The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection

To Felix's surprise, the winner of Arena Three turned out to be Ronan, whose strength was remarkable. Once all four finalists agreed they didn't need much rest, the championship match was scheduled for an hour later. It would adopt a draw-lot system to determine the pairings for two one-on-one matches. Felix sat alone in the resting area with his eyes closed as he meditated. The rules prohibited any interaction between contestants during this period.

"Felix, are you really going to continue?"

The unexpected voice made him open his eyes, and he saw Xena had entered the room.

"Of course. I've come this far. Is there any reason not to?"

A trace of worry flickered in Xena's eyes. She hadn't wanted to come but couldn't suppress her emotions. "Those three... not one of them is simple. I can't say more, but you should think carefully."

Felix smiled. "Don't worry. I'm not simple either, am I?"

Xena stared at him for a long moment before turning and leaving without another word.

hour later, a staff member, accompanied by Hector and Cairo, entered the

for the draw. Meanwhile, two warlords escorting the process emphasized the importance of the

on you!" Hector gave a thumbs-up, his enthusiastic

was undoubtedly Aiden. The only real challenge was Milo, who was no doubt a

rose, casually drew a lot,

slip bore the

box contained only one remaining slip. "Yes. Your

smile at the news. Of all the potential matchups, facing Milo was the one he least wanted.

could conserve

Felix's grimace wasn't because Milo was a powerful opponent, but because she

tricky for Felix to determine how far

semifinals, which were structured as sequential matches to show