Chapter 36 — Arrival of a New Challenger

The arena buzzed with restless energy. Aric’s recent victory over Sir Dalen had already set the crowd’s excitement ablaze, but the Royal Grand Tournament was far from over. Every fighter was on edge, knowing that stronger opponents were coming, and whispers of a mysterious new challenger began circulating among the spectators.

“Have you heard?” one knight whispered to another. “They say the next competitor has never lost in any duel he’s fought. A shadow of the colosseum… even some of the top-ranked knights fear him.”

The arena gates creaked open, and a figure emerged, cloaked in a dark, flowing robe that partially concealed his face. His presence radiated confidence and power, enough that even seasoned warriors instinctively took a step back. A single glance from him seemed to pierce through the bravest hearts.

The crowd fell silent. Rumors spread instantly. Who is this? Could this be… another colosseum legend?

Aric tightened his grip on his sword, feeling the tension surge through his veins. Kaelen, standing at the edge of the arena, narrowed his golden eyes. He recognized the aura immediately—a fighter of immense skill, trained in techniques that mirrored but also challenged the methods Kaelen had mastered.

The new challenger removed his hood slowly, revealing sharp features and piercing eyes that gleamed with cold determination. “I am Kaelric Veynar,” he announced, his voice carrying clearly across the arena. “I have come to see if the stories of this tournament are true… if any here can match my strength.”

Gasps echoed through the stands. The name Kaelric Veynar carried weight among fighters—a shadow of the colosseum’s elite, undefeated and feared for his cunning and speed. Even the knights whispered among themselves, acknowledging the danger.

Prince Aric’s heart raced. This is not Dalen… this is someone else entirely. I must be ready.

Kaelen’s gaze met Aric’s, calm and unwavering. “Watch carefully,” he said softly. “This is your true test. Observe, anticipate, and adapt. Learn quickly, or you will be overwhelmed.”

Aric nodded, determination burning in his eyes. The prince had faced a skilled opponent before, but Kaelric’s presence was different—stronger, faster, and more unpredictable. Every movement seemed calculated, every feint designed to expose weakness.

The two squared off in the arena’s center, the sun casting long shadows across the marble floor. Kaelric raised his weapon—a slender, curved blade that seemed almost alive with energy. “Show me your skill, young prince,” he said, a smirk forming. “I want to see if the stories of your training are true.”

Aric adjusted his stance, recalling every lesson Kaelen had imparted. Adapt, anticipate, copy—not to mimic, but to surpass. Use my mind as much as my blade.

Kaelen observed silently, golden eyes focused, ready to intervene only if absolutely necessary. This battle would reveal not only Aric’s current skill but also the limits of Kaelen’s mentorship.

The first strike was swift, a blur of steel aimed at Aric’s guard. He blocked, countered, and stepped back, feeling the immense pressure of Kaelric’s attacks. The crowd leaned forward, sensing that this duel was no ordinary contest.

The tournament had just escalated. The arrival of Kaelric Veynar marked the beginning of a new wave of danger, growth, and legend. Aric’s resolve hardened. He would not falter. He would fight, adapt, and grow stronger under the watchful eyes of his mentor, the legendary Mirrorblade.