Sports Festival Part 2

The day of the cavalry battle arrived, the excitement palpable in the air as the participants gathered on the field. Ace stood with Itsuka, Tetsutetsu, and Neito, discussing their strategy amidst the buzz of anticipation.

"The key is to work together and make the most of our strengths," Ace said, his eyes focused. "Tetsutetsu, you're our front line. Draw attention and create chaos. Itsuka, use your Big Fist quirk to smash through obstacles."

Itsuka nodded, her expression determined. "Got it. I'll clear the way for us."

Neito grinned mischievously. "And what about me, Captain Ignis?"

Ace smirked. "Neito, your Copy quirk is our wild card. Adapt to whatever you see on the field and use it to our advantage."

As the calvary battle began, rival teams charged in all directions, each vying for supremacy. Ace's team quickly found themselves approached by a team led by a confident class 1-A student. "Watch out for Bakugo's team," Ace muttered to his teammates. "They're strong."

The clash began, Tetsutetsu engaging Bakugo's team while Ace, Itsuka, and Neito focused on securing points. Ace used his flames to create obstacles, forcing opponents to adjust their strategies. Itsuka's powerful Big Fist quirk smashed through barriers, allowing them to advance.

As they fought, the rival teams' members exchanged banter and tactics. Ace's team had to stay alert to both their immediate opponents and potential surprise attacks. Bakugo's explosive quirk posed a challenge, but Itsuka's strength proved invaluable in clearing their path.

Their interactions were a mix of intense combat and strategic planning. Amidst the chaos, Neito managed to copy a foe's mobility quirk, allowing him to navigate the field swiftly. "Captain Ignis, watch this!" Neito exclaimed, dashing ahead and tagging opponents before retreating with his newfound agility.

Tetsutetsu's durability kept him standing despite the onslaught of attacks, his resilience providing the team with precious time. "I'm holding them off! Go for the points!" he called, his determination unwavering.

As the contest neared its conclusion, Ace spotted another class 1-A team attempting to sneak up on them. "Incoming from the right!" he warned, using his flames to block their path.

With teamwork and strategy, Ace's team secured a significant amount of points. As the final moments of the calvary battle ticked away, the results were announced: Ace's team, alongside a few others, would advance to the finals.

Panting, but victorious, Ace turned to his teammates with a triumphant grin. "We did it. We're in the finals."

Itsuka wiped sweat from her forehead. "Nice work, Ace."

Neito chuckled. "Looks like my copying skills came in handy."

Tetsutetsu pumped his fist. "We showed 'em what we've got!"

The rival teams acknowledged their efforts, some begrudgingly, as the field cleared. The calvary battle had been a test of strategy, teamwork, and adaptability, showcasing the unique abilities of each participant.

As they walked off the field, the camaraderie among Ace, Itsuka, Tetsutetsu, and Neito was evident. They had overcome challenges, rivals, and unexpected obstacles together, proving the strength of their alliance.

As the excitement of the calvary battle settled, Ace, Itsuka, Tetsutetsu, and Neito gathered together, sharing a positive and casual conversation about their recent victory.

"That was intense, but we pulled it off," Ace said with a satisfied grin. "We showed them that class 1-B can compete with the best."

Itsuka nodded, her enthusiasm evident. "Definitely. And we'll carry this momentum into the finals. Just imagine the surprises we can pull off."

Neito chuckled. "And the look on their faces when they see us shine on the big stage."

Tetsutetsu playfully flexed his muscles. "We're gonna give 'em a show they won't forget!"

The camaraderie among the four was undeniable as they relished in their success and exchanged light-hearted banter. But the reality of the upcoming one-on-one fights section of the tournament soon settled in.

Ace's expression grew thoughtful. "We might end up facing each other in the next rounds," he pointed out. "But no matter what, let's give it our all. We've trained together, and now we'll showcase our strengths."

Itsuka grinned. "Absolutely. A little friendly competition never hurt anyone."

Neito added, "And we can learn from each other's techniques. It's all about growth."

Tetsutetsu nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's gonna be tough, but we're gonna give everyone a run for their money."

With determination in their hearts, the four friends exchanged a final encouraging look before they headed to prepare for their upcoming one-on-one battles. They knew that despite the potential for facing each other in the ring, their bonds would remain strong, and they would continue to support each other no matter the outcome.

