The long awaited day had finally arrived.
After months of preparation and lots of anticipation, the Royal Carnival of the Cero Kingdom was about to begin. The capital city had transformed completely. Colorful banners hung from towers and streets. Music echoed across the markets. Performers danced and entertained crowds at every corner.
The entire city was alive with excitement.
People from many different kingdoms had gathered to witness the event. Travelers, adventurers, merchants, nobles, and common citizens filled the streets. Some had traveled for weeks just to be present. Others came simply to experience the grand celebration.
But above all the festivities, there was one event everyone was waiting for.
The Grand Champions Tournament.
This tournament was not like the previous ones. For the first time in history, warriors from many different kingdoms had come together to compete in one arena. It was a moment that would be remembered for generations.
The massive arena at the heart of the capital was completely full. Thousands of people filled the seats, and many more stood in open areas outside where giant screens displayed the stage. The sound of cheering and excitement echoed like thunder.
Soon the royal procession entered the arena.
King Arthur walked forward to the central platform. The moment the crowd saw him, loud cheers erupted everywhere. People stood up and clapped with pride. The king raised his hand slightly, acknowledging the people.
Once the noise settled, King Arthur began his speech.
He spoke about unity. He spoke about strength. He spoke about how warriors from many kingdoms had gathered not just to compete, but to learn from each other. His voice was calm but powerful, reaching every corner of the arena.
"This tournament," he said, "is a celebration of courage, skill, and spirit. May every warrior who steps into this arena give their best."
The crowd roared again.
When his speech ended, he stepped aside and nodded toward the podium.
The first prince of the Cero Kingdom, Prince Henry, stepped forward.
He cleared his throat and looked at the excited crowd.
Now it was time to announce the teams.
"Representing the Kingdom of Cero," he began, "these are the groups who will compete in the Grand Champions Tournament."
The crowd leaned forward with anticipation.
"The Grand Party."
The moment the name was spoken, a massive cheer exploded across the arena. The Grand Party was one of the most respected groups in the kingdom. Many people already considered them legends.
"Redwake."
Another loud cheer followed. Their fierce reputation had earned them many fans.
"Eternal Wings."
People applauded proudly.
"Divatrix."
"Black Sigil."
"Iron Squad."
"The Coil."
"Prime Heroes."
"The Rising Heroes."
As soon as that name was announced, the crowd became even louder. The Rising Heroes had become famous throughout the kingdom over the past few years.
Among the cheering crowd, five figures stood quietly.
Lila, Sera, Adrian, Doran, and Fizzle were hidden within the crowd. They wore simple clothing and hoods so that they would not attract too much attention. But when their team name echoed across the arena, they could not help smiling.
People were cheering for them. Some were chanting their name proudly.
Lila felt a rush of excitement. Adrian crossed his arms with a small smile. Doran scratched his head awkwardly while trying not to look too proud. Sera looked slightly embarrassed but happy. Fizzle floated all around a little in excitement.
They stood there silently, enjoying the moment.
Prince Henry continued.
"Platinum Edge."
"The Horizon." "Deadwatch."
"The Wave Crew."
"The Wild Slayers."
"And finally… Wind Chasers."
With each name, the crowd kept cheering loudly. Pride for their kingdom filled the entire arena.
After the announcement of the Cero teams, representatives from other kingdoms began approaching the podium one by one.
First came the representative from the Kingdom of Wyali.
Their teams were announced.
"Astra Axis."
"Shooting Stars."
"Highland Breakers."
"Gray Banner."
"The Horizon."
"Silver Antlers."
Even though they were not from the Cero Kingdom, the crowd still cheered. The excitement of the tournament made everyone eager to see these new challengers.
Next was the Kingdom of Raztak.
"Dune Horde."
"Golden Falcons."
"Karvek."
"Velkran."
"Sunscar."
"The Fifth Caravan."
The names carried the strength of desert warriors, and the crowd responded with equal excitement.
From the Kingdom of Friendorn came several well known groups.
"Valkrest."
"Order of the White Pike."
"Black Bastion."
"Silver Accord."
"Orefield."
"Coldwall."
"Skyfall."
The arena remained loud and energetic as each team was announced.
The Kingdom of Aosha followed next.
"Jade Court."
"Way of Lotus."
"Shadow Tiger."
"Disciples of the Ember."
"Disciples of the Water."
"Disciples of the Wind."
Their names sounded mysterious and disciplined, reflecting their unique fighting styles.
From the Kingdom of Vrikta came:
"Vajratna."
"River Edge."
"Jungle Squad."
"Maha Destroyers."
"Hands of Karma."
Then came the Kingdom of Xezin.
"The Far Sailors."
"Azure Fangs."
"Storm Phoenix."
"The Red Banner."
"Horizon Runner."
"Shadow Harbor."
Next was the Kingdom of Eiton.
"Iron Tundra."
"Fjord Oblivion."
"Halvern."
"The Broken Compass."
From the Kingdom of Coarau were announced,
"Deadly Machetes."
"Ravento."
"Canopy of Wild."
"The Roaring Spirit."
Then came the desert warriors of the Kingdom of Lakra.
"Sand Crown."
"The Last Crescent."
"Desert Vultures."
"The Mirage."
And finally, the Kingdom of Ealp-Wakera.
"Rampage Raiders."
"Ivory Chargers."
"Raging Claws."
"Golden Reef."
"The Savage Company."
With every name spoken, cheers filled the arena. Even if the teams were not from their own kingdom, the crowd appreciated the courage of every warrior participating.
Everyone understood one thing clearly.
This tournament was going to be unforgettable.
People whispered excitedly among themselves. Some discussed which teams looked strongest. Others tried to guess which groups might reach the finals.
Betting had already begun across the city. Merchants and betting houses were busy taking predictions. But this time, it was difficult. There was no clear favorite.
Every team had skilled fighters. Every group had their own style and strategy.
Anyone could win. The uncertainty only made the excitement even greater.
Far away from the bright lights and cheering crowds, in a dark chamber hidden from the world, another conversation was taking place.
Vorath stood before a large stone table.
"A lot of nations are participating in what they call the 'Grand Champions Tournament'," he said calmly.
Across the chamber, Zalthar sat quietly.
"A tournament, you say," Zalthar replied slowly. "Interesting."
Vorath crossed his arms. "So what do we do about it?"
Zalthar remained silent for a moment before speaking. "Nothing… Let them play around a bit."
Vorath raised an eyebrow. "Don't you think this would be a very good opportunity for us to strike?"
Silence filled the room.
Zalthar did not answer immediately.
Vorath waited for a moment before sighing lightly. "I will take that as a no."
He turned around and began walking toward the exit of the chamber. Just as he reached the door, Zalthar finally spoke again. His voice echoed quietly in the dark room. And Vorath stopped walking.
"You keeping doing your experiments for now, and when the time is right, we will move"
Vorath replied "As you say."
As he walked away and silence filled the chamber. Zalthar smirked alone, face filled with excitement for the future.