Chapter 22.5 : Rising Stars
The arena pulsed with energy as the battle for the title of Creature Hunter continued. After the initial chaos, the contestants were divided into teams, each determined to showcase their skills and outmaneuver the competition. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and the spectators leaned forward, eager to witness the action unfold.
The loudspeaker blared, announcing the start of the next round. “Let the team battles begin! Only one team will emerge victorious! Fight with all your strength!”
As the signal sounded, the 500 contestants surged forward, eager to engage in battle. The air crackled with energy as teams clashed, each trying to outsmart the other. Jinwoo immediately took charge of his team, known for their agility and speed. He used his lightning powers to create openings, allowing his teammates to strike swiftly at their opponents. Calculative and strategic, he ensured everyone was on the same page, pushing them to fight cohesively.
In another part of the arena, Taeyang found himself in a chaotic brawl. His team focused on offense, and he led the charge with his martial arts skills. He fought without hesitation, jumping into the thick of battle. Taeyang’s rash nature often put him in tough spots, but his speed allowed him to evade many attacks. He called out to his teammates, urging them to follow his lead and keep the pressure on their enemies.
Meanwhile, Minho remained calm as he fought alongside his team. His composed demeanor set a tone of seriousness as he directed his teammates. He skillfully used his blade to protect those around him, defeating opponents with precision. Minho’s focus was unwavering; he knew that teamwork was essential to victory, and he encouraged his team to work together seamlessly. His presence inspired confidence, and they rallied around him.
Haejin’s team engaged in a more tactical approach. They strategically used her water magic to create distractions, allowing them to ambush their opponents. Haejin coordinated with her teammates, providing support and ensuring that everyone knew when to strike. Though she was a bit clumsy at times, her calm nature helped her team stay composed. Water balls flew through the air, splashing down on the ground and confusing their foes.
Minseok fought hard, determined to show his worth. He utilized his wind abilities to boost his teammates' speed and strength. As he worked with his team, he also focused on overcoming his insecurities, pushing himself to give his all. He shouted encouragement, urging his teammates to keep pushing forward, showcasing his resolve to support them in battle.
Kyungsoo stood strong, serving as the backbone of his team. With his powerful physique, he blocked incoming attacks and defended his teammates. His focus was not only on offense but also on protecting those around him. Though he might have been perceived as a muscle head, Kyungsoo’s soft side came through as he made sure to shield his friends from harm. He pushed back against opponents, proving his strength with every punch.
The battles were fierce, with teams fighting valiantly against each other. The arena was filled with the sounds of clashing abilities and battle cries. Jinwoo’s team faced off against a group known for their agility. With quick movements and calculated strikes, they managed to outpace their opponents. Jinwoo's lightning strikes lit up the arena, and he took down one fighter after another, demonstrating his prowess.
In another clash, Taeyang’s team fought a well-coordinated group that focused on team synergy. However, Taeyang’s rashness caught them off guard. He leaped into the fray, attacking without hesitation and creating openings for his teammates to exploit. The audience cheered as he landed powerful blows, igniting the crowd's excitement.
Minho and his team faced a strong opposition known for their defensive tactics. The other team relied on their ability to block attacks and counter with their own. Minho remained composed as he directed his teammates, guiding them through the fray. His blade sliced through the air, taking down opponents with skillful strikes. The calm demeanor he exhibited allowed his team to remain focused and united, even when faced with fierce challenges.
Haejin’s team encountered opponents who relied heavily on physical attacks. With her water magic, Haejin created barriers of water that absorbed the blows and protected her teammates. She directed the flow of battle, and her creative use of magic kept the other team guessing. Though a bit clumsy at times, her calm nature helped her avoid panic and focus on the task at hand.
Kyungsoo’s team, meanwhile, was engaged in a tough battle against a group that excelled in speed. However, with Kyungsoo as their protector, they held their ground. He stood firm, taking hits and pushing back against the attackers. His strength and resolve gave his teammates the confidence they needed to strike back, and together they managed to defeat their opponents.
As the battles continued, the teams began to thin out. The six top contestants did not face each other directly, but their presence in the arena was felt as they led their respective teams to victory after victory. It was clear that their skills and abilities set them apart, and the audience couldn’t help but cheer for them.
After intense rounds of fighting, it became evident which teams had demonstrated the highest talent and strongest teamwork. The cheers of the crowd rang out as the battles continued, and by the end of the round, only 100 contestants remained standing. Each contestant had proven themselves in their unique ways, and the crowd roared in approval for the fighters who had showcased their skills and determination.
As the dust settled, the top six contestants were recognized for their impressive performances. Jinwoo, Taeyang, Minho, Haejin, Minseok, and Kyungsoo had led their teams effectively, showing off their calculative minds and composed strategies throughout the intense fights.
Though the battles were fierce and the competition tough, the spirit of the Creature Hunters shone brightly in the arena. Each contestant had shown their worth, paving the way for future rounds. The cheers of the audience echoed, marking the end of the team battles, but the true test of their strength and skills was far from over.