Neito Monoma stepped into the arena, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. His opponent, Deku, stood on the other side, his determined gaze locked onto Neito. Neito knew he was facing a formidable opponent, one with an ability that he hadn't fully grasped yet.

As the match began, Neito assessed his options. His Copy quirk allowed him to replicate and use another person's quirk, but he had to touch them to do so. He had seen Deku in action before, witnessed the incredible power of his quirk. But the drawback was that Neito didn't know the true extent of Deku's abilities.

Neito's strategy was simple – he aimed to keep his distance from Deku and avoid direct confrontations. He darted around the arena, evading Deku's attempts to close in on him. Neito's mind raced, considering the quirks of their classmates and which one might give him an advantage in this battle. He saw Itsuka, Ace, and Tetsutetsu in the stands, their encouraging expressions fueling his determination.

Deku, however, was relentless. His speed and agility closed the gap between them, forcing Neito to think on his feet. With a quick touch, he managed to copy another classmate's quirk temporarily, hoping to gain an edge. But Deku's prowess and experience proved to be a challenge Neito couldn't easily overcome.

Despite Neito's efforts, Deku's quirk began to overpower him. Neito felt his strength wane as the battle continued, the borrowed quirk fading. He knew he needed a different approach, a way to catch Deku off guard. In a last-ditch effort, he launched himself at Deku, attempting to surprise him with a physical strike.

But Deku's quick reflexes and sharp instincts allowed him to counter Neito's move. In a swift maneuver, Deku dodged Neito's attack and delivered a well-placed strike that knocked him out of the ring.

As Neito lay there, defeated but not broken, he acknowledged Deku's strength and determination. The crowd cheered for both competitors, recognizing the effort they had put into the battle. Neito's gaze met those of his friends, who offered him smiles and nods of encouragement.

As the match between Shoto Todoroki and Hanta Sero began, it quickly became apparent that Shoto held a significant advantage with his ice quirk. Shoto's mastery over the freezing power allowed him to control the battlefield with ease. The ice spread across the arena, creating barriers and obstacles that hindered Sero's tape-based attacks.

Hanta Sero, while skilled in his own right, struggled to navigate the icy terrain and find openings to attack. The crowd watched as Shoto's icy onslaught kept Sero on the defensive. Shoto's ice walls blocked Sero's tape attacks, and his icy projectiles kept Sero at bay.

Ace observed the match, his eyes focused on the battle before him. The familiarity of Shoto's ice abilities triggered a distant memory from his past life. He remembered facing enemies with similar elemental powers, powerful adversaries who had pushed him to his limits. A shiver ran down his spine as he contemplated the connection.

Shoto's controlled demeanor and precision reminded Ace of the strategic battles he had witnessed as a pirate. The ice that Shoto wielded bore resemblance to the elemental forces he had encountered before. While the context was different, the intensity of the battle felt strangely familiar.

In the end, Shoto emerged victorious, his mastery over his ice quirk evident in the swift and precise victory. The crowd cheered for both competitors, appreciating the display of skill and power. Ace watched as Shoto left the arena, a sense of respect and curiosity growing within him. The echoes of his past experiences mingled with the present, creating a complex web of emotions as the sports festival continued.

As the match between Denki Kaminari and Fumikage Tokoyami unfolded, Ace found himself engaged in conversation with Izuku Midoriya. The two of them stood side by side, observing the battle before them. Izuku's analytical gaze mirrored Ace's curiosity, both of them drawn to the mysterious nature of the sports festival.

"Tokoyami's Dark Shadow quirk is quite unique," Ace remarked, his tone casual yet filled with intrigue.

Izuku nodded, his eyes still fixed on the battle. "Yeah, it's a powerful quirk. But Kaminari's electricity can be quite effective against it if he can land a hit."

Ace studied Izuku's expression, detecting a hint of admiration for his classmate's strategic thinking. "You seem to know a lot about quirks. Are you researching them?"

Izuku chuckled softly. "Well, I have a keen interest in quirks and their applications. It's important for aspiring heroes to understand their capabilities."

Ace's lips curved into a faint smile. "True, it's all about using what you have to the fullest." He turned his attention back to the battle. "But sometimes there's more to it than just knowing your quirk. Like Dark Shadow, it's connected to Tokoyami's emotions."

Izuku's eyes brightened with interest. "You're right. Emotions can play a big role in quirk control."

