Match 1: The Dungeon Crawl [1]

The first match of the tournament was about to commence, and each academy was determined to send in their strongest team to explore the virtual dungeon and claim the crystal at the end. 

It was a chance to show their dominance from the very first match and set the tone for the rest of the competition.

Leading the team from Soreh Academy was Ares, accompanied by Claude, Diana, Eric, and Livia - all of whom were first-year students.

It was an unexpected lineup, as inexperienced students were rarely chosen for such events, let alone make up the entire team.

Erina, who was hesitant about the decision, voiced her concerns to Ares when they were left alone in the meeting room.

"Are you sure about this, Ares? We could add some more experienced students from the second or third year." 

Although she knew that they were strong students, she was aware of the challenges that they would face due to their lack of experience.