Empire Ascension: The Rise of the Fated One

If a person asks royalty for a favor, it typically makes sense if they request money, information, or authority.

But when someone asks to become a test subject and demands a duel, it feels ominous; especially if the person is a skilled, battle-hardened blacksmith suffering from PTSD. When Mathew trapped Aditya with carefully chosen words, asking for a duel in a suit of unkown armor , it felt absurd.

Feeling speechless, Aditya reluctantly agreed. "Very well, since it’s a request from you elder, I shall oblige to the best of my ability. However, I’d prefer not to wear the armor as it can restrict my movements. Surely I can decline that part?"

Mathew gripped his shoulder firmly and shook his head. "No, you must wear it; otherwise, it won’t make any sense."

Bheem, irritated, sensed the pressure being forced on his friend and liege. Though Aditya had already promised, he couldn’t stay silent. "Apologies, but as his guard, I cannot allow my liege to wear unknown armor. Let me try it and duel in his place."

Mathew responded calmly knowing this guard is prince’s friend and mean no bad intent, "Relax, boy. If you were capable enough, I wouldn’t have asked him. In this village, there’s no one worthy of exchanging blows with me, except for him."

Bheem, enraged, pressed on. "We won’t know until we try, foreigner."

Before the situation could escalate, Aditya swiftly placed a hand on Bheem, signaling him to calm down. While he valued his friend’s concern, he knew Mathew was right; Bheem’s martial prowess wasn’t on par with a true expert. Besides, there had to be a reason this mad elder was so passionate about the duel. "No need to fuss over a small matter. I’m equally bored. Is the training ground free?"

Vinayak, standing nearby, nodded. "Yes, it’s lunchtime. It should be."

Aditya replied with enthusiasm, "Great!" Turning to Mathew, he said, "Elder, show us what kind of armor this is."

Mathew grinned as he gestured toward the exhibition chamber. "Excited, aren’t we? The armor is in there, along with a few other samples I’ve prepared."

Aditya nodded, following Mathew through the stone halls, his steps echoing softly in the silence. Bheem and Vinayak followed closely, their eyes darting between the cannons and the grand displays in the chamber. As they approached the far end, a large cloak draped over an ominous figure caught everyone’s attention.