Bloodright

Chapter 4

The sun had just risen over Melvale, painting the castle and the sprawling city beneath in hues of gold. The famed Melvalian Arena was a hive of activity, the air heavy with anticipation and nerves. Royal guards patrolled the area while servants scurried about, arranging banners and ensuring every detail was perfect for the grand event of the day. Raiah walked among them, her eyes scanning over the preparations, noting the efficiency with which her kingdom worked.

In the heart of the practice arena stood Prince Valerian, the red of dawn reflecting in his eyes, his hand outstretched as a flicker of flame danced on his palm. Raiah watched from a distance as he practiced with his Astralgift, controlling the fire with precision and grace. She had seen him in action before, but the sight of his pyrokinesis never failed to amaze her.

As the morning wore on, the castle grounds filled with spectators, their eager chatter and laughter creating a festive atmosphere. The sound of trumpets echoed across the grounds, their grand, bold notes signaling the beginning of the event. A murmur of anticipation rippled through the crowd as the King ascended to his elevated throne, his regal figure dominating the arena.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Royals, and citizens of Melvale, welcome!" The announcer's voice boomed across the grounds, his charisma adding to the electric atmosphere. "Today we have the honor of witnessing our esteemed royals showcase their unique Astralgifts. Each will have five minutes to demonstrate their abilities. Should they wish for an adversary, a conjured monster shall be provided."

At the King's wave, the crowd roared in approval, their excitement palpable. Raiah watched as the first royal took their position in the arena, their face a mask of determination. She cast one last glance at Valerian before turning her full attention to the spectacle about to unfold.

Princess Ashanti of the Mensah family was the first to enter the stage, her regal bearing and air of quiet confidence captivating the audience. Clad in a flowing emerald dress, she looked every inch a royal. Yet, there was an air of lethal grace about her that commanded respect and a hint of fear. Her gift was notorious throughout the lands - the rare and deadly Toxikinesis.

The crowd fell into a hush as she raised her arms, her dark eyes closed in concentration. A moment later, a green mist began to form around her, swirling and ebbing like a toxic sea. It was her poison, a deadly concoction that could fell a hundred men with a mere breath. Yet, under her control, it was a mesmerizing display of power and control.

With a swift movement, she shaped the poison, the mist solidifying into a brilliant emerald staff in her hands. It was a potent weapon, capable of killing with a single touch. The crowd gasped as she expertly swung it, her movements fluid and precise. She was a warrior queen, her every move radiating power and confidence.

Next, she showcased her ability to manipulate the potency of her poison. With a wave of her hand, the toxic staff turned into a delicate flower, a harmless, beautiful blossom that belied its deadly nature. It was a poignant reminder of her control over life and death.

In the final moments of her showcase, she released a cloud of poison gas, the arena suddenly filled with a dense, green fog. Yet, instead of inducing fear, the gas lulled the spectators into a state of calm and tranquility. It was her sleeping poison, a testament to her nuanced control over her Astralgift.

With her last act, the arena erupted in applause. Princess Ashanti had not just showcased her Astralgift, she had woven a narrative of power, control, and deadly beauty. And as she left the stage, her name echoed around the arena, setting a high bar for those who were to follow. Raiah didn't quite understand why she felt proud for the Princess, but she found herself smiling as the young woman walked off the platform.