ONLINE: Blades of Eternity

Chapter 161 TOP 10 STRONGEST STUDENTS

"I will now begin to call out the top ten strongest students of this prestigious Academy" Sylvester exclaimed in solemnity as a list suddenly appeared on his palm.

'It has finally started' Kaelen thought as he steeled himself from getting nervous.

As Sylvester began to announce the top five ranked students, a ripple of excitement surged through the audience. First, the mysterious swordsman, obviously ranked first, appeared with a shroud of shadowy energy, his arrival evoking awe from all present.

Following him, the second-ranked "Dark Prince" emerged in a burst of dark flame, his confident stance provoking a wave of whispers.

'He is the only student above me that I haven't had any dealings with' Kaelen thought grimly as he observed the 'Dark Prince' standing confidently on the ring.

"Hey, am next" But he didn't dwell on that thought for long as Lila suddenly brought him back to the present.

Then, Sylvester called, "Third in rank—Lila!" Lila left Kaelen and the group with a confident smile. As she stepped onto the platform, a dazzling wave of frost and shimmering blue lights swirled around her, sending a chill through the air and drawing gasps of admiration from the crowd.

Following her, the fourth-ranked "Ice Jade Princess" arrived, exuding a regal presence. Her entrance was similarly spectacular, with frosty mist cascading from her figure, signifying her mastery over Ice magic. The crowd buzzed, marveling at the unique presence of the two powerful mages, both trained by the same master.

"Looks like an next" Kaelen muttered under his breath as he began to get himself ready.

After the Ice Jade Princess took her place, Sylvester continued, "And now, in the 6th position—Kaelen!"

Kaelen stepped forward with poise, his figure emanating a radiant aura as he drew his sword. His entrance was both sharp and fluid, each movement embodying the timeless essence of an eternal swordsman. The crowd watched in respectful silence, acknowledging the intensity and grace that set him apart.

But after a while, no one stepped out to challenge the students standing on the platform. Instead, an eerie silence fell on the grand sparring platform area.

'Seems like they aren't really confident in their strength huh?' Kaelen thought with a wry smile on his face.

But just then, the quiet anticipation in the sparring arena was suddenly broken as Nathaniel, a tall, well-built student known for his bold spirit, strode confidently toward the platform. His gaze was fixed on Kaelen, and a charged silence fell over the crowd as they realized what was happening. Nathaniel had made his move — and challenged Kaelen directly.

Kaelen blinked in surprise, momentarily speechless. He hadn't expected Nathaniel to be the first challenger, let alone to target him so directly. There was a determined look in Nathaniel's eyes that Kaelen recognized — this was personal.

Whispers erupted through the crowd.

"Did he seriously just challenge Kaelen?" one student muttered, wide-eyed.

"Is he really after Kaelen's spot... or just trying to impress Lila?" another voice speculated, glancing between Nathaniel and Lila.

The knowledge of Nathaniel having a crush on Lila has been pretty common amongst the old students in the Academy. And they recently discovered of the suspicious relationship Lila has with Kaelen. So, some of the older students couldn't help but have this thoughts.

Kaelen's gaze shifted to Nathaniel, searching for any signs of his intent. But Nathaniel didn't flinch. He held his stance, his challenge silent yet fierce. Kaelen's initial surprise gave way to a smirk as he slowly rose to meet his challenger's gaze.

"Well then," Kaelen said, gripping his sword and feeling a rush of battle spirit rising within him. "If that's what you want, Nathaniel..."

The arena hushed, every eye now locked on the two as Kaelen stepped forward to the center of the platform, ready to accept the duel.