The conversation took a subtle turn as Ace asked, "And what about you, Izuku? Your quirk seems pretty powerful too. Do you think there's more to it than meets the eye?"

Izuku's expression turned thoughtful. "I believe that every quirk has untapped potential. It's about finding new ways to use them and pushing our limits."

Ace's eyes gleamed with curiosity. "Sounds like you have your own mysteries to unravel."

Izuku chuckled again, a hint of mystery in his tone. "Maybe we all do."

As the match between Tenya Ida and Mei Hatsume played out, Ace and Izuku remained engaged in their conversation. Their words flowed easily, a blend of curiosity and guardedness that reflected the unique circumstances they both found themselves in.

Ace's gaze shifted from the match to Izuku. "You know, it's not just about quirks in these battles. Strategy and adaptability are crucial. A good hero needs to think on their feet."

Izuku nodded, his eyes still tracking the ongoing battle. "Absolutely, being able to assess the situation and make quick decisions can make all the difference."

Ace leaned in slightly, his voice lowered as if sharing a secret. "But sometimes there are things we don't know about ourselves, about our own abilities. It's like there's a hidden layer waiting to be uncovered."

Izuku's gaze flickered to Ace, a mixture of intrigue and caution in his expression. "You're right. Sometimes the answers aren't obvious, and we have to dig deeper."

Their conversation danced on the edge of discovery and secrecy. Both Ace and Izuku had mysteries that they held close, hints of untold stories and uncharted territories within their quirk abilities.

The match between Tenya Ida and Mei Hatsume came to a close with Tenya's victory. Ace turned to Izuku, a thoughtful look in his eyes. "You know, there's something about you, about the way you talk about quirks. It's like you've seen more than meets the eye."

Izuku's response was measured, his voice steady. "I've learned a lot through my experiences. But I think everyone has their own story to tell."

Ace nodded in agreement, recognizing the significance of their shared path as young heroes. "True. And sometimes, those stories are what shape us into the heroes we're meant to be."

Their conversation had taken them to a deeper level of understanding, acknowledging the complexities that went beyond the surface of quirks and battles. With a subtle exchange of knowing glances, Ace and Izuku continued to tread the line between revealing and concealing, united by their shared journey of discovery and growth.

Ace observed the match between Ochaco and Yuga, his attention shifting between the two contestants. He could sense the determination in Ochaco's movements and the flare of confidence in Yuga's actions. As the match concluded with Ochaco's victory, Ace turned his focus back to Izuku, who seemed deeply engaged in their ongoing conversation.

Izuku's eyes glinted with curiosity, his expression eager. "You mentioned earlier that you have some kind of unique ability. But I've never seen a quirk like yours. Can you tell me more about it?"

Ace leaned back, his lips quirking into a half-smile. "Well, it's not a simple quirk. It's something I've been trying to understand myself. It involves fire, but it's more than that."

Izuku nodded, absorbing Ace's words. "Fire, huh? That's definitely unique. Do you have any idea how it works? How you control it?"

Ace's gaze flickered to the arena, where Ochaco and Yuga were exchanging post-match pleasantries. "I've got some control over it, yeah. But it's not just about creating flames. There's something else behind it, something I can't quite put my finger on."

Izuku's eyes sparkled with curiosity, his analytical mind clearly at work. "Is it related to your emotions, like how some quirks react to how their users feel?"

Ace chuckled softly, appreciating Izuku's enthusiasm. "Emotions definitely play a part, but there's more to it. It's like a force of nature, something ancient and powerful."

Izuku's brows furrowed, his mind clearly racing with possibilities. "Ancient and powerful... that's really intriguing. It makes me wonder if there's a deeper history behind it."

Ace nodded, his gaze distant for a moment. "You might be onto something. There are moments when I feel a connection to something beyond myself, like I'm tapping into a legacy."

As Itsuka and Momo prepared for their match, Ace caught Izuku's glance and smiled. "Don't worry about me, I'm always ready for a fight," he remarked confidently, his eyes glinting with a mix of determination and excitement.

Izuku nodded, clearly impressed by Ace's readiness. "You've got a point. Your abilities seem pretty versatile, and you're holding your own in these conversations too."

Ace chuckled, a touch of playfulness in his tone. "Well, I can't back down from a challenge, can I?"

