The Tournament Begins
Atta woke before dawn. He dressed simply—black trousers and a long, flowing black shirt cut at the sides for ease of movement. Strapping the Sword of Derona across his back, he stepped into the silent palace halls. His family still slept, the world hushed in the fragile stillness of morning.
At the palace gates, he signaled to a guard.
"My prince, do you require something?" the guard asked, rushing forward.
"Open the portal to the Angel Kingdom," Atta replied, never breaking stride. "I'm returning to the academy."
The guard bowed and hurried off. In the gardens, the massive portal shimmered to life. Without hesitation, Atta walked through—emerging into the bustling grounds of Saint Athepia.
Students, nobles, professors, and competitors crowded the streets, all buzzing with anticipation. Today marked the start of the Theoms Tournament, the grandest magical duel in the academy.
---
The towering Roman-style arena loomed ahead. Atta approached the registration counter.
"Name?" the attendant asked briskly.
"Atta. Commoner scholarship student. Competing as a swordsman."
The attendant glanced up, handed him a card, and said, "Player ID: 73. Proceed to the podium. Other participants are waiting."
Atta accepted the card and turned, only to nearly drop it when someone slapped his shoulder. His glare softened when he saw Reyan grinning.
"I almost forgot you signed up too," Atta muttered. "I hope you trained."
Reyan chuckled, slinging an arm around his friend. "Of course I did. Don't worry, bro."
Atta rolled his eyes, resuming his walk. "Good. Because if you end up my opponent, I'll beat the hell out of you."
Reyan smirked. "We'll see about that."
Despite himself, Atta couldn't hide a small smile.
---
Inside the podium, nearly fifty participants waited. Among them, Atta's gaze found Princess Isha. She met his eyes and offered him a gentle wave.
Reyan caught it instantly. He leaned in, whispering, "Bro… is this really happening? The Elf princess is smiling at a commoner like you?"
Atta sighed inwardly. How can I tell him I'm a prince of the Human Kingdom?
Out loud, he simply said, "She's a friend. We share telepathy classes."
Reyan smirked wider. "You're lucky. She's the most beautiful girl in the academy."
"Stop drooling over everyone, idiot," Atta shot back, annoyed.
Before Reyan could reply, a booming voice echoed through the arena.
"Welcome, students, nobles, and honored families! Today begins the Theoms Tournament—our proudest tradition. As always, victory is claimed by knocking out your opponent or forcing them to surrender!"
The crowd erupted in cheers.
But Atta's focus shifted. A cold shiver ran down his spine. At the far doors, Prince Ethan strode in. Their eyes locked, hatred flickering like fire between them.
---
Moments later, the competitors were called into the arena. Dwarves, Elves, Angels, and Humans lined up in their respective ranks. The crowd roared with excitement.
"The first match," the speaker announced, "is between Human scholarship student Atta, and Luc Diamante of the Elf noble Diamante family!"
Atta turned to face Luc. The Elf looked down at him, smirking.
"Oi, commoner," Luc sneered. "I suggest you surrender."
Atta lifted his gaze skyward, a slow smile curling on his lips.
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To Be Continued....