[Sorry for the inconsistent updates I've been really busy this week, I'll try to do better 🙂 🙂 🙂 ]
The grand hall of the academy buzzed with an electric mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. The air, thick with the lingering scents of sweat, smoke, and determination, carried an undertone of eager anticipation. After days of grueling battles and intense trials, the students stood gathered, their eyes fixed on the stage where the principal prepared to speak.
The tall figure, clad in the academy's formal robes adorned with ancient symbols of power, stepped forward, her face both stern and proud. Silence fell instantly. Her voice rang clear and steady across the hall, commanding attention without effort.
"Warriors of the academy," she began, "you have faced challenges that tested not only your strength, but your spirit, your will, and your resolve."
A hush wrapped around the crowd as his words settled deep in their hearts.
"Today, I stand before you to honor those who have passed the trials and are ready to take the next step on their journey."
He unfolded a parchment with names, his finger tracing each carefully.
"Those who have proven their worth are: Inazuma, Shinji, Hinari, Denki, Rei, Raiku; Raito, Raiki,Denji,Aoi,Kojiro,"she said many other names and a burst of cheers erupted. Some students who had not passed silently congratulated their friends, while others exchanged glances—determined to improve.
Denji, standing tall with a quiet confidence, exchanged a brief nod with Shinji, who was wiping sweat from his brow but smiling brightly. Hinari's cheeks flushed as her friends clapped her on the back, while Denki's grin grew wider, eyes sparkling with pride and Inazuma's face was filled with all the happiness it could contain.
The principal raised her hand to restore order, her smile softening.
"But the journey is far from over."
A hush fell again. The weight of the next words held the promise of new horizons.
"To celebrate your achievements, and to prepare you for the challenges ahead, the academy will send you all on a trip to Leaf City."
Excitement rippled through the hall like wildfire.
Leaf City—the legendary city known for its ancient training grounds, breathtaking vistas, and vibrant culture. A place spoken of in reverence by warriors and sages alike.
"This trip will be a chance to train, to learn, and to grow stronger. It will be a journey of discovery and preparation."
The students buzzed with excitement, some whispering eagerly to one another, others already imagining the adventures to come.
The principal smiled knowingly. "We leave tomorrow morning. Get your belongings ready and move to your assigned dormitories for this night alone."
---
Outside, the cool evening breeze carried the laughter and chatter of the students as they dispersed. Groups formed instantly, buzzing with theories, plans, and playful banter.
Denki and Shinji walked side by side, discussing their battles and what they might face in Leaf City.
"You think the training grounds really live up to the stories?" Shinji asked, eyes gleaming.
Denki nodded slowly. "If they do, it'll be exactly what we need."
Nearby, Hinari was surrounded by her friends as she struggled to pack her belongings. The mountain of clothes, scrolls, and various trinkets in front of her was daunting. She zipped and re-zipped bags, shifting weight from one to the other.
Denki sauntered over, eyeing the heap with a mischievous grin.
"Wow, Hinari," he teased. "Are you moving out permanently or just going on a trip?"
Hinari shot him a glare but couldn't help laughing. "I like to be prepared! You never know what you'll need."
Denki chuckled. "Or maybe you just want to take all the snacks for yourself."
She stuck her tongue out playfully.
"Maybe a little. But if you're so eager to travel light, then what are you packing, Denki?"
He patted his small pack confidently. "Essentials. A couple of training tools, my favorite energy drink, and enough charm to keep up with you."
The two shared a laugh as Denji and Inazuma approached quietly, carrying a neat bag.
"You two never change," he said with a small smile.
---
As the evening grew darker, the students returned to their homes to pack in earnest. The academy's ancient stone halls echoed with the shuffling of bags, the clatter of gear, and occasional bursts of laughter.
Hinari's room was a whirlwind. Clothes draped over chairs, books stacked in precarious piles, and scrolls spilling from every corner. She moved with determined energy, stuffing yet another heavy coat into her already overstuffed bag.
Denki knocked and poked his head in. "Ready to leave that luggage behind yet?"
"No way," Hinari replied, puffing out her cheeks. "This trip is important. I'm going to be ready for anything."
"Anything except traveling light," Denki grinned.
Nearby, Raito and Raiki were comparing their gear with a competitive spark.
"Think the training grounds will push us harder than the trials?" Raiki asked, tightening the straps on his pack.
Kaito nodded, eyes bright. "If they don't, then we're not growing."
Raiku stood quietly, methodically checking each piece of equipment, the ever-calm earth beneath his feet seeming to steady him.