The Day of The Selection (2)

The tall, athletic guy crossed his arms again, a disbelieving smile forming on his face. "This is funny. You all sound like a bunch of philosophers. All I know is, if there's a fight, I'll be ready."

Another woman, who had been quietly listening, turned toward him. Her golden skin seemed to glow, and her long dreadlocks cascaded over her shoulders. "You don't get it," she said calmly. "Fighting is part of the trial, sure—but not in the way you're thinking."

She paused, making sure she had everyone's attention before continuing. "This is my first time participating, but I've seen plenty of Selections. And I'll say these two aren't entirely wrong. If it were just about strength and control, I know a lot of people who would be Rei Raja by now. Though, let's not forget that losers' words should be taken with a grain of salt."

The athletic guy frowned slightly, visibly uncomfortable under the dreadlocked woman's intense gaze.