Chapter 43: The Day of the Pyropeia Tournament
The dawn of the Pyropeia Tournament brought a sense of grandeur that even the academy had rarely seen. Days of relentless training culminated in this single event. For Thrain and the other students, it wasn't just another day, it was a test of all they had endured, learned, and mastered. This wasn't just a tournament; it was a stage where legacies were built, reputations forged, and dreams shattered.
The academy grounds were transformed for the occasion, alive with activity and ornamentation. Vibrant banners in the kingdom's royal colors, scarlet and gold, draped every tower and wall. The courtyard bustled with attendees, from nobles in extravagant attire to the common folk who were fortunate enough to secure a place to watch. The faint strains of music played by a band of lute players and drummers filled the air, blending with the murmur of an excited crowd.