Chapter 24 — Announcement of the Royal Grand Tournament

The grand hall buzzed with energy, the air thick with anticipation. Courtiers, knights, and nobles filled every corner, their eyes fixed on the raised dais where King Alaric sat in regal authority. Today, he was to make an announcement that would shape the kingdom’s future.

A hush fell over the hall as the king rose, his voice echoing across the marble chamber. “Brave knights, skilled warriors, and citizens of this realm, hear me. To honor our kingdom’s defenders and to seek out the finest fighters across the lands, I hereby announce the Royal Grand Tournament!”

A wave of excitement swept through the crowd. Murmurs of speculation spread quickly—who would compete? Which knights would prove themselves worthy? And what of the mysterious master training Prince Aric?

“The tournament,” the king continued, “will test not only strength and skill but strategy, honor, and courage. Fighters will gather from every corner of the realm and beyond. The winner shall earn the title of Champion of the Kingdom, alongside a reward fitting their valor.”

Aric’s heart raced. This was the moment he had been training for, yet his gaze drifted toward Kaelen. The Mirrorblade stood silently near the balcony, hood shadowing his face, golden eyes calm as ever. Aric’s thoughts swirled—could his mentor participate? Would the legends of the colosseum come alive again within these walls?

Kaelen’s presence did not go unnoticed. Several knights in the hall exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the aura of mastery and discipline surrounding the masked master. Whispers circulated: “That man… he moves like the Mirrorblade.”

Among the knights were the elite of the kingdom—leaders of the five Knight Squads. Captain Rogan, Vorak, Serik, Aveline, and others listened intently, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and challenge. For them, the tournament was more than a spectacle; it was a battlefield where reputation, honor, and skill would be tested.

Princess Lysandra’s eyes shone with excitement as she turned to Aric. “This is your chance,” she said softly. “To show what you’ve learned, and to protect the kingdom with your skill.”

Aric nodded, determination burning in his gaze. “I won’t disappoint, Princess. And I’ll make Master Kaelen proud.”

Kaelen observed the scene silently. The tournament would not only test Aric’s skill but also reveal the strength, tactics, and ambitions of every warrior in the kingdom. It would attract challengers from far and wide—some seeking glory, some seeking to surpass legends, and others… with darker intentions.

The king’s voice rang again, commanding attention. “The Royal Grand Tournament shall begin in three moons’ time. Prepare yourselves, sharpen your blades, and ready your skills. The kingdom awaits the display of courage, mastery, and honor!”

As the crowd erupted into cheers and applause, Kaelen’s golden eyes swept across the assembly. He sensed potential, threats, and opportunities alike. Among the competitors would be future allies and dangerous rivals. Among the shadows, monsters and demons stirred, drawn by the anticipation and chaos of the gathering.

The stage was set. The Royal Grand Tournament would be more than a contest—it would be the beginning of battles, revelations, and challenges that could change the fate of the kingdom itself.