THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Valerian heard the name of the game, and he chuckled. He asked, "How does it work?"

The Lady nodded and said, "Now and then, a male will take a liking to a female. Our tradition allows women to decide whether to marry a man. If they say no, and yet the man is insistent, the woman in question will bring them here, the game field.

The two people will spar; if the Lady loses, she must marry the man. If the man lost, then it was over. He will be asked to leave and not bother the Lady again."

Valerian raised his brow and asked, "What if the guy is still persistent?"

The Lady replied with a shrug, "Bring someone who can defeat the woman he likes. Because we also have a special category of battle where the loser will give up their rights over themselves to the winner."

Valerian frowned and spoke solemnly, "You mean, like subduing a slave?"

The woman nodded and replied, "Yes, something like that."

Duel with Azotian.