Chapter 6: Contest of Champions

Ryu, Nina, and Peco ride the horse-drawn carriage, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels over cobblestones lulling them into a tense anticipation. The scent of fresh hay surrounds them, but the anxiety in the air is palpable. The bridge to Windia looms ahead, a critical juncture in their journey. As they approach, they spot the ruffians stationed at the checkpoint, scanning the area with keen eyes.

"Hide, quick!" Ryu whispers urgently.

They burrow into the hay, trying to make themselves as inconspicuous as possible. The carriage slows to a stop, and they hold their breath, listening intently. Minutes pass, but the carriage remains stationary. No voices, no footsteps—only an eerie silence.

Ryu cautiously lifts his head, peeking out to see what is happening. His eyes widen in shock as Balio's hand shoots out, grabbing him by the collar and yanking him out of the hay.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Balio sneers, tightening his grip on Ryu.

Before Ryu can respond, Sunder pulls Nina out, his grip like iron around her arm.

"Thought you could escape us, did you?" Sunder mocks, his eyes gleaming with malevolence.

As Balio and Sunder continue to taunt their captives, one of their subordinates rummages through the hay and pulls out Peco, holding the onion-like creature up for inspection.

"What's that? A pet?" Balio mocks as he ties Ryu and Nina up. "How cute."

"Let it go!" Nina cries, struggling against Sunder's hold. "It's not just a pet, it's—"

"Awww, does the princess care for her little veggie friend?" Sunder teases, ignoring Nina's protests.

Ryu's mind races, searching for a way out. He can't let Nina or Peco be harmed. Summoning his courage, he glares at Balio and Sunder.

"Let us go," Ryu demands, his voice steady despite the fear coursing through him.

Balio chuckles, shaking his head. "You're in no position to make demands, kid. You should have stayed hidden."

Nina's eyes flick to Ryu, silently communicating her trust in him. She knows he has a plan, even if it isn't clear yet. Ryu can't do anything but lower his head and surrender.

Ryu, Nina, and Peco are loaded into a cart, the wooden boards creaking under their weight as the horse-drawn vehicle trundles back to the makeshift town of Genmel. The ruffians steer the cart with rough hands, their faces hardened by years of unscrupulous work. The town looms closer, a patchwork of haphazard structures and the dry air of the desert.

Upon arrival, Balio and Sunder haul their captives into the arena and into their office, a dingy space cluttered with maps, papers, and the faint scent of stale ale. A single cage can be seen in the corner of the office. Ryu, Nina, and Peco are bound tightly as they sit on chairs, their wrists chafing against the coarse ropes.

Sunder saunters over to Nina, his face twisted into a mocking grin. He lifts his hand, showing her the bite mark still visible on his skin. "Remember this, princess? You've got quite the bite for a little girl."

Nina's eyes flash with defiance. "And you've got quite the bruise for a grown man crying over a little girl," she retorts, her voice steady.

Sunder's grin vanishes, replaced by a snarl. He raises his hand to strike Nina, his anger boiling over. Balio intervenes, grabbing Sunder's wrist mid-swing.

"Calm down, Sunder. Remember, she's worth more alive," Balio warns, his voice cold and calculating. "If you hurt her, we'll have the entire royal army after us."

Sunder's eyes narrow, frustration evident on his face. Balio continues, a cruel smile spreading across his lips. "But we can always make her watch while we deal with her little friend here."

Sunder smiles as he already has plans for dealing with Ryu. As he approaches Ryu, grinding his fists and cracking his knuckles preparing to clobber Ryu, Sunder asks, "Just to make sure, I can do whatever I please to the boy?"

Balio smiles wickedly, "Make sure you take your time with him. You need give the princess a good show."

Ryu tenses, his muscles straining against the ropes. Sunder's anger finds a new target as he lifts Ryu by the collar, balling his fist preparing to pummel him. "Get ready, kid. This is going to hurt you more than it's going to hurt me," he growls.

Just as his fist is about to connect, the door bursts open, and a subordinate rushes in, his face pale with anxiety. "Balio! We've got a problem!" he stammers.

Sunder freezes, his fist still poised in mid-air. He drops Ryu, who falls back into the chair, gasping for breath.

"What is it now?" Balio demands, irritation clear in his tone.

"One of the contestants for the Contest of Champions has dropped out last minute. We don't have enough fighters," the subordinate reports, his voice trembling.

Balio and Sunder exchange panicked glances. They know their boss will be furious if the tournament is canceled. As they panic, Nina looks up curiously. "What's the Contest of Champions?"

Balio, still distracted by the news, answers without thinking. "It's a tournament for the strongest fighters. The winner gets whatever they desire."

Nina's eyes light up with an idea. "Well... What if we enter the tournament?"

Sunder scoffs, his face twisting in disdain. "You're just kids. You wouldn't last a minute."

Balio, however, pauses, a calculating look crossing his face. He pulls Sunder aside, speaking in a low voice. "Think about it, Sunder. It's actually a good idea."

"What are you talking about?" Sunder asks, confused.

