Infernal Blade

As Xavier reflected his Victory he dreaded the next phase knowing he'd be going against Jessica in the finals. Thoughts of forfeit lingered in his mind but he hid it from changing his facial expression. Xavier and Jessica sat in the competitors' lounge, their friends and allies gathered around them. The air was heavy with anticipation, but there was also a sense of camaraderie.

Eddie had earned his spot in the Top 20 through sheer grit and determination, defeating a higher-ranked noble warrior in a stunning display of raw power. His unorthodox techniques and willingness to take risks had impressed the judges and the audience alike.

Mara, with her agility and mastery of wind manipulation, had become a crowd favorite. In her last match, she had outmaneuvered an opponent who relied on heavy, slow strikes, proving that speed and precision could triumph over brute force.

Felix, ever the strategist, had used his analytical mind and mastery of magic to exploit his opponents' weaknesses. His calm demeanor and ability to adapt to any situation had secured him a place among the elite competitors.

"Go get 'em, Xavier," Eddie said, as he teased his new friend.

Mara nodded. "We're rooting for both of you."

Felix adjusted his glasses, a rare smile on his lips. "Make it a match to remember."

The tension in the Grand Arena was palpable as the crowd awaited the announcement of the final match.

Eddie, Mara, and Felix had all fought valiantly, each securing a spot in the Top 20, an honor that carried its own rewards and prestige. While none had made it to the final rounds, their achievements spoke volumes about their growth and skill.

Eddie, nursing a bandaged arm, grinned despite the pain. Turning his attention to Mara "Top 20! Not bad for a noble who didn't take things seriously a few months ago."

Mara rolled her eyes, though her smile betrayed her pride. "You're lucky you didn't face me in the earlier rounds, Eddie. I'd have knocked you out in seconds."

Felix adjusted his glasses, his tone calm but pleased. "We all did well, but let's not lose focus. The real spectacle is about to begin."

Jessica, seated beside Xavier, glanced at him with a warm smile. "They're right, you know. No matter what happens out there, you've already changed so much." Jessica said playfully. 

The door to the lounge opened, and a herald entered, his voice echoing in the chamber. "Xavier York and Jessica Vice, your match is next. Please proceed to the arena."

As Xavier and Jessica stepped into the arena, the atmosphere was electric. The elder overseeing the tournament raised his hand, calling for silence.

"This final match will determine the champion of this year's Grand Tournament," the elder declared. "The victor will be awarded the opportunity to spend three days at the Spiritual River, accompanied by one person of their choosing. This honor is bestowed only upon the most deserving, for the river's energies are said to unlock untapped potential and deepen one's connection to their soul energy."

The mention of the Spiritual River caused a ripple of excitement among the audience. The river, located deep within the Academy grounds, was a sacred place known for its rejuvenating and empowering properties. Only the most elite students and warriors were granted access.

Jessica glanced at Xavier, her expression softening. "The Spiritual River… It's a rare opportunity. You'll need it more than I do."

Xavier shook his head, his eyes meeting hers. "Let's not think about that right now. This match is about both of us giving it everything we've got."

The elder's voice rang out again. "Xavier York. Jessica Vice. Step forward."

As they moved to the center of the arena, the crowd erupted into cheers and chants, the air buzzing with energy. The stakes were higher than ever, not just for the rewards but for the statement this match would make.

The arena was silent as Xavier and Jessica faced each other in the final match. The crowd was divided—some rooting for the noblewoman who had defied expectations, others for the commoner who had challenged the system.

Jessica smiled at Xavier, her rapier gleaming in the sunlight. "You made it, just like I knew you would."

Xavier nodded, his Infernal Soul Blade glowing faintly. "I couldn't have done it without you. But I won't hold back, Jessica."

"Neither will I."

The match began with an explosion of energy. Xavier's flames clashed against Jessica's radiant strikes, the arena trembling under the force of their attacks. It was clear to everyone watching that the two were evenly matched.

But as the fight wore on, Jessica began to falter. Her strikes slowed, and her defenses weakened. Xavier hesitated, sensing something was off.

Finally, Jessica lowered her rapier and stepped back. "That's enough," she said, her voice steady but soft.

The elder frowned. "Jessica Vice, do you forfeit?"

Jessica nodded. "Yes. Xavier is the true winner of this tournament."

The crowd erupted into chaos—some cheering, others booing.

Xavier stared at Jessica, his voice filled with disbelief. "Why?"

Jessica smiled. "Because you've earned it, Xavier. This victory means more to you, to us, than it does to me. And I believe in you."

The elder raised his hand. "The winner of the tournament is Xavier York!"

As the crowd roared, Xavier and Jessica stood side by side, their bond stronger than ever.

Xavier's victory sent shockwaves through the kingdom. For the first time, a commoner had triumphed in a tournament dominated by nobles. The Mozzie Clan's influence waned, while Xavier's name became a rallying cry for change.

But the battle was far from over. As Xavier and Jessica left the arena, they knew they had painted targets on their backs. Alliances would shift, enemies would plot, and the road ahead would be even more dangerous.

The Spiritual River was a place of legend. Fed by ancient energies, it was said to grant unparalleled clarity and strength to those who meditated within its waters. For three days, the champion and their chosen companion would be immersed in its power, unlocking potential that could take years to achieve through regular training.

The elder explained the reward as the crowd listened in awe. "The champion may select one companion to join them. Whether friend, mentor, or rival, the choice is yours. Use this time wisely, for it will shape the future of your journey."

Xavier's thoughts flickered to the people who had stood by him—Lance a childhood friend; Jessica, his fiancée and greatest ally; and his friends, who had fought their way to the Top 20.

As the announcement concluded, Xavier and Jessica faced each other, the weight of the moment settling over them. This was more than a match. It was the culmination of their journeys, their struggles, and their dreams.

And for Xavier, it was the final step toward proving to himself and the world that he was no ordinary farmhand—that he could stand shoulder to shoulder with the strongest in the kingdom.