Ophelia stood straight, energy radiating from her poised posture. Her sharp, ember-like eyes swept over us one by one, before finally settling on me and Maximus.
"I have watched the recordings of your match," she stated, her voice flat yet heavy with authority. "Both your individual performances, and that... unnecessary internal duel."
I stood calmly, waiting. In my mind, various scenarios played out. If she decided to disqualify me from the second round and beyond, then I might as well forget my plans for a date with Ruth. Well, it wasn't as if I didn't have other ways to ask her out.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Maximus. His face was pale, cold sweat beading at his temples. His fists were clenched tightly at his sides, knuckles white.
