"You don't have to win."
Rapid fast words in a silent breathless whisper to my left. I heard it, perking my ears up like I just heard someone mention my name… but when I went ahead and scoured around for the source, I only saw everything and everyone as they were.
Tyler up on his podium, keeping the masses in awe with promises of a grand spectacle guaranteed. The other champions on the field, standing idly by… kicking up dirt, exchanging glances, having small talks, passing the time by doing everything they can that didn't have anything to do with staring straight at what's right in front of them.
To be fair, I'd probably have done the same. If I was in their shoes over there, and if one of them were in my shoes over here… yeah, I'd be looking for ways to distract myself too.