Their exchange was cut short as the match between Itsuka and Momo began. Ace watched intently, his cheers echoing in the arena as he rooted for Itsuka. He admired her determination and tenacity, and he couldn't help but be impressed by her quirk. Ace's eyes followed the battle closely, appreciating the strategic maneuvers and quick thinking that both contestants displayed.

As the match concluded with Itsuka's victory, Ace's grin widened, and he applauded enthusiastically. "Nice job, Itsuka!" he called out, his voice carrying his genuine admiration.

With a swift movement, Ace closed the distance between him and Bakugo, delivering a precise blow that sent the explosive hero to the ground. The impact was clean and effective, and Bakugo's eyes rolled back as he fell unconscious.

Ace stood over his fallen opponent, a respectful expression on his face as he spoke to the stunned audience. "It's not about how strong someone is, but about how you use that strength," he remarked, his voice carrying a touch of admiration for Bakugo's determination. "You've got potential, Bakugo. Keep honing your abilities."

As the audience processed the unexpected turn of events, the arena fell into a hushed silence. The sight of Bakugo being defeated so decisively by someone from Class 1-B left everyone in awe. Ace's display of power, strategy, and sportsmanship had garnered the respect and attention of both students and spectators alike.

Ace extended his hand to help Bakugo up, his friendly smile still in place. "Good fight, Bakugo. Don't take it too hard. We all have our strengths and weaknesses."

Bakugo grumbled as he accepted the help, still processing the defeat with a mix of frustration and a begrudging acknowledgment. "Yeah, whatever. It won't happen again."

Ace settled into a spot where he had a clear view of the match between Eijiro Kirishima and Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu. He watched with interest as the two formidable contenders clashed in a display of raw strength and unyielding determination. Their quirk-enhanced forms clashed and collided, creating a spectacle of power that showcased the resilience of both participants.

As the battle raged on, the ground beneath them took the brunt of their blows, cracking and splintering under the force of their collisions. Ace could practically feel the tremors that reverberated through the arena, a testament to the incredible might of their quirk-enhanced bodies.

The match seemed to reach a stalemate, with both Eijiro and Tetsutetsu refusing to yield an inch. Their determination was matched only by their indomitable spirits, and the crowd erupted into cheers and applause at the display of unwavering resolve.

When the decision was made to settle the match with an arm-wrestling contest, Ace watched with bated breath as the two competitors locked hands. Their muscles strained against each other, and the intensity of the moment was palpable. Tetsutetsu's victory by a slim margin was met with a mix of cheers and groans from the audience, the outcome a testament to the sheer closeness of the battle.

Ace settled down beside Itsuka, his attention focused on the ongoing matches. The arena was now filled with a sense of anticipation as each battle unfolded, revealing the students' unique abilities, strategies, and determination.

Shoto's decision to use his fire power against Izuku caught Ace's attention. The clash of elemental forces and strategies unfolded before them, showcasing the depth of talent within UA's student body. The power and intensity of their abilities were truly remarkable, and Ace couldn't help but be impressed by the level of control and mastery they demonstrated.

As Ida and Fumikage took their turns in the spotlight, Ace watched their battles unfold with a keen interest. Ida's high-speed movements and Fumikage's shadow manipulation were equally captivating to witness. The variety of quirks and techniques on display painted a vivid picture of the diverse talents that made up the student body.

Throughout the matches, the atmosphere in the arena remained charged with excitement and energy. The cheers and shouts of support from the crowd echoed around them, creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among the students and spectators alike.

Ace leaned over to Itsuka, a grin on his face. "These matches are something else, aren't they? It's incredible to see everyone's unique abilities in action." He glanced back at the arena, his eyes fixed on the ongoing battles. "And it's just the beginning. The rest of the festival is bound to be just as thrilling."

Itsuka nodded in agreement, her own gaze fixed on the matches. "Absolutely. Each student has their own strengths and tactics. It's a chance for us to learn from each other and improve." She turned to Ace with a smile. "Your match was pretty impressive too. You showed some amazing control over your quirk."

Ace chuckled, scratching his head sheepishly. "Yeah, I guess it worked out. I'm still figuring out how all of this works, but it's definitely been an interesting experience." He paused, looking thoughtful. "And I have to admit, seeing everyone give it their all is pretty inspiring."