Balio's eyes gleam with a cunning plan. "They're strong. They've proven that already. But only we know that. Nobody will bet on a couple of kids. If they win, we'll make a fortune."

Sunder frowns, still skeptical. "What if something happens to the princess?"

Balio waves off the concern. "The boy will protect her. We will set them up with the weakest fighters and rake in the cash. And in the final match, we'll set it up for him to face Garr alone. The boy may be strong, but nobody is stronger than Garr. Besides, any deaths during the tournament are considered accidental. We can get rid of the dragon kid and then ransom the princess afterward. It's a win-win for us."

Sunder's expression shifts from doubt to understanding, then to a cruel smile. "Alright, let's do it."

They turn back to the captives, Balio's demeanor now friendly and persuasive. "Alright, kids. We've decided to give you a chance. You'll enter the Contest of Champions. Prove yourselves in the tournament, and you'll earn your freedom."

Nina and Ryu exchange determined looks. This could be their chance to escape. They nod in agreement, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead in the arena.

Balio claps his hands, a false cheerfulness in his voice. "Excellent! Let's get you ready. The tournament starts tomorrow."

Sunder steps forward with a sly smile. "Alright, you two. Now that we've agreed to let you participate in the tournament. We'll cut you loose. You're free to train and equip yourselves if necessary. We'll give you the official paperwork in a moment."

Sunder pulls out a knife and cuts the ropes binding Ryu, Nina and Peco. As they move to leave, Ryu glances back at Peco, who remains on the ground, looking up at them with wide, curious eyes.

Just as they take their first steps toward the door, Balio grabs Peco by the sprigs and lifts him off the ground. "But the onion stays here," he declares. "We need a little insurance in case you decide to run."

Nina's eyes widen, and she takes a step toward Peco. "No! You can't—"

"Relax," Sunder interrupts with a sneer. "We won't harm your little friend as long as you play by the rules. If you run, consider this thing onion soup! Now go. Prepare for the tournament. And remember, we'll be watching."

Ryu clenches his fists, his anger barely contained, but he knows they have no choice. They have to play along if they want to survive and eventually escape. He turns to Nina, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Come on, Nina. Let's get ready."

Nina's eyes glisten with unshed tears, but she nods resolutely. They exit the room, their minds already racing with plans for the tournament.

Balio throws Peco into the cage and locks the door. Sunder asks, "Why don't we just get rid of this thing now? It's not like they can stop us."

"We already had too many complications," says Balio. "Let's keep the princess happy until we get our money."

Ryu and Nina breathe a sigh of relief as they walk out of the arena. They exchange knowing glances, sure that Balio and Sunder are planning something wicked. they must find a way to outsmart Balio and Sunder, rescue Peco, and secure their freedom.

As Ryu and Nina navigate through the bustling streets of Genmel, they take in the strange sights and sounds around them. The town is alive with a mix of rough-looking individuals and ordinary spectators who have come to watch the tournament. Among the crowd, they notice women dressed in revealing bunny swimsuits, adding to the odd atmosphere that surrounds them.

Determined to find a way to win the Tournament of Champions and rescue Peco, they keep moving, their eyes scanning for anything that might help. Soon, they come across some tents bustling with activity. Several Manilo merchants are selling a variety of goods, from weapons to potions. Ryu and Nina approach one of the Manilos, who is busy organizing his wares.

The Manilo looks down as they approach, his eyes widening in curiosity. "Well, well, what do we have here? How can I help you two?" he asks, his voice a mix of intrigue and amusement.

Ryu steps forward, determination etched on his face. "We need some equipment," he explains. "We're entering the Contest of Champions." Ryu hands over the paperwork to prove their positions in the tournament. Balio and Sunder's signature is undeniable.

The Manilo raises an eyebrow, clearly surprised. "Children entering the tournament, eh? That's quite unusual." He studies the paperwork Ryu shows him, then rubs his chin thoughtfully. "Equipment for children, you say? That's not something we sell."

"Please kind sir. Whatever you have will be fine," says Ryu.

After a moment of contemplation, the Manilo's eyes light up with an idea. "Wait here," he says, disappearing into the back of his tent. Ryu and Nina exchange hopeful glances as they wait.

A few minutes later, the Manilo returns with two bags in hand. "Here," he says, handing the bags to Ryu and Nina. "These are armor for people of the mole tribe. I may not sell armor for children, but I feel that you both are about the same height as the mole people. Try these on, I believe that they will fit you perfectly."

The Manilo merchant opens his tent and gestures for them to step inside. "Follow me," he says, leading them to a set of changing rooms tucked away in the corners. "Try these on and let me know how they fit."

Ryu and Nina each take a separate room, eagerly donning their new armor. Ryu is the first to step out, and he can't help but marvel at his reflection. The chain armor fits him perfectly, a significant upgrade from his worn leather armor. It includes a single, sturdy shoulder pad on his right side, giving him a rugged, warrior-like appearance.

Nina emerges from her changing room next, adorned in a set of blue mage's robes that fit her small frame flawlessly. The robes are elegant yet practical, allowing for freedom of movement while exuding a sense of magical prowess. They come with matching Mary Jane shoes, completing her look.

