NexaRealm: Best in the World

The bus rolled to a smooth halt in front of NexaCorp Korea University, its imposing gates now a familiar sight to the students and instructors. Stepping off one by one, the group was met with the quiet ambience of the campus, a stark contrast to the intense month of training they had just endured. For the fifteen students and their five instructors, the realization was clear—this was the end of their preparatory journey. Now, the true challenge awaited: the World NexaRealm Championship.

The instructors gathered the students for a final word as the bus emptied.

"This is it," Instructor Ji-woo began, his tone calm yet firm. "The month of training is behind us, and now, it's time to focus on the real thing. Remember, this is not just about individual performance. This is about representing Korea on the grand stage."

Instructor Min-ji added.

"For the Asia Continent Bracket, every country plays from their preferred venues. For us, it will be right here, at the Game Building on campus. Make no mistake—this is a privilege. Use the familiarity to your advantage," her gaze swept over the students, her confidence in them evident.

It was a sentiment echoed by Instructor Seung-hyun.

"The Intercontinental Playoffs are where travel and neutral grounds will come into play. But until then, our focus is here. Tonight, we'll find out our group and opponents. Make sure you're at the viewing room promptly—this is something you won't want to miss."

As the group dispersed, the students couldn't help but notice the preparations that had transformed parts of the campus. The Game Building had been meticulously arranged, with new screens, seating, and decorations proudly displaying the colours of Korea. The efforts of the university staff and volunteers had created an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation.

While the matches would be available through public streaming platforms and within NexaRealm itself, the instructors emphasized the importance of experiencing it live. There was magic in gathering together, feeling the energy of the crowd, and being part of something greater than themselves. The venue promised an unforgettable backdrop for the battles to come, and the students couldn't wait to see how the competition would unfold.

The night air was electric with anticipation as students, including the fifteen representatives of Korea, made their way to the Game Building. The campus, usually serene under the soft glow of lamplights, was now alive with chatter and laughter. This wasn't just an event—it was a moment. The World NexaRealm Championship had begun to weave its spell, and excitement radiated from every corner of the university.

As they approached the Game Building, the transformation was apparent. Though structurally unchanged, the decorations spoke volumes. Banners hung from the entrance, emblazoned with bold slogans like "Rise, Korea!" and "For Glory and Honor." Neon lights bathed the facade in alternating hues of blue and red, mirroring the Korean flag. The interior was even more spectacular. The usually modest auditorium now looked like an arena in its own right, filled with an energy that rivalled the tournaments themselves.

Rows of screens stretched across the walls, displaying countdown timers, the NexaRealm Championship logo, and snippets of past championships. Each display was synced to the others, creating an immersive, almost hypnotic environment. Flags of every participating country lined the hall, a testament to the global unity and rivalry this event represented. At the centre of it all was the main viewing screen, towering over the crowd like a monument to competition.

The fifteen students took their seats together, their eyes scanning the crowd. The building was packed—not just with the students representing Korea, but with spectators, volunteers, and even alumni who had returned to witness this pivotal moment. Excited murmurs filled the air as everyone speculated about the group draw. Would Korea be lucky enough to land in an easier group, or would they find themselves in the so-called "Group of Death," facing off against titans like Japan or Australia?

Tae-young nudged In-su, leaning closer to speak over the noise.

"What do you think? Easy group or hard group?"

In-su smirked, his usual confidence undeterred.

"Does it matter? We'll crush whoever they put in front of us."

Behind them, Soo-jin laughed, her voice cutting through the din.

"Spoken like a true mage. Let's just hope we don't have to face Japan right away."

Chin-hwa, ever the strategist, adjusted his glasses and added.

"It's not just about us, though. The better we start, the more momentum we'll have going into the later rounds. We can't underestimate anyone."

The instructors had arrived as well, positioned at the back of the room to observe. Though they kept their expressions neutral, there was no denying the weight of their gaze. They understood what was at stake—this was the beginning of a journey that could lead to either triumph or heartbreak.

