ONLINE: Blades of Eternity

Chapter 202 THE HUMAN WORLD GATHERS

The Valoria Kingdom's streets teemed with life. From every corner of the realm and beyond, people poured into the capital, their excitement palpable as the grand coliseum loomed in the distance—a fortress of stone and steel that defied the sky. Its colossal arches and intricate carvings spoke of centuries of history, its presence an imposing reminder of the power and grandeur of the Battle Convention.

Merchants shouted over the din, selling flags, charms, and memorabilia. Families clutched their children's hands as they hurried to secure their seats, their chatter a mix of anticipation and hope. Travelers from the neighboring nations of Eldoria and Arcanis added to the sea of faces, their distinctive clothing marking them as outsiders.

"I heard the Pacesetters Academy sent their strongest this year," a merchant whispered to a passing noble.

"Bah, the Dawning of Magic always dominates," the noble replied with a smirk, adjusting the badge of his academy on his lapel.

Everywhere, the air buzzed with speculations and wagers. Names like Kaelen Grey, Kent Harrow, and the King Devourer were on everyone's lips, their feats already becoming legend.

Amid the throng of eager spectators, a black carriage trimmed with silver rolled quietly through a secluded side street. Its insignia—a crest of a howling wolf right in front of a glimmering star—marked it unmistakably as the property of the Grey family.

Inside, Lord Grey, the stoic patriarch of the family, sat with his wife, her delicate features veiled in lace. Their demeanor was calm, almost detached, as if the excitement of the event could not touch them.

"Do you think Morris is ready?" Lady Grey asked, her voice soft but edged with concern.

Lord Grey's sharp eyes remained fixed on the passing streets. "This is what he has signed up for. If he isn't ready now, he never will be."

Behind their carriage, other prominent figures made their way in a similar, elusive fashion—magisters, Clan and family leaders, and royal envoys, each representing their nation's pride and ambition.

In stark contrast, the common folk flocked to the coliseum on foot. Among them were farmers, shopkeepers, and artisans. But in the mix were also mysterious figures, their ordinary appearances betraying an aura of hidden strength.

An elderly woman clutched a locket tightly, her weathered hands trembling. "He promised he'd come back as a champion," she whispered to herself.

A young boy, no older than twelve, sprinted ahead of his family, his eyes wide with excitement. "Do you think we'll see magic? Real magic?"

Unbeknownst to him, a hooded figure in the crowd glanced his way, a faint smile playing on their lips.

As the crowds funneled into the colossal gates of the coliseum, whispers spread of unfamiliar faces and strange energy in the air. The massive banners of Valoria, Eldoria, and Arcanis fluttered high above the arena, their colors reflecting unity and competition alike.

Somewhere within the shadows of the towering walls, unseen eyes observed the spectacle with keen interest. A voice, low and conspiratorial, muttered, "So, it begins. Let us see who survives this game."

The grand ceremony was about to commence, and the stakes were higher than ever before. I'm

The audience's whispers surged like a rising tide.

"An Elf?"

"And of royal blood, no less!"

"Does this mean the elves are lending its hand to the convention?"

The presence of an Elven royal had transformed the atmosphere into one of palpable curiosity and awe. Even in Valoria, where magic and might reigned supreme, the Elves were a rare sight, let alone one of such high status.

As the First Magi and his entourage stepped into the VIP section, the golden barrier shimmered to admit them. King Alexandria rose from his seat, extending a hand in greeting.

"First Magi," Alexandria said, his voice carrying a tone of mutual respect. "It is an honor to host you at this year's convention."

The First Magi inclined his head slightly. "The honor is mine, Your Majesty. Events such as these are vital for nurturing the strength and unity of our realms."

The Elf stepped forward and exchanged a brief but respectful greeting with Alexandria. Their interaction, though formal, hinted at an underlying understanding between their respective kingdoms.

Meanwhile, Lysander and Alden turned their attention to the girl beside the First Magi.

"Welcome," Lysander began, offering a warm smile. "It is rare to see such distinguished company. Might I have the honor of knowing your name?"

The girl's gaze flicked to him, her expression unchanging. "Names are irrelevant to those who won't remember them," she replied coldly, her tone cutting.

Alden tried to intervene with a more diplomatic approach. "Perhaps you'd grant us the pleasure of—"

"I grant nothing," she interrupted, her voice as sharp as ice.

Lysander and Alden exchanged a glance, their smiles faltering. It was clear the girl's demeanor was not one to be easily swayed.

As the First Magi and his entourage took their seats, the crowd buzzed with excitement and speculation. The stage was nearly complete, with the gathering of some of the most powerful figures in the world.

Sebastian smiled faintly as he raised his hand again. "And with this illustrious assembly, we edge closer to the unveiling of this year's grand spectacle. But there are more names to come, each more magnificent than the last. Stay tuned, for this is only the beginning!"

The crowd roared in anticipation as the coliseum seemed to hum with the promise of the extraordinary.