Chapter 15: Chapter 15: The Trial of Aurora
Preparations for the Tournament:
In the days following the decision to turn the dungeon into a tournament, Rafa dedicated himself intensely to the preparations. He knew the event needed to be grand enough to attract the best warriors in Eldoria but also safe enough to prevent anything from getting out of control.
"The Trial of Aurora won't just be a tournament," he told Victor during a strategic meeting. "It will be a statement. A demonstration of the power and modernity I am bringing to this world."
To ensure this, Rafa decided to use his Visionary ability to create a main arena around the dungeon. The structure would be a blend of magic and technology, with invisible barriers to protect spectators and holographic systems to broadcast the battles live throughout the territory.
Arena Vision (Third Person):
In his creation room, Rafa closed his eyes and envisioned a colossal arena surrounding the dungeon's entrance. When he opened them again, an imposing construction stood before him. The walls were made of magical crystals that glowed with pulsating lights, and floating bleachers hovered in the air, capable of accommodating thousands of spectators. At the center, the dungeon's entrance remained sealed, surrounded by runes that flickered with energy.
"Perfect," Rafa murmured, admiring the masterpiece he had created. "Now, we just need the competitors."
Kaelen and the Preliminary Challenges:
While Rafa handled the arena, Kaelen was tasked with designing the preliminary challenges that participants would have to face before gaining access to the dungeon. Using his expertise in technology and magic, he created a series of tests that would evaluate physical strength, strategic intelligence, and magical skills.
Description of the Challenges (Third Person):
Shifting Force Field: A maze where the walls constantly changed position, forcing competitors to think quickly to find the exit. Arena of Clones: A battle against Kaelen's clones, each programmed with different difficulty levels. Magical Puzzle: A three-dimensional puzzle that required the use of magic to solve.
"These challenges will separate the weak from the strong," Kaelen said to Rafa while fine-tuning the details. "Only the most qualified will reach the dungeon."
Rafa nodded, pleased. "Excellent work, Kaelen. Now, we just need to announce the tournament."
Announcing the Tournament:
To publicize The Trial of Aurora, Rafa used a combination of traditional messengers and magical communication devices created by Kaelen. Holographic posters appeared in Eldoria's major cities, announcing the event as "the greatest challenge ever seen."
Announcement Text (Third Person):
"Are you worthy of facing the unknown? The Trial of Aurora challenges Eldoria's greatest warriors to prove their worth in a series of deadly tests. The prize? Priceless treasures and the chance to explore the legendary rank S dungeon sealed by the Visionary himself. Come test your courage and skill. But remember: only the strong will survive."
The announcement caused an immediate uproar. Warriors from all corners began preparing for the tournament, eager to test their skills and claim the promised rewards.
Unexpected Visitors:
Even before the tournament began, Rafa's territory started receiving unexpected visitors. Among them was Lady Seraphine, a legendary mage known for her beauty and devastating power. She arrived with a small entourage and requested an audience with Rafa.
Meeting Lady Seraphine (Third Person):
Rafa received Lady Seraphine in his audience hall, a chamber decorated with magical symbols and illuminated by floating lights. She was a tall and elegant woman, dressed in a silver robe that seemed to shine with its own light. Her violet eyes fixed on Rafa with curiosity.
"Baron Visionary," she said, bowing slightly. "I've heard about your dungeon and your tournament. I am intrigued. Why allow others to explore something so dangerous?"
Rafa smiled, maintaining his confident posture. "Because I am a visionary, Lady Seraphine. I see no need to hide something that can be used to strengthen this world. Besides, who better to face the dungeon's challenges than Eldoria's greatest warriors?"
Lady Seraphine studied him for a moment before responding. "Interesting. Perhaps I will join the tournament. We shall see if your challenges are truly up to my reputation."
With that, she departed, leaving Rafa impressed by her presence.
First Conflicts:
While many were excited about the tournament, not everyone reacted positively. Some nobles and secret guild leaders sent messages demanding Rafa cancel the event, claiming the dungeon was too dangerous to be explored by anyone.
"They fear the unknown," Rafa told Victor while reading one of those messages. "But they cannot stop me. This is my territory, and I will do as I please."
Victor hesitated before responding. "Master, perhaps it would be wise to consider these concerns. If something goes wrong during the tournament, we may face repercussions."
Rafa shook his head. "There is nothing to worry about. I have full control over the situation. Any problem will be solved before it happens."
Final Reflection:
As the day of the tournament approached, Rafa felt the growing tension in his territory. Visitors of all kinds arrived daily, from merchants looking to sell supplies to warriors training for the preliminary challenges.
On the balcony of his tower, he watched the movement below, reflecting on the future.
"This tournament will be a turning point," he murmured as the sun set behind the mountains. "Not just for me, but for all of Eldoria. And when it's over, my name will be remembered as a true visionary."
He knew the next days would be decisive. The success or failure of The Trial of Aurora would determine the legacy he was building.
"Until then, I will remain the master of this game," he concluded, with a confident smile.