Three days had passed since the climactic battle between the final members of the Vampire Association and the Cosmic Army.
After emerging victorious, Paulo was now wandered the halls of the Cosmic base, deep in thought about how to expand his growing empire.
Tetsuya walked beside him, casting concerned glances. "What's on your mind, Paulo?" he asked, visibly puzzled and uneasy.
Maki, overhearing the exchange, hurried over to check on them. "I'm alright," Paulo replied, wiping sweat from his brow. "Just thinking about how to strengthen our hold."
"So that's what's got the great Satoshi all worked up," Rajin Mori said with a chuckle as he approached.
Yuki narrowed her eyes at him. "Why are you here, Rajin? Don't you have a tribe to lead?"
"Jack gave me the green light to join this group," Rajin replied, rolling his eyes.
"Wait, what, seriously?" Paulo then asked while being surprised.
"Yeah, so go ahead and kill me already," Rajin said with a grin. "I heard you only become a Cosmic Soldier if you're revived from death."
"Not yet," Paulo muttered, stroking his chin. "But I might consider it if things get desperate."
Suddenly, the door burst open and Momoi rushed in, breathless. "Paulo! I used my Ghostface status to infiltrate their organization, I have uncovered something important."
"Go on," Paulo said, eyes narrowing with curiosity.
"They're heading to the Bloodmoon Kingdom to compete in a tournament," Momoi said, visibly shaken.
"A tournament? Why would that be their next move?" Paulo asked.
"The prize isn't money," Momoi explained, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. "It's the hand of Princess Natsuko Akagi in marriage."
Paulo's expression darkened. "That means they are aiming to gain influence through the royal bloodline. Riku, Rajin, we are heading out. This mission cannot wait."
With urgency in their steps, the trio departed, while Paulo instructed the others to hold down the base in their absence.
***
Within the grand halls of the Bloodmoon Kingdom, King Natsuko Furukawa stood amidst the preparations for one of the most momentous events in the kingdom's recent history, The Blood Queen Tournament.
This prestigious competition would determine the future consort of Princess Akagi, a decision that carried immense political and symbolic weight.
Sanda, the first-born prince, paced near the throne, his expression a mix of awe and disbelief. "So… it's really happening," he said, his voice tinged with surprise.
King Furukawa gave a solemn nod. "Yes, it is all coming together. Akagi herself requested this tournament. She believes it is the best way to choose someone worthy, not just of her hand, but of the kingdom's future."
Just then, Princess Akagi entered the throne room, her presence commanding yet graceful. Her eyes scanned the room before settling on her father. "Have the invitations gone out yet?" she asked, her tone calm but expectant.
Queen Natsuko Suzume, elegant and poised, stepped forward from the far end of the chamber. "Not all of them, my dear," she said gently. "But four of the invitees have confirmed their attendance. They will be arriving soon."
Akagi's eyes lit up with a mix of excitement and curiosity. "Only four? Still, those four are among the twelve most influential figures in the entire multiverse. Their presence alone will make this tournament legendary."
With a thoughtful smile, Akagi turned and walked toward the balcony just beyond the throne room.
The heavy velvet curtains parted as she stepped outside, the cool breeze brushing against her face.
From the balcony, she gazed out over the sprawling kingdom, its crimson rooftops, bustling streets, and the distant mountains that framed the horizon.
As she stood there, the weight of the moment began to settle in.
This tournament was not just about choosing a husband. It was the beginning of a new chapter. Soon, she would no longer be just a princess.
Her role, her responsibilities, and her destiny were about to change forever.
She closed her eyes briefly, letting the wind carry her thoughts. "These may be my final days as a princess," she whispered to herself. "After this… everything changes."
***
As the royal family continued their discussion, a firm knock echoed through the grand doors of the throne room.
King Furukawa turned toward the sound and gave a simple nod to the guards. Without hesitation, they moved to open the doors.
The heavy doors creaked open, revealing four imposing figures who stepped into the chamber with quiet confidence.
Each carried an aura of immense power and prestige.
Leading the group was Lucy Lightheart, the radiant Monarch of Life.
Beside her stood Antares, the stoic and formidable Monarch of Dragons.
Following them were Rayan Andre, the grounded and wise Monarch of Earth, and Izuki Remioka, the cold and calculating Monarch of Steel.
Lucy was the first to speak, her tone sharp and slightly irritated. "So, what is the deal with this tournament? Did your daughter actually agree to this madness?"
King Furukawa shifted uncomfortably on his throne; his voice tinged with nervousness. "Yes, she did. In fact, she was the one who insisted on it. She pleaded with me to make it happen."
Lucy's expression softened instantly, her irritation melting into excitement. "Well, that is all I needed to hear! I cannot wait for this!" she said, her demeanour suddenly playful and almost childlike.
Antares let out a quiet sigh, shaking his head. "Of course you cannot. Patience has never been your strength," he said dryly. "Still, I'm hoping we'll get to see a certain someone."
King Furukawa raised an eyebrow. "And who might that be?"
Antares crossed his arms, his voice steady. "Paulo Satoshi. The Cosmic King's Vessel… and the newly crowned Monarch of Radiation."
At the mention of Paulo's name, Lucy's eyes lit up with a dreamy expression.
She clasped her hands together and sighed wistfully. "Oh, Paulo… I wonder how strong he has become."
Rayan gave a small nod, his voice calm and composed. "Well, we'll find out soon enough."
The room fell into a thoughtful silence as the weight of the upcoming event settled over them.
The Blood Queen Tournament was just two days away, and with it, the arrival of some of the most powerful beings in the multiverse.