Ryu blushes slightly as he looks at her. "You look really cute, Nina," he says, a shy smile on his face.

Nina responds with a grin of her own. "Thanks, Ryu. You look like a real warrior in that armor."

They both turn to the Manilo, gratitude evident in their expressions. "Thank you," Ryu says. "How much do we owe you for the armor?"

The Manilo waves a dismissive hand. "No charge," he replies. "Consider it an investment. If you do well in the tournament, it'll be good for my business."

Ryu approaches the Manilo merchant once more, pulling out his short sword. "Is it possible to trade this in for something better?" he asks, handing over the weapon.

The Manilo takes the sword and inspects it closely. The blade is worn with use, dulled to a blunt edge. After a moment, he nods and puts the old sword away. "Wait here," he says, disappearing into the back of the tent again.

He returns shortly, holding a sheathed blade. "Here, try this," the Manilo says, handing it to Ryu.

Ryu draws the sword, his eyes widening in awe as he examines it. The blade radiates a faint blue color, a clear sign of its superior craftsmanship. "This is incredible," he murmurs, admiring the sword.

The Manilo merchant smiles. "That is the Moon Sword," he explains. "It's a smaller blade, perfect for a fighter like you. I hope it serves you well."

Ryu gives the sword a few practice swings, marveling at how light and sharp it feels. "It's perfect," he says, sheathing the sword and attaching it to his belt. "Thank you."

"May it bring you victory," the Manilo replies with a nod. "Good luck in the Contest of Champions."

Ryu and Nina leave the tent, their new gear making them feel more prepared than ever. As they make their way back through the crowded streets of Genmel, their determination only grows stronger.

Later that night, while Ryu and Nina sleep soundly in their room at the inn, Balio and Sunder are still hard at work in their makeshift office, finalizing the preparations for the Contest of Champions. The room is filled with the low hum of voices and the shuffling of papers.

Suddenly, the door bursts open, and Garr, the demon warrior, strides in, his expression furious. "What is the meaning of this?" he demands, his voice booming across the room. "Why are you allowing mere children to compete in the Contest of Champions? My blade will be wasted on them."

Balio looks up from his work, his face calm and composed. "Calm yourself, Garr. The boy is no ordinary child. He is a dragon, with powers that are beyond ordinary comprehension."

Garr's eyes narrow as he rubs his chin, intrigued. "A dragon, you say? This boy?"

Sunder, unable to resist a jibe, adds with a smirk, "What's wrong, Garr? Are you scared of facing a dragon?"

Garr's eyes blaze with fury. With a swift motion, he summons his spear from the flaming abyss, the weapon appearing in his hand as if by magic. He points it menacingly at Balio and Sunder. "Do not mistake my curiosity for fear! I can kill you both without breaking a sweat! If you believe you can handle this dragon, then so can I!"

Balio raises his hands in a placating gesture. "We meant no disrespect, Garr. We just wanted to assure you that this competition will be far from dull. We promise that you will enjoy facing the dragon boy."

Garr snorts, lowering his spear but not his guard. With that, Garr turns and leaves the office, the door slamming shut behind him. Outside, he pauses, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "A dragon," he mutters to himself. "This changes everything. This will be interesting indeed."

The following morning, Ryu and Nina approach the grand arena, hearts pounding, ready to fight for their lives. Clad in their new equipment, they step up to the entry gate and present their paperwork as official participants. The staff give them strange looks, but ultimately allow them in and escort them to the stage where their first fight will take place.

The staff member explains, "You'll be participating in a series of one-on-one fights against the opposing team. Since your team only has two members, you'll need to take turns fighting. Who will go first?"

"I'll go first," Ryu volunteers, determination in his eyes.

The staff nods, and he is led to the entrance of the stage. The atmosphere is electric with excitement. Spectators fill the stands, their cheers and jeers echoing through the arena. An attractive woman in a revealing bunny swimsuit walks onto the stage, her presence commanding immediate attention.

"Welcome, everyone, to the Tournament of Champions!" she announces, her voice amplified by magic. "In this corner, we have a newcomer—Ryu!"

Ryu steps onto the stage, greeted by a chorus of boos and laughter from the audience. He tries to ignore them, focusing on the task ahead.

"And in this corner, the crowd favorite—Patrio!"

Patrio, a muscular warrior with an air of confidence, strides onto the stage to loud cheers and fanfare. He basks in the adoration, flashing a winning smile at the audience.

The bell rings, and the fight begins. Ryu and Patrio circle each other, sizing each other up. Patrio lunges first, swinging his heavy claymore with a roar. Ryu dodges to the side. Thanks to his armor fitting well, his movements are swift and fluid. He counterattacks with his Moon Sword, its faint blue glow shimmering as it slashes through the air.

The crowd gasps as the two exchange blows, Ryu's speed matching Patrio's brute strength. Patrio's claymore comes down again, but Ryu blocks it with his sword, sparks flying from the clash of metal. Ryu retaliates with a series of quick strikes, forcing Patrio to retreat a step.

