The referee conducted thorough pre-match inspections, examining both contestants' equipment, clothing, and swords to ensure no tampering or cheating devices had been introduced. The meticulous process maintained the tournament's integrity and competitive fairness between all contestants.
With all preparations complete, the referee positioned himself at the platform's edge and released a single leaf into the mountain air. The leaf caught the gentle breeze and began its slow descent towards the middle of the platform.
The crowd held their collective breath, understanding that the match would begin the instant the leaf touched the ground. Tension filled the venue as spectators leaned forward in anticipation.
Ichigo's eyes were fixed on the leaf as it began approaching the platform. As for Kenzo, he looked at leisurely.
The leaf finally made contact with the platform floor, creating the softest sound that somehow seemed to echo across the entire venue.
