The silence after Li Fen's fall was broken not by applause, but by the quick movements of the servants and the constant whispering of the audience.
Kyrian's cold and precise execution had left a deep impression.
Dong Zhen did not allow the energy to dissipate. As Li Fen was removed, his voice cut through the murmur.
"The second match of the next phase of the tournament is concluded. However, we have three finalists." He raised the obsidian urn once more.
"Due to the odd number, one name will be drawn to advance directly to the decisive fight for the title. The other two will compete for the final spot to face them."
The arena, which had begun to calm, grew tense once again. All eyes turned to the urn.
Bai Zhu, Yan Ling, and Kyrian watched, each with their own expectations.
Dong Zhen plunged his hand inside and withdrew a single piece of parchment. He unfolded it and read it, his face impassive.
