The scene shifted to Tiger, his eyes closed in meditation as his electric Arua surged around him in small, erratic flashes. The air was charged with anticipation, as if the very atmosphere was waiting for him to unleash his full potential. Suddenly, a knock on the door shattered the tranquility, disturbing Tiger's concentration.
Tiger's eyes snapped open, and he let out a deep sigh, annoyance flickering across his face. "Enter," he said, his voice low and even.
As the door slid open, Tiger's gaze fell upon Yumi Goldin, standing tall and unwavering before him. Tiger's expression softened, and he relaxed, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "What is it now? Want a comeback for your earlier loss?" he asked, his voice laced with mockery.
Yumi's face remained impassive, his eyes burning with a quiet determination. "I accepted that I lost to you, but yes, I'll make it through the Rank Rumble, and after that, I challenge you to a fight."
Tiger's laughter was like a crack of thunder, shaking the air and making Yumi's eyes narrow. "Oh, yeah? Like you can keep up with me?!" Tiger's confidence was palpable, his electric Arua flaring up in response to his emotions. "You truly want to embarrass your race again?"
Yumi's expression remained calm, but a flicker of anger danced in his eyes. "I'll pay you back for what you did to my fellow people."
Tiger's grin grew wider, his eyes glinting with excitement. With a sudden burst of energy, he released his Arua, and the entire floor shook beneath their feet. The air was electric, charged with the promise of a fierce battle to come. "Do you feel it? The immense power you'll never touch?"
For a moment, Yumi's expression faltered, his eyes widening in awe. But then, his face hardened, and he released his own Arua. The air around him shimmered, a golden glow emanating from his body. "You're right, I can't touch it, but I can catch it."
Tiger's eyes narrowed, a spark of respect igniting within them. He grinned, his voice dripping with anticipation. "Then you better make it through the Rank Rumble. I accept your challenge."
Just then, the siren in both Tiger's and Shiline's rooms blared to life, signaling their turn in their respective matches. The air was charged with tension, the promise of epic battles to come hanging heavy over the proceedings.
End of chapter 17