The cheers from the previous battle still echoed throughout the stadium. The Quarterfinalists gathered in the center of the arena. Only eight trainers remained.
Each had proven themselves worthy of standing among the strongest trainers in the Luminara Region.
As Elior walked toward the waiting area, a familiar voice called out.
"Looks like we both made it."
Elior turned around.
It was Mira.
She smiled and held out her hand.
"Congratulations."
Elior shook her hand.
"You too."
The two laughed.Months ago, they had begun their journey as rookie trainers. Now, both had reached the Quarterfinals of the Luminara League.
The lights dimmed. The League announcer stepped onto the stage.
"Congratulations to our eight remaining trainers! The Quarterfinal matchups will now be decided!"
A massive digital screen descended from the ceiling. One by one, the trainers' names appeared.
The first matchup...
The second...
The third...
Finally...
The last matchup appeared.
The audience gasped.
Quarterfinal Match
ELIOR
VS
MIRA
The stadium fell completely silent. Neither Elior nor Mira spoke. After a few moments... Mira smiled.
"I was hoping we'd meet in the final."
Elior chuckled.
"Looks like the League had other plans."
Mira extended her fist.
"No holding back."
Elior bumped his fist against hers.
"Never."
Meanwhile... Far away on Aether Isle... The ancient ruins shook violently. Deep within the central chamber... Zeff stood before a massive stone gate. Three ancient keyholes glowed. The Three Keys floated into place. A deep rumble echoed through the island. Cracks spread across the stone gate. A mysterious voice resonated from beyond it.
"The seal weakens...Soon...I shall awaken."
Zeff closed his eyes.
"The time has finally come."
Back at the League Stadium... Elior and Mira stood on opposite sides of the practice field. Neither trainer spoke.
They simply looked at each other.
Tomorrow... One dream would continue. The other would come to an end.
TO BE CONTINUED...