As Dave followed Ajax into the training room, he could see the other contestants promptly halting their matches, their eyes fixed on Ajax. They hastily retreated, vacating the platform with an air of urgency. Dave's curiosity piqued; he didn't understand why they surrendered without hesitation.
Ajax's formidable reputation preceded him, Dave realized. The onlookers' apprehensive glances and hushed whispers confirmed his suspicions.
Behind Dave, a cluster of five individuals conferenced, their murmurs carrying forward. Dave's acute hearing allowed him to discern their conversations with ease, since he was outrightly standing in front of them.
One of the onlookers initiated the hushed conversation, eyes fixed on Ajax. "What's he trying to do? He's not going to ask someone here to fight him or something?"
Another individual shook their head vehemently. "No way I'd dare face him! Yesterday's match was gruesome. That poor guy couldn't land a single hit before passing out cold."
