Chapter 17: Rising Tensions

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The atmosphere in the academy had shifted following Leo's latest victory over Satori. Whispers of admiration and jealousy buzzed among the students, their eyes filled with curiosity and speculation about the newcomer who had bested one of the toughest competitors.

As Leo made his way through the corridors, he felt the weight of their gazes. It was a mix of respect and wariness, and he couldn't help but wonder how long it would be before someone challenged him again.

Later that evening, Leo found himself in the courtyard, where the remaining contestants gathered to discuss the tournament's next stages. The principal stood at the front, ready to announce the upcoming matchups.

"Attention, everyone," she called, her voice carrying across the courtyard. "The tournament will continue tomorrow, and the next match will be a doubles battle."

Murmurs spread through the crowd. Doubles battles were a different beast altogether, requiring not just individual skill but also coordination and teamwork. Leo's mind raced at the thought of who he might partner with.

"Leo!" Mary's voice broke through his thoughts. She approached him with an excited grin. "Have you thought about who you want to team up with?"

"Not yet," he admitted. "Do you have someone in mind?"

Mary tilted her head, her expression playful. "How about me? We could make a pretty good team!"

Before Leo could respond, Rin stepped in, her expression serious. "Teamwork will be essential, Leo. You can't let personal feelings cloud your judgment in a match like this."

"Rin's right," Mary replied, her tone shifting to a more serious note. "We need to be on the same page if we want to win."

"I get that," Leo said, nodding. "But it's also about who I can trust to have my back."

As they continued discussing strategy, the principal raised her hand to regain attention. "Tomorrow's match will pit you against the team of Chōka and Amou. This will be a test not only of your combat skills but of your ability to work together under pressure."

The mention of Amou sent a ripple of tension through the crowd. Leo knew her reputation; she was cunning and had a talent for manipulation, making her a formidable opponent.

"I hope you're ready for her tricks," Rin remarked, glancing at Leo. "She'll use anything she can to gain an advantage."

"Trust me, I'm ready," Leo replied, determination in his voice. He had faced challenges before and wouldn't back down now.

The day of the doubles match arrived, and the arena was packed with students eager to see the clash between Leo and Mary against Chōka and Amou. Leo took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves as he and Mary prepared for battle.

"Just stick to the plan, and we'll be fine," Mary said, her usual playful demeanor replaced by a focus that matched his own.

"Got it," Leo replied. "Let's go."

As they stepped into the arena, Chōka and Amou stood opposite them, their expressions unreadable. Chōka's aura radiated confidence, while Amou's smile was almost predatory, a stark contrast to her usual calm demeanor.

"Ready to lose?" Amou called out, her voice smooth and taunting.

Leo met her gaze with unwavering determination. "Not a chance."

The whistle blew, and the match began.

Chōka charged forward, her movements fluid and graceful as she aimed for Leo. He dodged her attack and countered, his fist aimed at her side, but she deftly avoided it, her agility evident.

Mary took on Amou, who seemed to playfully evade her strikes while looking for an opportunity to exploit. "Stay focused, Mary!" Leo called out, trying to keep an eye on both fights.

As the battle unfolded, Leo noticed that Chōka was incredibly skilled, using the arena's environment to her advantage. She leaped onto a nearby pillar, launching herself at Leo with a powerful kick. He barely managed to roll out of the way, feeling the rush of wind as her foot grazed his shoulder.

"Nice move!" he shouted, adrenaline pumping through him.

Mary was struggling with Amou, who seemed to dance around her strikes effortlessly. "This isn't fair!" Mary exclaimed, frustration creeping into her voice.

"Focus on her patterns," Leo instructed. "She's toying with you!"

As the battle intensified, Leo recalled the training simulation with Rin. He needed to adapt quickly. "Mary, let's try to create some distance between us and them," he said, formulating a new plan.

With a nod, Mary followed his lead, moving together to flank their opponents. Chōka and Amou exchanged glances, recognizing the shift in strategy.

Amou smirked, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You think you can outsmart me? How cute."

But Leo was already a step ahead. He and Mary began to coordinate their movements, setting traps and creating openings to attack. As Chōka lunged at Leo again, he used the momentum to pivot and counter, landing a solid punch that sent her staggering back.

"Now, Mary!" he shouted, and she took the opportunity to strike at Amou, catching her off guard.

The spectators erupted in cheers as Leo and Mary began to gain the upper hand. The tide of the match was turning, and Leo could feel the adrenaline coursing through him.

"This is it!" Leo exclaimed, determination etched on his face. He felt a rush of exhilaration as he landed another hit on Chōka, and Mary followed up with a swift kick that sent Amou reeling.

Soon the tournament came to an end and Leo was more than happy in participating and having fun.

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