Chapter 29 — Rogan Thorne Arrives (Rank 4 Champion)

The morning sun glinted off the castle walls as the Royal Grand Tournament resumed. Word of the masked master’s intervention against Captain Rogan had already spread, igniting whispers among competitors and spectators alike.

From the grand gates, a figure emerged, commanding attention before even stepping into the arena. Rogan Thorne, ranked fourth in the colosseum—a warrior known for his brutal strength and relentless determination—had arrived. His armor gleamed like polished steel, and his sword, massive and jagged, radiated an aura of raw power.

The crowd erupted in cheers and awe. “Rogan Thorne!” they shouted. “Rank 4 of the Colosseum! The Beast of the North!”

Rogan’s piercing eyes scanned the arena, lingering on the shadowed figure who had bested him yesterday—the masked master, Kaelen. A flicker of recognition crossed his face. He had seen that style, that movement, that uncanny ability to copy and surpass techniques.

“You,” Rogan growled under his breath, voice filled with a mixture of anger and fascination. “You’re the reason I came here.”

Kaelen remained silent, hood casting shadows over his features. Golden eyes met Rogan’s briefly, calm and unreadable. The master did not move, but the air around him shifted subtly—an invisible warning of the skill and danger he carried.

Prince Aric, standing nearby, clenched his fists, sensing the tension building between the two. “Master Kaelen… is he going to fight?” he whispered, concern lacing his voice.

Kaelen’s lips curved faintly. “Not yet. Let him reveal himself first. Patience is as important as skill.”

Rogan stepped into the arena, the ground seeming to tremble beneath his boots. He raised his sword and shouted, his voice carrying to every corner. “Masked master of the tournament! I know who you are. The Mirrorblade! I’ve tracked your style for years, and now… I will surpass you!”

Gasps echoed through the arena. The name “Mirrorblade” sent ripples of shock and excitement among the spectators. Even the nobles and knights exchanged astonished glances. Kaelen’s legend was no longer a whisper—it had arrived in full force.

Kaelen’s golden eyes glimmered as he slowly drew the Morphblade, its shape shifting seamlessly from sword to spear. Calm, collected, he stepped forward. “If surpassing me is your goal, then show me the extent of your strength, Rogan Thorne. Let this battle be your proof.”

The crowd held its breath. Two forces, one legend hidden behind a mask and one ranked colosseum fighter, stood ready. Sparks of anticipation crackled in the air. This was no ordinary duel—it was a collision of skill, reputation, and pride.

From the sidelines, Princess Lysandra’s eyes widened, Aric’s heart pounded, and the knights tensed. The tournament had just escalated to a level none had expected.

The first strike would not only test strength but reveal the essence of the Mirrorblade—Kaelen Drayce—and the ferocity of Rogan Thorne, the ranked colosseum champion determined to claim victory.

And so, the stage was set for a battle that would be remembered for years, a fight that would push Aric, Kaelen, and every warrior in the kingdom closer to destiny, danger, and glory.