The next three battles sped by in a blur of clashing energies and fierce determination, their endings swift and decisive. Before long, the second round of the martial arts competition drew to a close in just half a morning—time seemed to warp beneath the weight of so many intense duels.
The twenty-four winners gathered again for the drawing of lots, reshuffling the fates of the contenders.
This time, Ethan drew the number nine.
The competition pressed onward without pause. The announcer, Dorian, his voice sharp and clear, called out the upcoming match with invigorating seriousness.
"The ninth match of the third round: Voidshade Peak's Allen versus Azure Sky Peak's Ethan!"
The arena instantly erupted into uproarious excitement.
The crowd had long anticipated a clash between these two formidable opponents. Finally, the decisive battle was here—the first true close contest since the tournament's opening rounds. The tension coiled like a serpent ready to strike.
