The impact drove Xuefeng's head to the ground, creating a small crater with cracks radiating outward.
The entire arena fell silent as the sound of the blow echoed across Flavium.
Francis, still gripping his sword tightly, gazed down at Xuefeng's motionless form on the ground. At that moment, the referee sprinted to Xuefeng's side, quickly assessing his condition.
Raising his hand, the referee declared,
"THE WINNER IS… FRANCIS ISMENIA WILDENHALL OF OXWADE!"
Francis released the sword from his trembling hands. Using the last of his strength, he clenched his fist and raised his right hand high, a faint smile gracing his lips.
The hush in the arena shattered instantly.
Cheers erupted from every corner of Flavium as the audience roared in celebration. Sharik leaped into the arena, tears streaming down his face, followed closely by Francis's other friends.
Panting, Francis murmured"I won… I won… I won…"