Chapter 207: Commencement of the summit
Mabel persisted in her questions probing deeper into the intricacies of imperial politics. "The public has a right to know, Jaegar. The empire holds a significant influence over magical societies. Can you assure them that your connection to the throne won't compromise the integrity of the summit?"
Jaegar stayed silent as he could hear the shutter sounds of the cameras. He looked at the woman, who was staring at him like he was some object for her to play with. His patience was wearing thin, and he would slap the hell out of the woman, but he shouldn't do that. He let out a heavy sigh.
Jaegar, with a calm demeanour, replied, "My connection to the throne is a part of who I am, but it doesn't define my actions. The summit is about cooperation, understanding, and showcasing the prowess of different magical academies. I am here as a representative of Cledwarys Academy, committed to the success of the summit."
He tried to be as reasonable as possible, and if they didn't like it, they could go and fuck themselves. That's what he thought.
The other journalists leaned in, eager to catch every nuance of Jaegar's responses. The tension in the room was palpable, and Mabel, sensing an opportunity, continued her line of questioning.
"Given the secrecy surrounding your supposed demise, do you think there might be elements within the empire working against you? Are there those who would prefer to see you not come to the palace?"
Jaegar's eyes flashed with a resolute determination. "In any institution, there are diverse opinions and interests. My focus, however, remains on the summit and the positive outcomes it can bring. Speculation about internal politics distracts from the purpose of our gathering."
As Jaegar deftly navigated Mabel's probing questions, it became evident that he had mastered the art of diplomatic responses.
The crowd, initially tense, gradually eased, realizing that Jaegar was determined to steer the narrative back to the impending challenges of the Inter-Academic Summit.
Mabel, though visibly dissatisfied, conceded to the momentum of the press meet, allowing other journalists to pose their inquiries. The lingering questions about Jaegar's past and his connection to the imperial throne added a layer of complexity to the already charged atmosphere surrounding the upcoming trials.
The hall buzzed with the hum of anticipation, cameras flashing, and reporters preparing to capture every moment of the upcoming competition.
As the press conference drew to a close, the attention of everyone in the vicinity converged upon Jaegar, whose status as Prince Jaegar had become even more prominent.
The weight of his title now hung noticeably in the air, elevating his presence in the eyes of the public.
Not only did the fellow students fixate on him, but also the elves, dwarfs, and representatives from other academies displayed a keen interest in the newly acknowledged prince.
Adding intrigue to the already buzzing rumours, Jaegar's unique appearance further fueled the curiosity of the diverse crowd making their way to the colossal structure, the designated venue for the first trial.
Ewen, an astute observer, closely monitored Jaegar's conduct throughout the press conference, and he couldn't help but be impressed by the young prince's composure. In the face of probing questions, any other teenager might have succumbed to frustration or reacted defensively, yet Jaegar navigated the situation with a remarkable level of maturity.
The professors present, representing various races and academies, found themselves collectively impressed with Jaegar's demeanour. The anticipation was palpable as they eagerly awaited the unfolding performance of the Empire's prince in the upcoming trials.
Upon reaching the colossal structure, they were guided to the central arena within the Colosseum. The grand structure was teeming with spectators, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Jaegar, flanked by Pierre and Ewen, stood together in the arena, surrounded by students from various academies positioned to the sides.
As the audience settled into their seats, a murmur of chatter swept through the crowd. The gaze of the onlookers was predictably drawn to the elves, renowned for their elegance, and, notably, to the centre of attention, Jaegar. The scrutinizing glances seemed unending, with each spectator curious about the young prince's abilities and what he would bring to the trials.
When Headmaster Ashfield took centre stage and initiated his speech, a hush gradually descended upon the audience. All eyes were fixed on the platform, and the anticipation in the air became almost tangible as the official proceedings of the Inter-Academic Summit were about to commence.
Headmaster Ashfield stood tall at the centre of the arena, his commanding presence capturing the attention of the entire Colosseum. The hum of conversations faded away as the spectators eagerly awaited his words.
