Rhys returned to the stands with the others, the cheers from the arena still echoing faintly behind them. Aria practically dragged him to their seats again, forcing him to sit between her and Puddle like a prized trophy.
"Sit, champion," she said proudly, thumping him on the back. "We're not letting you run off to train again."
Rhys gave a quiet sigh but didn't argue.
Puddle immediately climbed onto his lap, hugging his arm. "Master strong! Master scary! Puddle proud!"
Caria adjusted her glasses as she flipped open her notebook again. "Tomorrow morning is your next match. Based on pacing, it will be Round Three or possibly the Top 32 bracket."
Sophia added, "Either way, rest is more important now. Don't overthink it."
Lyra smiled gently. "But observing others is fine. It sharpens your insight."
Rhys nodded. "I know. I want to see the other finalists. Especially the ones who stand out."
Crescent Arena – Spectator Stands
Late Afternoon
