The Pool Master's voice rang like a bell chime carried on a divine breeze.
"This boy…" he said, gesturing to Kent, who scratched his ear idly. "…is no ordinary challenger. I have seen his reflection in the waters of destiny. Let him fight."
Elder Hua's face twisted in protest. "But Master, the rules—"
The Pool Master raised a hand.
"He may compete, but under one condition." The sky seemed to grow heavier with his words. "He shall face not one… not two… but all five prime contenders at once. Only then shall he prove himself worthy of joining their rank."
The crowd gasped.
Elder Liam, still recovering from the shock of Kent's appearance, practically choked. "What?! All five?! Are we throwing him into a meat grinder?! That's not a challenge, that's a funeral plan! He's one man, not a sect!"
Kent wiped a smudge from his robe, then turned his head lazily.
"Only five?" he asked.
Everyone turned to him.