"Esteemed guests, students, and esteemed representatives from the various academies across the magical plane," Ashfield began, his voice resonating throughout the colossal structure. "Welcome to the Inter-Academic Summit, a gathering that transcends boundaries and celebrates the prowess of our young magicians."
His gaze swept across the diverse audience, acknowledging the presence of elves, dwarfs, and representatives from different magical schools. The air was charged with excitement and curiosity.
"Today marks the commencement of a series of trials that will test not only the magical prowess of our students but also their resilience, intelligence, and teamwork," Ashfield continued, his words carrying the weight of authority. "As we witness the clash of talents, let us remember that it is not just a competition but a celebration of the unity that binds our wizard community."
He gestured towards the students gathered in the arena, representing their respective academies. "To the participants, I say this: May your spells be true, your wits be sharp, and your camaraderie be unwavering. The trials ahead will challenge you, but they will also forge bonds that transcend the boundaries of academy and race."
"As we embark on this journey together, let the spirit of friendly competition prevail. Let the world witness the prowess of our future leaders and defenders of the magical realm. Without further ado, let the Inter-Academic Summit commence!"
With those words, Ashfield stepped back, and the colosseum erupted in cheers, signalling the beginning of the first trial.
The anticipation in the colossal structure reached a crescendo as the crowd awaited the commencement of the first trial: a group duel.
Among the four academies, the initial match-up was revealed – Douxmarth, the school of Arcane, against Cledwarys, the first group duel.
The participants stepped onto the arena, standing poised and determined. Denica, from Douxmarth, wore a gleeful expression as her eyes locked onto Jaegar. In response, Jaegar offered a subtle smile, curious about the intensity of her interest. However, his focus remained steadfast on the upcoming trial.
Unbeknownst to the spectators, Jaegar had decided on a strategy. Despite his capabilities, he chose to downplay his magical prowess, preferring to support Pierre and Ewen subtly. It irked him to feign weakness, but he believed it would divert attention away from him. Lately, he had found himself under the scrutiny of others, and he preferred to keep a lower profile during the trials.
As the two groups faced each other, the tension in the air was palpable. The first duel was about to unfold, and Jaegar, Pierre, and Ewen stood ready for the challenge, united in their silent determination.
The spectators, unaware of Jaegar's true potential, watched eagerly as the magical confrontation between Cledwarys and Douxmarth was about to commence.
The atmosphere in the Hollowdome crackled with anticipation as the participants from Cledwarys and Douxmarth took their positions for the group duel.
Jaegar stood alongside Pierre and Ewen, exchanging determined glances with his teammates.
Ewen, keeping his differences aside, was talking to both Jaegar and Pierre and discussing the way they would fight. And Jaegar found it perfect that Ewen was taking the ropes of the duel. He would just need to have his back, then he would finish the duel, and of course, he would mainly focus on making Pierre the main attraction.
Denica's curious gaze lingered on Jaegar, and he offered her a friendly smile, though the reason for her interest eluded him. Nevertheless, his focus remained on the upcoming trial.
The participants faced each other, the students from Douxmarth displaying their sturdy stature and emanating an aura of grace and agility. The magical tension in the air was palpable.
In the expansive arena, the clash between Douxmarth and Cledwarys ignited, setting the stage for a magical spectacle. The air crackled with energy as Denica, Vukan, and Belos from Douxmarth faced off against Jaegar, Ewen, and Pierre from Cledwarys.
The audience, consisting of students, professors, and curious onlookers, leaned forward in anticipation, eager to witness the clash of these formidable contenders.
The magical aura enveloped the participants as they prepared themselves for the duel. Denica, with an enigmatic smile, exchanged a glance with Vukan and Belos, and the trio united in their determination to outshine their opponents.
On the other side, Jaegar shared a brief nod with Ewen and Pierre, silently conveying their strategy.
The magical colosseum called the Hollowdome trembled with the release of the first spell, and the duel began.
The first exchange of spells was a symphony of dazzling lights as Denica, Vukan, and Belos launched a coordinated attack on Jaegar, Ewen, and Pierre, each focusing on one.
Arcane energies clashed in mid-air, creating a spectacular display that captured the attention of every spectator in the arena.
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