As Itsuka's match played out, Ace couldn't help but feel a mixture of nervousness and excitement. He knew Itsuka was a formidable opponent, someone who could think on her feet and strategize effectively. Her victory showcased her intelligence and adaptability, both of which were assets in any battle.

Watching her use her quirk, the massive fists that she could summon, with such precision and skill impressed Ace. It was a testament to her understanding of her own abilities and her ability to make split-second decisions. Her clever tactics had earned her the victory, and Ace couldn't help but feel a sense of pride for his classmate.

However, as the reality sunk in that he would be facing Itsuka in the next round, Ace's nerves kicked in. He knew that going up against her wouldn't be an easy task. Her quirk was powerful, and her strategic thinking would make her an even more challenging opponent. But at the same time, he was excited for the opportunity to test his abilities against someone as skilled as Itsuka.

Ace's competitive spirit was ignited as he mentally prepared himself for the upcoming match. He reminded himself of his own strengths and abilities, focusing on the fact that he had his flame-flame fruit powers at his disposal. He was confident in his control over fire, and he believed that his unique abilities could give him an edge in the battle.

The arena buzzed with anticipation as Ace and Tetsutetsu stepped into the ring, ready to face off against each other. It was a match that had a unique flavor, a contest of strength and determination, a battle that showcased their unwavering spirit. The two friends, each with their own set of abilities and powers, were about to engage in a true test of toughness.

As the match began, Ace and Tetsutetsu wasted no time. They clashed in the center of the arena, their fists meeting in a powerful collision that resonated throughout the stadium. The impact sent shockwaves through the air, a testament to the raw strength of both combatants. The crowd erupted in cheers as the two competitors locked in this display of power.

Ace's flames danced around his fists as he threw punches, not only adding an extra layer of intensity to his attacks but also showcasing his unique abilities. He could feel the heat emanating from his fists, the flames licking the edges of his punches as they connected with Tetsutetsu's unyielding form. The clang of metal against fire echoed through the arena, a symphony of battle.

Tetsutetsu was no slouch either. His iron-hard body absorbed the impacts, his endurance and durability on full display. Each of his punches reverberated like a hammer, as he aimed to prove his own strength in this contest of titans. The battle was a testament to their camaraderie, a friendly rivalry that showcased their mutual respect.

As the fight raged on, Ace's strategy became clear. He wasn't going for big, flashy moves. Instead, he focused on a steady and relentless assault, utilizing controlled bursts of flames to add an extra layer of damage. It was a calculated approach, designed to test Tetsutetsu's endurance over time.

The crowd was enraptured by the intense clash before them. The two combatants fought with everything they had, their determination and tenacity evident in every punch they threw. And as the minutes ticked by, the strain started to show on Tetsutetsu. The combination of Ace's unrelenting attacks and the heat from his flames began to wear him down.

Finally, after a series of powerful exchanges, Tetsutetsu's resolve began to waver. He gave it his all, but the combination of strength, fire, and strategy was too much to overcome. With one final punch, Ace managed to break through Tetsutetsu's defenses, and the match was decided.

As the announcer declared Ace the winner, the crowd erupted in applause and cheers. The display of camaraderie and strength between the two fighters had left a lasting impression on everyone watching. Ace extended a hand to help Tetsutetsu to his feet, a genuine smile on his face. It was a battle fought with respect, a testament to their friendship and their unwavering spirit.

Ace and Itsuka sat together, sharing a moment of camaraderie and friendship as they watched the ongoing matches. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and the cheers of the crowd echoed through the stadium. Itsuka's playful words caught Ace's attention, and he turned to her with a grin.

"Come on, Itsuka," he replied, his tone light. "You know I wouldn't go easy on you even if you asked me to. We're friends, but that doesn't mean I'd let you win without a fight."

Itsuka chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Good, because I wouldn't want it any other way. I want to see what you're capable of in a real battle."

Ace leaned back, his gaze focused on the ongoing matches, including the one between Shoto and his opponent. "Well, I'm sure you'll give me a run for my money as well. I've seen your determination in action. It's one of the things that makes you a force to be reckoned with."

Itsuka smiled at the compliment, her expression softening. "Thanks, Ace. You're not so bad yourself."

The conversation flowed easily between them, a testament to their close friendship. As the matches progressed, they shared thoughts on the competitors, the strategies being employed, and the diverse quirks on display. The camaraderie they had built within Class 1-B was evident in their easy banter and genuine interest in each other's progress.

