The competition, though inherently unequal between genders, adhered to the principle of survival of the fittest. Regardless of gender, the strongest contender emerged as the champion.

Moreover, the organizers maintained that while women might lack physical strength, their agility surpassed that of men, thereby eliminating any gender-based restrictions on opponents.

Karol stood in the dim basement, the cold air swirling around her as she waited. She clutched her phone tightly, eyes fixed on the shadows.

A hulking figure emerged from the darkness with a sour face. "You wanted to see me? Why here?" His voice was a low growl.

This woman had summoned him to the basement with a cryptic message about having something on him.

“Farley Scott, right?" She flashed a sly smile. "I know about the doping scandal from your overseas competition. You were banned, and I bet you don't want anyone else to know."

Farley's eyes narrowed to slits, cold and calculating.

"What are you getting at? Do you have proof?" he sneered, stepping closer, his massive frame looming over her like a mountain.

Unfazed, Karol chuckled. "Take a Look."

She unlocked her phone and held it up.

Farley's face fell as he read the official notice of his suspension.

He couldn't fathom how she'd gotten her hands on it. "How did you-" he started.

"How I found out isn't important," Karol cut him off with her icy voice. "What matters is what you're going to do for me. I want you to eliminate your opponent in today's contest, no matter what it takes."

Karol hadn't slept a wink the night before.

She knew Lilah was aware of her involvement in Jerrold's allergy, but her lack of retaliation was unnerving. Karol was sure she was plotting revenge.

To secure her victory and protect herself, she had to strike first.

Winning the championship was all that mattered. Even if her actions were exposed, her grandmother and father might overlook it if she secured the title.

Farley snorted dismissively, “You think I'm an idiot? That girl is weak. I could take her down with one hand tied behind my back."

"Don't underestimate her," Karol snapped, her irritation flaring.

She pulled a small packet from her pocket. “This is a bag of colorless, odorless powder-a nerve agent. Inhalation will cause a rapid heartbeat and delay reaction time. Use it on her."

Farley stumbled back, eyes wide with shock. "No! I don't want it," he protested, waving his hands defensively. "If they find out, I won't be able to compete anymore."

Karol rolled her eyes and shoved the small packet into his hands, pressing the antidote vial against his chest. “Take the antidote first, idiot! You won't poison yourself. Understand? Your opponent could crush Tiana in one move. Don't get cocky."

She glanced around the dimly lit basement before turning on her heel.

A sly smile crept across her face as she walked away.