Nina watches from the sidelines, her hands clenched into fists. She knows she must be ready to step in if Ryu falters, but she has faith in his abilities.

Patrio roars in frustration, swinging his claymore in a wide arc. Ryu leaps back, narrowly avoiding the blow. He takes a deep breath, then charges forward, his sword aimed at Patrio's exposed side. The blade finds its mark, slicing through Patrio's armor. The warrior grunts in pain, stumbling back.

Ryu doesn't let up. He presses the attack, his sword moving in a blur. Patrio tries to defend, but he's no match for Ryu's speed, size, and precision. With a final, powerful slash, Ryu disarms Patrio, sending his claymore flying across the stage.

The crowd falls silent, stunned by the unexpected outcome. Ryu stands over Patrio, his chest heaving with exertion. The bunny-suited announcer steps forward, raising Ryu's hand in victory.

"And the winner is... Ryu!"

The crowd erupts into a mix of boos and reluctant applause. Ryu walks back to Nina, who greets him with a proud smile. "You did it, Ryu. One down."

Ryu nods, still catching his breath. "Let's keep this up, Nina. We're not done yet."

Nina braces herself for the next round, ready to face whatever comes her way in the Tournament of Champions.

Balio and Sunder watch from their designated vantage point, grinning at the pile of money they are raking in from bets and admission fees. The success of their plan is apparent, and they can't help but be pleased with the turn of events.

Nina braces herself for the next round, feeling a mix of nerves and determination. The bunny girl steps forward again, her voice ringing out through the arena. "For our next match, we have Nina versus Claw!"

Nina marches into the ring, greeted by a chorus of boos and jeers. She keeps her head held high, knowing that she has to prove herself. Claw, a female rogue with a sinister grin, enters to cheers and fanfare, basking in the adulation of the crowd. She draws her daggers, twirling them expertly as she prepares for the fight.

The bell reverberates through the arena, signaling the start of the match. Claw wastes no time, springing toward Nina with blinding speed, her twin daggers gleaming under the arena lights. The crowd roars in anticipation, but Nina remains composed, her rod gripped tightly in her hands.

With a flick of her wrist, Nina casts a series of weakening spells. A shimmering aura surrounds Claw, slowing her movements and draining her strength. The rogue stumbles mid-lunge, her once-fluid strikes now clumsy and labored.

Nina's heart pounds against her ribs, but she doesn't let it show. She raises her staff high, calling forth fireballs and bolts of lightning that streak through the air toward Claw. Each spell misses by mere inches, scorching the ground around the rogue. To the audience, it's clear: Nina isn't struggling—she's putting on a display, showing her opponent and the crowd the breadth of her magical power.

Claw grits her teeth, her confidence unraveling with every failed attack. Her dodges grow frantic, her breath coming in shallow gasps as the realization sets in—she's utterly outmatched. The once-cocky rogue now moves like a cornered animal, lashing out in desperation.

Nina takes a step forward, her emerald eyes locking onto Claw's. The crowd hushes as the young princess raises her staff, her voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins. "Surrender quietly, Claw, or I'll have no choice but to end this painfully."

Claw falters, her daggers trembling in her hands. Pride and fear war within her, but the futility of her situation is undeniable. She glances at the crowd, then at Nina, who stands resolute, her magic crackling in the air like an unspoken promise.

With a defeated sigh, Claw drops her weapons, the daggers clattering to the ground. Her hands rise in surrender, and her voice, barely audible over the cheers and jeers of the crowd, breaks the tension. "I yield."

The arena erupts into applause, the spectators captivated by the spectacle. Nina lowers her staff, the glow of her magic fading as she approaches Claw. Her expression softens, but her resolve remains unshaken. She had won—not just the fight, but the respect of everyone watching.

The bunny-suited announcer steps forward, raising Nina's hand in victory. "And the winner is... Nina!"

The crowd's boos turn to stunned silence, then a reluctant applause. Nina walks back to Ryu, who greets her with a proud smile. "You did it, Nina! One more down!"

Nina nods, her heart still racing. "We need to stay focused, Ryu. We're not done yet."

As they prepare for the next round, Balio and Sunder continue to watch, their smiles widening at the sight of their champions' success. They know that as long as Ryu and Nina keep winning, the money will keep flowing in. And in the end, they hope to achieve more than just wealth—they plan to use the tournament as a cover for their sinister schemes.

The air is thick with anticipation as the announcer's voice echoes through the arena. "For our final match of the day, we have Ryu versus Cawer!"

Ryu steps into the ring, this time met with an unusual silence. The crowd watches him with keen interest, curious to see how the young warrior who already defeated a seasoned fighter will handle his next opponent. Cawer strides in to cheers and applause, a large man exuding confidence and magical prowess.

Ryu studies his opponent carefully, his sharp eyes assessing every detail. Cawer is massive, his broad frame more suited to brute strength than agility, and his lack of heavy armor suggests confidence in his magical prowess. Ryu knows speed is his advantage, but the mage's destructive spells make him a dangerous foe. A strategy forms in Ryu's mind: close the distance, neutralize the threat, and force a surrender.

