[A few minutes ago]
Allen stood alone in the open field, rhythmically swinging his sword.
Due to the tournament's rules, no one was allowed to use indoor training grounds or be provided with equipment. However, they were permitted to move freely within a designated area outside the venue.
Naturally, each team had staked out a spot to conduct their own training.
The rest of his teammates had gone for a run. Allen and Elana, having woken up earlier than the others, had already completed their morning sprints. Now, the two of them were doing some light exercises before the professor arrived to begin the sparring session.
As Allen practiced his swings, a strange stiffness crept into his left shoulder.
At first, he thought it would fade on its own, but instead, it grew more uncomfortable with every motion.
He stopped swinging and rolled his shoulder, trying to work it out. Nothing.
He gave his arm a few loose swings, but the stiffness remained.
