The applause for Roran, Mira, and Trent's team continued as they left the arena. Their victory had set a high standard, especially considering they had defeated the monster in less time than Ron's team, who possessed beasts widely considered superior.
"The next combat will begin in three minutes," announced Yang, his voice cutting through the excited murmurs. "Team Two of Group A, prepare yourselves."
"This organization is confusing," Min commented, studying the announcement board with furrowed brows. "Why not simply number the teams from one to sixteen?"
"Tradition," Liu replied with a shrug. "Each group first competes with teams from their adjacent section to maintain competitiveness between classes. Someone told me that counting us together up to 16 would 'make us feel' like one group."
"What about your group, Liu?" Taro asked, looking around the crowded stands. "I thought they'd be with you."
"You're in Group D, right?" Ren also inquired.
