Just as the semifinals were about to begin, Kendrick returned.
He moved quietly, sliding into the seat beside Zephany as if he'd just stepped out for a moment. His face was calm—more relaxed than before—and there was a faint ease in his eyes that hadn't been there earlier. Zephany glanced at him, her brows slightly raised in curiosity.
"You okay?" she asked softly.
Kendrick nodded, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Yeah. I am."
She didn't press further. But this time, the shift she felt wasn't heavy. It was lighter, easier. Like something had finally settled inside him.
The host stepped forward, microphone in hand, his voice booming. "Ladies and gentlemen, the final match of—"
Then a different voice echoed through the arena.
"I have evidence of illegal activity tied to this tournament," Kendrick said, rising from his seat.
All eyes turned to him.
"Some participants have used substances that go against competition rules and basic human safety."
