Chapter 27: Openning Ceremony
The teams entered the arena to thunderous applause from the audience. More than a hundred teams, each with a medium to big number of individuals, occupied the wide area. The arena was illuminated by spotlights from innumerable cameras, which recorded every moment of the intense competition.
"So many powerful teams," said Sol, beaming with wonder.
"Are you feeling overwhelmed?" Nioh looked at her and asked quietly.
With hesitation, Sol adjusted her crown and nodded.
"It's alright," he told her, gesturing up. "Just look at your grandma up top."
Her eyes followed his finger to the platform hung far above. With its elaborate carvings and a faint, pulsating light, it sailed through the air with ease.
The two dukes stood on either side of the Queen, who was magnificent in her royal regalia as she stood on the stage.
With her silken garments and deep sapphire blue and gold threads that glistened like sunlight on water, the Queen stood tall. An ethereal radiance emanated from her crown, a sophisticated combination of metal filigree and crystalline shards. Her penetrating eyes swept over the arena with a peaceful command, her face a mask of calm strength.
On her right stood Duke Tush, a tall man with a pronounced jaw and an unending frown. There seemed to be a tiny pulse of electricity in his crimson armor, which was inscribed with mystical symbols. He exuded a certain air due to his broad shoulders and the enormous war hammer strapped on his back.
On her left was the pinnacle of sophistication, Duke Duval. Wearing sleek, advanced armor that shone obsidian black, he moved with precision and purpose. He stood with a sense of deliberate menace, the twin energy-field blades at his sides crackling faintly.
The trio was speaking to the boisterous audience while projecting confidence and authority.