The small world Elena had crafted shimmered into focus as each team materialized in their assigned zones. The terrain was diverse—rocky hills, winding rivers, patches of dense forest, and open plains—perfect for both strategy and spectacle. Fighters examined their surroundings, sizing up the obstacles and their opponents. Even in this artificially crafted land, the tension was palpable.
Azrael stepped forward, his black cloak swirling as he moved. His voice boomed across the arena, echoing in every crystal portal. "Champions of Noxveil," he announced, his eyes briefly glimmering red, "you may use your powers to their full extent. If any fighter is killed, they will return to the arena alive—but their team will lose one point. That is the cost of taking risks. Proceed with caution."
A murmur ran through the teams. The human saintess adjusted her veil, her golden eyes widening slightly. The orc's fists tightened, muscles coiling as he weighed the rules. The elves and dark elves exchanged glances, silent calculation flashing across their expressions. The beastfolk and merfolk nodded at one another, instincts already activating as they prepared for the first skirmish.
Azrael's gaze swept across the zones, lingering on each ruler and their fighters. "You may capture an enemy flag or protect your own until the timer expires. Remember, every decision matters. Cooperation within your team, cunning against your opponents, and careful execution will determine the victor."
He paused for a moment, then raised a hand. "Begin your planning."
Instantly, the zones filled with movement. Champions huddled with their rulers, discussing strategy. Fingers traced imagined paths through the terrain, whispers of plans for attack and defense were exchanged, and tactical positions were tested. Some teams assigned their fastest fighters as attackers, while others fortified their positions with defenders ready to intercept. The air was thick with anticipation, each zone alive with strategy.
Above the battlefield, Elena reclined on her throne, silver eyes glittering as she munched on popcorn. This… is perfect, she thought, a soft smile tugging at her lips. Every move, every hesitation, every clever maneuver… it's like watching a video game.
Her gaze flicked to the human saintess and her five champions. So disciplined, so precise… predictable. Let's see how long they last when true chaos comes.
Next, her eyes swept over the orc team, all muscle and fire, bristling with raw aggression. Yes… smash, push, dominate. I love the energy.
The elves and dark elves were moving with calculated grace. Ah, elegance and cunning. I can already see the battles within their strategy forming. The tension is delicious.
Even the beastfolk and merfolk teams were preparing, instincts honed, reflexes sharp. The unpredictable ones. They'll be interesting to watch. So many possibilities.
She shifted slightly, letting the popcorn settle in her lap. The crowd in the plaza below erupted into cheers and shouts, waving banners, tossing pom-poms, and shouting encouragement to their chosen teams. Coin clinks from bets echoed through the stands, a river of gold flowing from one side of the arena to the other. Everyone's invested. Everyone's watching. I love it, she thought, leaning back. It's not just a game—it's a spectacle.
Elena's silver eyes gleamed as she observed individual champions practicing small maneuvers, adjusting their positions, and reacting to their rulers' instructions. Look at them, trying to anticipate each other, trying to be clever… and yet this is far more exciting than I imagine. Every mistake, every hesitation—.
She chuckled softly in her mind, imagining herself controlling it all like a master gamer. Popcorn in hand, watching the chaos unfold… Yes, this is exactly how it should be.
Azrael moved along the sidelines, keeping a watchful eye on the portals and the magic stabilizing each zone. "Time begins now," he declared.
Immediately, teams began moving. Attackers darted through forests and over rivers, defenders took positions on hills and near flags, and the first skirmishes were already forming in smaller zones. Magical energy, agility, and raw skill clashed as fighters tested one another, every step measured, every strike carefully calculated.
Elena's silver eyes flicked from zone to zone, following the flow of action like a player observing multiple windows on a screen. Yes… exactly like a game. This is fun
She took another bite of popcorn, the sounds of the crowd and the chaos below blending into a thrilling symphony. Attack, defend, steal the flag… yes, yes, yes. I could watch this forever.
The first whistle sounded magically through the zones, signaling the official start of the Game of Thrones. Cheers erupted from the crowd, crystal screens broadcasting the action across Noxveil. Elena leaned back, eyes gleaming with delight. Let them fight. Let them scheme. Let the betting flow. And let me enjoy every second of it.