The bell rings, and Cawer wastes no time. Chanting under his breath, he unleashes a barrage of fireballs and lightning bolts that rip through the air, lighting up the arena. Ryu reacts instinctively, darting to the side, rolling, and weaving through the relentless assault. The crowd roars as he narrowly evades each spell, his agility unmatched.

Cawer smirks, his hands crackling with energy. With a flourish, he chants a slower, more intricate spell. A faint, shimmering aura envelops Ryu, and he feels his limbs grow heavier, his movements sluggish.

Ryu grits his teeth as the weight of the spell takes hold. Cawer seizes the moment, conjuring a towering wave of fire that crashes down on Ryu. The crowd gasps, the heat of the flames palpable even from the stands. Cawer laughs, his voice booming with triumph. "Burn to ashes!"

As the fire subsides, smoke billows around the arena. Then, to the crowd's astonishment, Ryu steps forward, unharmed, the flames dissipating harmlessly around him. His face is calm, his determination unshaken. He raises his hand, a soft green glow emanating from his palm as he casts a rejuvenation spell, restoring his energy and healing what little damage the flames might have caused.

Cawer's smirk fades, replaced by confusion. He fires off another volley of fire spells, each more frantic than the last. Ryu presses forward, his steps deliberate, his focus unyielding. Each spell dissipates against him, his calm exterior unnerving the mage.

"You're cheating!" Cawer shouts, desperation creeping into his voice. The crowd murmurs, unsure of what to make of the spectacle.

Ryu shakes his head, his resolve evident in his piercing gaze. "I'm not cheating. You've just already lost."

With a sudden burst of speed, Ryu closes the gap, his body a blur despite the lingering effects of the slowing spell. In a single fluid motion, he draws his Moon Sword, the blade gleaming with a soft, ethereal blue light. He points it at Cawer's throat, the tip hovering mere inches from the mage's skin.

"Yield," Ryu says, his voice calm but commanding.

Cawer freezes, the weight of his defeat sinking in. His shoulders slump, and he lowers his hands, the glow of his magic fading. "I surrender," he mutters, his voice barely audible over the thunderous applause of the crowd.

Ryu steps back, lowering his blade. The arena erupts into cheers, the audience captivated by the display of skill, resilience, and unshakable will. Ryu offers a slight bow to his fallen opponent before turning to face the roaring crowd, the victor of another hard-fought battle.

The crowd erupts into applause and cheers, impressed by the young warrior's resilience and skill. The announcer steps forward, raising Ryu's hand in victory. "And the winner is... Ryu!"

Ryu looks behind him, spotting Nina watching with a proud smile. He nods to her, feeling a sense of accomplishment but also a reminder of the bigger challenges ahead. As they prepare to leave the arena, Ryu knows that each victory brings them closer to their ultimate goal: defeating Balio and Sunder, rescuing Peco, and securing their freedom.

As the contestants leave the arena to rest for the matches of the following day, Balio and Sunder head to their office, eagerly counting the money they made from bets against Ryu. Coins and notes pile up on the table as they tally their earnings, their grins widening with each addition.

"Look at this haul," Sunder exclaims, eyes gleaming. "If we keep this up, we'll be rolling in zenny by the end of the tournament."

Balio nods, satisfied but still cautious. "Yeah, but don't get too comfortable. We still need to make sure the dragon boy doesn't get past Garr. If he wins, we'll lose everything."

Sunder laughs, shaking his head. "No way that kid can beat Garr. Did you see the way he struggled today? Garr will tear him apart."

Balio smirks, agreeing. "True, but we can't take any chances. We'll stick to the plan. If he somehow manages to pull off a miracle, we'll deal with him after the final match."

Sunder leans back in his chair, stretching. "Fine by me. As long as we keep raking in the bets, I'm happy. Those fools out there will bet everything against a kid, and we'll make a killing. Then they will believe that he will have a fighting chance against Garr and bet on him. And if he changes into hos dragon form, it'll be entertainment for the crowd."

Balio glances out the window at the now-quiet arena, his mind already strategizing for the next day. "Let's just make sure everything goes smoothly. We need to keep those kids in the tournament, but not let them win too much. If they get too confident, they might slip through our fingers."

Sunder nods, cracking his knuckles. "Got it. I'll keep a close eye on them. Tomorrow's matches will be even better. We'll make sure of it."

Balio and Sunder share a conspiratorial look, both men reveling in their scheme. As they finish counting their winnings, they can't help but chuckle at the thought of how much more they'll make from the unsuspecting bettors, all while ensuring Ryu and Nina never make it to Windia.

The following day, the remaining teams gather for the next stage of the Tournament of Champions. Ryu and Nina, accompanied by the other contestants, are led to a special arena known as the Null Magic Room. The arena employee explains the unique challenge of this round.

"Welcome to the Null Magic Room," the employee announces. "In this arena, all magical abilities are blocked. No spells, no magical transformations—nothing. You'll have to rely solely on your physical strength and combat skills."

Ryu and Nina exchange worried glances. Nina, in particular, looks apprehensive, knowing that her magic is her primary strength.

