Chapter 38 — Kaelen’s Guidance During the Tournament

The arena’s excitement had barely settled after Aric’s victory over Kaelric Veynar. Every spectator, from nobles to commoners, whispered in awe of the prince’s skill. But behind the scenes, Kaelen Drayce, the legendary Mirrorblade, observed with sharp focus.

Aric returned to the sidelines, still catching his breath, his sword clutched tightly in hand. Kaelen approached, his calm presence immediately centering the prince. “You did well,” Kaelen said quietly, voice steady, “but every victory carries lessons if you know where to look.”

Aric looked up, eager for guidance. “Master… what should I focus on next?”

Kaelen’s golden eyes scanned the arena. “Every opponent here fights differently. Some rely on brute strength, others on speed, others on deception. Observe them carefully. Anticipate their moves, adapt in the moment, and learn from each action, not just to survive—but to improve yourself.”

The prince nodded. Observation, adaptation… growth. Kaelen’s lessons had never been about mere victory—they were about understanding the essence of combat.

From the shadows, Kaelen continued, “You’ve learned to react. Now learn to predict. Read their intentions, not just their weapons. This is what separates a skilled swordsman from a true master.”

Aric’s eyes brightened, absorbing every word. “So… I must think like them, anticipate their choices, and use that knowledge to create openings?”

Kaelen inclined his head. “Exactly. You don’t need to mimic them perfectly. You need to understand them fully. Only then can you surpass them.”

As Aric prepared for his next match, Kaelen’s presence remained a silent anchor. He didn’t interfere, but every lesson, every subtle hint, had shaped Aric’s instincts. The prince moved with growing confidence, blending his natural talent with the knowledge Kaelen had instilled.

Across the arena, a new challenger appeared—a tall knight with unmatched reach, wielding a double-edged sword. His reputation for devastating power preceded him. The crowd murmured nervously, sensing the coming clash.

Kaelen’s golden eyes flicked to the challenger. “Watch carefully,” he whispered to Aric. “Notice the rhythm of his stance, the subtle shifts in balance, the way he prepares for each strike. That is your key.”

The challenger lunged with a powerful strike, expecting Aric to falter. Instead, the prince flowed with the attack, predicting the movement and countering with precision. Sparks flew as steel met steel, the duel intensifying with every strike.

From the sidelines, Kaelen observed, analyzing, and making subtle mental notes. He did not fight, but his guidance shaped the battle in real-time. Every feint Aric anticipated, every strike he deflected, and every opening he exploited was a reflection of Kaelen’s careful mentorship.

The crowd watched in astonishment as Aric held his ground, a young swordsman guided by the wisdom of the legendary Mirrorblade. This duel was not only a test of skill—it was a lesson in strategy, adaptation, and growth.

As the fight continued, Kaelen remained calm, his golden eyes focused. Soon, the real challenges will come, he thought. But he is ready… more ready than anyone knows.

The Royal Grand Tournament had become more than a contest—it was a proving ground, a classroom, and a stage where the prince, under the watchful guidance of the Mirrorblade, was beginning to forge his own legend.