Scarlett stepped onto the platform, her usual cocky grin plastered across her face. Kanna followed a moment later, moving with that same measured calm she always had.
The contrast was almost comical. Scarlett bounced on her heels, rolling her shoulders and cracking her knuckles. Kanna just stood there, sword held loosely at her side, grey eyes fixed on her opponent.
"Hey!" Scarlett called out. "Ready to get your ass kicked?"
Kanna's expression didn't change.
"We'll see."
Scarlett laughed, louder than necessary.
"Come on, at least give me some trash talk! Make it fun!"
"I don't need to talk." Kanna adjusted her grip on her sword. "I just need to win."
Scarlett's grin faltered for half a second before snapping back into place.
"Fair enough. Let's do this."
Valdris raised her hand.
"Combatants, ready?"
Scarlett raised her sword. Kanna mirrored her.
The crowd fell silent.
Valdris's hand dropped.
"Begin!"
