Boundless Arena contestant waiting area.
This was perhaps the most peaceful contestant waiting area since the New Star Tournament began. Nearly a hundred contestants occupied the vast space—some sitting or standing, some leaning against the walls with lowered eyes, some floating silently in midair.
Even the most unruly fellows did not dare make a move now. The captains of the four enforcement squads had taken up positions in the four directions. Though they had not released any pressure, their sinister gazes swept over everyone, making chills crawl down their spines.
"If anyone causes trouble at a time like this, no matter how justified your reason, I will directly revoke your eligibility for the prize." The speaker was one of the four enforcement squad captains, a hunched wizard leaning on a staff. His skin sagged as though embracing gravity itself, yet the gaze hidden behind that aged flesh remained grim and eerie.
They had come to the New Star Tournament for the qualification to enter the Endless Corridor. If that qualification were revoked, it would be something they would regret for the rest of their lives.
Thus, under such a threat, no one dared stir up trouble lightly.
Though the contestant waiting area showed a rare sign of peace, it was not quiet. The enforcement captain had only demanded that they not cause trouble; he had not forbidden them from communicating. Taking advantage of this rare opportunity, the contestants began interacting with one another.
For instance, in the southeast corner, two people were quietly talking.
"You seem to have been restless these past few days. If something is weighing on your mind, why not say it?" Serum hugged the Black Codex as he crouched in the corner, looking toward Nausicaa, who was wreathed in smoke nearby.
Hesitation flashed across Nausicaa's face.