The morning sun streamed through the palace dining room windows as Kael sat at breakfast with what was becoming a familiar group. King Aldric and Queen Catherine occupied their usual seats, the King still marveling at his restored youth with small gestures—touching his face, moving without pain, eating with genuine appetite. Duke Hadrian reviewed documents while eating. And the twin prince and princess, Harald and Jasmine, sat across from Kael with expressions that were slightly less hostile than yesterday but still coolly assessing.
Lyssa sat beside Kael, while Seraphina occupied the seat on his other side. Their mythbeasts had been fed earlier in the designated area, leaving the humans to their meal and conversation.
"So," Kael said, addressing Lyssa and Seraphina, "what's a good strategy for the tournament? I realized we never actually discussed the format in detail."
Seraphina set down her teacup, her expression becoming more focused. "I heard from the tournament organizers yesterday. It's a standard one-versus-one bracket tournament. Single elimination until the top sixteen are decided."
"And the arena setup?" Lyssa asked.
"The Grand Arena has twelve fighting rings before the quarter-finals," Seraphina explained. "They need that many because there are over two hundred registered competitors. With only twelve matches possible simultaneously, and the fairness rule that each person can only fight once per day, it's going to take about four days just to determine the top sixteen."
"Four days of preliminaries," Kael mused. "That's a lot of fighting."
"Once the top sixteen are decided, the format changes," Seraphina continued. "From that point forward, it's single matches per day—4 the first day, 2 the second day, and 1 on the last day. Everyone's focus will be on each individual match because those are the competitors who've proven themselves worthy of serious attention."
Kael felt determination settle in his chest. "Then I need to make it that far. Top sixteen minimum."
"You will," Lyssa said with confidence. "I've seen how hard you've trained. Your companions are incredibly strong."
"Plus, you have a numerical advantage," Seraphina added quietly. "Most competitors have one or two bonded mythbeasts. Having five is... well, it's exceptional."
Prince Harald, who'd been listening with apparent disinterest, suddenly spoke up. "Five bonds? That's either impressive or foolish. Maintaining that many mental connections leaves tamers scattered and unfocused. Quantity over quality rarely wins tournaments."
"We'll see, won't we?" Kael replied mildly, refusing to be baited into an argument.
Breakfast concluded without further incident, and Kael, Lyssa, and Seraphina prepared to head to the Grand Arena. The royal family would follow later, once the actual matches began—their presence would draw enormous attention, so they typically arrived after the opening ceremonies concluded.
As they walked through the palace corridors toward the main entrance, Kael spoke with his companions through their mental bonds, Vera translating for those who needed it.
"We need to discuss strategy," he projected. "Different opponents will require different approaches. What worked in training might not work in an actual tournament with rules and judges."
Agreed, Vera responded. We should have multiple tactical formations ready. I can serve as primary defense with my psychic barriers. Fulminus provides speed and lightning strikes. Ember handles area control with her compressed flames. Mushy supports with poison that weakens and disorients. And Spritz...
I can flank, Spritz suggested. Use water pressure attacks from unexpected angles while everyone else holds attention.
"Since you're only Rank 2 at the guild," Lyssa interjected aloud, having caught the gist of their mental conversation, "the tournament organizers will probably pair you against higher-ranked opponents early on. That's standard practice—underdogs face favorites to quickly weed out the weaker competitors. You might face someone Rank 7 or 8 in your first match."
"Doesn't worry me," Kael said honestly. "Rank isn't everything. It's about how you use your strength, not just about how long you have done quests for the guild."
Spoken like someone who knows they're stronger than their rank suggests, Vera observed with amusement.
The Grand Arena came into view as they exited the palace grounds. The structure was massive—easily the largest building Kael had seen aside from the palace itself. Circular in design, with high walls and banners flying from countless flagpoles, it dominated the eastern district of the capital.
Crowds were already gathering, despite the early hour, as streams of people flowed toward the various entrances. Vendors had set up stalls selling food, drinks, and tournament memorabilia. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation.