"Without my offensive magic and your healing spells, we'll be at a huge disadvantage," Nina whispers to Ryu, her voice filled with concern.

Ryu places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We'll figure it out. We've gotten this far, haven't we?"

The employee continues, "Your next match is against Emitai's team. Emitai is a master wizard, so he will face the same disadvantage as you. No magic for him either."

Hearing this, Ryu and Nina let out a collective sigh of relief. They realize they might have a better chance than they initially thought.

"At least Emitai won't be able to use his powerful spells," Nina says, her confidence returning.

Ryu nods. "We'll just have to rely on our physical skills and strategy. We can do this."

As they prepare for the match, they take stock of their equipment and plan their tactics. Ryu checks his Moon Sword, ensuring it's sharp and ready for close combat. Nina adjusts her robes and makes sure her rod is prepared.

The arena employee gestures for them to enter the Null Magic Room. The door creaks open, revealing a stark, metal-walled chamber devoid of any magical auras. Emitai is already inside, looking equally apprehensive about the upcoming battle.

Balio and Sunder watch from their vantage point, their expressions smug as they anticipate the match. They know the odds are in their favor with Ryu being the only one with a fighting chance.

The announcer's voice booms through the arena, "Ladies and gentlemen, the next match is about to begin! In this corner, we have Ryu and Nina, the underdogs who have surprised us all so far! And in the opposite corner, the formidable Emitai and his team!"

The crowd roars with excitement, eager to see how the battle will unfold without magic.

Ryu and Nina look around and ask Emitai, "Where is your team?"

Emitai smirks, his confidence evident, as he gestures toward the entrance of the arena. The air grows heavy, and the ground trembles with deep, rhythmic thuds. From the shadows emerge two colossal figures—towering ten-foot-tall golems carved in the grotesque likeness of goblins. Their mottled green skin gleams like polished stone under the arena's light, veins of dark, jagged Chrysm coursing through their bodies, pulsing faintly with an eerie glow.

Their elongated, pointed ears twitch unnervingly as if they could hear every movement, and their cruel, twisted grins reveal jagged teeth that look capable of crushing boulders. Massive fists, each the size of a boulder, drag across the ground, leaving deep grooves in their wake. Their lumbering movements send shockwaves rippling through the sand, and their glowing crimson eyes lock onto their prey with predatory precision.

The crowd falls silent, the oppressive weight of the golems' presence gripping everyone in its grasp. Each step they take feels like the promise of devastation, their hulking forms radiating raw, destructive power. The arena suddenly feels far smaller, their shadow stretching across the sand like a foreboding omen.

"They will be your opponents," Emitai explains. "Since I can't cast spells, I'll stay out of the match."

Ryu and Nina step back, worried about how they will defeat the hulking golems. Ryu's sword and Nina's rod seem too small to do any real damage to these towering opponents.

The bell rings and the fight starts, Ryu and Nina run around, dodging the golems' powerful attacks. After some time evading the onslaught, they huddle to figure out what to do.

As the golems approach them, Ryu notices that Emitai is standing still, not doing anything. "Emitai must be controlling the golems somehow," he says. "Nina, I need you to distract them while I deal with Emitai."

Nina agrees without question. Ryu runs past the golems, and just as they are about to pursue him, Nina throws a rock at the golems, shouting, "Hey, you dumb, ugly creeps! Come and get me!"

The taunt angers the golems, and they begin to chase Nina. She shrieks in panic and darts off as the golems give chase. As Nina keeps the golems occupied, Ryu rushes to Emitai and tackles him to the ground, punching him until he is out cold. The mage then drops a controller he had hidden under his robes. Ryu stomps on the controller, Emitai's control over the golems sever abruptly. As Emitai's unconscious body lies motionless, the two towering golems, now without direction, stagger and falter, their mechanical movements growing erratic. Nina watches in astonishment as the once formidable opponents begin to collide with each other, their heavy limbs flailing aimlessly. The crowd's murmurs swell into a roar of disbelief and excitement, the spectacle of the young warriors outwitting their adversary captivating the audience.

As Ryu and Nina reunite, she asks, "What's going on?"

Ryu explains, "Emitai was using technology to control the golems. Since the controller isn't considered magic, he thought he could use them to beat us. But when I knocked Emitai out, he lost control of the golems."

After a few more moments of the golems attacking each other, they eventually collapse defeated. The crowd is stunned into silence before erupting into cheers.

The announcer's voice booms, "Ryu and Nina are the winners!"

Balio and Sunder watch from their vantage point, calculating their next move as Ryu and Nina celebrate their victory. They smile as they know what is bound to happen next when Ryu faces Garr.

Ryu and Nina are then taken to the final arena called the Hall of Kings, an arena for the final one-on-one match against the leader of the two teams. Since Ryu has been named the leader, he is asked to walk in and face his final opponent. Once on the arena, Balio and Sunder enter the room carrying Peco.

"What are you doing here?" Nina asks, her eyes narrowing.

Balio smirks. "We're here to present the award to the winner. And look, we even brought your pet along for the show."

