But Lilah was nowhere to be seen.

"Is she backing out? Did she quit?"

"She's only made it this far by luck. Even if she shows up, she'll lose."

“No one can beat Karol! She's the best!"

Karol's fans started jeering and mocking.

The whole venue buzzed with a new energy. People were whispering that Lilah was too scared to show up.

“Coward! Coward! Coward!" a lone voice shouted.

Soon, half the crowd joined in, and the venue was filled with a deafening chant.

Briseis watched helplessly.

She thought these people were easily swayed and lacked independent thinking.

Seated in the front row, she crossed her arms and fixed a hard stare on the ring.

Karol's eyes met hers.

In that moment, both women's gazes were filled with contempt.

Karol smirked, as if saying, "No matter how good Lilah is, she still didn't dare to come."

Briseis' anger made her head pound, and she wanted to march up to Karol right then.

"Dad, I'm going to find out why Lilah hasn't come yet," Briseis said, rising to leave, but her father stopped her.

"Remember your role. As the organizer, you must stay impartial. Sit down."

Briseis hesitated, and then reluctantly sat back down.

More time passed, and Lilah still didn't show.

The referee looked puzzled and signaled the staff to find her.

“Just announce Karol as the winner."

“Lilah's too scared to come. She's a coward!"

“It's disgraceful to run away."

The crowd grew louder, filled with accusations and taunts.