The elder floated above the five stages, sleeves drifting like strands of dusk-colored smoke. The arena's noise had reached a pitch just below breaking—thousands of voices layered over one another, all of them Eager for the first clash of the Top Five.
The elder raised one hand—instant silence. His voice dropped through the stillness like a falling stone. "The first match of the Top Five… will be between Essie Osborn and Max Brooks."
The arena erupted. "ESSIE!"
"BROOKS CLAN TAKES THE FIRST ROUND!"
"She beat a Walker before—can she does it again?"
Robert closed his eyes briefly, steadying his breath. Essie exhaled slowly beside him, then stepped forward. Max Brooks was already walking toward the stage—shoulders broad, steps calm, his sword resting casually against his shoulder. His aura pulsed with stable, frightening force: Spirit Root Realm — Level 5 (Peak Stage).
