After the surprising performance on the training field, the atmosphere at Valmere Academy heated up. Rumors about Ethan and his enigmatic deer spread quickly through the corridors. Some students saw him as a natural talent; others, as a threat to keep an eye on.


    That very day, the administration announced a friendly tournament exclusively for freshmen. The idea was simple: to test the team spirit and strategies of each new tamer before the start of more intense training. For many, it was an opportunity to gain immediate recognition. For Ethan, beyond confirming his potential, the tournament represented a chance to deepen his bond with the Ancient Forest Deer.


    The main auditorium had been transformed into an improvised arena, with bleachers filled with students and teachers. Banners bearing the Academy’s emblems adorned the walls, while vibrant music echoed through the space, lifting everyone''s energy.


    Ethan arrived alongside a few peers who had signed up to form his temporary team. By his side were Lara, a determined young woman with an agile fire fox, and Miguel, who commanded a small yet sturdy earth turtle. Together, they formed an unlikely trio, but their synergy had already begun to show during training.


    As the organizers announced the groups and the initial matchups, Ethan’s name was called once again. This time, he was part of a mixed team, facing tamers from different faculties and battle styles.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Ethan’s team’s first match was against a group known for their aggressiveness and conventional tactics. The duel was structured in short rounds, where each team had a chance to showcase strategies and adapt to each new situation.


    At the start of the round, the attacks were fast and fierce. The opposing side charged in with a Thunder-type beast, known for its speed and brute strength, while Ethan’s team maintained a defensive stance. That was when Ethan, closely observing the enemy’s movements, signaled to his teammates:


    — "Now, synergy!"


    With a quick command, Lara triggered her Twin Flame move, causing her fox to release two blasts of fire in opposite directions. At the same time, Miguel activated the Stone Shell ability, forming a momentary barrier with his turtle, protecting the group from a surprise attack.


    But the turning point came when Ethan stepped forward. With a calm voice, he commanded his deer:


    — "Rhythm of Nature!"


    Immediately, the Ancient Forest Deer reacted, causing roots and leaves to sprout around it, not only to protect but to create a terrain control field. This tactic disrupted the enemy’s movements, trapping them in a tangle of natural growth.


    The opposing attacks were efficiently neutralized, and Ethan’s team managed to push them back, winning the round with a strong lead.


    The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause, and the teachers spared no praise for the team’s creativity and coordination. Master Varian, who had been closely following the tournament, gave Ethan a proud look, as if seeing in him not just a promising tamer, but a strategist in the making.


    As the group gathered to rest between battles, Ethan reflected on what had just happened. Each move, each command, was a piece of a greater puzzle he was still learning to solve. He knew that to truly stand out, it wouldn’t be enough to have a talented beast; he needed to master the art of combat, the synergy between tamer and beast, and the ability to adapt strategies on the fly.


    And in that moment, among the contagious laughter of his teammates and the instructors’ praise, Ethan understood that the path to becoming a master wouldn’t be easy—but it would certainly be rewarding.