CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

I woke up feeling not that well, with yesterday's memory coming to me in bit and pieces. A note to myself to never indulge in copious amount of alcohol again, by the spirits i feel terrible.

I manage to stagger around and clumsily get dress in yet another simple but stunning new pair of clothes. I look at myself in the mirror and let out a small scream at the sight of my hair.

What happened, i wondered as i run my fingers through it. I sat down, combed and rebraided my hair. The little act of me combing my hair has cleared the fog like state i woke in. I looked at myself in the mirror and was satisfied with my appearance.

Evelinde don't let me come up there and get you, i heard Cleon yell from downstairs. Letting out a chuckle at his childish behaviour i immediately went downstairs.

I joined Cleon on the breakfast table, where as usual he was already seated and buttering his bread.

I take it you had fun, giving the state at which you returned last night, said Cleon.

I did, i replied smiling sheepishly.

It's good to see you enjoying yourself Evelinde, Cleon said. I wanted to tell him he too can have fun and enjoy himself, when i remembered that with Cleon things aren't exactly that simple. With a resigned sigh i focused on my breakfast, and we both ate in silence. After breakfast we both went to the arena.

The atmosphere in the arena crackled with excitement as competitors from the five kingdoms gathered for the Potion Making competition. The scent of rare herbs and magical ingredients wafted through the air, creating an ambiance of mystery and anticipation.

As the spectators filled the stands, their excitement palpable in the air, the competitors took their places within the arena, their eyes alight with anticipation. Alchemical stations, arranged in a circle around the central stage, awaited the skilled hands of the potion-makers, each adorned with an array of shimmering ingredients and gleaming cauldrons.

The rules were simple: competitors had a limited time to craft a potion of their choice, using only the ingredients provided and their own knowledge and skill.

As the horn sounded to mark the beginning of the competition, the arena erupted into a flurry of activity. Alchemists darted between tables, selecting ingredients from the meticulously arranged displays of rare plants, sparkling crystals, and shimmering liquids. Incantations whispered through the air as competitors carefully measured, mixed, and brewed their potions with practiced precision.

From the fragrant herbs of Aegalia's own gardens to the exotic essences brought from the farthest reaches of the realm, each potion-maker sought to craft a brew that would astound the judges and captivate the crowd.

In the midst of swirling mists and bubbling concoctions, the arena buzzed with energy and excitement. With a furrowed brow, I observed Cedric, Borak, and the other Aegalian potion-makers as they moved with purpose and determination amidst the swirling energy of the tournament.

Cleon, do you think Cedric, Borak, and the others can win this round? I inquired, my voice laced with a hint of uncertainty.

Cleon's attention remained fixed on the spectacle unfolding before us, his voice steady as he replied, any kingdom can come out victorious as long as what they do is better than the other kingdoms.

His words struck a chord within me, reminding me that victory was not solely determined by reputation, but by the skill and creativity of the competitors.

Xevaria is famous for their potion making, is that not where your mother was from? I asked, recalling tales of Xevaria's legendary alchemists and the magic that flowed through their veins.

Yes, came Cleon's simple reply,

Raviel's alchemists, known for their innovative spirit, experimented with daring combinations of magical reagents, while Thanbra's practitioners of elemental magic imbued their potions with the raw power of nature itself.

Xevaria, famed throughout the realm for its mastery of potion-making, worked with a finesse and precision that seemed almost otherworldly. The Xevarian alchemists, their robes woven with intricate patterns of ancient runes, wove spells of enchantment into their brews with a skill and artistry unmatched by any other.

And amidst the fervor of competition, Grathen's alchemists, known for their resilience and determination, labored tirelessly, pushing the boundaries of their craft with bold experimentation and unwavering dedication.

As the potion-making competition wore on, it became increasingly evident that Xevaria's alchemists held a distinct advantage. Their potions shimmered with an otherworldly brilliance, their craftsmanship and mastery of the arcane arts evident to all who beheld them. Despite the valiant efforts of Cedric, Borak, and the other Aegalian potion-makers, it was clear that Xevaria had set the standard for excellence in the competition.

As the final moments of the competition ticked away, anticipation hung heavy in the air. The arena fell silent as the judges convened to render their verdict.

When the announcement came, declaring Xevaria as the victor of the potion-making competition, there was a collective murmur of acknowledgment and respect from the crowd. It was a win well-deserved, a testament to Xevaria's storied legacy and unparalleled expertise in the art of potion-making.

As the arena resounded with the thunderous applause of the crowd, I turned to Cleon, eager to share my awe at the remarkable display of skill by the Xevarian alchemists. However, my words remained unspoken as I noticed Cleon engaged in a conversation with a guard nearby.

Patiently, I waited until the guard departed, leaving Cleon with a solemn expression etched on his features.

Cleon, is everything alright? What was that about?

I have been summoned by the king to the throne room later, he replied.

What for?

I have no idea Evelinde.

Well whatever it is, i'm going with you.

That's fine, i don't mind you coming along. Your friend is coming over i will leave you both to talk, and i will be waiting for you at home.

Immediately Cleon left, Cedric was before me.

Cedric congratulations, i greeted him with a hug.

What for? the Xevarians won.

I know they did, but it was not from your lack of trying or skills.

Hahahahahaha thank you Eve, you are right the Xevarians are something else, even i am still in awe of them and i've learnt a great deal too. Also i'm sorry about yesterday, i came back to find you gone. I'm sorry i left you by yourself, hope you got home okay and nothing happened?

I was about responding, when i saw the boy from the tavern looking at Cedric and i.

Cedric someone is staring st us, i said.

Cedric turned and immediately he saw the boy, he was surprised in an excited way. The boy walked away as Cedric quickly looked around as if checking for something and quickly bid me farewell as he went after the boy.

I looked around me to find everyone busy congratulating themselves. What's going on with Cedric and this beautiful boy and who is he exactly i wondered.