At the center of the arena stood a raised dais upon which three figures could be seen, two tall and one small.
"Damn tournaments," one of the tall figures muttered, staring down at the gathered participants.
"I woulda thought that the three-time winner of the Order of the Frost Knight's Grand Tourney would've appreciated them a bit more," the smaller figure teased.
"I don't think there's anything that Alistair really likes," the third figure added, smirking towards the first figure as he did so.
Alistair sighed, "Too many damn people all come together to watch a bunch of grown men act pompous and self-important for a day. If some of the knights that participated would put half as much effort into their actual duties as they did dressing up to impress the ladies before they get spilled on their asses then the kingdom would be in a much better state."
"Aye. But tourneys are great for the commonfolk. They get to come together and watch an impressive display of skill from some of the kingdoms best fighters. They laugh, cheer, and lose themselves in the festivities, forgetting the worries that beset them," the Dwarf replied.
"Halfthur's right. Look at the spectators that are here already. The tournament hasn't even begun, and yet they're already laughing, joking with each other, and having fun. They don't even remember that this tournament only exists because we need to deal with the threat of an imminent goblin invasion," the third figure added.
"These are just the grumblings of an old man, no need to pay them any heed, Wavesun," Alistair replied.
"How could I not take heed of one of our Kingdom's heroes?" Wavesun replied gently.
"Bah. How's the turnout?" Alistair asked, changing the subject.
Wavesun exchanged a knowing smile with Halfthur, "More than a thousand have signed up. It's mostly otherworlders. But there are a few adventurers as well."
"Aye, only sixty adventurers signed up for the tourney. Clearly they know more about the dangers associated with an 'elite' platoon," Halfthur added. "But they should be the best of the lot. I recognize a few names like Gorin Greatarm, and Kifax Catclaw."
"Those names sound familiar. Recent Bronze-rank adventurers?" Alistair asked.
"Yes. Gorin's been making a name for himself up North with the Flameband Mercenaries. Kifax was a former Tidescout who quit to become an adventurer. Both are fairly strong and decent favourites to win," Wavesun replied.
"What of the otherworlders. Any that stand out?"
"The bookies are reluctant to give odds for otherworlders. But according to the Novarena rep, there are quite a few strong otherworlders, at least if we're going by pure powerlevel. Whether or not they can use their strength effectively is another matter entirely," Halfthur replied.
"Bookies?" Alistair asked, raising an eyebrow.
Halfthur laughed, "Ah just my bad habit. It's no fun to watch a tournament yer not invested in. Especially as an announcer ya know!"
"Aren't announcers supposed to be impartial? Wouldn't betting go against that?" Wavesun asked, staring down at Halfthur accusingly.
"Now now, it's jus. Ye know... There's more to it than tha. Um, wha I mean ta say is," Halfthur stuttered.
Wavesun laughed, "Relax Halfthur, your accent bleeds through when you're nervous. I plan to make a bet or two myself."
"Really? Korin Wavesun, and here I thought you'd inherited your father's upright nature," Alistair said with a sigh, unable to hide the slight smile that tugged at his lips.
Wavesun grinned, "I'm just glad that I came of age in Tair Newirn. All the sordid tales of my youth are hidden back there, and my reuptation here in my homeland remains intact."
Halfthur laughed, "You nobles. So concerned with reputation, the lot of ya."
Checking the time, Halfthur grinned, "I guess it's time to start. Alistair, I'll allow you to do the honours of introducing the tournament."
Glaring at the dwarf, Alistair walked towards the edge of the dais.
"Attention!" Alistair roared, his voice echoing through the stadium.
Waiting for the crowd to settle down, Alistair looked over the gathered fighters. As the last few murmurs died down, Alistair looked back at Wavesun who gave him a brief nod.
"For those of you who don't know me, I am Captain Alistair Crowsea, leader of tomorrows expedition and the commander of the elite platoon. I am holding this tournament only to discover the strongest fighters. I do not care about how honourably you fight, nor do I care for any other talents you may have. Fight. Show me your prowess. And those who make it to the top thirty-two, will win the chance to earn rewards beyond any you've seen so far," Alistair shouted, his voice echoing through the collosseum.
"The tournament will begin shortly. I will now hand it over to the tournament MC to announce the rules."
"Ahem. Thank you Alistair, fer that inspiring speech," said Halfthur, his voice magically amplified, clapping his hands for Alistair as the militia captain looked stoically ahead.
Seeing this action, the crowd began to clap as well, a polite smattering of applause filling the arena. Feeling that this was the best reaction Alistair was likely to get, Halfthur continued.
"My name is Halfthur Stoutbrew, and I will be your announcer today. The tournament will begin immediately after I finish explaining the rules, so pay attention!"
Seeing that he had the rapt attention of the audience, Halfthur grinned, "The tournament will be a single elimination tournament. You win, you advance to the next round. You lose, you're out. Simple, right?"
This got a laugh from the audience. Pausing to allow the laughter to pass, Halfthur continued, "There will be four divisions. Each division is assigned to a different set of stages, A, B, C, and D," Halfthur explained, pointing to four separate places on the arena floor.
Ignoring the confused looks from the players, Halfthur gave the audience in the stands a knowing wink, "As always, the stages will appear once the tournament begins. Participants have been seeded according to their overall level. The stronger players will be paired against the weaker players in the early rounds. Of course, power level is not an exact science. Don't worry if your power level is a little lower than your opponents. Skill is what you'll need to win!'
This announcement set off a new round of muttering amongst the gathered players. Motioning for them to settle down, Halfthur continued, "The divisions will be displayed above me once the tournament begins. Prizes will be given out to the top thirty-two participants. For those who are eliminated before then, please feel free to continue to watch the tournament from the stands. And finally, as always, please feel free to go all out. Novarena's mages have assured me that the magical wards which prevent fatal blows are in perfect condition, so give it your all, and let the tournament begin!" Halfthur shouted, throwing his arms in the air as cheers filled the arena.
Chapter end
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