"The VIP viewing area is on the western side," Seraphina explained. "Lyssa and I will head there now—it's a bit early, but better to get settled before the crowds get worse. You need to check in at the competitors' entrance on the south side."
"Good luck," Lyssa said, reaching out to squeeze Kael's shoulder. "You've got this. Just fight as you have in training, and you'll be fine."
"More than fine," Seraphina added with a warm smile. "I think you're going to surprise a lot of people today."
They parted ways, Lyssa and Seraphina heading west while Kael circled around to the southern entrance. As they walked, Lyssa noticed something that made her pause.
"Wait—how does Granite get up to the VIP area? The viewing platforms are elevated, and he's... well, he's massive."
Seraphina grinned. "They have an elevator system. Heavy steel chains operated by two incredibly strong gorilla-type mythbeasts. It's designed specifically to transport large companions up to the viewing areas. Quite ingenious, actually."
They reached the elevator—more of a large platform with reinforced railings—and indeed, two massive gorilla mythbeasts stood ready to operate the chain mechanism. Each creature was easily twelve feet tall, with muscles that suggested they could lift buildings.
Granite rumbled a polite thank you as they stepped onto the platform—an unnecessary gesture, perhaps, but such was his nature. The gentle giant always appreciated others' efforts, even when they were just doing their jobs.
As the elevator began its smooth ascent, Seraphina turned to Lyssa with an expression of concern.
"I'm a bit worried for Kael," she admitted quietly. "What if he doesn't reach the top sixteen? I know he's strong, but there are some incredibly powerful tamers competing. Veterans with years more experience, people from legendary bloodlines with mythbeasts that have been in their families for generations..."
"Even if he didn't make it that far," Lyssa replied, "Kael himself wouldn't worry about it. He'd just see it as a learning experience and motivation to train harder. But—" she smiled with genuine confidence "—I have full faith he'll reach the top three at the very least. Probably higher. You haven't seen him fight as I have. The coordination between him and his companions is remarkable. They move like they share one mind."
"I hope you're right," Seraphina said softly. "I've grown quite fond of him and all of you. I'd hate to see him disappointed."
"He won't be," Lyssa assured her. "Just watch."
---
Meanwhile, Kael had reached the competitors' entrance and joined a long line of other tamers waiting to check in. The atmosphere was tense with anticipation—everyone sizing up everyone else, trying to assess potential threats, looking for weaknesses to exploit.
When Kael finally reached the registration desk, a tired-looking official barely glanced at him before consulting a massive ledger.
"Name?"
"Kael Veyrin."
"Guild branch?"
"Thornhaven."
"Rank?"
"Two."
That got a reaction. The official looked up with surprise, then something like pity. "Rank 2? In the Royal Tournament? You're either very brave or very foolish, boy. Your number is 128. That means you'll be in the latter half of matches today—probably mid to late afternoon. Head to the waiting area and listen for your number to be called."
"Thank you," Kael replied, taking the small bronze token marked with 128 that served as his identifier.
He made his way to the competitors' waiting area—a large space beneath the arena proper where tamers and their companions could rest between matches. The area was crowded and loud, filled with the sounds of last-minute strategy discussions and mythbeasts making various calls and growls.
Vera, Kael projected mentally, can you find Lyssa and Seraphina in the VIP area? Let them know telepathically that I'll probably be fighting in the latter half of rounds today. Number 128, so it'll be a while.
Already on it, Vera responded, her psychic presence stretching outward to locate their friends. A moment later: Found them. Message delivered. Lyssa says to take your time studying other matches and learning what you can.
"Good advice," Kael murmured aloud.
About an hour passed before a booming voice echoed through the arena, amplified by some kind of magical enhancement.
"WELCOME, CITIZENS OF THE KINGDOM, TO THE ROYAL TOURNAMENT!"
The crowd's roar was deafening even from the waiting area beneath the stands. Kael could feel the vibration of thousands of feet stamping in excitement.
Opening ceremonies proceeded—speeches from officials, introduction of the royal family in attendance (more cheering), explanation of rules and regulations. Then, finally, the announcement everyone had been waiting for:
"LET THE FIRST ROUND OF MATCHES BEGIN!"
