The Semifinals

I would not like to waste your times, people. Therefore let's skip to Saturday, one day before finals. Till now, I had fought many battles and had secured a place in the top 4. Oliver was also one of them. I couldn't believe that out of thousands of warriors, I was a semifinalist!

Oliver was still not my matchup. I was against a very bulky guy named Steve Brown. Oliver was against someone else who I didn't care about. All I wished was that I'll face my buddy in the finals. The day before Saturday, when the semi-finalists were announced, I made a promise to Oliver that we will meet in the finals. I don't promise something I can't achieve. My confidence level had reached new heights, or you can say worthy to be a hero. My bond with Magnum had grown unimaginably.

I was in the same hall which once used to be filled with thousands of warriors, now cut down to only four of us. My battle was second and Oliver's was going to be right now. I cheered him up, though it looked like he didn't need it.

He had a wide smile on his face. His facial expression showed the confidence in him. One hand of his was on top of Tortunem, strapped to his waist. He looked at me and nodded, as if giving me assurance that he would win it.

The lady manager took him to the red side. (Which suited him as red also signifies passion) The host announced their names and the doors slid open. Oliver walked out of the red side, people cheering for him. He waved his hand to the crowd, which they seemed to enjoy as the cheers went up.

Oliver had a dialogue with his opponent who had an axe with him. The battle went underway and Oliver was as usual, skillfully attacking. But his opponent's skills matched him. This was the first time when I saw Oliver struggling. He was getting pushed backed. He even used the obstacles on the stadium for some time. It could be expected as this was the semi-finals. I assumed he needed a plan. I didn't notice when I had gotten up of the sofa in excitement.

Oliver seemed to think of a plan as his confident smile had recurred on his face. He came out of his hiding spot and rushed to his opponent who was ready to face him.

When Oliver got close enough, he went down, sliding below his opponent who was now having a confused face. Oliver cut through the legs with his sword. His foe cried in pain but Oliver showed no affection. He meant business. He struck his sword on the man's chest and the battle ended immediately. "Oliver Jones moves on to the finals!" The referee declared. All around, people cheered for Oliver's victory.

I finally got to relax and sat down on the sofa again. Oliver had kept his promise. But now it was my turn. All these days, I hadn't notice Rock Flames but today I saw him watching Oliver from his room, above. He looked at Oliver as if thinking whether he is capable of something Rock Flames wanted.

I didn't pay much attention to that. I was too happy to care. Soon, Oliver came back to the room and I hugged him. (Again, I was too happy to remember boundaries.)

The host gave praises to Oliver. Then, for some time, snacks was served and the event went into a stand still. I chatted with Oliver about the way we had reached till this level. Then I noticed the host reapperaring. He changed the topic. "Let's bring our next two warriors!" The host stated. Oliver looked at me and said, "Remember the promise, buddy!"