CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR

The arena, bathed in an otherworldly ambiance, was divided into elemental quarters, each marked by intricate designs resonating with the essence they represented: earth, fire, water, air, and spirit.

With a hushed reverence, the announcer invoked the ancient rituals, signaling the commencement of the competition. Each kingdom's mage stepped forth, their presence a testament to their realm's unique affinity with one of the elemental forces.

The earth mages of Aegalia began, their movements fluid yet grounded, as they sculpted sculptures from the very soil beneath their feet. Vibrant flora sprung to life at their command, weaving a tapestry of verdant beauty that spoke of the kingdom's connection to the land.

Following suit, the pyromancers of Grathen unleashed torrents of flame that danced and swirled in a mesmerizing display of raw power. Trails of fire traced intricate patterns in the air, casting flickering shadows that danced across the faces of the enthralled audience.

From the depths of Raviel emerged the water weavers, their ethereal movements evoking the gentle ebb and flow of the tides. They conjured cascading waterfalls and swirling whirlpools, their mastery over the element of water a testament to the kingdom's bond with the sea.

Meanwhile, the air magicians of Xevaria swept onto the stage, their presence accompanied by a rush of wind that stirred the very fabric of reality. Whirling gusts lifted spectators' spirits as they crafted intricate sculptures from clouds and mist, their magic a reflection of the kingdom's boundless freedom.

Lastly, the enigmatic sorcerers of Thanbra stepped forward, their aura suffused with an otherworldly luminescence that captivated all who beheld them. With a whispered incantation, they channeled the essence of spirit, conjuring illusions and weaving threads of light and shadow with effortless grace.

The Elemental Magic Competition reached its zenith as the kingdoms delivered breathtaking displays, each weaving spells that defied imagination. With each turn, the mages astounded the audience by showcasing their versatility, with each kingdom having representatives for each element, seamlessly transitioning between elements with mastery and finesse.

Yet, it was Prince Cedric who emerged as the standout performer, his command over the fire element unrivaled by any other. With a fierce determination burning in his eyes, he conjured infernos that blazed with an intensity that seemed to rival the sun itself.

As flames danced to his will, Prince Cedric sculpted towering pillars of fire that soared into the sky, illuminating the arena with their radiant glow. With each flick of his wrist, he breathed life into the flames, shaping them into intricate patterns that mesmerized all who beheld them.

The audience watched in awe as Prince Cedric unleashed a torrent of fire that engulfed the arena in a breathtaking display of power and beauty. Heat radiated from the flames, washing over the spectators in waves of exhilaration and awe.

In that moment, it was clear to all who bore witness that Prince Cedric's unmatched display of elemental mastery had secured victory for Aegalia. As the cheers of the crowd reverberated throughout the arena, Prince Cedric stood tall, amidst the flames that danced in his honor.

Amidst the thunderous applause and the crackling remnants of magic in the air, Aegalia was announced as the victor of the Elemental Magic Competition. The announcement sent ripples of excitement and pride through the audience, especially among the Aegalian supporters who erupted into cheers and applause.

Evelinde, i need to speak to my men, you can go talk to your friend.

Okay Cleon, i said as i watch him leave amid the thunderous cheer around us.

I looked around to see the arena scattered with people here and there.

I decided to search for Cedric, seeing him talking to some group of people i recognised from the tavern the other day, i decided to join them.

Look who we have here, one of Cedric's friend said in a jovial manner as soon as i got close to them.

Hello Eve, they all greeted. Hello everyone i greeted them in turn.

Well, you came just in time Eve, we were about to head to the tavern to celebrate before the celebration tomorrow. You are welcome to join us, continued Cedric's friend.

Sure thing i said, as we all stood there and chatted for a while, as congratulations were being passed around before eventually we all left for the tavern.

We went to the same tavern as before and sat the same way as before with additional chairs being added as others decided to join us.

As the drink was passed around as well as tasty patries, conversation, laughter and banter flowed freely.

Eve, i'm surprised you agreed to come with us, i thought you might be with the prince said cleon in a voice only the both of us can hear.

He is busy handling something so i happen to be free, besides your friends aren't that bad.

I watch Cedric look around us, as if searching for someone.

Are you looking for someone?

He took a deep breath, before finally looking at me fully.

It's Sylvan,

Hmmm, i said as a reply.

Won't you ask me about him, about my relationship with him.

Cedric it's truly none of my business, i'm your friend and i'm always here to listen to you if you want to talk.

So you don't hate me for loving Sylvan?

Why should i, i don't have any right to. It's your life and your choice, as your friend all i want is your happiness. If Sylvan gives you that, then who am i to judge.

Cedric was quiet for a while with his head bent before raising it up to look at me.

Thank you Eve, you don't know what your acceptrance means to me. I've been keeping this secret for so long now, that finally sharing it, feels as if the shackles binding me has fell off.

Look i really can't sit down here and say i understand the love you share with Sylvan, and at the same time i'm no fool not to understand the implication of such love. And i can only imagine how tiresome it is and heavy a burden for the both of you to carry, keeping your love a secret from everyone.

However Cedric, you really need to be careful. I've seen what the king and council is capable of, i've experienced it. I truly can't imagine what they will do if they find out.

I know Eve, and i will be careful, especially for Syl.