Truly deleted—in the physical sense

"James, gear check complete!" 

Before entering the combat room, an instructor who favored James stepped forward, advising, "James, you have a Battle Chief watching this next fight. This is your chance to shine!"

James's eyes lit up. A Battle Chief was watching? For him? While he didn't know which Battle Chief it was, making a strong impression could smooth his path forward. 

Wasn't his previous overture to Jessica because her grandfather was a Battle Chief? Now, another opportunity was before him, and he was determined not to waste it.

"James, prepare to enter the combat room!" The door opened and then shut automatically behind him. 

The walls blocked the view of everyone outside, leaving them clueless about what would transpire within. 

However, in the hearts of most, the outcome was already decided—James would win.