Kael positioned himself where he could see several of the twelve arena rings through various archways. As matches commenced, he watched with tactical intensity, analyzing fighting styles and strategies.
Most tamers had only one bonded mythbeast—maybe seventy percent of the competitors he observed. About a third had two mythbeasts, which already marked them as above average. A handful had three, which drew a notable crowd reaction.
But no one else he saw had four or more.
Guess we're a bit of an exception here, Kael observed to his companions.
That just makes us more special, Ember responded cheerfully. Unique is good!
Unique means unexpected, Fulminus added with satisfaction. Opponents won't know how to counter something they've never faced before.
As long as we don't get overconfident, Vera cautioned. Numbers alone don't guarantee victory.
Match after match unfolded. Kael watched carefully, noting common tactics, observing how judges made their calls, and seeing which strategies proved most effective. Some patterns emerged:
Tamers with single powerful mythbeasts typically went for direct overwhelming force. Those with two companions usually split duties—one defensive, one offensive. The rare tamers with three mythbeasts showed the most sophisticated coordination, with clear role specialization.
Hours passed. The sun climbed higher, then began its descent. Match numbers climbed steadily as the first round progressed.
Finally: "MATCH IN RING SEVEN: NUMBER 128 VERSUS NUMBER 104!"
Kael's heart rate spiked. This was it.
He made his way to Ring Seven, his companions following with various levels of excitement and determination. The crowd's noise became a dull roar as he entered the designated arena space—roughly thirty meters in diameter, with clearly marked boundaries and a judge standing ready at the edge.
His opponent was already waiting. A man in his mid-twenties with spiky brown hair and a confident smirk. Two mythbeasts stood beside him—a wolf-type creature with dark grey fur and a bird of prey with sharp talons and fierce eyes.
Fulminus, Kael projected, assessment?
The wolf is approximately Ember's strength level. The bird is similar to Mushy. Together they're formidable, but we outnumber them significantly, and we've trained harder. This should be manageable if we don't make mistakes.
Remember, Kael cautioned his companions. Even if it looks like an easy match, expect the unexpected. Never assume too much about an opponent. That's how people lose.
The judge raised his hand. "Competitors, approach and greet!"
Kael and his opponent met in the ring's center, sizing each other up at close range.
"Kael Veyrin," Kael introduced himself.
"Marcus Thorne," his opponent replied. "Rank 7. You're the Rank 2, right? Impressive that you made it to the tournament at all. Don't feel too bad when you lose—it's all a learning experience."
"May the best tamer win," Kael replied neutrally, refusing to be goaded.
They returned to their starting positions. The judge looked between them.
"Standard tournament rules apply! No maiming, no killing blows, no attacks on the tamers themselves! The fight continues until surrender, knockout, or a judge's decision! Competitors ready?"
Both Kael and Marcus nodded.
"BEGIN!"
Kael's strategy kicked in immediately, his companions moving with practiced coordination.
"Vera—tank! Ember—control! Mushy—support! Fulminus—strike! Spritz—flank!"
Vera's psychic barriers flared to life, creating a protective zone that intercepted Marcus's wolf as it charged forward. The creature slammed into the invisible wall with a yelp of surprise.
Ember launched compressed fireballs that forced Marcus's bird to scatter its planned aerial assault, disrupting their initial strategy.
Mushy began generating poison mist, spreading it strategically to limit movement options and gradually drain stamina.
Fulminus shot forward like a blue-grey lightning bolt, so fast he was almost impossible to track. He struck the bird with a powerful electric discharge before it could recover from dodging Ember's flames.
And Spritz circled around the edge of the combat zone, looking for opportunities to strike from unexpected angles with high-pressure water streams.
Marcus's mythbeasts were well-trained and fought valiantly. The wolf used earth-based powers to create rock projectiles and defensive barriers. The bird tried to coordinate aerial attacks with diving strikes. Both creatures showed skill and experience.
