Chapter 26 — Aric’s First Match

The tournament arena was a sea of cheering spectators, banners fluttering in the wind, and the metallic scent of anticipation hanging in the air. Aric stepped onto the field, his chest tight with excitement and nerves. His eyes scanned the arena, finally settling on the mysterious Kaelen watching from the balcony above, silent and unwavering.

“This is it,” Aric whispered to himself, gripping his sword. “Everything I’ve trained for… all the lessons, all the guidance…”

His opponent, a tall, broad-shouldered knight from the northern provinces, stepped forward with a confident smirk. “So, the prince wants to test his skill? We’ll see how much you’ve really learned.”

The horn sounded, and the match began. Aric moved with precision, recalling Kaelen’s teachings: observation first, then action. His opponent charged aggressively, aiming to overwhelm him with sheer power. Aric sidestepped, parried, and countered—a combination of defensive awareness and strategic strikes.

Kaelen’s voice echoed in his mind: Predict, adapt, and exploit weaknesses. Control the pace. Control the fight.

Aric’s opponent shifted tactics, attempting feints and deceptive footwork. Aric hesitated for a fraction of a second—and that was all the Mirrorblade had warned about. A sharp glance toward the balcony reminded him to trust his instincts. He reacted swiftly, countering a feint and landing a clean strike to the knight’s side, earning a cheer from the audience.

The knight gritted his teeth, realizing this young prince was no ordinary fighter. He launched a flurry of strikes, each faster and more aggressive than the last. Aric blocked, dodged, and countered, his movements fluid, adapting mid-combat—a testament to the countless hours Kaelen had spent teaching him the philosophy of observation and adaptability.

Kaelen watched silently, his golden eyes sharp as ever. He could see the subtle errors Aric still made, the moments where hesitation threatened to cost him. Yet he also saw growth, focus, and determination blossoming under pressure.

Finally, after a swift exchange, Aric executed the Rising Dragon Slash—a move he had perfected under Kaelen’s guidance. His blade cut through his opponent’s guard, forcing him to yield. The arena erupted in cheers.

Aric lowered his sword, chest heaving, a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration flooding him. His opponent, though defeated, bowed respectfully. “You’ve trained well, Prince Aric. Clearly, your master is… extraordinary.”

Kaelen remained silent, a faint shadow of approval crossing his features. When Aric glanced upward, he caught the golden eyes watching him—calm, unreadable, and inspiring confidence.

“Today, you fought not only with strength but with understanding,” Kaelen said later, once the match concluded. “Remember this feeling. Victory comes from the mind as much as the body. Never forget what you’ve learned here.”

Aric nodded, determination burning brighter than ever. “I won’t, Master Kaelen. I’ll keep improving… until I can surpass anyone, even you one day.”

Kaelen’s lips curved ever so slightly. “One step at a time, Prince. One step at a time.”

The first match had tested Aric’s skill, focus, and courage. Yet it was only the beginning. The tournament would bring stronger opponents, cunning rivals, and unforeseen challenges. And as the crowd roared, the Mirrorblade silently prepared—for Aric, the kingdom, and the battles still to come.