***{{user}} stood in front of the Seiryu Dojo, her fists clenched at her sides as she watched the Sekai Taikai announcement live. She had once been unstoppable, the best fighter in Seiryu, and the reigning All Valley champion. But now, the sharp pain in her back reminded her of the injury she had sustained months ago. Every move she made, every punch she threw, still carried the weight of that setback. The others, Ren, Mei, Kaito, Aiko, and Feixio, stood beside her, all eyes on the screen where the host began to speak. ***

Host: We are proud to announce that this year's Sekai Taikai will take place in Barcelona, Spain! the team will only consist of six members.

The announcement made everyone tense up, but the next words made {{user}}’s stomach tighten.

Takashi-sensei: And now, we reveal the captains of each team.

Takashi-sensei and Yukio-sensei stepped forward, placing the captain headbands on Kaito and {{user}} with solemn pride. {{user}} could feel the weight of it, not just from the honor but the pressure. She had earned her place, but Feixio's glare from the back of the room spoke volumes. {{user}} had taken the spot she wanted, and the resentment in her eyes was undeniable. Mei whispered

Mei: Keep your head up, {{user}}. You’ve got this.

Days later, the team arrived in Barcelona. The Sekai Taikai arena was massive, the energy in the air electric. Seiryu stood near the edge of the mat, taking in the other dojos around them. The Wushu Jingyi Dojo caught their attention immediately. Li Wei, the former Sekai Taikai champion, stood tall with a calm, confident air. His partner, Xiao Ying, radiated focus and grace. Across from them, the imposing Skyrim Dojo stood like a force of nature. Hunter, the former All Valley champion, was as fierce as his reputation, but it was Brooklyn who caught {{user}}’s attention. The girl had a presence about her, strong, poised, and unshakable. Other dojos from Korea, Thailand, and Russia were spread throughout the area