The arena was still buzzing with the shock of Raven's unexpected departure, but the next fight was about to begin. The audience's attention was now fully on Kael and Hana, the two most anticipated competitors of the semi-finals. Their paths had led them here, and now only one could advance to the final.
Kael stood across from Hana, his mind clear. He knew how powerful she was, and he respected her strength. But this was a fight, and he wouldn't hold back. He could feel the weight of his previous mistakes pressing on him, but this was his chance to redeem himself. To protect his friends and prove that he was strong enough.
Announcer:"And now, the second semi-final match! Kael Renji versus Hana Yume!"
The crowd roared in excitement as both competitors stepped forward, each determined to win. Hana gave Kael a small smile before she raised her hands, ready to fight.
Announcer:"Begin!"
Without hesitation, Kael charged forward. His fist collided with the air, creating a shockwave as his energy exploded outward. Hana, her eyes sharp with focus, dodged nimbly, her crystal hairpin glowing as it enhanced her focus and reaction speed. She moved like a blur, quickly closing the distance between them.
Hana's speed was impressive, and she landed a swift kick to Kael's side, sending him skidding back. But Kael wasn't fazed. He quickly regained his footing and lunged forward, his arms glowing with energy as he unleashed a series of devastating strikes.
Hana blocked with incredible precision, using her enhanced reflexes to stay a step ahead. But even with her abilities, Kael's power was overwhelming. Each of his attacks felt like a tidal wave, pushing her back inch by inch. He wasn't holding anything back now.
Kael's body shimmered with a dark, intense energy. His armguards, reinforced by Eri's special alloy, kept his power in check, but his strength was starting to surge beyond what he had anticipated. Every strike he made pushed the limits of his abilities.
Kael (thinking):I can't lose. Not after everything. I won't let anyone down.
Hana blocked a particularly powerful strike, her crystal hairpin flashing as she deflected it with a precision that was almost otherworldly. But Kael wasn't giving her any space to breathe. He pushed forward relentlessly, landing a solid punch that sent Hana flying back.
For a moment, the crowd held its breath. Hana landed on her feet, her hairpin glowing brightly. She was clearly hurt, but her resolve remained strong. She raised her hand, her focus sharpening.
Hana:"Come on, Kael. Let's see how much you've grown."
With that, she shot forward like a comet, launching herself at Kael with incredible speed. But Kael had already prepared. His energy flared as he unleashed his full strength, meeting her in the center of the arena. The impact of their clash sent shockwaves rippling through the air, and the ground beneath them cracked under the force.
Kael's vision blurred for a moment as he pushed against her, but in the end, his overwhelming energy proved too much. He launched a final, decisive blow—a powerful punch that landed squarely against Hana's midsection, sending her crashing into the ground.
Announcer:"And the winner is Kael Renji!"
The crowd erupted into applause, but Kael's heart was heavy. He stood over Hana, panting heavily, as she slowly got to her feet, a small grin on her face despite her injuries.
Hana:"You've gotten stronger, Kael. I knew you could do it."
Kael extended a hand to help her up, his face filled with both relief and guilt.
Kael:"I'm sorry, Hana. I didn't mean to hurt you."
Hana chuckled softly as she took his hand, pulling herself to her feet.
Hana:"It's okay, Kael. It's a fight. Don't worry about me. You did great."
The two shared a brief, understanding look before turning to the audience, who continued to cheer. Kael's victory had been hard-fought, but he had earned his place in the final.
As Kael walked off the arena, he glanced toward the stands, where his friends, including Eri and Tetsu, were watching. He could see their proud smiles, but there was still more to do. The final fight awaited him, and Kael was ready.
Announcer:"With that, we move on to the final match! Kael Renji will face off against Veyron from Team Darkshade for the championship!"
The final battle was set, and Kael knew that this was only the beginning.