Chapter 49: Return of Grim Van Ambrose Part 3
The Imperial Coliseum was grand. Every seat was filled, from the lowest commoner benches to the ornate boxes reserved for nobility. The morning sun glinted off weapons and jewelry alike as the crowd waited for the tournament to begin.
Colorful banners representing the sixteen great houses fluttered from the coliseum’s upper tiers, while vendors weaved through the common sections selling everything from spiced meats to commemorative tokens. The air buzzed with excitement. Bets were being placed, favorites discussed, and the names of notable competitors passed from mouth to ear across the packed arena. For many citizens, this was a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, a chance to witness greatness and perhaps see history being made.
In the royal box, Empress Alexia sat on a gilded throne, her expression unreadable as she surveyed the arena below. Princess Liona sat beside her, resplendent in royal blue silks that complemented the sapphire hairpin securing her elegant updo. Chancellor Levenhart and Archmage Marcus stood discreetly behind them, while noble houses occupied the surrounding boxes according to their rank and influence.
At precisely midday, trumpets blared, and the crowd fell silent. A official stepped onto the raised platform at the center of the arena, his voice magically amplified to reach every corner of the vast space.
"Citizens of the Celestis Empire! Honored guests! By decree of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Alexia Celestis, the First Imperial Tournament now begins!"
Cheers erupted, echoing off the stone walls before subsiding as the Empress rose from her seat.
"We gather today," Alexia began, her clear voice carrying effortlessly, "to recognize those who embody the strength and skill that has made our Empire great."
She paused, scanning the crowd with practiced precision. "But greatness comes at a price. Excellence demands sacrifice. This tournament offers a prize worthy of emperors. One request, anything within my power to grant, to the victor."
Murmurs rippled through the audience as she continued. "Such a reward demands corresponding risk. Let all who compete understand the risks. There will be no intervention, no mercy for the defeated. Maiming, injury, even death may await the unprepared. Only surrender, leaving the platform, or your death will end a match."