Ch. 74 Tournament of Sand and Snakes

Last Heaven's Coliseum was the only building in the city that could dwarf the Wilson family's crop towers. It was made and maintained through the sweat, blood, and tears of countless commoner mages across hundreds of years.

Of course, the construction itself took less than 10 years to complete. However, after countless architectural failings and parts of the building being blown to bits during duels, its reconstruction was now a yearly tradition. Every time, a new architect was chosen, and each one would add his own personal touch.

"What's with those snakes?" asked Ethan while pointing at the 15 feet tall protrusions all around the building. They looked like S shaped giant cobras that watched over the arena.

"For shade… apparently." Oliver shook his head.

This year's architect was not particularly bright. Even though the statues were wider than what cobras were supposed to look like, not even a quarter of the seats were protected from the sun.

Below them, large semi-circular areas were prepared for the city's most affluent figures. However, not even those places received much shade, depite the snakes' hoods being unfurled directly above them.

In response, each family brought umbrellas and tarps that were now held up by their servants. The Hunts brought some too, as well as five armchairs and a couch, so everyone could relax. For this event, Ethan, Ana, and her mother were invited to join them as guests.

"13 snakes for 13 rank fours." mumbled Ethan after checking out the audience.

"Did you see anything interesting?" asked an eerily sweet voice from behind his back. Oliver's mother, Caroline, was watching him intently. Before the boy could flinch, the black haired woman put her large palms on his shoulders and leaned in for a whisper.

"When I'm spending time with my boys, nobody may interrupt us. Understood?"

Feeling a headache coming on, Ethan nodded stiffly. After Caroline let go, Ana got closer for an explanation.

"Nothing you need to worry about." he reassured her. "Just focus on the tournament."

Fortunately, the host soon flew into the middle of the sandy arena which caught everyone's attention. He wore tight fitting dark red pants and a bright yellow blouse with fluttery sleeves.

"Welcome, esteemed mages, nobles and commoners, to this year's youth magic tournament!"

Cheers erupted from the crowd, and even some nobles shouted at the top their lungs. Oliver and his father were among them, as they were big fans of the sport.

On the other hand, the family's three generations of guardians stood stoically in line with their hands behind their backs. From youngest to oldest, the pressure they emanated was no joke. If that wasn't enough, below the family's private area, the closest 100 seats were occupied by their servants, all of them mid rank 2 and above.

"Before we begin the warm-up, would our esteemed leader like to say a few words?"

At the host's invitation, the entire amphitheatre turned towards a certain snake. Below it, an old bald man sat on a large pillow placed on a raised marvel platform.

His entourage was seated below him. They were all dressed the part in long white robes with drawings of various mana beasts complimenting their features. The King himself had a double headed dragon on his chest with each head shooting flames down his sleeves.

"Tacky."thought Ethan.

Last Heaven's strongest mage waved towards one of his subjects, and the man spoke in his stead.

"His Majesty, Julian Wilson, would like to congratulate the new talents that have risen from our Academy this year. It is his hope that you all continue your training and become splendid mages of Last Heaven.

As you all know, the tensions with the Beast Kingdom are greater than ever before. We need talented individuals to step up and help maintain the peace and prosperity His Majesty has protected during his reign. Therefore, as a reward for your efforts, this year's semifinalists will be given the honor of joining our King's personal army and leading the way against the enemy.

So, fight hard young warriors! For the future of Last Heaven! For His Majesty!"

This time, the cheers were nowhere near as loud even though the King's servants clapped twice as hard. In fact, the other commoners had no idea about a conflict with the Beast Kingdom and were now nervously whispering amongst themselves. In the meantime, the city's noble class was completely silent with some showing signs of resentment.

"F**king prick." muttered Oliver's grandfather loud enough for those around him to hear.

Fortunately, the host began the event before things got too awkward. As the first students stepped onto the sand, he flew up towards the giant gong that levitated above everyone.

"Ready?"

There wasn't a raised platform where the students could fight. Instead, the whole inner area of the coliseum would be used.

As the two mages approached each other, their brand new armors and weapons reflected the sun. Then, one of them pulled out a scroll while the other swallowed three pills one after the other. The first got covered in a bluish aura while the latter's muscles bulged as if on steroids.

"The f**k?" While the fighters lifted their weapons, Ethan couldn't help but widen his eyes.

"Begin!"

The gong rang throughout the Coliseum, and moments later, the first drops of blood were spilled upon the sand.