The tournament (15)

The previous day was a big one for Erik. He won a spot at the Red Palace and met several important people, including Richard Stone.

Erik had mixed feelings about the man. At first glance, he seemed like a friendly middle-aged man who enjoyed his drinks and loved his family above all else.

Stone also appeared to be someone who cared about friendship and treated people with kindness and respect—at least, that's how he behaved in front of him.

But there was another side to him. People whispered dark rumors about him being a ruthless businessman who controlled the food industry with an iron fist and wasn't afraid to play dirty to keep his power intact.

Erik felt almost violated by the man's questions sometimes, and many of them were obviously trying to evaluate Erik's character.

Erik was no fool.

Then Monday came. It was finally time to start the last phase of the school's tournament.