Leo stepped out of the car, a sense of excitement and nervousness bubbling within him. His eyes scanned the vibrant scene, where young boys like himself trained with fervor. Chai, the youngest, sprinted past him, kicking up dust as he chased after a stray ball.
Tong waved, his face flushed from practice. "Welcome to the Spartans, Leo!" Hiro said, offering a friendly grin.
Tep, the oldest and a mentor to many, demonstrated a series of punches, his movements precise and swift. Leo watched intently, eager to absorb every detail.
Killua, another foreigner like Leo, was already drenched in sweat, his breathing heavy. "We can do this together, Killua," Leo encouraged, offering a supportive pat on the back.
One by one, the boys stepped on the scale, their expressions a mix of hope and apprehension. Killua was first, and his face fell as the numbers flashed above his target. "I can't believe it," he murmured, tears forming in his eyes.
Leo stepped forward, his own nerves heightened. As the scale tipped just above the mark, he clenched his fists, resolved to try again.
Leo led the charge, his determination unwavering despite the heat. Killua struggled to keep up, his energy waning.
"Don't give up, Killua! We're almost there," Leo called out, his voice firm and encouraging.
Leo stood, towel wrapped around him, taking deep breaths to calm his racing heart. As he stepped onto the scale for the fourth time, he felt the weight of his friends' hopes resting on his shoulders.
The numbers settled, and a triumphant cheer erupted from the group. Tep and Killua rushed forward, lifting Leo in celebration.
Chai playfully splashed Tong, who retaliated with a mock glare. Hiro recounted tales of past championships, his eyes alight with excitement.
"We did it, guys," Leo said, a wide grin on his face. The camaraderie was palpable, their bond strengthened by the trials they had overcome together.
"To the Spartans!" Tep toasted, raising his glass high. The others followed suit, their voices a harmonious chorus.
Leo looked around at his friends, his heart full. The evening stretched before them, filled with stories, laughter, and the promise of fierce competition ahead.
