In the next stage, John and Maki, despite being at Level 40 and Level 35 respectively, were eliminated.
The judges, six Commanders of the Blood Legion, gave their verdict without hesitation. According to them, the two lacked the extraordinary talent required to stand among the Blood Legion. Level alone wasn't enough. They needed something more—potential that could shake the battlefield.
Even so, John and Maki remained cheerful. They didn't let the judgment crush their spirits.
Instead, they turned to Ryuzen and Venus with wide grins.
"Go on, Venus, Ryu. You two better save our faces now," John said, patting Ryu on the back with a laugh.
"I'll try, John," Ryuzen replied calmly, his eyes flickering with silent resolve.
"I won't just try," Venus said sharply, stepping forward. "I'll make it happen."
Her voice carried no doubt. It was filled with raw certainty. A wave of pressure spilled from her as she clenched her fists, and Ryuzen felt it clearly.
She was evolving. Fast.
