Morning light spilled across the vast training arena of the Azure Flame Academy.
Hundreds of students gathered in a circular formation. At the center stood a massive stone platform, engraved with intricate runes that shimmered faintly like flowing fire.
An elder stepped forward, his voice calm yet commanding:
"Today marks the beginning of the Trial of Strength."
A murmur spread instantly.
"This is the ranking selection…"
"New students will be tested too?"
Arjun stood silently among them, his eyes scanning the arena. He could feel it—the tension, the anticipation… the hunger.
"This is where I begin," he thought.
The elder continued:
"Rules are simple. Step onto the platform. Prove your strength. Weakness will not be tolerated."
One by one, names were called.
Fights broke out.
Energy clashed.
Some were defeated instantly.
Some fought with everything they had.
Arjun watched carefully.
Analyzing.
Learning.
Then—
"Arjun Vardhan."
The name echoed.
All eyes turned.