Mark 3

Enter Team Firecracker.

Mark 3

    There were four blocks. Each contained four teams. Participants were given two weeks to prepare. Some teams used this to gather Intel on other teams, while others trained. We went to the Forest of Books to research and train. Trees grew books that contained magic runes that helped our mana circulation. On our way there we met a team from a different block.
    "Fancy seeing Team Firecracker here."
    "The same to you, Team Blank."
    Team Firecracker focused on offense so much, that their lack of defense is compensated by the short time it takes them to defeat their opponents. Many have seen them in other competitions. Led by the beautiful samurai Kaen, they have three members total. Kaen wore a red kimono and a crimson scarf that flowed elegantly in the wind.
    "I am honored to meet you all"
    "I don't think we've done anything to warrant praise."
    "Nonsense. I saw the entrance examination. I suppose you're here to train?"
    "Since we're in different blocks you wouldn't mind training with us, would you?"
    "What kind of training do you have in mind?"
    I thought for a moment. Simple sparring wouldn't work as the Magic Tournament would have a random assortment of events.
    "How about a game?"
    "I doubt we get a say in this again?"
    "Absolutely not, Vlay."
    "So, what kind of game?"
    "A hunt to put it simply. Forest of Books has 3 tiers of monsters. D, C, and rarely B rank monsters. The goal is to hunt these monsters and score points based on their rank. D ranks are worth 1 point. C ranks are worth 2 points. B ranks are worth 4 points."
    "I see. I estimate the time limit should be 2 minutes."
    "This won't be a team match. I think we should all compete with each other in order to push ourselves."
    "Let's have a good time!"
    "Well, I might as well go along with this."
    "I have no problems either."
    I used magic to create the point system. It would also inform us when time is up.
    "Ready? 3, 2... 1!"
    Everyone split up. I took the river area where most C rank monsters were. There were many Black Scale Fish in the waters. They always swim in packs so it was convenient for me. Using my strings I was able to cut them into pieces many at a time.
    "I suppose I could afford to use mana to wipe them out in greater numbers."
    I created magic circles with the Electric Element for extra damage against the water monsters.
    "Shock Current!"
    Spark waves flew back and forth into the river flow. I was able to wipe out all the Black Scale Fish. In doing so I may have attracted the boss's attention. B rank monster, Shade Scale Fish. It was nearing twice my size and had a total of 84 teeth.
    "I'll end you in one shot."
    Since I was standing nearby the magic books the trees grew, My mana pull was greater and I could cast spells faster.
    "Epsilon Breaker!"
    I fired off a laser of the Space Element. It was fascinating to see a giant hole through the mouth of what could have eaten me. It was nearing the last 30 second stretch. I used this time to hunt any more monsters I ran into.
    We met up where we started.
    "First place goes to Vlay who had 87 points."
    "Of course."
    "Second place went to Kaen, with 66 points. "
    "I need more training."
    "And third place went to me, with 59."
    "Couldn't you have done better, sir?"
    "Easy to say, Ms. 12 points."
    "Poo! You only got 26! Poo on you!"
    I was more impressed her other teammates hit the 40 point mark.
    Ryuga was a dual wielding swordsman who was known for his skill Discord Blades. He wore a trench coat and a beret. He specializes in close combat, but can also handle guns pretty well.
    Aster was a gun user. Renowned as the greatest shot in their block. She wore a plain shirt with a jacket and had goggles on her head. She focused on mid range combat.
    They have a lot of offense, but lack defense. Kaen extended her hand.
    "I look forward to facing you."
    "I feel the same."
    We shook hands and made a promise to meet in battle.
    "By the way, why did you name yourself Team Blank?"
    "Oh well I didn't really have a name thought up so I just told Vlay to leave it blank."
    "...Eh?"

End 3

Author's Note

Kaen will use a darker shade of red for her text.