Her Choice (gxg)

Archery Tournament

As the second week of the festival came to a close, on a rather unexpected note for Rebecca, the visiting heirs and the people of Lumina were still on a high with the celebrations. The normally serene streets of Lumina's capital bustled with uncommon activity on the bright morning. Vendors called out more louder than normal from crowded market stalls. Excited commoners flocked the city streets much more than usual.

Today was the highly anticipated archery tournament among the heirs participating in the festival to court Princess Rebecca. Banners in the colors of Lumina's royal crest fluttered in the breeze, and the excited chatter of the gathered crowd filled the air in the arena. Speculation ran high on who among the skilled heirs stood the best chance to win. Prince Cillian of Brighthollow was a common favorite, known across kingdoms for his mastery of the longbow. The betting odds favored his chances to claim victory.

Rebecca herself stood on the balcony of the royal pavilion, her hazel eyes sparkling with anticipation. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of nerves. This event marked the end of the second week of the month-long celebration in her honor, and it had been a whirlwind of emotions. She watched as the competitors, clad in their finely embroidered uniforms, took their positions on the field.

But the murmurs in the crowd grew louder as another figure approached the arena. Princess Freen of Gaelle strode confidently toward the archery range. Her blonde hair flowed like a waterfall down her back, and her emerald-green gown accentuated her lithe figure.

"I wish to participate in the archery tournament," Freen declared, her voice clear and unwavering.

Gasps rippled through the spectators. Omegas rarely participated in physically demanding competitions, and this bold move by princess Freen was unheard of. Rebecca wasn't as surprised but the announcement was unexpected even for her. She recalled the conversation they had shared at the palace garden. She remembered Freen's stories about her past relationships and the teasing nickname she had endured at the royal academy. Freen had been called the 'royal archer,' but she had said it with a hint of sarcasm, as if her participation in archery was not necessarily a reflection of her skill.

Rebecca's heart raced as she watched Freen, her hazel eyes locking onto the princess's gaze. Freen's determination and the fire in her eyes sent a shiver of excitement down Rebecca's spine. She knew that this decision would be met with resistance from conservative quarters, but it also represented a chance for omegas to shatter stereotypes and prove their worth beyond societal norms. She had admired Freen's courage and spirit, and this bold decision only deepened her feelings.

The tournament officials exchanged uncertain glances, but Lumina was a kingdom known for its openness and acceptance. The rules didn't explicitly forbid omegas from competing, and the crowd seemed divided between those who supported Freen's decision and those who were skeptical. The officials ultimately conceded and allowed Freen to participate, but with one condition – she would have to compete on the same terms with the other heirs. No special exceptions would be made because she was an omega.

With a determined nod, Freen accepted the condition, and her bow was readied. As Freen joined the line of contestants, the alpha and beta heirs exchanged incredulous glances. It was rare for omegas to participate in physically demanding competitions, and many believed that their delicate nature made them ill-suited for such challenges. But Freen's presence challenged those beliefs, and her unwavering determination sent a powerful message to all.

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The tournament began with a ceremonial opening, led by princess Rebecca herself. Dressed in an ensemble that blended Lumina's colors with a touch of regal simplicity, she addressed the gathered crowd with a warmth that reflected her genuine enthusiasm for the event.