Morning arrived with a surge of excitement that seemed to electrify the very air of the Nexus Arena. The cafeteria buzzed with anticipation, students from all twelve academies discussing strategies, sizing up opponents, and making bold predictions about the day's outcomes.
Noah picked at his breakfast, his appetite diminished by the lingering unease from the previous night. Across the table, Kelvin was already fully engaged in the competitive atmosphere, animatedly describing to anyone who would listen how Noah was going to "absolutely dominate" the arena.
"You've seen what he can do with chi manipulation alone," Kelvin was saying to a group of fascinated first-years from Academy Five. "Just wait until he gets to use his full arsenal. They won't know what hit them."
Noah shot his friend a warning look. "Kelvin."
