Emperor's Reckoning



In the aftermath of the unexpected conclusion of the first round, Linnea's authoritative demeanor remained unshaken. While the crowd erupted in astonishment and cheers, she cast a measured look toward Lyon, her expression a mix of incredulity and mild irritation.

Amid the cacophony of the crowd, Linnea's gaze returned to Lyon, her expression conveying a subtle challenge of its own. Despite the unconventional turn of events, she was resolved to uphold the integrity of the tournament and ensure that the subsequent rounds truly showcased the contestants' capabilities. Without saying a word, her silence spoke volumes, emphasizing her determination to maintain her reputation as a stern and capable captain.

Sylas let out a resigned sigh as he approached Linnea, with Alaric at his side. The situation at hand was undoubtedly complex, and it weighed heavily on his mind. "Now this is a problem," he remarked, his tone a mixture of exasperation and contemplation. He glanced over at Linnea, his gaze seeking hers as they both grappled with the challenge before them. "How are we going to pick the ten that will advance to the next round?" he asked, his voice carrying a genuine note of concern.

"I think Captain Linnea has every right to make the decision," Alaric interjected, his voice firm and supportive. He turned his attention to Linnea, his expression conveying both respect for her authority and a shared sense of responsibility.

The crowd held their collective breath, their anticipation palpable as all eyes turned to Linnea, waiting for her next move. The arena was filled with electric energy, the excitement of the tournament mingling with the tension of the moment. Linnea's poised demeanor only heightened the suspense, making her decision all the more significant.

With her arms crossed and her eyes closed, Linnea contemplated the situation. The simultaneous falls of the contestants had created a challenge in determining the last ten standing. Her brows furrowed in concentration, her mind working swiftly to assess the situation. Finally, her eyes snapped open, revealing a determined and focused gaze. The weight of her authority returned as she declared her decision, her voice carrying across the arena, and her hands extended forward.

"The first ten to stand up will advance!" Her words resonated with a no-nonsense authority that left no room for argument. The crowd paused, the first round was not over yet. The roar of cheers was rumbling in one's ears. Her aura erupted once more, deterring those who tried to stand up.

The contestants immediately understood the new criterion, and a flurry of movement erupted as they struggled to rise, pushing against their fatigue and soreness to secure their spot in the next round. The tension in the air was palpable as the fate of the remaining contestants hung in the balance, awaiting Linnea's final judgment.

"The first ten to stand up shall earn the spot to the next round!!" The announcement.

The tense atmosphere in the arena was palpable as the contestants, each pushing their limits, tried their best to stand up. The crowd's excitement grew with each struggle, their cheers and encouragement filling the air. The contestants, driven by the desire to advance to the next round, displayed remarkable determination and resilience.

Amidst the cheers and encouragement for the other contestants, an unsettling hush seemed to surround Lyon. Instead of joys, there were murmurs of skepticism and disdain. The crowd's reaction to him was far from supportive, with some even openly displaying their lack of approval. It was clear that being a human in a competition dominated by demi-humans had cast a shadow over Lyon's reception.

As the crowd's mixed reactions reverberated through the arena, a few voices became distinct.

"Look at that human trying to compete with us."

"He doesn't stand a chance against real demi-humans."

"Why did they even let him enter? This is a tournament for the strong."

Lyon smirked as he was still 'groveling' on the ground. "Indeed, isn't it."

Linnea furrowed her brows as she saw Lyon on all four. She knew he was pretending, she knew it very well, however, she couldn't help but have doubt as she saw the human face difficulties in his breathing, and the way he perspirated as well. It was surreal, but it was fake, yet her mind was struggling to discern it.

(Take this seriously!) thought Linnea as her fury exuded through her aura. Her pride swept over the contestants once more, and Lyon was the closest.

"The first contestant to advance to the next round is Karina!" the announcer's voice boomed through the arena, temporarily diverting the crowd's attention from Lyon.

Karina had her fist up in the air as sweat accompanied her incoherent breathing. She looked over to the side where Kesya was and found her standing up as well after a few others had as well.

Kesya had her mischievous glance at Lyon who was still on all four. She very well understood what was going on, and with a playful tone she said, "Oh we're at nine already!"

One beastman amongst the contestants had his eyes lit up. It was a golden opportunity, he saw the only one that was about to surpass him was the human, yet unlike the human, he wasn't on all four, his back was straight with one knee on the ground.

"One MORE PUSH!" the beastman growled.

"Tch!" Lyon smirked and a pulse of his aura waved, submitting him who was already on one knee to drop again.

"Ah, he fell!" the announcer said, "So close!!"

"Time to wrap this up," said Lyon as he put one knee forward.

"A-Are you kidding me?!" one of the crowds exclaimed.

"No, this is pretty much reality," said Lyon as he effortlessly stood up and faced Linnea.

The atmosphere froze as they caught their expression on hold. Karina smirked and Kesya was giggling by the side. Selena got her hands cupped by Cecile so that the former didn't clap and invite trouble.

Linnea had her eyes narrowed as she saw Lyon's mischievous grin.

"T-The last contestant to go to the next round is... Lyon Torga..."