Chapter 101: Next event
The scent of roasted meat and spiced vegetables filled the air as Lucian and his students sat around the long wooden tables, digging into the grand feast. After days of exhaustion, scarce rations, and near-death experiences, the spread before them felt almost surreal.
Julien tore into a roasted leg of beast, grinning between bites. "Now this is what I call a proper reward."
Mira sipped from her goblet, her eyes scanning the surroundings warily. "Feels too generous. What’s the catch?"
Felix, already on his third plate, waved off her concerns. "Who cares? If it’s a trap, at least I’ll die full."
Lucian leaned back, watching his students eat with an amused smirk. It was rare to see them so relaxed. They had earned it. But even so, Mira had a point. This entire event had been brutal, and kindness wasn’t a trait he associated with their hosts.
As if on cue, a sharp cry rang through the air. The Blue Bird, perched atop its stone pedestal, ruffled its feathers before speaking in its eerie, echoing voice.
<"Attention, participants. The fifth and sixth days of the trial shall be merged into a single event.">
The feast hall fell into silence, all eyes turning toward the mystical creature.
<"Prepare for a grand test—a non-lethal battle royale. All teams will compete against one another until only the strongest remain standing. Points will be awarded based on performance, strategy, and endurance.">
Mutterings rippled through the crowd. Some students looked excited, others nervous.
Julien let out a low whistle. "A battle royale? That explains the feast. They want us at full strength."