Ryker was wildly recognised as an underdog among his mates, so they underestimated him so much.
At the start of the tournament even, Ryker never had much hope for the first and second place, he was satisfied with just third place.
That was because there were many others among his mates whom he admired for their skills, he couldn't even imagine himself winning against them.
But after braving and pushing through two rounds, something inside him began to change.
His confidence grew, layer by layer, and right now, standing here, he was beyond excited. His heart was pounding so hard it almost deafened him. His blood felt like it was on fire.
He clenched his fists, his breathing heavy, every fiber of his body trembling—not in fear, but in anticipation.
He had fought, he had endured, and now the dream that once seemed so distant... it no longer felt impossible.
For the first time, Ryker could see it.