"Ladies and gentlemen. As we all know. Scores determine the ranks of the contestants."
"But when scores are unable to do so, then we have but one choice left."
"To decide through direct combat," Lilith announced, and the crowd erupted before she could continue.
"Woohoo!!"
"Hell yeah!! Now, we get to see some intense action!!"
"Finally, this is what I was hoping for."
After a while, the arena quieted again, and Lilith's eyes found Aster and the remaining contestants.
"Contestants. You all stand at the summit together, but only one may stand above the rest."
"Therefore, the tournament will conclude with two final matches."
"The third-place duel."
"Followed by the final duel."
Spectators remained silent, and the tension continued to rise as Aster slowly exhaled while Astrid closed her eyes for half a second.
When she opened them again, she focused her gaze on Lilith.
But Lilith had turned away to signal the officials into motion.