But they were outmatched—outnumbered five to two, facing opponents who'd trained with healing-assisted intensity, coordinating with a level of teamwork that only came from deep bonds and countless practice hours.
Vera's psychic grip caught the wolf mid-leap and slammed it to the ground. Fulminus's lightning stunned the bird repeatedly, preventing it from establishing air superiority. Ember's flames created zones of heat that forced both creatures into predictable positions. Mushy's poison accumulated in their systems, slowing reactions. And Spritz's flanking water strikes kept them off-balance, unable to mount coherent counterattacks.
The match lasted perhaps three minutes—the fastest of the twelve currently running in simultaneous rings.
Marcus's wolf finally collapsed, too exhausted and damaged to continue. His bird tried to keep fighting, but was clearly done as well, barely staying airborne.
"MATCH!" the judge called. "Winner: Number 128, Kael Veyrin!"
The judge made notes in his ledger. "Number 128 advances. Rest and prepare for your next match tomorrow."
Kael approached Marcus as their mythbeasts recovered.
"You put up a good fight," Kael said sincerely.
"You too," Marcus replied, though he looked somewhat shell-shocked. "I... you put a lot of effort into training your mythbeasts. That coordination was incredible. And five bonds—" he shook his head in amazement "—I commend you on actually achieving that. Most people can barely handle two."
"Thank you. Good luck in your future matches."
"I'm eliminated," Marcus pointed out. "Single elimination tournament, remember? But thanks. I think you might actually go far in this."
As Kael left Ring Seven, he became aware of the crowd's reaction. Most of the audience had been watching other matches—more established competitors, higher-ranked tamers with reputation and following. But those who'd happened to watch Ring Seven were murmuring with astonishment.
"Five mythbeasts!"
"Did you see how they moved? Like they were thinking with one mind!"
"That's that Rank 2 from Thornhaven everyone was dismissing!"
"Five bonds at his age? How is that even possible?"
Kael ignored the chatter and made his way toward the VIP viewing area. A guard initially tried to stop him, but Seraphina's voice called out from above.
"He's with me! Let him through!"
The guard stepped aside, and Kael took the elevator up to where Lyssa, Seraphina, and, surprisingly, the entire royal family had gathered. King Aldric, Queen Catherine, Duke Hadrian, and even the twins Harald and Jasmine all turned to look at him as he approached.
"That was magnificent!" Seraphina exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement. "The way you all moved together—it was like watching a perfectly choreographed dance!"
"Well done," King Aldric added with genuine approval. "That level of coordination takes serious dedication. You've clearly put in the work."
"Impressive," Queen Catherine agreed. "Most tamers with multiple bonds struggle to coordinate effectively. Yours moved like extensions of your own body."
Even Hadrian nodded approvingly. "Strong tactical thinking. You identified your advantages quickly and exploited them efficiently."
Harald and Jasmine remained quiet, but their expressions had shifted from dismissive skepticism to surprised respect. They'd clearly watched the match and been forced to reassess their opinions.
"You crushed them," Lyssa said with a grin. "I told Seraphina you'd do well, but even I was impressed by how quickly you ended that fight."
"It was a good match," Kael replied modestly. "My opponent was skilled. We just had more numbers and better coordination."
"And that matters," Seraphina pointed out. "Tomorrow you'll face someone else, and the day after that another opponent. But if you keep fighting like that..." Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "I think you're going to make it very far in this tournament."
"The next few days will be interesting," King Aldric observed. "As you win more matches, you'll face progressively stronger opponents. The real challenge begins when you encounter other tamers with multiple bonds and serious training."
"I'm looking forward to it," Kael said honestly. "Every match is a chance to learn and improve."
As the sun set on the first day of the tournament, Kael looked out over the Grand Arena where matches continued in the remaining rings. Tomorrow would bring another fight. And the day after that, another. Each one brings him closer to the top sixteen.
He'd won his first match decisively. Now all he had to do was keep winning.
Piece of cake, Fulminus projected confidently.
Don't get cocky, Vera cautioned.
But do stay confident, Ember added. We've got this!
Kael smiled. Yeah. They did.