Starbound Saga: The Rise of Eidolon

**Chapter 17: Tensions Rise**

After the results were announced, the atmosphere at the academy became more intense. Teams who had advanced to the next phase were either celebrating their success or silently planning their strategies for the upcoming battles. Those who had failed were left to watch from the sidelines, their disappointment evident.

Jae-min's team, though pleased with their ranking, knew that the road ahead would only become more challenging.

"We're in the top 16 now," Se-ri said as they gathered in the academy's training hall. "But the direct combat phase is going to be completely different from the dungeon gauntlet. We'll be facing real opponents with a wide variety of skills."

"We've already come this far," Tae-jun said confidently, leaning against a wall. "We just need to stay sharp and work together."

"We need to focus on synergy," Jae-min added. "Our individual skills are strong, but in a team fight, coordination will be key. We can't afford to act on our own."

Ji-a nodded thoughtfully. "I've been working on a few new healing techniques. If things get tough, I should be able to keep everyone in fighting condition."

"Good," Jae-min said. "Tae-jun, you'll be our main offensive force. Se-ri, focus on disrupting the enemy and providing cover fire. Min-seok, use your lightning magic for area control."

"Got it," Min-seok replied, adjusting the straps on his gauntlets.

"And me?" Ji-a asked.

"Support and defense," Jae-min said. "Your barriers and healing will be crucial. I'll handle battlefield control and step in wherever we need extra strength."

They spent the next few hours running drills and refining their teamwork. Though they were tired, the sense of urgency pushed them to keep going.

---

**A Mysterious Encounter**

Later that evening, Jae-min stayed behind in the training hall to practice alone. He activated his system and reviewed the new abilities he had gained during the dungeon gauntlet.

**"Skill: Shadow Step (Level 2) - Allows the user to teleport a short distance within a shadowed area."**

**"Skill: Zone Expansion (Level 3) - Enhances spatial control, allowing the user to manipulate the flow of battle within a defined area."**

"These should give me an edge," Jae-min muttered, deactivating the display.

As he turned to leave, he noticed a figure standing near the entrance of the hall. The figure stepped forward, revealing a boy about his age with silver hair and piercing blue eyes.

"Jae-min, right?" the boy said, his voice calm but commanding.

"Who's asking?" Jae-min replied warily, his hand instinctively moving toward the hilt of his dagger.

"Relax," the boy said, raising a hand. "I'm not here to fight. My name is Leon. I'm the captain of Team 1."

Jae-min's eyes narrowed. Team 1 was currently ranked first in the tournament. They were known for their overwhelming power and flawless teamwork.

"What do you want?" Jae-min asked.

Leon smiled slightly. "I just wanted to meet the team captain who managed to make it into the top 16 despite starting as one of the weakest. I've been watching your matches. You're... interesting."

"Is that supposed to be a compliment?" Jae-min asked, crossing his arms.

"Take it however you like," Leon said. "Just know that in the next phase, we won't be holding back. I hope you're ready."

With that, Leon turned and walked away, leaving Jae-min standing alone in the hall.

"Team 1, huh?" Jae-min muttered. "This just got a lot more interesting."

---

**Preparations Continue**

The next morning, Jae-min gathered his team and told them about his encounter with Leon.

"Team 1 is our biggest threat," Se-ri said. "They have some of the most talented students in the academy."

"We'll need a strategy specifically for them," Jae-min said. "But for now, let's focus on making it through the next few rounds."

Over the next few days, they continued their rigorous training. The direct combat phase was fast approaching, and every team was doing their best to prepare.

On the morning of the tournament, the academy's stadium was packed once again. The top 16 teams gathered on the arena floor, waiting for the matches to be announced.

A large holographic screen lit up, displaying the brackets for the first round. Jae-min's team was matched against Team 9, a group known for their aggressive tactics.

"Looks like we're up first," Tae-jun said, cracking his knuckles.

"Let's give them a show they won't forget," Jae-min said with a determined smile.

As they stepped into the arena, the crowd roared in anticipation. The direct combat phase of the university tournament was about to begin, and Jae-min knew that this was only the start of an even greater challenge.

**To be continued...**