2025-06-09 22:47:57
Previous Chapter
Latest Chapter
Chapter 176
The arena hummed with anticipation. Word of Miko's victory over Garcia had spread, transforming him from unknown outsider to legitimate contender overnight. Spectators who'd dismissed him now watched with keen interest, wondering if the AAU operative could overcome his next challenge.Bertha Stoneheart entered first, her earth-brown uniform pristine, her expression carved from the same unyielding material as her element. The crowd cheered enthusiastically—Bertha was a tournament veteran with a reputation for methodical, overwhelming victories.When Miko emerged from the opposite tunnel, the reception was more mixed. Applause mingled with curious murmurs as spectators pointed and discussed the tournament's newest sensation."You've caused quite a stir," the match official commented as they approached the center. "The bookmakers have been adjusting odds all morning."Miko kept his expression neutral. "I'm just focused on the match.""As you
Chapter 175
The transport stopped before an imposing building of dark stone and glass. Unlike the ornate architecture of the palace, the Bureau was deliberately austere, projecting authority through simplicity.Inside, they were led to a conference room where Ambassador Chen waited alongside several imperial officials Miko didn't recognize. More concerning was the presence of three Church representatives, Samson among them."Ah, our AAU colleagues have arrived," Chen greeted with diplomatic smoothness. "Please, join us."As they took their seats, Miko noted the careful positioning—empire officials at the head of the table, Church and AAU representatives on opposite sides. A physical manifestation of the empire's role as mediator between competing institutions."Let us address the matter directly," Chen began once everyone was settled. "The Church has expressed concern regarding certain techniques displayed by Competitor Asterion during yesterday's match.
Chapter 174
"You slipped," Anna said the moment they were alone in Miko's quarters. Her tone wasn't accusatory, just matter-of-fact. "The ash showed through during that random enhancement wave."Miko sank onto the edge of his bed, fatigue finally catching up to him. "I know. I couldn't control it. The wave somehow resonated with both elements simultaneously.""Who noticed?" Liam asked, leaning against the wall with arms crossed."Garcia, definitely. She mentioned it after the match." Miko ran a hand through his sweat-dampened hair. "Samson too, judging by his expression. Possibly others.""The Church representatives were practically salivating," Akiya confirmed. She'd been watching from a position near their seating section. "The moment that shadow appeared in your flames, they started scribbling notes and whispering to each other.""So much for keeping a low profile," Liam sighed."It wasn't intentional," Miko reminded them. "And it was bri
Chapter 173
The crowd's energy had shifted noticeably since the first round. Where before there had been dismissive curiosity about the unknown AAU operative, now there was genuine anticipation. Whispers spread through the stands—had Garcia's first round loss been a fluke, or was this Asterion truly a contender?Miko stood on his mark, centering himself as the match official prepared to announce the second round challenge. Across from him, Garcia had abandoned her earlier casual confidence. Her stance was tight, focused, her eyes never leaving Miko."Round two," the official announced, "will feature environmental hazards. Periodic waves of elemental energy will sweep across the arena at random intervals. These waves can amplify or disrupt your techniques depending on timing. Prepare yourselves."Interesting. The first round had tested adaptability to changing terrain. This would test timing and elemental control."Competitors ready? Round two begins in t
Chapter 172
The implication hung heavy in the air. The Church's methods for securing magical knowledge were notorious, even if rarely spoken of directly."So what do you suggest?" Miko asked. "Forfeit the tournament?""No," Hayes shook his head. "The directive remains unchanged. Compete competently without revealing specialized techniques. But be aware that eyes are watching, and not all of them with benign intent."With that warning delivered, Hayes departed, leaving the team in thoughtful silence."Well," Liam said finally, "that wasn't ominous at all.""He's not wrong," Anna said quietly. "The Church's interest is concerning."Miko moved to the window, looking out at the tournament grounds where other matches continued. In the distance, he could see Bertha Stoneheart in combat, her earth techniques systematically dismantling her opponent's defenses."One match at a time," he said, more to himself than the others. "Tomorrow, it's
Chapter 171
The competitors' pavilion hummed with conversation, all of it centered on the morning's matches. Miko sat alone at a corner table, still in his tournament attire, muscles aching from his victory. Garcia had pushed him hard in the second round, but he'd managed to prevail, securing his advancement to the next stage. "Mind if I join you?" Miko looked up to find Liam standing beside the table, two cups of steaming tea in hand. "Please," Miko gestured to the empty chair. Liam set one cup in front of Miko before taking a seat. "You've caused quite a stir," he said, nodding toward the other competitors gathered in small groups throughout the pavilion. "The mysterious AAU operative defeating Garcia in straight rounds." "Where are Anna and Akiya?" Miko asked, deliberately changing the subject. "Anna's analyzing match recordings. Akiya's scouting your potential next opponents." Liam leaned forward, low
You may also like
The Billionaire's Revenge
Unique12.8K viewsPaths to destiny.
Goodluck Ernest.12.0K viewsPRIMORDIAL LORD OF CHAOS
Supreme king21.0K viewsKing of succubus
Golden_raise89.7K viewsL For Luciel
AyeshaM1.2K viewsThe Chronicles of Kelor: Book One; The Boy Alpha
Raconteur1.4K viewsSon Of The Universe
Evanscapenovel46.2K viewsReincarnated as a Dwarf
CmdrSpock1.4K views