(previous chapter is at the end of volume 2)
The atmosphere in the arena was electric, the anticipation so thick it seemed to hum in the air. As the lights dimmed and a spotlight illuminated the entryway, the roars of the crowd surged like a tidal wave.
Golden Cosmos emerged first, their figures framed against the bright glow of the stadium lights.
Catarina walked with her usual feline grace, her black ears twitching at the overwhelming noise. She flicked her tail, trying to mask the awe on her face.
Ryder, just behind her, tried to smile to the audience but couldn't hide the tension in his steps. The sheer magnitude of the moment was impossible to ignore.
Catarina leaned closer to Ryder, her voice barely audible over the crowd.
"I'm starting to feel less juicy..."
Ryder nodded, his expression replaced by something much more serious.