Galatea lowered the black crystal as she scanned the four warriors before her.
Daymos was sprawled on the ground, his chest heaving… His body was trembling from the pressure he could not withstand. He had fought valiantly in the tournament, but this test revealed the truth… he was not suited for the mission ahead.
Her gaze shifted to the three who remained standing…
Butcher Bae, whose muscles were still tense…
There was Asad, calm and composed despite the crushing weight… and Hanes, the quiet fighter whose resilience had surprised everyone. These were the ones she needed.
"As expected," Galatea said, her voice carrying across the arena, "the mission cannot be entrusted to all. Only those who endured the crystal's pressure are worthy. Hanes, Asad, Butcher Bae… you will be the ones chosen."
The crowd murmured, disappointed that the tournament was ending so abruptly.
Many had hoped to see a grand final clash, a spectacle of strength and blood.
