The next morning, the National Junior Tournament Complex was alive with energy.
Thousands of spectators filled the enormous stadium.
Students, instructors, government officials, and representatives of powerful families occupied every seat.
Large screens hovered above the central arena, displaying team names and tournament brackets.
The atmosphere was electric.
For many competitors, this would be the most important event of their young lives.
For Krishak, it was another opportunity to learn.
Representatives from academies across the country assembled on the arena floor.
Uniforms of different colors and emblems created a sea of competing identities.
Krishak stood with the National Awakener Academy delegation.
Although he was one of the youngest participants, his calm demeanor attracted quiet attention.
Some recognized him immediately.
Others whispered after noticing his age.
"Is that the six-year-old ranked first at his academy?"
"I heard he defeated students much older than himself."
"Can someone that young really compete here?"
Krishak ignored the conversations.
At the center of the stage stood a tall man in a dark formal uniform.
His aura was vast and steady.
A King Realm expert.
He was introduced as President Arjun Mehta of the National Awakener Association.
His voice echoed across the stadium.
"Young competitors, today you stand among the finest talents of your generation."
He surveyed the crowd.
"This tournament is not merely a contest of strength."
"It is a test of discipline, character, and determination."
His gaze sharpened.
"The world beyond these walls is unforgiving. May this event prepare you to face it."
Thunderous applause followed.
The regulations were projected onto the giant screens.
Victory Conditions
Ring-out.
Surrender.
Incapacitation.
Referee decision.
Restrictions
Intentional killing was strictly forbidden.
External artifacts above approved standards were prohibited.
Deliberate attacks after a match ended would result in disqualification.
Format:
Preliminary elimination rounds.
Quarterfinals.
Semifinals.
Final championship matches.
As the ceremony concluded, Krishak quietly observed several standout participants.
Arnav Singh
A swordsman from the Eastern Military Academy.
His posture and focused aura suggested disciplined training.
Serena Roy
A lightning-element Magician from the Royal Academy.
Her spiritual energy was unusually dense.
Daniel Fernandes
A Summoner accompanied by a silver wolf cub.
A Summoner accompanied by a silver wolf cub.
The bond between them was exceptionally stable.
Krishak estimated that each of them was among the strongest in their respective divisions.
The giant screen displayed the opening brackets.
Krishak's first opponent:
Ritesh Batra - Western Defense Academy
Age: 9
Cultivation Realm: Peak Great Martial Warrior
Specialty: Heavy close combat
Rohan would have considered this a formidable challenge.
Krishak regarded it as a useful benchmark.
Before the competitors dispersed, Rajan placed a hand on Krishak's shoulder.
"Fight your way."
Krishak looked up.
"I intend to."
Rajan gave a rare smile.
"That's what I was hoping to hear."
Back in the waiting area, Vikram approached.
"Good luck."
Krishak inclined his head.
"You as well."
The exchange was brief, but sincere.
Their rivalry had become one of mutual respect.
As his match time approached, Krishak entered the tunnel leading to the arena.
The sounds of the crowd grew louder with each step.
He remained calm.
He had once traversed countless universes.
He had faced beings capable of destroying worlds.
Compared to that, this was a small event on a young planet.
Yet he treated it with full seriousness.
Every challenge deserved his best effort.
Krishak stepped into the light of the arena.
The tournament had begun.