The medical team rushed onto the platform with stretchers, muscle memory developed from years of experience taking over as they quickly assessed the two fallen swordsmen.
Kenzo remained unconscious, his body limp as they carefully lifted him onto the first stretcher. Saika had regained partial consciousness but was moaning in agony, his back requiring immediate stabilization before transport.
"Clear the platform! We need space for medical procedures!" the head medic shouted, waving back the curious spectators who had started creeping closer to get a better view of the aftermath.
As the medical personnel worked, the head judge approached the center of the platform with obvious reluctance. His face showed the conflict between his duty to declare a winner and his awareness of the complications this victory would create. But tradition demanded completion of the tournament regardless of circumstances.
