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The massive chamber remained heavy with anticipation as The Judge’s obsidian scales shimmered with an otherworldly glow, ready to begin the first stage of judgment: the Weighing of Souls. The light from the scales reflected on the polished walls, casting a radiant aura around The Judge’s imposing figure. But just as he moved to initiate the process, Seraphina abruptly stepped forward, her voice cutting through the tension.
“I’ve figured it out.”
The declaration froze the room. Every Elder, Saber, and his royal guards turned toward her, their faces painted with a mixture of confusion and intrigue. Interrupting The Judge’s judgment was unheard of, yet Seraphina stood unwavering.
Elder Thrynn Kaelos, seated fifth to The Judge’s right, scowled. “What nonsense is this? Speak only when allowed.”
Ignoring his reprimand, Seraphina locked eyes with The Judge. “Saber told me you haven’t spoken a word since your fight with Malakar 400 years ago. Is that correct?”
The silence that followed was deafening. Elder Thrynn’s glare deepened, and his voice turned sharp. “Yes, that is true, though it was not meant to be widely spread.” His gaze shot daggers at Saber, who stood impassively, though his lips tightened as if he regretted revealing the detail.
Elder Rainer Solrenn, the Arbiter of Justice seated first to The Judge’s right, spoke next, his tone edged with skepticism. “What does this revelation have to do with anything, Queen Seraphina?”
Seraphina straightened, her confidence unshaken. “The Judge is under some kind of pact—or a curse.”
The words rippled through the chamber like a thunderclap. Saber’s guards exchanged bewildered looks, and several Elders audibly gasped. Elder Selmira Kaelth, Healer of the Realm, leaned forward from her fourth seat to the right, her expression incredulous.
“Impossible,” Elder Selmira said, shaking her head. “The Judge is far too powerful to succumb to a pact or curse. I’ve personally examined him and sensed no malice or external influence affecting him.”
“That’s because none of you are strong enough to detect it,” Seraphina countered. “Even I can barely sense it, but I know the base structure of this spell. It’s the same one affecting Elder Aeliana.” She gestured toward the cage she carried, her voice steady but filled with urgency. “Whatever was placed on The Judge probably binds his ability to communicate. That’s why he hasn’t spoken in 400 years—not because he doesn’t want to, but because he can’t.”
Elder Orin Falrik, Warden of Technology seated sixth to The Judge’s right, leaned forward with an analytical glint in his eyes. “And how can you be so certain of this, Queen of the Azure Universe?”
Seraphina let out a quiet laugh. “You mistake me for some novice mage. I am the Queen of the Azure Universe. I’ve mastered spells, curses, pacts, and their intricate designs down to their very foundations. I know what I’m talking about.”
Elder Caelus Orn, Keeper of Diplomacy seated sixth to the left, studied her carefully before speaking. “If this is true, what do you propose we do about it?”
Seraphina stepped closer to the council. “I propose that the Six Kingdoms join forces with the Five Universes. Together, we can defeat The Eclipse Sovereignty. They’ve captured someone who can heal both The Judge and Elder Aeliana.”
Elder Caelus raised an eyebrow. “And who is this person?”
“Elara,” Seraphina said confidently, “Queen of the Areala Universe, master of Lifebloom Symphony magic.”
The Elders exchanged silent glances, their expressions unreadable yet deeply contemplative. After a long pause, Elder Corvus Myrik, Guardian of Military Affairs seated second to the left, broke the silence with a low chuckle.
“And how do we know your Five Universes are capable of handling the threat of The Eclipse Sovereignty? What proof do you have of your strength?”
Before Seraphina could respond, Saber stepped forward. “We hold a tournament.”
The Elders turned toward him, intrigued. Saber continued, “Each of the Six Kingdoms will select their ten strongest mages to compete in a Tournament of Power. The Five Universes, combined, will do the same, gathering their ten strongest. The tournament will be one-on-one duels. If the ten mages of the Five Universes can overcome the sixty champions of the Six Kingdoms, it will prove they’re ready for the battle ahead.”
Elder Rainer Solrenn frowned. “That hardly seems fair to the Five Universes. They’d be outnumbered six to one.”
Elder Corvus Myrik smirked, his tone challenging. “Fairness isn’t the point. If they can’t handle this challenge, how do they expect to face The Eclipse Sovereignty? Queen Seraphina claims they’re powerful—let them prove it.”
Seraphina smiled at the taunt, a glint of defiance in her eyes. “You think too little of us. We accept your challenge.”
“And where would this tournament take place?” she added.
Elder Caelus Orn leaned back in his chair. “The Grand Champion Stadium here in the Main District. You have seven days from this day to prepare. The tournament begins at noon.”
Seraphina bowed slightly. “Thank you for this opportunity. I look forward to proving our strength.”
As Seraphina turned to leave, carrying Elder Aeliana’s cage, Saber and his guards followed suit. They were nearly at the massive doors when a commanding voice boomed through the chamber.
“WAIT!”
It was Elder Haldan Vross, Master of Law seated fourth to the left. His tone was firm and unyielding. “Judgment must still be cast upon you, Seraphina. That is the law.”
The Elders exchanged puzzled glances when, to their collective shock, The Judge lowered his scales. The ancient artifact’s glow dimmed as he placed it aside, his massive form remaining silent but resolute.
Seraphina glanced over her shoulder, a knowing look crossing her face as she thought to herself. “I figured so.”
The Elders looked to The Judge, searching for answers in his impassive expression, but he remained as still and silent as ever. No one dared question his decision.
Without another word, Seraphina, Saber, and the royal guards exited the Council’s Hall, leaving the Elders in stunned silence.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0HXBqVbhHR
