"Alright then, let's not waste any precious time!" Charlie's voice crackled with manufactured excitement, amplified through the arena's speakers until it bounced off concrete walls. The crowd's restless murmur died as all eyes turned to the announcer's booth. "First off we have..."
Charlie's voice cracked as he read the name from a list that must have been prepared by Wren. The paper trembled in his sweaty grip. "Seriously? A new kid? This late in the game?" His laugh was hollow, forced. "Well then, let's welcome Rhett, whose quirk is..."
He faltered, squinting at the paper as if the words might change. "...his quirk is a surprise. Apparently." The microphone picked up his nervous swallow. "Will contestant number one please make his way to the arena floor!"