They drop Peco. Nina rushes and hugs it. "It's okay, Peco. Ryu will win this and we'll be free."

As Ryu steps into the ring, the arena erupts into a deafening roar. The crowd surges to its feet, chanting his name like a battle cry. The rhythmic pounding of feet against the stands echoes like a drumbeat, fueling the electric atmosphere.

"Ryu! Ryu! Ryu!" The chant grows louder, reverberating off the stone walls and filling the space with a primal energy. Men shout excitedly from the front rows, while seasoned warriors raise their fists in solidarity, their voices hoarse from cheering.

Ryu takes a deep breath, his azure eyes scanning the massive crowd. Their enthusiasm is infectious, igniting a fire in his chest. He tightens his grip on his blade, the weight of his journey pressing against him—but also the unshakable resolve to see it through. This is it. His final opponent stands between him and the victory he has fought so hard to achieve.

The arena staff points dramatically toward the far gate, her voice booming over the roaring crowd. "And now, let's welcome our reigning champion, the mighty Garr!"

The gate creaks open with a metallic groan, and from the shadows emerges a figure so imposing the air seems to grow heavier with each step he takes. Garr strides forward, his sheer presence commanding silence before the crowd erupts in deafening cheers. Lights flash and confetti rains down, but none of it diminishes the dread that follows in his wake.

Ryu's eyes widen as he takes in the seven-foot-tall demon walking across the arena. Garr's bronze-colored skin gleams under the harsh light, every ripple of his bulging muscles is evidence of his power. His talon-like red claws on his feet flex menacingly, glinting like deadly blades. Massive wings, thick and leathery, spread slightly as if to remind everyone of the raw strength they conceal.

Garr's beak-like maw curls into an expression somewhere between a grim smile and a predator's snarl that look like they could crush stone. His eyes, sharp and glowing with an eerie golden light, lock onto Ryu with an intensity that sends a shiver down his spine. The crest atop his head rises like a crown, accentuating his authority and marking him unmistakably as a seasoned warrior of unmatched skill. The beads around his neck and his purple robes tell a story of wisdom and mental sharpness usually unseen by powerful warriors.

Each step Garr takes seems to make the ground quake, the sound reverberating through the arena. The crowd chants his name with fervor, their voices blending into a thunderous storm of admiration and fear. This is no ordinary champion—Garr is a colossus, a living weapon, and the embodiment of a warrior's might.

Ryu grips his sword tightly, his heart pounding in his chest. Facing Garr feels like standing against a force of nature—unstoppable, unyielding, and utterly terrifying.

"It's you!" Ryu exclaims, recognizing the demon from the tavern who had stared at him during his escape.

Garr summons his spear and points it at Ryu. "I heard you're a dragon. Show me your dragon form, boy, because my blade won't hold back for children."

Ryu, surprised that the demon knows about his dragon transformation, nods with respect. "If that's what you want."

The bunny girl nods and announces, "Let the final match begin! The one-on-one fight against team captains, Garr vs. Ryu!"

Once the match starts, Ryu crosses his arms and concentrates as hard as he can. His body lights up as he remembers the feeling of protecting Nina with all his might. Garr stands still, watching the transformation happen. As Ryu shouts, a bolt of lightning strikes him, summoning the black orb to initiate the transformation. Garr stands there, amazed that the boy is actually transforming before him. Once the orb clears, Ryu assumes the form of a massive dragon.

As Garr stands before the transformed Ryu, his usually stoic expression cracks, his eyes widening in genuine surprise. The mighty dragon before him is not just a formidable opponent but a living legend of the power of the ancient Brood Clan—a power he thought he might never witness again.

Nina watches from the sidelines, her lips curling into a soft smile. She remembers this form vividly—the massive green-scaled dragon that had shielded her as they leapt from a mountain peak, defying death itself. That same strength and bravery now radiate from Ryu once more, an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Garr's surprise fades quickly, replaced by a booming laugh that echoes through the arena. His voice carries a mix of amusement and reverence, the weight of his centuries of life evident in his tone. "So, it's true, then. The Brood still lives! I've finally found one of you!" His spear lowers slightly, his stance widening as he readies himself for the battle to come. His grin is fierce, almost predatory. "Now come, little dragon. Show me what the Brood can do!"

The final match begins with a deafening roar from the crowd, eager to witness the clash between the reigning champion, Garr, and the challenger, Ryu. Garr stands tall, his spear held loosely in one hand as if the weapon is merely an extension of his formidable presence. He eyes Ryu's dragon form with calm confidence, his expression unreadable but his stance screaming dominance.

Ryu lunges first, his claws slashing through the air with feral speed. The crowd gasps as Garr sidesteps the attack effortlessly, spinning his spear in a defensive arc that sends sparks flying when it meets Ryu's claws. The younger warrior presses on, snapping his jaws at Garr's throat and whipping his tail in wide arcs, each strike aimed to break through the seasoned champion's guard.

But Garr is unfazed. He dodges with measured precision, his spear parrying the worst of Ryu's blows while he stays just out of reach of the dragon's fiery maw. His movements are deliberate, calculated—a show of skill designed to entertain the roaring crowd rather than end the fight too soon. "Is that all, little dragon?" Garr taunts, his deep voice booming over the cheers.

