The digital board above the arena flickered, randomizing the next quarterfinal matchups. The crowd fell silent, anticipation hanging in the air like static electricity.
"Next match on Ring Two," the announcer's voice boomed across the Nexus Arena. "From Academy Twelve, Noah Eclipse!"
A smattering of applause followed, mostly from Academy Twelve students. Noah stepped onto the platform, his expression neutral as he rolled his shoulders, loosening muscles still sore from his previous match.
"And his opponent—from Academy Six, information getting to me is that he is THE TOP FIGHTER in first year, Ryker Dawn!"
The response was immediate and thunderous. Ryker stepped forward with the confidence of someone who'd never tasted defeat. His short, military-cut dark hair and predatory eyes gave him the look of a professional fighter rather than a student.
"The Apex Striker versus..." The announcer paused, realizing Noah lacked any catchy moniker. "Academy Twelve's dark horse contender!"
