The energy in the arena exploded as the scoreboard updated.
Mercury's name blazed brightly, her victory sealed. A wave of deafening cheers erupted, spreading like wildfire through the stadium and beyond into the city.
Fans leaped from their seats, waving banners, shouting until their voices cracked. The air was thick with joy, disbelief, and awe, a collective realization that this single win might seal the course of the final.
Cassie and Roger stood, their faces red with emotion. Roger, normally so calm and composed, broke into a rare, joyous laugh as Cassie threw her arms around him as she whispered.
"They're really going to do it, Roger. They're going to win."
Roger hugged her tightly, his voice trembling as he replied.
"They are incredible. Absolutely incredible."
