Chapter 53 — Rising Reputation

Word of Aric’s victory over Kaelric “Bloodfang” spread like wildfire through the kingdom. By the time the sun had set, nobles, knights, and commoners alike were speaking in hushed, awed tones.

“He defeated Kaelric?” a noblewoman whispered in disbelief. “The fourth-ranked colosseum legend?”

A knight nodded, eyes wide. “Yes. And not just survived—he controlled the battle, adapted perfectly, and even disarmed him. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Even the royal court buzzed with excitement. Princess Lysandra, watching discreetly, smiled softly. She had witnessed the duel firsthand and understood the depth of Aric’s skill. “He’s no ordinary prince,” she murmured to herself. “He’s becoming a true swordsman, worthy of the Mirrorblade’s teachings.”

Kaelen, standing in the shadows of the arena, observed quietly. This is the first ripple of the storm. His reputation will grow with each victory, drawing both admiration and envy. Every challenge from here on will test not only his skill, but his resolve.

Aric walked from the arena, sweat and dust coating his armor, yet his posture remained strong and composed. Whispers followed him everywhere. Some called him a prodigy, others a genius, and a few even dared to say he might one day surpass Kaelen himself.

A young squire approached, bowing deeply. “Prince Aric… the people are calling you the ‘Shadow of the Mirrorblade.’ Your mastery against Bloodfang has inspired hope, courage, and fear alike.”

Aric nodded, a calm smile forming. “I am still learning. Today was only one battle. Tomorrow, there will be greater challenges.”

Meanwhile, in distant corners of the kingdom, rumors of the prince’s growing power reached the ears of seasoned warriors, mercenaries, and high-ranked colosseum fighters. Some were intrigued, curious to test the young swordsman. Others, threatened, began plotting ways to defeat him and claim glory for themselves.

Even the princess’s younger brother, Prince Aric’s close companion in the knight squad, whispered in awe to his comrades, “The prince… he’s not just strong. He’s extraordinary. If he continues like this, he will become the kingdom’s greatest swordsman.”

Kaelen, observing quietly, placed a hand on Aric’s shoulder. “Do not let fame distract you. Recognition can be dangerous—it attracts envy, rivalry, and peril. Continue your training, study your opponents, and remain humble. The greatest battles are yet to come.”

Aric nodded, determination blazing in his eyes. “I understand, Master. I will not falter. Every challenge… I will face it head-on.”

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the kingdom. Aric’s name had begun to spread far and wide, whispered in admiration and apprehension alike. The prince trained by the Mirrorblade was no longer a secret. His reputation had risen, and with it came new challengers, new threats, and the promise of legendary battles yet to be fought.