LEGENDS OF ELDORIA

CHAPTER 4

A few days later, in the grand hall of the Ignaroth palace, emissaries from Eldoria arrived, wearing the crest of the Citadel on their armor. They came with a request, seeking reinforcements and proposing peace between the two nations. Their presence was rare in the fiery lands, and they stood out among the Ignaroth people with their calm, regal demeanor, a stark contrast to the intense, flame-wielding citizens of Ignaroth.

Zariel, ever curious, had overheard the conversations from a distance. His father, the King, was seated on his throne, listening as the emissaries spoke about uniting their forces against the growing threats on the borders of both nations. They asked for peace, for an alliance after over a century of separation and distrust. The King, though visibly uninterested, listened with a frown."Your people betrayed us once before," the King said, his voice laced with bitterness. "Why should we trust you now?"

One of the Citadel officers, a tall man with sharp eyes, stepped forward. "Times have changed, Your Majesty. Eldoria no longer sees Ignaroth as a threat, but as a potential ally. We face dangers that neither of our nations can handle alone. We propose a test—a challenge to prove the strength of your soldiers, and ours. A battle in front of your people, your court. The best among those who compete will be chosen to lead our joint forces, to ensure the safety of both Ignaroth and Eldoria."

The King remained silent, considering their words. The tension in the room was palpable, and for a moment, it seemed as though he might reject the proposal outright. But then, after a long pause, he nodded. "Very well," the King said, his tone reluctant. "I will allow this test. If your soldiers can prove their worth, I will consider this alliance."

The Citadel officers bowed in respect, their mission accomplished. "Thank you, Your Majesty. We will return in a few days to conduct the test."

From his hidden vantage point, Zariel's heart raced with excitement. He couldn't believe what he was hearing—a chance to prove himself, not just to his father, but to the entire nation of Ignaroth. He had always longed for adventure, for an opportunity to step beyond the boundaries of his homeland. And now, the chance had finally arrived.

As the officers left the hall and made their way toward the exit, Zariel saw his opportunity. His father hadn't noticed him lurking in the shadows, and now he could act on his plan without interference. With quick steps, Zariel followed the officers outside the palace, where they were preparing to leave.

"Excuse me!" Zariel called out, his voice echoing across the courtyard. The officers turned, surprised to see the young prince approaching them.

One of the officers raised an eyebrow. "Prince Zariel? What brings you here?"

"I want to enroll in the test," Zariel said, his voice filled with determination. "I want to compete. I want to be part of this."

The officers exchanged glances, clearly unsure if they should involve the prince in such a dangerous trial without his father's permission. "Does your father know about this?" one of them asked cautiously.

Zariel shook his head. "No, but he doesn't need to know. I can handle myself, and I want to prove that. Please—let me take part in the test."

The officer, seeing the fire in Zariel's eyes, paused before finally nodding. "Very well. You'll be added to the list of competitors. But remember, this test will not be easy. It's a battle to prove your strength and skill, and only the best will be chosen."

Zariel smiled, a rush of excitement filling him. "I'm ready."

As the officers mounted their horses and prepared to leave, Zariel stood there, watching them go. His heart pounded in his chest, but it wasn't from fear. It was from the thrill of the challenge ahead. He had enrolled in the test without his father's knowledge, and now, there was no turning back. For the first time in his life, he would have the chance to show his true potential.