As the arena buzzed with anticipation for the upcoming matches, Ace's thoughts turned to his own impending battle. If he won his match, he would face Shoto in the finals. It was a challenge he relished, an opportunity to prove his abilities against one of the strongest students in Class 1-A.

"Looks like I might have to face Shoto in the finals," Ace mused, a hint of excitement in his voice.

Itsuka nodded in agreement. "That's going to be quite a match. Shoto's power is no joke, but I have faith in you, Ace."

He grinned, his confidence bolstered by her words. "Thanks, Itsuka. I'll give it my all, that's for sure."

The arena was charged with anticipation as Ace and Itsuka stood across from each other, ready to engage in their one-on-one battle. The crowd's cheers echoed in the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Itsuka's determination was evident in her stance, and Ace couldn't help but offer her a playful grin.

"You ready for this, Itsuka?" he quipped, his eyes sparking with excitement.

Itsuka raised an eyebrow, a confident smirk on her lips. "Oh, you have no idea, Ace. I've been studying your moves and tricks for a while now. Let's see if you can keep up with me!"

With that, the battle was set in motion. Itsuka wasted no time, springing into action with swift footwork. She dashed forward, her enlarged fists at the ready, and aimed a powerful punch toward Ace's direction. Ace's instincts kicked in, and he swiftly maneuvered to the side, avoiding the attack with grace. The ground beneath his feet crackled with the heat of his movements.

Itsuka's gloves emitted a faint glow as she adjusted her grip on her fists. "You're not the only one with a few tricks up their sleeve, Ace."

Ace's grin widened. He appreciated Itsuka's resourcefulness, but he was also eager to showcase his own skills. Flames danced around his fists as he lunged forward, his speed surprising even Itsuka. She managed to dodge his initial attack, but Ace's flames left a scorching trail in their wake.

"You're quick, Itsuka, but don't underestimate the power of fire!" Ace taunted, his words carrying a playful edge.

Itsuka's response was a fierce determination as she launched herself at Ace again. Her punches were precise and calculated, her strategy clear as she aimed to close the distance and land a hit. Ace utilized his agility to evade her attacks, his movements fluid and controlled. He couldn't help but be impressed by Itsuka's adaptability and dedication.

As the battle raged on, the two fighters engaged in a dance of evasion and offense. Itsuka's gloves proved effective in mitigating the impact of Ace's flames, giving her the chance to strike back. Ace utilized his fire manipulation to create obstacles and distractions, testing Itsuka's reflexes and ingenuity.

"Nice try, Ace!" Itsuka called out as she deftly dodged a wall of flames. "But I'm not falling for that!"

The banter between them added to the intensity of the battle. They were both determined to give it their all, to showcase their growth and determination as heroes-in-training. The crowd's cheers served as a backdrop to their exchange of blows, and Ace couldn't help but admire Itsuka's resilience.

Eventually, the battle came to its climax. Itsuka's strategy had been solid, her attacks calculated and relentless. But Ace's control over his flames proved to be a deciding factor. With a powerful burst of fire, he created a barrier that surrounded Itsuka, leaving her with limited options for evasion.

Itsuka stared at the flames surrounding her, her expression a mix of admiration and determination. "Not bad, Ace. But I won't go down that easily!"

She clenched her fists, her gloves glowing even brighter. With a surge of strength, she punched the ground beneath her, creating a shockwave that propelled her upward and out of the encircling flames. Itsuka's fists connected with Ace's, and for a moment, the arena was filled with the clash of their powers.

Ace felt the impact reverberate through his body, but he held his ground. The two fighters were locked in a moment of tense struggle, each pushing their limits to gain the upper hand. Finally, Ace's flames flared brighter, enveloping Itsuka's fists in a controlled burst of fire. Itsuka's defenses faltered, and Ace seized the opportunity. With a swift and calculated move, he managed to land a hit on Itsuka, ending the battle.

As the cheers of the crowd enveloped the arena, Ace extended a hand to help Itsuka up. She accepted with a grin, despite the exhaustion evident on her face.

"Good match, Itsuka," Ace acknowledged, his tone sincere.

Itsuka laughed lightly, her competitive spirit still shining through. "You got me this time, Ace. But don't think I'll go easy on you next time."

Ace chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes. "I wouldn't expect anything less."