# QUARTERFINALS: ADRIAN vs SIERRA
The randomizer's holographic display flashed and whirled before settling on a name: ADRIAN ALBRIGHT.
In the competitors' area, Adrian stood immediately, his shoulders squaring as if physically accepting the weight of expectation now placed upon them. Around him, the excited murmurs of other competitors faded to white noise as he focused on the path ahead—both literally and figuratively.
Noah clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Good luck out there."
Adrian nodded, his expression tightening almost imperceptibly. 'Luck? You don't seem to need luck,' he thought. 'And neither do I.'
Above in the dignitaries' box, Commander Albright maintained his perfect posture, not a flicker of emotion crossing his weathered features even as neighboring headmasters offered congratulatory nods. His son had made it this far. Expected, but noteworthy nonetheless.
Headmaster of Academy Eight leaned slightly toward him. "Your boy shows promise, Albright."
