After John stepped down from the platform, Elder Dom's voice rang out again, firm and resonant.
"Fifth place, Caros Hellsee."
John smiled as Caros let out a soft chuckle and casually walked up to the stage, hands in his pockets as if he were taking a stroll in a tea garden instead of receiving one of the most coveted rewards in the entire continent.
"That guy really doesn't care about appearances…" John muttered under his breath.
Caros stepped onto the platform and offered a lazy bow, only slightly less casual than his stride.
Elder Dom handed him a golden token, and Caros smiled politely.
"Thank you, Elder," he said with a respectful nod, surprising many who expected him to speak something cheeky.
Elder Dom gave him a long look before nodding back, and Caros made his way off the stage, spinning the token between his fingers like it was a coin.
After that Elder announced more names and then came a name that made both John and Caros stiffen.
