A day later.

In the Combat Training Class, Instructor Valerie stood before her students, her eyes shining with pride and determination. The results from the joint class event had truly surprised and motivated her. She had seen the potential and tenacity in her first-year students, and she wanted to build on that momentum.

"Everyone, gather around," she called out, her voice commanding immediate attention. The students, still buzzing from the previous day's events, quickly formed a semicircle around her.

"I must say, your performance during the joint class event was commendable," Valerie began, her tone both proud and encouraging. "You faced off against more experienced opponents and held your ground. That shows not only your skill but also your spirit."

The students exchanged glances, a mix of pride and determination evident on their faces. They had fought hard, and while they hadn't won, they had earned respect.

"Today," Valerie continued, "I want to teach you a useful tactic for a 5-on-5 team match. In such battles, teamwork and strategy are crucial. It's not just about individual skill but how well you can work together as a unit."

She gestured for the students to follow her to a larger open area within the training hall. "We'll be practicing a formation called the 'Five-Point Star.' This tactic involves positioning and coordination to maximize both your offensive and defensive capabilities."

Valerie demonstrated the initial positions, marking spots on the ground. "Imagine a star with five points. Each of you will take one point of the star. The key to this formation is flexibility and support. You must be able to switch between offense and defense seamlessly."

As she spoke, she motioned for five students to step forward and take their positions at the points of the star. Adrian, Ren, Aria, Aurelius, and another student, Leon, moved into place, ready to learn.

"Now, each of you has a role," Valerie explained. "The point of the star that is facing the enemy will be the primary attacker. The two points adjacent to the primary attacker will provide support and be ready to switch to offense if needed. The remaining two points will focus on defense and covering any gaps."

She walked around the formation, adjusting their stances and positions. "Communication is key. You must be aware of each other's movements and be ready to adapt to changing situations. Let's start with a basic drill. Adrian, you'll be the primary attacker. Aurelius and Leon, you'll support him.

Aria and Ren, focus on magic and physical defense."

Adrian nodded, wanting to try it already. He knew the importance of this training, knowing it would enhance their teamwork and strategic thinking.

"You will practice by fighting against me, I will correct you as we train. Others should watch closely and learn well."

"Yes, instructor!"

Valerie stepped back, observing the formation. "Alright, begin!"

Adrian moved forward, his focus sharp as he initiated an attack, thrusting his sword toward Valerie with precision. Aurelius and Leon flanked him, ready to provide immediate support. Aurelius wielded his sword with calculated grace, while Leon prepared his spells, his fingers crackling with aether. Aria and Ren held their positions at the rear, eyes vigilant for any incoming attacks.

Valerie responded swiftly, deflecting Adrian's attack with ease and countering with a swift strike aimed at his side. Aurelius stepped in, his blade meeting Valerie's in a resounding clash, providing Adrian the chance to recover and strike again. Leon cast a protective barrier around the primary attackers, allowing them to press forward without hesitation.

Aria and Ren remained vigilant, Ren's eyes scanning for any physical attacks from Valerie while Aria kept an eye on their flanks, ready to defend with her magic. As Valerie pressed the attack, she shifted her focus to test the team's defensive capabilities, launching a flurry of strikes and spells toward all of them.

"Ren, switch," Adrian said while moving onto Ren's point quickly.

Ren moved swiftly, taking Adrian's position at the front, his shield raised to block Valerie's incoming strike. Adrian slipped into Ren's spot, transitioning seamlessly into a defensive role. The fluid movement showcased their growing understanding of the Five-Point Star formation.

Valerie nodded in approval, noting their adaptability. She increased the intensity of her attacks, forcing the students to react quickly and think on their feet. Aria's magic flared, creating an earth barrier that absorbed one of Valerie's spells, while Leon's aether-infused projectiles kept the pressure on Valerie.

"Good, keep it up!" Valerie shouted, her voice filled with encouragement. She aimed a powerful spell at Aria, testing her defensive capabilities. Aria responded with a counter-spell, neutralizing the attack just in time.

"Aurelius, switch with Aria," Adrian called out, recognizing that Aria needed a moment to recover. Aurelius moved to cover her, his sword intercepting Valerie's next strike with a resonating clang.

The team continued to adjust and shift positions, each member taking turns in offensive and defensive roles. Their coordination improved with each exchange, their movements becoming more synchronized.

Valerie launched a sudden, aggressive assault, pushing the team to their limits. Adrian deflected a blow aimed at Ren, allowing Leon to focus on casting a powerful barrier spell that enveloped the entire team. Aria took advantage of the momentary reprieve to launch a barrage of ice shards at Valerie, forcing her to retreat slightly.

"Remember, communication and trust in each other are crucial," Valerie reminded them, her voice steady despite the heat of the battle. "Rely on your teammates and cover for one another."

Adrian felt a surge of adrenaline. He knew that mastering this formation could make a significant difference in their future battles. As he parried another strike from Valerie, he called out, "Leon, switch with me."

Leon moved forward, taking Adrian's place as the primary attacker, his hands glowing with aether as he prepared to cast a powerful spell. Adrian moved back, his eyes scanning the battlefield for any threats that might bypass their defenses.

Valerie's movements became a blur as she tested each student's reactions and reflexes. She targeted their weak points, exploiting any gaps in their formation. Despite the relentless pressure, the team held their ground, their coordination and trust in each other growing stronger with every passing moment.

"Time!"

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(A/N: Thanks for the gift @Wavyb. I will release the promised three chapters soon.)