You drew stars around my scars.

Chapter 12

Hello! How y'all doin'?

The sweet melodies from the musical performance still lingered in the air, resonating in the hearts of everyone present. It was as if the music had left behind an enchanting trace, a precursor to the exciting spectacle that was about to unfold.

In the midst of the majestic tournament grounds, where noble banners swayed gently in the breeze, participants from various kingdoms had gathered once again. Their expressions bore the weight of determination, both tangible and noble, as they were well aware that the upcoming challenge would be of a completely different nature.

The arena, once adorned with musical instruments, had undergone a transformation into a different kind of battlefield. Rows of contestants, displaying a range of emotions from apprehension to unwavering resolve, had assembled on the makeshift stage that now graced the grounds. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and every breath seemed to tingle with excitement.

In this battle, there would be no clashing of swords or the clatter of armor; no physical prowess would be on display. Instead, the contestants were poised to engage in a different kind of combat—one of intellect. The intellectual quiz was a test of knowledge, wit, and cunning.

As the spectators settled comfortably into their seats, their collective excitement growing, the tournament announcer's voice rang out, offering a warm and welcoming presence amidst the buzzing energy of the crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen, after the enchanting melodies of the musical showcase, we now turn our attention to the pursuit of knowledge. Let us embark on a journey into the realm of intellect, where quick thinking and profound wisdom will determine the victors. Brace yourselves for a battle of minds like no other!"

The faces of the contestants displayed a mix of nervousness and determination, as they fully grasped that the intellectual quiz was not to be taken lightly. It was a test of strategy, insight, and knowledge that would push the limits of their mental prowess.

Prince Jimin, the younger brother of Emperor Taehyung, stood as the representative of his kingdom in the intellectual quiz competition. He exuded an air of confidence, fully aware of his abilities. With a light smile on his face, he greeted the other contestants as he took his seat.

The quizmaster, who also happened to be Prince Jungkook's royal personal guard, was none other than Namjoon. Known for his sharp wit and an impressive IQ of 148, he had been chosen to preside over this prestigious event. Jimin couldn't hide his surprise upon seeing Namjoon in this role, as they hadn't received any prior information about the event's judges. Nonetheless, they exchanged nods as a friendly greeting, ready to embark on this intellectual journey.

The contestants collectively took a deep breath, poised to navigate the labyrinth of questions, challenges, and riddles that lay ahead. With their heads held high and their hearts brimming with determination, they eagerly anticipated the chance to prove themselves in this grand and friendly interkingdom competition.

Namjoon cleared his throat and began explaining the rules of the quiz, "Greetings to all the contestants. I'm Kim Namjoon, your quizmaster for this intellectual quiz. I will pose a question, and the contestant who knows the answer should promptly call out their kingdom's name. The quickest response will be given the opportunity to answer the question. However, if the answer is incorrect, the other contestants should immediately call out their kingdom names for a chance to respond. The contestant with the most correct answers will emerge victorious." As he finished, both the contestants and the audience in the arena nodded in understanding.

"Now, for your first question, be prepared and swift. Best of luck to all of you," Namjoon announced. At his words, all the contestants sat up straighter in their chairs, their concentration heightened and their anticipation building.