The time had finally arrived, today marked the beginning of the grand tournament. Leto deliberated carefully and eventually chose to engage solely in melee combat, as he acknowledged his limited experience with jousting.
With Matthew's skillful assistance, Leto carefully donned his meticulously polished armor, a work of art lovingly cleaned and newly polished by Emma. The embedded emeralds on both the armor and the sword gleamed with a flawless brilliance, casting a captivating radiance that caught the eyes of all who beheld them.
Leto stood resplendent in his emerald-clad armor, an awe-inspiring sight that seemed to transcend mortal realms. Like a celestial being, he embodied the very essence of a guardian angel, prepared to defend Atredor with unwavering dedication and valor.
His presence exuded a sense of noble purpose, a beacon of hope and strength, embodying the pursuit of glory and the noble art of war.
Leto's armor nearly safeguarded every inch on his body. From head to toe, it enveloped him in an impenetrable embrace.
Thick plates guarded his chest and back, while sturdy vambraces shielded his arms. Articulated greaves wrapped securely around his legs, and a sturdy helm protected his head, leaving only a narrow visor for him to see through.
"I am ready," Leto declared with a resolute and confident voice. His words carried the weight of determination and the fire of conviction. In that moment, his demeanor exuded unwavering readiness, portraying a warrior primed to face any challenge that lay ahead.
His steady tone revealed the calm assurance that resided within him, knowing he had prepared thoroughly for this defining moment. With courage coursing through his veins, Leto stood tall and resolute, ready to embrace whatever fate had in store for him on this momentous day.
"It's time to go," Matthew announced, his voice filled with anticipation and excitement. With a reassuring smile, he added, "Emma will accompany us, watching from the midst of the cheering crowd."
Leto nodded decisively. "Fine, let's go now," he replied with a firm resolve.
Stepping out of the inn, Leto took a deep breath. It was time, after this day the kingdom would know of Leton Ravenheart.
With Matthew and Emma at his side, Leto walked confidently towards the tourney grounds. The weight of his armor felt reassuring as they made their way together. Upon reaching the destination, they exchanged heartfelt glances, knowing that this was the moment they had prepared for. Embracing one another, they parted ways, each following their distinct path amidst the bustling crowd.
Amidst a row of numerous knights, Leto stood tall, ready to register himself for the grand tourney. The air was filled with a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation, as warriors from different lands gathered to showcase their skill and valor.
With unwavering determination, he stepped forward, prepared to add his name to the illustrious list of contenders, each vying for glory and the chance to etch their name in the annals of history.
At the registration table, an elderly man greeted Leto with a warm smile. "I suppose you wish to enter the tournament?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity and a hint of wisdom. Leto nodded, impressed by the man's keen perception. "Indeed," Leto replied, his voice filled with eagerness and respect.
"I seek to test my mettle and join the ranks of the esteemed competitors." The old man nodded approvingly, handing Leto the necessary forms to complete. As Leto signed his name, he felt a surge of anticipation, knowing that this would be a momentous journey that could alter the course of his life forever.
"The entry fee is 200 Gold Lions, ser," the old man informed Leto with a hint of formality. Leto nodded in approval and promptly handed over the required sum. The exchange was carried out with a sense of mutual respect between them.
With the transaction completed, the old man gestured towards the preparation rooms. "You may proceed inside," he said, his demeanor cordial and encouraging. "Best of luck in the tournament, young knight."
Leto thanked the old man warmly before making his way to the preparation rooms, where the air was charged with anticipation and camaraderie. As he stepped forward into this space, he could feel the atmosphere buzzing with excitement and the indomitable spirit of the warriors about to face the ultimate test of skill and valor.
Leto found himself in a bustling preparation room, surrounded by a sea of determined faces. Over a hundred knights were gathered here, and he knew that there were even more competitors in the other preparation rooms. The magnitude of the tournament became apparent – at least 300 knights vying for victory.
The air crackled with a blend of excitement and nervous tension as they all awaited their turn to prove their worth on the grand stage. It was evident that this tourney was bound to be a grueling and unforgettable contest, with battles that would test their limits and push them to their very best.
As Leto observed the camaraderie among the knights, he realized that despite the fierce competition, there was also a sense of shared respect and admiration for one another. In this gathering of warriors, each had their own tale of valor and honor, and Leto knew that his journey would be interwoven with theirs.
As the moments ticked by, he couldn't help but acknowledge that this tournament would be a true test of skill and endurance. However, Leto was resolute, for he knew that in this crucible of glory, he would forge a legacy worth remembering.
In the preparation room, Leto patiently awaited his turn, watching as one by one, knights were called forth and escorted to the grand arena, where they would engage in epic battles for honor and glory.
The air was charged with anticipation, and the sound of clashing steel reverberated through the walls. Each knight that emerged carried a unique aura of valor and determination, ready to leave their mark on the tourney. Cheers and roars from the crowd echoed in the distance, a testament to the fierce competition unfolding outside.
As the moments passed, Leto's heart pounded with a mix of excitement and nerves. The weight of his armor reminded him of the challenge that lay ahead, but it also served as a symbol of the indomitable spirit that resided within him.
With each knight's departure, Leto mentally prepared himself for the imminent call to arms. His mind was focused, and his resolve steeled. He knew that this was not merely a contest of strength but a test of character, a chance to showcase the noble virtues that made a true knight.
And so, Leto sat in quiet contemplation, eagerly awaiting his own moment to step into the arena, to join the ranks of those fighting for glory.
From the break of dawn until the sun dipped below the horizon, Leto remained in that preparation room, his anticipation mounting with every passing hour.
The waiting was a test in itself, challenging Leto's patience and resolve. He watched the sun's journey across the sky, feeling the weight of time passing, each minute an eternity. Yet, he knew that enduring this wait was a small price to pay for the chance to prove his mettle on this grand stage.
Finally, the moment Leto had been waiting for arrived, and the air seemed to hold its breath in anticipation. The herald's voice boomed through the arena, resounding with grandeur and excitement. "Now, we will witness the prowess of Leto of House Ravenheart! Please step forth!"
With adrenaline coursing through his veins, Leto emerged from the preparation room into the dazzling light of the arena. The cheers were few, no wonder not many knew him. His emerald-clad armor gleamed under the sun, a sight to behold, as he walked with purpose towards the center of the arena.
As Leto stood in the center of the arena, a hushed murmur spread through the crowd. The herald's voice boomed once more, "Facing him will be none other than High Lord Oswald of House Brightroar!"
A sense of anticipation and tension filled the air as the High Lord of House Brightroar stepped forward, clad in resplendent armor adorned with the golden emblem of his noble lineage.
"So this will be my first competitor" Leton thought