Artemis Unveiled:The Descent

Untitled Part 35: Bearstorm

"It turns into a monster with iron armor when it gets enraged, a creature that's impervious to weapons. I don't know how to defeat it, and no one in the arena will know either," Neven said gloomily. "Let's go. We need to inform Lyra immediately."

"But wouldn't that be cheating?" Aria asked hesitantly.

"People only care about the results, not the process. I think Alpha's people already know it's a Demonsteel bear."

They emerged from the dark underground and headed straight for the arena.

It was a magnificent oval-shaped venue, with towering stone columns reaching towards the sky, and the glazed tiles on the roof sparkling in the sunlight. In the center of the arena lay a circular spiral iron gate embedded in the ground, surrounded by sturdy stone walls. Iron railings and protective nets intertwined above, forming an invisible barrier that safeguarded the spectators.

The tiered viewing stands descended like a giant vortex, drawing all eyes to the center of the arena. In the audience, various factions were seated in their respective colors and banners. The red scorpion emblem marked the Tailsting faction at the entrance, the gray crescent moon for Lunarshade, the purple snake head for Venom, and Mercury with a coral-colored flag bearing a blooming lily. The flags fluttered in the wind, like flames dancing in various hues.

As Aria followed Neven through the Tailsting faction, they drew many disapproving glances, like needles pricking at her skin.

Above the stands, countless glowing Soul Stones floated, their light draping the arena in a mysterious veil. Each Soul Stone emitted a faint glow, and together they formed a beautiful light curtain, like a river of stars in the night sky. Occasionally, runes would flicker within the light, adding a touch of enchantment to the scene.

They moved through Tailsting and Lunarshade territories and finally reached the Starguard area. Just as they stepped into the corridor, Lyra, looking extremely anxious, intercepted them.

"Where have you been? I've sent people to look for you everywhere," she asked angrily.

"We were underground," Neven replied, pointing downwards.

"Did you hear the latest announcement?"

"No, what happened?" Neven frowned.

"It's Alpha. He hasn't submitted the formal document to change the Executive Commander. I tried to get him to change it, but he wouldn't listen. He said he's too busy and doesn't have time."

"Are you saying Neven is still the nominal Executive Commander?" Aria gasped.

"Yes, I would love for you to be the Executive Commander, but not today," Lyra said quickly. "This means you have to lead the team in the beast fight. Do you understand?" Lyra gave Neven a meaningful look and tapped his Soul Stone. "If you go into the arena... what then?"

"I understand," Neven said calmly.

"I can't keep pleading with the Lunar King on this. Alpha even blamed me for not reminding him," Lyra said anxiously.

Aria looked towards the highest viewing stand opposite them. It was a separate platform, draped with light silk curtains on both sides. The Lunar King sat there with the Grand Mentors and several courtiers. The queen's lips were pressed into a thin line, her expression stern. Even when an archer shot through five targets with one arrow, and everyone applauded, her face remained unmoved.

"What do we do now?" Lyra asked in a low voice.

"Time is running out. Let's go," Neven said. "Did you bring my gear?"

Lyra's face was unusually grave. She and Neven exchanged a glance, a sense of unease creeping into his mind. Lyra seemed to understand his concern. "I've already asked Oak to fetch it. Follow me," Lyra said, leading them away from the viewing stand without further explanation. The arena was still buzzing with noise, but the path they walked grew quieter and more deserted. Soon, they were away from the crowd.