Theodora Kingdom,
The man found himself in the company of the renowned queen of the Theodora kingdom, seated in a magnificent hall adorned with rich tapestries and soft candlelight.
His heart pounded in his chest like a caged bird aching to be set free as he waited for her eyes to land on him. The space exuded an air of authority with its plush furnishings and elaborate décor, appropriate for a king or queen.
"You came right on time,"
"Yes, my queen," the man replied, bowing on his knees in respect for the queen.
"You know why you are here, right?"
"Yes, but I have a doubt. Why me out of everyone?"
"Umm... The queen slowly walked around the room, her red hair swaying with every step.
"This tournament only covers mages up to Grade III. And for those who are above Grade III, another one will be held in the next five years.
"My second son had recently advanced to Grade IV, so he won't be able to participate in it. My other son will be participating, but I want someone better on my team.
"Someone who is dying to win. Someone whose desire for it is so strong that no one will be able to compete against him.
"And who is more desperate than you? Am I right?"
The man didn't reply.
"Your only competition will be Soren."
"Who is Soren?" The man asked.
"huhu, I forgot. You don't even know anyone. Don't worry; you will know about him soon.
"He will be the strongest participant this time in the tournament. And the man who will stand against your wish,"
"But I have faith in you. I know what you have been doing in recent years just to find the cure for your daughter.
"Make my team win, and I will personally attend to your daughter and provide the cure."
When the opportunity was mentioned, the man's ears perked up. A window of opportunity had opened before him, and he knew in his heart that he would take advantage of it without hesitation.
The stakes were so high at that juncture that he couldn't let any lingering doubts or hesitations get in the way. The fate of his daughter was at stake, and nothing was more important to him than making sure she could live.
"I will gladly do it. I don't care who this Soren is."
"Good, I expected that much. Now, I would have asked you to stay and spend a night with me, but I am sure you will not be able to handle me in bed.
"I hope you won't be a disappointment this time when the time comes and...
The queen walked closer to him and slowly whispered in his ear,
"Everyone is going to come and watch the tournament, including your parents. You can make them proud too."
"I don't care about such things anymore. My daughter is the only thing I care about the most," he replied, turning back and then walking out of the hall.
"Huhu, impressive resolve."
*****
The Beast Kingdom...
Inside the council meeting room...
Gathered around a grand circular table, the Kings and Queens of the nine races convened, their presence commanding attention and respect.
There was a palpable buzz in the room as the monarchs discussed the forthcoming interkingdom competition with great seriousness.
They sat side by side, both radiating royal authority, their elaborate crowns shining in the light.
The same objective that brought them together was symbolized by the table, which was decorated with beautiful carvings depicting the harmony of their domains.
"So the team is still not decided, huh?" The Elf King said.
"It's because of all you delaying the selection," The Dark Elf Queen snorted.
"Recently, I heard quite amusing news. The princess of Felgura Kingdom arrived at Seafolk territory, destroyed some of your people, and left easily." The Skalari King said this, looking towards the King of Seafolk.
"You reptilians should mind your damn business. For the record, there was no proof of the princess's presence in my territory." The Seafolk King replied.
"We are here to talk about the tournament. Stay on the topic for now." The Wolferine Queen reminded.
"Hey Wolfy, what about my date?" The Orgrinthian King asked.
"You damned ogre, shut your mouth or I will kill you."
"Why don't we conduct a small test among all the interested participants? The best eight mages can be selected for the tournament." The Avain King suggested.
"That is the most suitable thing to do," The Whiskerkin Queen replied, nodding in agreement.
"Everyone...
Suddenly everyone turned towards the grumpy voice and went silent and serious.
"Who among us is going to represent our Kingdom this time in the tournament?" The Dragon King asked.
"I think we should send Eziel and Elina," The Whiskerkin Queen suggested.
"Anyone has any problems?"
No one interfered with the decision.
"It's good; at least they both know how to represent themselves and are most knowledgeable among all of us," The Dragon King said.
"Now we should dismiss our meeting and head to select the mages. We can't favor anyone this time.
"The tournament is going to be tough as Soren is going to participate for the first time," he further added.
"He is an idiot, but when it comes to battle, he has no match," The Seafolk king said, looking a little annoyed.
"We should find a way to kill him before he grows stronger. We can't let Felgura Kingdom have more powerful mages," The Queen of Wolferine said.
"I agree with you, Wolfy."
"Don't call me that, you asshole."
"What are the chances that every kingdom will have a trump card with them?" She asked.
Her question made everyone consider it seriously for a second.
"I am sure Theodora will be up to something for sure," Avain King said.
"The same goes with the Zulivan Kingdom." He further said.
"I don't think, except for Soren and Princess, there is anyone worth noting from Felgura." The Seafolk King said it with a smirk.
But everyone noticed the Whiskerkin Queen's expression, which was a little tense with a hint of fear.
"What happened to you?"
"I hope what I am thinking might not be true."
