NOVEL NEXT Episode LXIX: Thirty-Two and Below
The television screen buzzed to life, casting a flickering glow across the bustling venue. "An astounding first round for the beach classic tournament has just concluded," boomed the announcer's voice, echoing throughout the space. "Let's take a moment to relive some of the thrilling highlights."
"Two electrifying matches unfolded on Platform A1, both keeping us on the edge of our seats." The announcer paused for dramatic effect before diving into his recap. “Our first match saw Chemical Black Tips go head-to-head with Wealthy Nighthawks. An intense battle ensued, but no spirit guardians graced us with their presence – an expected outcome considering these teams were fresh-faced first-year competitors. I can almost hear your questions: 'How did these rookies make it into such a prestigious tournament?' Well, it seems our benevolent chancellor decided to allow them to cut their teeth in this high-stakes environment.”
The announcer then delved into the specifics of the match: “Seung Jiwoo from Chemical Black Tips and Kyou Miyamoto from Team Wealthy Nighthawks were up first. The stakes were high; it was sudden death for both teams - a one-on-one battle that could result in team elimination.” Seung initiated their duel with an ambitious punch that missed its mark entirely; his subsequent spinning back elbow was effortlessly dodged by Kyou who countered with a swift four-finger uppercut that sent Seung sprawling onto his back. But Seung wasn’t one to stay down; he sprang up and launched another assault which Kyou deflected using only his legs.
“Kyou then pinned Seung’s foot under his own and twisted it,” narrated the announcer, “But despite this setback, Seung managed to land solid punches in Kyou's stomach and head which sent him sprawling onto the rough sandpaper flooring.” Battered and slow to recover, Kyou found himself rushing towards Seung for a final confrontation that ended with a powerful headbutt from Seung, causing him to lose consciousness.
"Chemical Black Tips emerged victorious from this match," declared the commentator. "I’d recommend an ice pack for that fighter after that brutal headbutt; it was so intense, I feel like I’ve developed a second-hand headache just from watching."
The second match on Platform A1 pitted The Rolling Thunders against The Conjurers. "This match was equally riveting," the announcer remarked. The match condition was Last Man Standing, a relentless fight until only one team member remained on the platform.
“Ted Fraley led the charge for The Rolling Thunders and Ruri Mishil represented the Conjurers. Ruri outmatched Ted when their special moves clashed, but Ruri’s proved superior, causing Ted to collapse,” announced the commentator. Elvina stepped in for Ted and used her formidable strength to toss Ruri out of the ring.
Then Arcangelo D’more replaced Ruri only to be floored by Elvina's potent punch and swift Supplex into the gritty sandpaper ground. Yao Ann then entered the fray, provoking scornful comment from Elvina who underestimated his abilities. Yao retaliated with a quick stomp on her leg and a karate chop that left her unconscious.
Tristan Palomere took over from Elvina vowing revenge on Yao who managed to trip him up but got pulled down with Tristan leading to both being disqualified. Ceri Kerry and Yagi Kazuhiro solemnly took their places on the platform, bowing respectfully before initiating battle.
Yagi muttered something under his breath which Ceri questioned just before an immense gust of wind swept her off the beach followed by an explosive sound. “Looking back at it now, this fight didn’t come down to last-minute heroics,” Yagi said confidently.
"Let's move on to Platform A2," chimed in the announcer. "Unfortunately, this group wasn't as impressive because both matches were won by default." He continued, "The standout performance here was Four Clovers of Nightmare led by Kyoko Fukumoto who effortlessly overpowered The Hot Wildings in a one versus four match."
"The second match of Platform A2 had its moments but overall, I'd say Magic Runners had an easy win against The Fantastic Comets," concluded the announcer with a chuckle.
"Violet Smith unleashed a storm of fury against Traino Tarius, securing victory for her team and propelling them into the round of thirty-two," declared the announcer. "The opening match on platform B1 between The Majestic Novas and The Golden Howlers was disappointingly lackluster; despite both teams' known prowess in hand-to-hand combat, there was an absence of any extraordinary skill or special moves," he continued. "I know you're eager to hear who emerged victorious, but given the uninspiring nature of the match, we'll reveal the winner in our next episode. It's simply too dreary to even contemplate announcing it now," he added with a yawn.
"The second bout on platform B1 saw Blacks Mythicist take on Silver Dreamers; the latter dreamt their way into the round of thirty-two by triumphing over what many consider to be the most overrated team in this tournament. Sun Yeh, in her final year on this island, suffered a heart-wrenching loss. Let's see if she can recover her spirits for the end-of-year tournament."
"The inaugural match on platform B2 was far more exciting than its predecessor. The Flying Goats have shown potential to make significant progress in this tournament, largely thanks to their all-star fighter J.P. Loup. He employed his signature move to defeat two opponents simultaneously in a thrilling two-versus-two showdown for advancement rights. As for Iron Cloud Ranger, they return to obscurity; they remain virtually unknown among island residents and I suspect that will not change after today's performance."
"In contrast, Grim Wings maintained their ominous reputation after clinching victory in their tense encounter against Exile Of Wonders," narrated the announcer.
"Platform C1's opening match proved fortunate for Jackal Watchers; despite being one member short due to oversleeping and arriving late at the venue, they managed to secure an easy victory. The match, a four-versus-four free-for-all, ended up being a three-against-four battle due to their tardy teammate. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the remaining trio's strength carried them to victory."
"The subsequent match on this platform was perhaps the most thrilling so far; it unfolded amidst a swirling sandstorm. Regrettably, The Convert Defenders fell short against The Carnage Pack. This team is formidable, led by former champion's son Eddy Nash who possesses knowledge and skills unknown to most island fighters. He has pledged to visit various Kung-Fu schools in pursuit of excellence before joining the Kung-Fu League. Lei Han, another powerhouse fighter whose father also held the title of Kung-Fu League champion, bolsters their ranks. With two formidable fighters and an intimidating team name, they are well-positioned for success in this tournament."
The announcer was about to continue when suddenly the broadcast flickered out for a moment before being replaced by color bars indicating loss of transmission.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the island, Sensei Yuriko hovered ominously over the transmission antenna. "No one else needs to know about the other matches," she declared with a chilling laugh.
Across the island, confusion spread among viewers as they stared at their interrupted broadcasts. Then suddenly it returned: "Now it is time to announce tomorrow's top thirty-two teams: Chemical Black Tips, Four Clover of Nightmare, The Magic Runners, The Carnage Pack, The Mystical Force, Death Order, Council of Black Sage, Spirit Mark, Catching Heat, Ghost Freaks..."
As the announcer named each of the thirty-two teams, it appeared that some were left out. It was a curious and puzzling situation and bid his audience farewell until tomorrow's matches began again - “We will see you tomorrow!” - the television abruptly switched off on its own while Sensei Yuriko’s laughter echoed ominously across the island.