Bab 70: Quarter-Finals (2)

[Pinnacle Academy Stadium 1 - Arena A: Student Section Entrance]

Luck seemed to be on my side, for once. I navigated the surprisingly light crowd, managing to claim a seat near the front of the arena. Oddly enough, the entire row to my right was empty, giving me a bit more breathing room than expected.

Just as I settled in, a flicker of movement caught my eye. Surely not– it couldn't be... My heart sank as I saw Lyra again, of all people, waving at me from the end of that miraculously empty row. I already knew who these empty seats were for.

I returned her wave with a strained smile, barely suppressing a groan as a flood of familiar faces began descending the stairs.

This was not luck at all... It was torture, Looking to my right I saw Valencia, who was in front, lead the way. Right behind her, Jan and Camila followed, their usual bickering momentarily paused. And bringing up the rear... was Bazz. Of course.