The medical team rushed onto the sand, carrying Jin's unconscious body away on a stretcher. His face was pale, empty. Like something essential had been carved out of him.
The team stood frozen. Watching. The reality of what they'd just witnessed sinking in like ice water.
One to one.
They needed three more wins. And they had three fights left.
The announcer's voice cut through the horrified silence.
"And now, for our third duel!"
The student drew two more scrolls with trembling hands.
"The phantom of the blade, Talia! She will face the champion of Queen Elyndra and the Elven Kingdom—the starlight archer, Serenya!"
Talia stepped forward. Her face was its usual mask—calm, professional, unreadable. But her hand, resting on the hilt of her poisoned dagger, trembled slightly.
Dante caught her arm as she passed.
"Fast and close," he said quietly. "Don't let her set the distance."
Talia nodded once. Then walked onto the sand.
Serenya was already waiting.
