of them itching to enter, the gang split into two separate teams. Kandy and Sori volunteered to sit out, offering support from the stands.

Team 1:
Rikushi, Valentine, Blaidd, and Glonk -- the heavy hitters. Veterans of battle.

Team 2:
Kite, Ceri, Gem, and Toku -- the adaptive and tactical squad, combining magic, healing, and agility.

As they signed up, whispers filled the registration hall.

"Did you hear? That android, Davie, is entering."

"Reiku's on a team too. Probably with Rumoto..."

The NT Gang was far from alone. Other powerful factions, assassins, underground fighters, and bounty hunters were also participating. The Arena Games wasn't just a tournament--it was a battlefield wrapped in a spotlight.

The gangs split off to prepare. Weapons sharpened, armor readied, magic refined, and minds well-rested. Toku stared at his spear again, questioning if he really belonged here. But one look at Gem's encouraging smile, and Kite's smug confidence, told him everything he needed.

He didn't have magic.

But he had his resolve.

And soon... the stadium would see it.

As finally...

The Arena Games were beginning.