With a warm yet enigmatic smile, the Overseer addressed the champions.
"I must admit, you never cease to surprise me. For that, I extend my deepest gratitude"
His words, however, elicited no response.
The champions remained unfazed, their expressions unreadable.
Having lived for almost a millennium, they were no strangers to manipulation.
Each was a master tactician, a schemer of unparalleled wit.
They had long since sensed the Overseer's underlying intent, his thirst for chaos.
Gratitude, in his hands, could be nothing more than a calculated move, another piece in a grander design.
And so, none of them accepted his words at face value.
"Shall we commence the battle? The semifinals begin now"
The Overseer declared, his voice laced with anticipation.
With a theatrical flourish, he clapped his hands, sending a ripple of energy through the air.
