Felix nodded—that was precisely what he was thinking.

"It's because headquarters got approval to offer the ultimate prize to the champion," Xena said mysteriously.

She leaned forward and whispered, "It's Lone Paragon."

Xena thought Felix would react wildly. But to her shock, he seemed unimpressed. "Have you never heard of Lone Paragon?"

"Should I have?" Felix asked flatly.

Xena sighed. "Fine. I only learned about it myself after this tournament was finalized. Lone Paragon is an ancient secr