Unstoppable

The elimination zone burst into a chorus of discussion.

Some gloated over Zhao Yao's imminent defeat while others seriously analyzed the situation and the possibilities.

"Well, looks like this is the end of the road for that kid."

"Not necessarily. If they get rid of the sapphires right at the start, they still stand a chance."

Some did not understand the design of the second round and those who did, tried to explain.

"If they threw away the sapphires from the start, it'll be like starting the competition all over again. Doesn't that make the first round pointless?"

"It seems that way because only three contestants got past the first round. Imagine if 32 contestants had one sapphire each. They would definitely not be cornered into tossing their gemstones away. They would begin the second round with a lead."