The referee signaled the start of the match.

Hadley's expression hardened as she focused, recalling Lilah's strategy to wear down her opponent through defense.

Kieran launched the first attack, mindful of his strength against a female opponent. He attempted a spinning kick, a move he was still mastering given his basic understanding of Taekwondo.

He had anticipated a swift victory, already planning his post-match meal.

However, his kick sailed harmlessly past Hadley, missing its mark entirely.

Hadley nimbly sidestepped Kieran's attack.

She was agile, her eyes locked on his legs, anticipating his every move like a vigilant deer.

Kieran's eyes widened in shock.

The audience, too, was taken aback.

How had this diminutive girl just evaded a kick from a man over six feet tall?

Interest piqued, the crowd set aside their distractions to watch the unflappable Hadley in action.

Yet, Lilah remained composed, her gaze never lifting from her phone.

Feeling humiliated, Kieran's determination hardened. He unleashed another kick, this time with 80% of his strength, targeting Hadley's right leg.

Hadley dodged swiftly.

Laughter erupted from the audience, amused by her expression of fright as she evaded the kick.

Nonetheless, she successfully avoided the attack.

Kieran, frustrated, gritted his teeth and attacked yet again.

“Get away from him!" someone in the crowd yelled encouragingly.

“Hadley, turn right!" Effie called out.

Hadley didn't look back but moved with such agility that she easily sidestepped Kieran's next move.

Kieran, now thoroughly irate, growled under his breath.

At that moment, Lilah spoke up calmly. "Attack."

Responding instantly, Hadley straightened and delivered a precise kick to Kieran's chest.

Her background in dance was evident; her legs were incredibly flexible, and her kick was both swift and precise, forcing Kieran to stagger back.