The Recognized Strongest

She had lost. She had failed to even make the top sixteen.

She had come to fight for the championship, yet she had lost in the top sixteen.

Others had placed great expectations on her, hoping she could bring glory to the Chengdu region.

Unfortunately, she had let them down.

In truth, she could have found herself an excuse. For example, Mina was simply too strong, and they should never have met in the top sixteen.

But what meaning was there in that? A loss was a loss. No amount of excuses would change anything.

This defeat had dealt her an enormous blow.

But she quickly composed herself, smiled at Mina, and said, "Congratulations on advancing to the top eight. I have to admit, you're incredibly strong. I accept this loss wholeheartedly."

Mina smiled as well. "You're not weak either. This was the toughest battle I've had."

After stepping down from the Battle Arena, Kaiser came over to comfort her. "Ji Ke, are you all right? Don't lose heart. You did your best."

Ji Ke smiled. "I'm fine. I accept this loss wholeheartedly."

"By the way, the rest is up to you and Eichi." With that, she sat down in the stands as though nothing had happened.

Although Ji Ke smiled on the surface as if she were completely fine, Kaiser, who knew her well, understood.

Ji Ke must have been hurting terribly inside. She had come to the Five School League full of confidence, only to be stopped just outside the top eight.

She knew that anyone in her position would likely find it hard to accept.

Eichi sighed and said nothing. At a time like this, it was better to let her be alone for a while.

"Ah..."

Director Liu on the VIP Stand also sighed.

Ji Ke