The moment Gena hit the ground…
The cheering that had risen from Nina and a few of the girls died instantly, like something had cut it off.
Silence spread across the arena, thick and uncomfortable, pressing down on everyone present.
"She went down so fast…"
Someone whispered from the seated candidates, their voice low, almost unsure if they should even speak.
"That guy's control over his weapon and Cognis is impressive," Nickolas said, his hand resting under his chin as his eyes followed the boy's stance carefully.
"It's sad…" Linda added quietly, her gaze fixed on Gena's body lying on the ground. "She's facing someone with more Cognis than her. The difference is too clear."
While they spoke, the guard had already started walking toward the platform, his boots making steady sounds against the floor.
