Unexpected Challenger

[WE HAVE OUR FIRST CHALLENGER LOSS OF THE DAY!]

The Amphitheatre's vast audience erupted into an electrifying mix of cheers and applause as Flynn's voice rang out.

Kalari followed up with her own booming declaration, her tone both dramatic and teasing.

[THIS YEAR BEGAN WITH A STREAK! 22 CHALLENGERS AND 22 WINS! TOO BAD THE 23RD DIDN'T MAKE IT!]

As the defeated challenger was carried out of the arena by floating transport platforms, the energy of the crowd remained undiminished.

If anything, their excitement seemed to have mounted.

Over all this, Flynn's commentary carried on seamlessly.

[IT'S A PITY. WE'VE NOT HAD A 25 CONSECUTIVE CHALLENGER WIN ON THE ETERNAL TRIALS OPENING DAY IN THE PAST FEW MILLION YEARS.]

Kalari chimed in with a chuckle.

[TOO BAD WE COULDN'T BREAK THE RECORD THIS YEAR. BUT HEY, SOME PEOPLE CERTAINLY WON THEIR BETS. A SILVER LINING, RIGHT?]