The crowd buzzed with anticipation as the announcer called the next match. You stood just outside the ring, rolling your shoulders and stretching out your legs, the tension in your muscles slowly melting into focus. The competition had taken you to another district this time—new faces, unfamiliar styles, but you were ready.

You adjusted your belt and exhaled slowly, centering yourself.

Then you felt a presence beside you.

You turned.

He was tall, broad-shouldered, with a cocky glint in his eye. Your opponent. He glanced at you, then let out a small chuckle before raising a brow.

“Don’t expect me to go easy on you just because you’re a girl,” he said, folding his arms smugly.