The long-awaited day had finally arrived — the day of the Great Guild Competition.
Morning light broke through the clouds as the streets of Asterin buzzed with life. Merchants shouted from their stalls, children ran excitedly through the alleys, and adventurers from all ranks filled the city. The capital's banners fluttered proudly — this was no ordinary day.
Even the air itself carried a tension that could be felt by all.
When Lior woke, the sound of distant trumpets and cheering voices echoed through his window. He stretched lazily, rubbing his eyes. "So… it's finally here," he murmured.
After a quick bath and a simple meal, he strapped on his blade and headed out. The streets were packed; food vendors yelled over one another, selling roasted meats, trinkets, and enchanted items. Everyone was eager to witness the beginning of the greatest event of the season — The Adventurer's Guild Regional Tournament.
When he finally reached the Guild Hall, the receptionist smiled upon seeing him. "Ah, Mister Lior. You've already registered, yes?"
She scanned his ID card, and a magical glyph glowed on it. "Confirmed. Please proceed to the waiting area — competitors are gathering inside."
The moment he stepped into the hall, familiar voices echoed.
"Lior!"
Turning around, he saw Darius and the rest of the Silverfangs waiting. Darius crossed his arms, smirking."So… you're joining too, huh? Guess we'll who's strong today."
Lior smiled faintly. "I'll take that as a challenge."
"Good. You'll need it," Darius said with a laugh, patting him on the shoulder.
Moments later, the Guildmaster took the stage in front of the competitors and addressed the crowd. His voice echoed through the arena thanks to the magic amplifiers.
"Welcome, brave adventurers! Today begins the qualifying round of the Asterin Tournament! You will all fight one-on-one. Victory or defeat — your skill will determine your fate. Only the top ten will move to the Capital where true adventuring begins!"
The crowd roared with excitement.
Even those at home could see it — magical projection orbs floated in the sky, broadcasting the entire event across the kingdom. In one of those homes, far away in the countryside, Lior's mother sat nervously on the couch, hands clasped together.
"That boy… he better not get hurt," she whispered, watching proudly.
Back in the arena, the pairings were displayed on a large floating screen of light. Names appeared one by one until the fourth match revealed:
Match 4: Lior vs. Ren the Ironblade
Lior looked up, unfazed. "Fourth, huh? Guess I'll have time for a nap."
As the battles began, he sat quietly in the waiting area, resting his head on the wall.The first battle roared with energy — two swordsmen clashing in a fierce exchange.The second battle showcased powerful elemental users.By the third battle, the crowd was at its loudest yet. Two strong warriors fought, shattering parts of the arena with every strike.
And Lior? He was… sleeping.
His calm, almost lazy attitude earned glares from the other competitors.
Then suddenly — during a fierce moment in the third fight — a Rock Bullet spell was deflected. The spinning stone projectile shot straight toward the benches, heading directly for Lior's face.
The high-ranked adventurers watching from the stands jumped up."Someone stop it!""Get him out of the way—!"
But before anyone could move, Lior's eyes opened slightly. Without even standing, he reached up and caught the spinning rock bullet with his bare hand.
The impact cracked the floor beneath him — then, with a faint squeeze, he crushed it into dust.
Silence filled the hall.
Lior yawned, rubbing his eyes. "Ah… guess it's almost my turn."
The crowd went wild, whispering in disbelief. Even the announcer stuttered for a moment.
"What… what kind of reaction speed was that?!"
Darius just smirked, shaking his head.
Moments later, the crystal screen flashed again:
Next Match: Lior vs. Ren the Ironblade — Prepare for Battle!
The gate opened. Lior stepped forward, tightening his gloves.
His opponent stood at the opposite end of the arena — a tall, armored warrior with two massive blades on his back, known for cutting through steel.
The arena crowd roared, eager for what was coming next.
As the announcer raised his hand, his voice thundered through the arena —
"Begin!"
Lior drew his sword slowly, eyes calm, unreadable. His opponent charged forward with full force, blades glowing.
And just as their swords clashed for the first time, a wave of dust and energy rippled through the arena.
The battle for supremacy had begun.