The dawn of the following day brought great expectation to every corner of the academy.
The stadium was packed beyond its normal capacity. Students from all years crowded in the stands. Late academy years professors, who normally showed little interest in first-year competitions, had heard the rumors and now occupied the last positions.
Ren completed his final preparations. Min and Taro accompanied him, offering words of encouragement with attempts to lighten the tension.
"Remember," insisted Min, "don't undress like the day we found you with her in the room."
"You'll be in front of many people," added Taro. "You should wait until after the tournament."
Ren rolled his eyes, but despite the silly jokes, he was grateful for his friends' support. His mind, however, was already partially focused on the way he would face the upcoming combat.
