Chapter 16: Unveiling the True Mischief

The atmosphere in the waiting area became electrified as the candidates braced for a confrontation with Akbar, also known as Mischief, the 5th Place Holder of THE GENERAL's forces. Adam was determined to strike first, eager to protect his fellow candidates from Akbar's cunning. However, another candidate beat him to it, launching a swift attack that seemed to connect with Akbar.

A collective gasp swept through the room as everyone witnessed the attack on Akbar. But as the dust settled, it became clear that something was amiss. The wily Mischief King had used an illusion to deceive them. Suddenly, the main entrance swung open, and there stood Akbar, unscathed and clapping mockingly.

Confusion ran rampant among the candidates. How had Akbar managed to create such a convincing illusion? And who was the candidate that had seemingly struck him?

Before anyone could react, another candidate from the right side of the entrance launched an attack on Akbar. This time, it appeared as if the attack had landed, leading the onlookers to believe that this was the real Akbar. The candidate, determined to bring down the formidable opponent, engaged in a fierce battle, and others soon joined the fray. It became three against one, with the candidates collectively attacking Akbar.

However, after a grueling 10 minutes of continuous assault, they discovered the truth. The Akbar they had been battling was yet another illusion, a clone created to deceive and divert their attention. Fatigued and injured from the prolonged confrontation, the three candidates were in no condition to continue the fight.

As the room buzzed with disbelief and uncertainty, a new threat emerged. A man at the center of the auditorium began killing people without hesitation, and his laughter filled the room. Adam watched in frustration, regretting his hesitation to act earlier. He had wanted to protect others but found himself unable to intervene effectively.

Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind erupted, blowing the malevolent figure off his feet. The assailant, now bleeding from the attack, emitted a dark aura as his blood dripped onto the floor, revealing the malevolence that had been hidden.

The room fell into an eerie silence as the revelation unfolded. The true Akbar, undeterred and enraged by the exposure of his clone, displayed his full power and malevolence. Fear permeated the room, causing most candidates to cower in terror.

However, there were a few who remained undaunted. Among them were Adam, the candidate who had used the wind attack, the one who initiated the first attack and had faced the clone, and a girl who had been quietly observing the chaos from behind Adam. These individuals, for various reasons, had refused to submit to fear and continued to stand resolute, ready to confront the true Mischief King.

The standoff between Akbar and this small group of defiant candidates set the stage for a fierce and decisive confrontation, the outcome of which would have far-reaching consequences for the resistance and THE GENERAL's forces.

To be continued...