The crowd erupted in a wave of good-natured laughter, the tension dissipating slightly.
Bima's outburst seemed to awaken the announcer from his awkward stupor. He cleared his throat, regaining a semblance of authority. "Oh, right, Bima… Well, that makes things simpler, then. Since you've volunteered an observation, let's formalize this. For the remaining five students who haven't participated, if you choose to forfeit the challenge, simply state 'I surrender.'"
A tense silence descended upon the arena. The commoners in the stands, initially bewildered by the five-on-one proposition, watched with a mixture of awe and trepidation.
Here was Alex, the Mr. Ten, a figure shrouded in mystery and rumored to possess incredible power. To face him, not in a fair duel, but in a lopsided brawl, seemed like pure folly.
The seconds ticked by, each one stretching into an eternity.
Finally, a young woman, spoke up. "I surrender."
I surrender."