Ryu growls, the frustration mounting as his strikes grow more desperate. Sweat trickles down his brow despite his scaled form. He knows he's giving everything he has, but Garr barely seems winded. The champion's defense is unbreakable, his every move honed by decades of battle.

The minutes drag on, and Ryu feels his strength waning. The edges of his vision blur, and the primal energy keeping him in dragon form begins to falter. He can't keep this up for much longer. Gritting his teeth, Ryu makes a decision. If he's going down, he's going to give Garr—and the crowd—something to remember.

With a deep inhale, his chest swells, and the air grows heavy with power. A low rumble builds from deep within, and suddenly, Ryu opens his jaws wide, unleashing a torrent of superheated flames. The fire roars to life, engulfing Garr in a swirling inferno that sends waves of heat across the arena. The crowd erupts in shocked gasps, some shielding their faces from the blistering heat.

For a moment, it seems as though Ryu's dragon breath might have turned the tide. But then, Garr's voice booms through the flames, steady and unshaken. "Time to end this!"

The flames part as Garr steps forward, his bronze skin glowing faintly from the heat but otherwise unharmed. With a single, fluid motion, he lifts his spear high—then flips it, gripping it like a massive club. In one powerful strike, he brings it across Ryu's head, the blunt force sending the dragon hurtling backward.

Ryu crashes into the arena wall with a deafening crack, the stone shattering under the impact. Dust and debris billow into the air, obscuring the battlefield. The crowd falls silent, holding their breath as they wait for the dust to settle.

When it does, Ryu lies unconscious amidst the rubble, his dragon form fading as his body reverts to its human state. Garr lowers his spear, his imposing frame silhouetted against the wreckage. The crowd erupts into thunderous applause, their cheers shaking the very walls of the arena.

The bunny girl then steps forward and declares, "The winner of the final round is, Garr!"

Nina rushes over to Ryu, tears streaming down her face. "Ryu, wake up! Please, after everything we've been through, this can't be the end!"

The bunny girl steps forward and announces, "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Balio and Sunder to present Garr with his reward."

Balio and Sunder stride onto the stage, grinning. "Congratulations, Garr, on your victory," Balio says. "So, what is it that you want?"

Garr places his hand on his chin and thinks for a moment, "You did say ANYTHING I want, right?"

With a feigned smile, Balio says, "That's right! As long as we can get it, it will be yours."

Garr looks at them sternly. "I want the dragon," he declares, pointing at Ryu.

The crowd gasps. No champion had ever asked for their opponent as a reward before. Sunder tries to calm the crowd, while Balio's smile fades. "That wasn't part of the deal," Balio whispers, trying to maintain control of the situation.

Garr summons his spear, its tip glowing ominously. "You promised me anything I desired. If I can't have the dragon, then I'll gladly take your lives instead!"

Realizing they have no choice, Balio nods reluctantly. "Fine, the dragon is yours."

As they move to take Nina and Peco away, Garr stops them. "I believe the Windian and the onion are part of the deal too."

Balio's frustration mounts. "But you only asked for the dragon. The princess is ours!"

Garr's roar splits the air like a thunderclap, his voice echoing with the power of a storm. Flames erupt around him, swirling into a hellish inferno that casts his towering figure in a menacing light. The heat rolls off him in waves, distorting the air and sending nearby debris smoldering into ash. His bronze skin glows like molten metal in the firelight, his wings unfurling to their full, terrifying span.

The crowd, who had been watching with anticipation, breaks into chaos. Screams of terror fill the arena as people flee in every direction, desperate to escape the wrath they know Garr is capable of. Memories of his last eruption of fury flood their minds—when entire buildings crumbled, and the earth itself trembled beneath his might.

Balio and Sunder freeze, their bravado faltering as they feel the intense heat and hear the unmistakable crackle of flames. Sweat beads on their foreheads, their usual smirks replaced by uneasy grimaces.

"You will give me all of them," Garr bellows, his voice layered with both human and demonic undertones, "or face my wrath!"

He steps forward, his spear ignited in the flames of his summoning, and slams it into the ground. The impact sends a fiery shockwave racing toward Balio and Sunder, forcing them to shield their faces from the searing heat.

Balio swallows hard, glancing at Sunder, whose confidence is visibly shaken. The two exchange a brief, panicked look, they understand that Garr is a force of nature, a being whose anger could reduce them to nothing more than ash if they dared to push him any further.

Terrified, Balio and Sunder releases Nina and Peco. "Take them," Sunder says bitterly. "But know that Mikba will not be happy about this betrayal." They then run off with their tails between their legs.

Garr glares at them. "Your boss's displeasure means nothing to me. I have what I want."

With that, Garr lifts the unconscious Ryu over his shoulder and beckons Nina and Peco to follow him. Nina, holding Peco close, walks cautiously behind Garr, her mind racing with questions about what just happened. All she can do is pray that she can escape from the grasp of this new person who has now captured them.