For Ren and his friends, the announcement meant that tomorrow would be the most important day of the tournament. Ren would individually face Klein in what they considered an implicit rematch, payment for their first 'friendly' encounter in combat class.
"An intense day," commented Taro as they returned to the dormitories.
"But we should be grateful," smiled Min, his usual energy barely diminished after a full day of competition. "We could be completely out of the tournament."
Ren walked in silence... Tomorrow would not only determine who the strongest first-year students were; it would also establish hierarchies and expectations that could endure throughout their education at the academy.
"Klein isn't the same one we faced in the middle of the year," he finally said, his voice quiet but firm. "But neither am I."
Min and Taro exchanged glances, recognizing the determination in their friend's voice.
