Rynhara stirred awake in the medical ward, her body bandaged but her spirit still brimming with the thrill of battle. Tiamora sat by her bedside, regal as ever, sipping tea like she hadn't nearly lost her composure the day before.
"Good, you're awake," Tiamora said casually, as if nothing had happened. "The award ceremony is in an hour. You've rested enough."
Rynhara groaned, sitting up. "An hour? You couldn't let me sleep in for one day?"
Tiamora smirked. "Victory waits for no one, dear. And neither do I."
The massive auditorium was packed with students, faculty, and royalty from every corner of the realm. The stage was draped in golden banners, and a massive chandelier sparkled overhead. The air buzzed with excitement as the award ceremony commenced.
The headmaster, a towering figure with a long silver beard and a voice that could command an army, stepped forward. "Welcome, students, teachers, and honored guests, to the official award ceremony of the International Academy's Combat Tournament!"
The crowd erupted in cheers, but the first-year students, still nursing their bruises, clapped half-heartedly.
"Before we proceed," the headmaster continued, "let us take a moment to acknowledge the unparalleled display of skill, determination, and sheer chaos that unfolded in this year's event." His gaze flicked to Rynhara, a knowing glint in his eye.
The older students were called up first. Each year's finalists received medals and accolades for their performances, with the champions earning golden laurel crowns.
Year 7's champion, a stoic swordsman with an icy demeanor, walked up to accept his crown without so much as a smile. The crowd roared nonetheless.
Year 4's champion, a fiery redhead with twin sabers, gave a triumphant laugh and did a dramatic bow. The audience loved her flair, though some rolled their eyes.
The younger years followed, their excitement palpable. Year 2's winner, a petite mage, nearly tripped on her robe as she accepted her medal, drawing laughter and applause.
Finally, it was time for the first-years. The entire arena seemed to hold its breath as the headmaster called the finalists to the stage.
"Let us honor our brave combatants from Year 1! Lyra Vilhena, the brilliant tactician, and Rynhara Tiamorane, the embodiment of raw power and unyielding determination! She is also this years number 1 battle winner!"
Lyra was the first to step forward, her movements graceful despite her lingering injuries, hardlyanyonepaid attention to her crutches. The crowd applauded warmly, many still in awe of her performance.
Then came Rynhara.
The moment she stepped onto the stage, the room erupted. Some cheered wildly, others whispered nervously, and a few even booed—though a sharp glare from Tiamora in the royal box silenced them instantly.
Rynhara's steps were steady despite the bandages, her presence commanding. She glanced at Lyra, who gave her a small, respectful nod. Rynhara returned it with a smirk.
As the two girls stood side by side, the headmaster raised his arms.
"This year, we have witnessed not only a battle of skill but also a clash of wills that will echo through the history of this academy. For her ingenuity and relentless strategy, Lyra Vilhena is awarded the Silver Laurel of Excellence!"
The crowd applauded as Lyra was crowned, her expression calm but proud.
"And for her unmatched prowess and the awakening of a Final Demolition Strike, Rynhara Tiamorane is awarded the Gold Laurel of Victory!"
The applause this time was deafening, with even some of the older students standing to clap.
As Rynhara adjusted her laurel crown, the headmaster raised his hand again. "However, the contributions of these two young warriors cannot overshadow the efforts of their peers. This year, we also recognize an unprecedented achievement."
The crowd leaned in, curious.
"For her resilience, tactical mind, and ability to lead even in the face of chaos, Kaelira—personal maid to Rynhara—is awarded the Medal of Honorary Contribution for hermuntold efforts in healing the injured students alongside the medics"
Kaelira, who had been sitting quietly in the audience, nearly fell out of her chair. "W-what?!"
The crowd roared with laughter and cheers as a blushing Kaelira was dragged to the stage by a grinning Rynhara.
"You earned it, Kaelira," Rynhara teased, clapping her maid on the back.
As the ceremony wound down, the headmaster delivered his final remarks.
"This tournament is more than a test of strength. It is a celebration of growth, camaraderie, and the unyielding spirit of competition. Each of you has played a part in making this year unforgettable. Let us look forward to the challenges ahead!"
The crowd rose to their feet, the applause echoing through the hall.
Back in her room, Rynhara slumped onto her bed, still wearing her laurel crown. Kaelira sat nearby, examining her medal with a mix of pride and disbelief.
"Think this will finally make people respect us?" Kaelira asked, glancing at her mistress.
Rynhara smirked, tilting her crown. "Respect me? Maybe. But fear? That's a guarantee."
Kaelira sighed. "I suppose that's as close as we're getting."
Tiamora's voice echoed from the doorway. "Enjoy your moment, my dear. The world now knows your name, but that means the challenges will only grow."
Rynhara grinned, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Let them come."