Demon x Heroes volume 1 chapter 10

Three days earlier~

The sun's gentle caress painted the quaint town with warm hues as Kazuto Kurogane walked alongside his extraordinary companions.

The goddess, her ethereal beauty captivating all who passed, and Lyra, the wolf-haired demi-human, engrossed in animated chatter about their newly acquired weapons.

"Look at how this dagger catches the light"

Kazuto marveled, his fingers tracing the blade's intricate patterns.

Lyra, her eyes gleaming with pride, held her special sword close.

"It's said to be forged by the legendary blacksmiths of the northern mountains."

Their leisurely stroll took an unexpected turn when a vibrant poster plastered against the wall caught their eye.

The announcement revealed an imminent fighting tournament, promising spectacle and glory in the heart of the kingdom's capital.

As excitement rippled through them, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows.

"Eldric?" Kazuto's voice held a hint of surprise as recognition dawned. Eldric, once consumed by a vengeful fire, now carried himself with a new sense of purpose.

His eyes locked onto the poster and he approached, his voice tinged with a mixture of bitterness and determination.

"Kazuto, goddess, Lyra," he greeted them with a nod, "You're looking at the Elysium Grand Tournament.

The biggest martial event of the year, where warriors from all corners of the realm converge to prove their mettle."

Curiosity piqued, Kazuto leaned in, "Tell us more."

Eldric's gaze flitted between them, his voice carrying the weight of knowledge.

"It's a month-long competition, divided into various categories - one-on-one duels, team battles, and even a challenge that tests the combatant's versatility and strategy."

Kazuto's eyes gleamed with intrigue, "And the prize?"

"A legendary relic, the 'Crown of Valor,'" Eldric answered.

"It's said to grant the wearer immense power and unparalleled recognition.

But there's more to it," his voice lowered, "The second princess herself will be present, watching every fight."

A smirk played on Kazuto's lips, a subtle realization flickering in his eyes.

"This is an opportunity"

he murmured, his thoughts racing.

The pieces of his plan were falling into place.

Eldric's voice turned somber, his bitterness palpable.

"Ironic, isn't it? The princess, the embodiment of corruption, presiding over a tournament that could bring honor."

Kazuto's gaze remained fixed on the poster, his expression unreadable.

"Thank you, Eldric. You've provided us with valuable insight."

As Eldric walked away, his strides carried a newfound sense of determination.

The companions exchanged glances, and the goddess spoke softly, "Kazuto, what are you thinking?"

His lips curled into a sly smile, "I'm thinking, my friends, that this tournament might just be the catalyst we've been waiting for."

Meanwhile, a nameless traveler, unbeknownst to them, set forth toward the capital, his determination a quiet fire in his eyes.

In the ensuing days, as anticipation grew, Kazuto found himself deep in thought, his mind weaving intricate strategies like an artist painting unseen patterns in the air.

The companions studied every detail of the tournament's rules, honing their own strengths.

The moment arrived, the kingdom's capital teeming with participants and spectators alike.

The arena buzzed with energy, warriors from diverse backgrounds converging, their stories and ambitions as varied as the colors of a twilight sky.

As Kazuto stood amidst this sea of possibilities, the world seemed to hold its breath, the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a rosy glow upon the battlefield.

"I'm looking forward to see what this tournament holds," Kazuto mused, his voice carrying a mixture of excitement and determination.