After the ceremony ended, the participants were led back inside.
The large waiting room had been quickly transformed—long tables lined with food and drink.
Laughter and chatter began to fill the space as the tension from the tournament slowly lifted.
Everyone was finally breathing again—some celebrating, some nursing their bruised pride.
Outside, the crowd started to disperse.
Laughter and chatter echoed through the arena as families and friends made their way to the exits, sharing their favorite moments.
Lina and Elina, who had been cheering in the stands the entire time, stood up from their seats and made their way towards the back of the arena, hoping to meet up with Kai.
A few minutes later, Kai stepped out of the participant hall with Aria beside him. They walked quietly, both tired, both lost in their own thoughts about the battles they had seen and fought.
Then, a familiar voice called out.
"Oi! Wait up!"
