The atmosphere at Zenith Academy's training grounds was electric. The crowd was still buzzing from the last match—Lilith's display of overwhelming strength had sent shockwaves through both junior and seniors alike.
Now, it was Alex's turn.
He stared at the platform, lips dry, heart doing its best impression of a drumroll.
He gulped.
"Just my luck."
"Hey, step aside," Alden said, casually nudging Ethan out of the way. "I want a front-row seat to watch that bastard get flattened."
Alex's eye twitched. Alden, somehow holding a tub of popcorn, tossed a handful at ethan with a grin, as if he were watching an action flick instead of a duel.
"Sharing the experience," Alden added, like it was a noble gesture.
Alex turned to Alicia and Alistar with a deadpan expression.
"Can I forfeit?"
Alicia tilted her head, a mysterious smile tugging at her lips.
Alistar chuckled and crossed his arms.
"You already know the answer."
Alex sighed. A vein throbbed in his temple.
"Of course I do."
