There was instant silence and Empress Vivian took her place on the stage. No one dare murmur about the thoughts rattling around in their heads. It was clear that Vivian was in control again after so many years...and no one had known for sure. Oh there had been whispers and expectations because of a few small changes in the country's general methods but overall… nothing concrete.
"Greetings, my people shifters and humans alike. Thank you for supporting our royal family and the kingdom for wich our Crown bows. Today is our heir games and the children have proven they are all exceptionally talented. However, this final expression of their ability is traditional. Three young experts who are the best in their classes shall face off against our young heirs. Of course, they will accept the challenge or agree to greet the winner, as a lady must be gracious and a Lord must be welcoming. We will start with the youngest. Princess Drynala, what say you?" Vivian turned to her granddaughter.
"I greet the ampin" She replied just as her father had coached her. The crowd couldn't help but smile giggle at the young Princess's adorable misspeak.
"As you wish, Prince Keen?" Vivian redirected attention to Keen who was full dressed in armor at his mother"s"s side.
"I will defeat the soldier." He replied arrogantly and Feya nodded her approval.
"I wish you well. Prince Nathaniel?"
"I will try my sword against the soldier, with mother's approval." He replied respectfully. Melania smiled and nodded. Vivian couldn't help but smile at the respect this child showed.
"Prince Daniel?" Vivian asked turning to him. He nodded.
"I will also challenge the Soldier with Mother's approval." Prince Daniel replied bowing to Vivian. She smiled and then looked to Kyera. There was a moment of visual surprise, just a split second when she saw what Raina was wearing. Her eyes flicked to Kyera who stood tall, confidently. Neither girl looked nervous, calm and cool as water.
"Princess Raina, what is your wish?" Vivian asked and Raina curtsied to Vivian respectfully
"With your permission as well as My Mothers, I will try my sword against the soldier." Raina replied and Vivian looked a bit surprised.
"Princess Raina has been training diligently since we took our vacation along the Shadowveil Royals. She is prepared for this challenge, My Lady Empress." Kyera spoke up to sooth some of Vivian's fears. Before Raina had left she had no self defense training, more or less sword training.
"If her mother believes her capable, she shall match swords with the weapons master since there are only 3 champions." Empress Vivian replied looking to the older man who was the weapon's master.
"My lady," he took a knee before her "I was aware of Princess Raina's desires yesterday. Princess Kyera made me aware therefore I was able to bring a fourth champion." The Weapon's Master gestured to the stage where four boys dresses as different units joined them on the stage.
They were all dressed in leather armor, with their chosen weapon at their side or in a sheath. "Von, forward. Prince Keen, Forward." Called the Weapons Master. They obeyed, Keen stepping into the center of the stage where the man in black armor with red lion carved into the leather joined him. "You may begin."