The Final Stage

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The electric crowd calmed down when they witnessed General Zieg approaching the podium. As he stood there, General Zieg released a deliberate round of applause that prompted the crowd to join in.

Those who prevailed in the brutal eliminations of this round were overcome with feelings of joy and accomplishment—they had trained relentlessly for this very moment. 

How could they not feel accomplished, although it was the start of their young lives?

"You youths of today never cease to amaze. I witnessed several inspirational battles. But, I also witnessed many tragic falls. However, you must understand that victory and defeat are two eternal facets on the road to power. They are inescapable, so one mustn't flee from the possibility of defeat."