Genesis Code: The Genetic Awakening-Chapter 52: Tournament (2)

The king stepped forward, his gaze sweeping across the crowd. His voice, steady and resonant, carried across the arena as he began to speak.

"Lords and ladies, honoured guests, and brave souls who have gathered here today," he said, "I welcome you to this grand occasion.

"The arena before us stands as a testament to the strength, skill, and spirit of those who seek to prove their worth.

"Today, we witness not merely a display of prowess, but a celebration of the virtues that define us as a people: courage, determination, and excellence."

The crowd murmured in approval, their excitement intense. King Gray paused, allowing his words to settle before continuing.

"This tournament is more than a spectacle; it is a challenge," he declared. "A challenge to those who dare to step into the fray, to test their mettle against worthy opponents, and to rise above the ordinary.

"Each participant here carries the potential to distinguish themselves, not only for glory but for a greater purpose—one that will be revealed in due time."

His words were measured and carefully chosen to stir curiosity without revealing too much. The adventurers in their booth exchanged glances, some nodding in determination, while others clenched their fists, ready to prove themselves.

King Gray turned his attention to the spectators, his tone shifting slightly to include them in the moment. "To the spectators, I say this: cheer for the valour you witness, for the dedication and skill on display.

"Let the triumphs and trials of this event inspire you, as they remind us all of what can be achieved through effort and resolve."

The crowd erupted into applause, their energy filling the arena. The king raised a hand, and silence fell once more as he addressed the adventurers directly.

"And to the competitors," he said, his voice firm yet encouraging, "I offer this: fight with honour, strive with integrity, and remember that the path to greatness is forged not only by victory but by the respect earned in the pursuit of it."

With a final nod, King Gray stepped back and raised his arm high. "Let the games begin!"

A deafening roar shook the entire arena, the air thick with excitement and competitive spirit. The adventurers were pumped and ready for action.

"You went ahead and did it, didn’t you?" Osbourne commented watching his father take his seat.

"It’s not my fault that I was born charming and awesome." King Gray replied to their little banter. "Besides, what was I to say? Fight, fight and fight?" He chuckled at his lame joke.

Queen Anastasia couldn’t help but shake her head. ’These two knuckleheads forget they are still in public.’

Naturally, her thoughts didn’t mirror the smile on her face. They were a unique family of royals unlike what most would expect.

"No matter," Osbourne shrugged. "I will be more awesome than you when I’m king. After all, the new generation is always better than the last." He lifted his chin proudly, feeling smug about his words.

"I don’t know who taught you that nonsense," The king smiled. "But sure... why not."

In the back, Jess looked around not finding that elf she saw at the registration facility. ’Probably getting special treatment.’ She deduced. ’In any case, the rules and what to expect are clearly outlined.’

Her mind went over the rules she and every other adventurer received before coming to the arena. The tournament was designed to test more than just brute strength; it was a test for both mind and body.

The arena, a vast expanse of sand and stone, was divided into multiple sections, each tailored to challenge the competitors in unique ways.

And the rules were clear: no killing, and magic was permitted, but competitors were to cease immediately when their opponent yielded.

Victory was not the sole path to advancement—those who demonstrated exceptional skill, ingenuity, or resilience could earn their place, even in defeat.

The first stage was a series of duels but with a twist. Each match began with a puzzle or riddle presented to both combatants.

Solving it first granted an advantage—a strategic position, a temporary boost, or insight into their opponent’s weaknesses.

Those who relied solely on strength would find themselves outwitted by those who combined intellect with combat skill.

’This is madness...’ Jess sighed. ’Everyone here should be aware of what they are here for, so I don’t see the reason for these riddles. Is the dungeon that unique or are the royals looking for specific traits in particular?’

"With that out of the way, we can begin!" Jess snapped out of her thoughts as the announcer’s voice echoed in the booth.

While the adventurers knew what to expect, the spectators were kept clueless and only knew what each stage would be once they actually started.

Jess stood up and walked towards the open view as she observed the stage while the announcer called out the first competitors—an elven male and a human female.

With the arena powered by magic spells and runes, different terrains and atmospherics could be mimicked while safeguarding the lives of the adventurers in case of accidents.

Magic-hindering matrices were also inscribed and targeted adventurers based on the conditions set. Thus, while magic was needed, it wasn’t absolutely needed to defeat an opponent.

Life wasn’t that fair.

Moreover, the inside could be expanded for more room if needed—courtesy of spatial formations. Clearly, the royals were putting in a lot of effort to select capable warriors.

The two competitors bathed in the cheers of the crowd as they turned to their opponents, gauging them for anything that might help them secure the advantage.

Suddenly, a blank wall made of mana was erected between the two, and already expecting it, the two did not panic.

The human female who went by the name Freya was a relatively well-known adventurer in one of the cities in the Crownlands while the elven male a native of the capital and was known as Flash—a moniker and an archer of exceptional skill.

"Adventurers," The host said, taking a serious tone. "Before your fight starts, one of you will begin with an advantage. But that advantage must be won."

The blank magical wall on each side revealed a riddle to both parties and read:

"Up and above, yet grounded."

"Beyond understanding, yet comprehensible."

"I am the shaper of destinies."

"What am I?"

"..."