Chapter 142: Revelations and Resolutions

The next day, the morning sun streamed through the stained glass windows of the principal's office, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the marble floor. Li Yang, the third and final member of the top trio, arrived to join Lysander and Lyria, who had already been conversing in hushed tones. They looked up as Li Yang entered, their faces a mix of anxiety and anticipation.

Mr. Henry, the esteemed principal, entered the room, trailed by Vice-Principal Mr. Harry and a team of the academy's elite instructors. Their presence added gravitas to the room, a silent testament to the significance of the day's proceedings.

"Congratulations to the three of you," began Mr. Henry, his voice carrying the weight of the academy's history. "You have proven to be the best among us, and now it's time to let you in on our academy's most closely guarded secret."

Li Yang, Lysander, and Lyria exchanged glances, trying to prepare themselves for what was to come. The principal continued, revealing that for centuries, their institution, the prestigious Seven Stars Academy, had been repelling extraterrestrial invasions. Over time, a pact had been formed: every two years, the academy would participate in a grand martial tournament against these otherworldly beings. The prize? The resources of the victor's planet.

The revelation left the trio reeling. The enormity of their responsibility became clear: they weren't just representing the academy but the entire Earth.

Mr. Henry's voice broke their reverie, "However, there's a catch. Those participating in these duels, given their deadly nature, must sign a contract binding them to the fight to the death. The danger is very real. Yet, should you succeed, the rewards, both personal and for the academy, are immeasurable."

Lysander and Lyria didn't hesitate, immediately pledging their allegiance. But Li Yang, ever inquisitive, posed a question, "Who are our opponents?"

"The Crescent Clan," Mr. Henry revealed, "They hail from the planet MieXing, a world they've dominated and brought to its knees."

At the mention of the Crescent Clan, Li Yang's face darkened. Memories of his lost wife, abducted by the very same clan, flooded back. Determination filled his eyes, "I'm in," he declared, "Not just for the academy, but for her."

Nodding approvingly, Mr. Henry responded, "Then prepare yourselves. We depart at dawn tomorrow."

The weight of the task ahead loomed large, but Li Yang, Lysander, and Lyria were ready. Whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.