As the countdown timer on the main screen ticked closer to zero, the room fell into a tense silence. The draw was about to begin. Each country's fate hung in the balance, and all eyes were on the screen, waiting to see where Korea would stand. Would their group be a stepping stone to glory or a gauntlet to be overcome? The answer was moments away.

The tension in the Game Building was palpable as the screen flickered to life, broadcasting the live group draw for the Asia Bracket of the World NexaRealm Championship. The room erupted into cheers and applause as the familiar face of Director Hye-su appeared on the screen, standing on a grand stage adorned with the banners of the participating countries. Beside her stood another figure: Evie Clow, the CEO of NexaCorp Australia, a woman with a poised demeanour and a reputation as sharp as her tailored suit. Together, they were tasked with deciding the fate of the teams, country by country.

Director Hye-su greeted the viewers with her characteristic calm confidence.

"Good evening, and welcome to the group draw for the Asia Bracket. Tonight, we will determine the groups for the first stage of the championship. Joining me is Evie Clow, who will assist in the process."

Evie Clow nodded with a small smile.

"It's an honour to be here. This is where the road to global glory begins. Let's get started."

The rules were simple: the participating countries were split into four groups. Each group would have four or five teams, depending on the total draw. Only the top two teams from each group would proceed to the next round, making every match crucial. The first team would qualify for the next elimination, while the second place had to fight the six of them to only have two following to the next round.

The audience in the Game Building leaned forward, eyes glued to the screen as the first ballot was drawn. Evie reached into a glass sphere, pulling out the first name. The screen zoomed in as she unfolded the slip of paper.

"Japan," she announced, her voice clear and steady.

A collective murmur rippled through the spectators. Japan was a known powerhouse, dominating the scene for years. The screen updated to place Japan in Group A. Relief washed over the crowd in the Game Building; at least Korea wouldn't have to face them right away.

Next, Director Hye-su drew a ballot.

"Malaysia."

The screen updated, placing Malaysia in Group B. A few murmurs broke out among the students. Malaysia was an underdog, but their recent performance had been impressive. Many considered them a dark horse in the competition.

The draw continued, each name pulling a mix of cheers, gasps, or quiet sighs of relief from the crowd.

"Philippines, Group C."

"India, Group D."

"Indonesia, Group C."

When Evie announced Australia for Group B, a noticeable shift in the room's atmosphere occurred. The crowd seemed to hold its breath. Australia had always been a force to be reckoned with, and being in the same group as Malaysia would make that bracket incredibly competitive.

Finally, it was time for Korea. Director Hye-su reached into the sphere, drawing the ballot with deliberate precision. The room in the Game Building fell completely silent.

"Korea," she said, her tone unwavering. The screen updated, placing Korea in Group D.

A collective exhale spread through the room, followed by murmurs of speculation. Group D already had India, a team known for its unpredictable strategies. But with Korea added to the mix, the group dynamics became even more intriguing. It wasn't the dreaded "Group of Death," but it wasn't an easy path either.

The final few countries were placed:

"Singapore, Group A." "Vietnam, Group C." "New Zealand, Group B."

With the last name announced, the screen displayed the finalized groups:

Group A: Japan, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Iraq

Group B: Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand, Bahrain

Group C: Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Jordan

Group D: Korea (South Korea), India, Pakistan, Mongolia, Afghanistan

Group E: China, Iran, Nepal, Myanmar, Qatar

Group F: Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Brunei, Laos, Lebanon

The students buzzed with reactions. Some speculated about strategies, while others expressed relief or concern about their chances.

"That's not too bad," Tae-young said, leaning back in his seat. "India's tricky, but manageable."

"Don't underestimate them," In-su cautioned. "They're unpredictable for a reason."

The instructors exchanged glances from their positions at the back of the room. Instructor Seung-hyun folded his arms.

"Group D's going to be tough, but it's winnable."

As the broadcast ended, the room was alight with energy. The draw was done, the groups were set, and the next stage of the World NexaRealm Championship loomed on the horizon.