As the days passed since Leto's return to Ravenfall Castle, he found himself growing more eager to acquire his custom-made armor and sword. Each morning, he awoke with anticipation, knowing that today might be the day when he would finally wield a weapon befitting a true knight. The trials of battle had only strengthened his determination to obtain the best equipment available.
The morning sun bathed the castle courtyard in a warm glow as Leto made his way to the blacksmith's workshop. He walked with a purposeful stride, his mind racing with thoughts of what his armor and sword would look like. He couldn't help but wonder about the blacksmith's progress since their last meeting.
As he approached the workshop, he could already hear the rhythmic clanging of metal on metal. The master blacksmith, a seasoned artisan known for his unparalleled craftsmanship, was fully immersed in his work, sparks flying as he expertly shaped a piece of armor.
"Ah, Ser Leto!" the blacksmith called out, looking up from his work with a welcoming smile. "I was just about to send for you. Come, see the progress we've made on your armor and sword."
Leto's excitement bubbled over as he stepped into the workshop. The sight that greeted him left him in awe. His armor, still unfinished but taking shape, lay on a nearby stand. The master blacksmith explained each meticulous detail he had incorporated into the design—light and flexible yet providing ample protection.
"We've used the finest materials, Ser Leto," the blacksmith said, his voice brimming with pride. "The plate is out of reinforced steel, and the chainmail is woven from enchanted steel, making it both lightweight and strong."
"And the green emeralds?" Leto inquired, remembering his initial request.
The blacksmith smiled, gesturing to the edges of the armor where the deep green emeralds would soon be embedded. "Ah, yes, the emeralds. We have procured the most exquisite gems for your armor. They will symbolize your noble house and the hope you bring to the realm."
Emeralds was somewhat a symbol of hous Ravenheart same as a white raven
Leto's heart swelled with pride as he imagined the finished product. He could hardly wait to wear such a finely crafted set of armor, a testament to his dedication as a knight and a symbol of his commitment to his people.
"And now, for your sword," the blacksmith said, leading Leto to another workbench where the weapon lay partially forged.
The blade was breathtaking—a masterful combination of sharpness and strength, honed to perfection. The hilt, wrapped in expensive leather, fit perfectly in Leto's hand, and the pommel bore the emblem of his house—a raven in flight, with emerald eyes that glinted in the light.
The blacksmith explained that the blade was not just a work of art but also a weapon infused with ancient enchantments. "This blade, Ser Leto, holds the essence of honor and valor. It will serve you faithfully in your battles, empowering your strikes and protecting you when you face adversity."
As Leto made his way back to the Keep, his mind still filled with the extravagant armor and sword he would soon wear, a guard approached him with an urgent message. "Ser Leto," the guard said, saluting with a deep bow, "I've been searching for you. I have a invitation from the king himself."
The guard cleared his throat and read aloud the royal summons. "His Majesty, King Arion, extends his invitation to all the knights of the kingdom for a grand tourney to be held in the royal city. The tourney shall be a celebration of valor, chivalry, and the indomitable spirit of the realm's noble knights you have to arrive at the royal capital in about 2 months."
"A tourney!" The word resonated deeply with Leto. Tourneys were renowned events, a showcase of martial prowess, a gathering of knights from all corners of the realm. It was an opportunity to prove one's skills, to honor the virtues of knighthood, and to forge bonds with fellow knights.
"Thank you for delivering this message," Leto said to the guard, a smile spreading across his face. "Please inform the king that we are deeply honored by his invitation, and we shall make preparations to attend the tourney."
As the guard departed to convey the message, Leto felt a mixture of excitement and anticipation. The tourney would be a test of his growth as a knight, a chance to measure himself against other skilled warriors, and an opportunity to display the craftsmanship of the armor and sword he would soon possess.
After receiving the invitation to the kingdom's grand tourney, Leto's excitement was tempered by the thought of his loyal companion, Triston, who was still recovering from the injuries sustained during their last battle. Concern for his dear friend gnawed at Leto's heart as he made his way to the infirmary.
The infirmary was a place of healing, but it couldn't dispel the heaviness in the air as wounded soldiers laid on beds, their faces etched with pain and determination. Despite the somber atmosphere, Triston's presence brought a glimmer of hope and resilience. He lay in a corner, his body wrapped in bandages, yet his eyes were alert and focused as he greeted Leto with a weak smile.
"Leto," Triston said, his voice hoarse but filled with warmth. "You look like you have important news."
Leto approached Triston's bedside, a mix of emotions flooding his heart. "Indeed, my dear friend. The king himself has invited all the knights of the kingdom for a grand tourney," Leto explained, his voice tinged with both excitement and concern. "It will be an event where knights from all over the realm showcase their skills and valor."
Triston's eyes sparkled with interest, but he winced as he tried to sit up. "Sounds like an honorable event," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "But what about you, Leto? Will you participate?"
"I must," Leto replied, his voice resolute. "As the newly dubbed knight of Ravenfall, it is my duty to represent our house and showcase the strength of our people."
Triston nodded in understanding, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "I wish I could accompany you to the tourney, my lord," he said, his tone filled with regret. "But as you can see, I'm in no condition to wield a sword."
Leto laid a comforting hand on Triston's shoulder. "Your presence in Ravenfall Castle is just as crucial, Triston," he said sincerely. "You have always been my right-hand man, and your guidance and support have been invaluable to me. As much as I would like you by my side, I know that I can trust you to hold down the castle while I'm away."
Triston managed a smile, appreciating Leto's trust and understanding. "Thank you, my lord," he said. "I will do my best to ensure that everything is in order here, and I eagerly await your return."
The upcoming event promised not only the awe-inspiring clashes of lances in the thrilling jousting competitions but also the fierce battles of skill and valor in the combat arenas. His mind focused on honing his abilities, perfecting his techniques, and steeling his resolve to face the challenges that lay ahead.