CHAPTER 91: ARENA

The first rays of sunlight spilled through Nolan’s window, casting a warm glow across the room. He stretched, feeling the soft warmth brush against his skin, and drew the curtains wider, letting the morning light flood in. The quiet hum of the town outside seeped through the walls—the distant clatter of carts, the faint crowing of a rooster.

He padded to the bathroom, the cool tile underfoot contrasting with the warmth of his skin as he dried himself with a towel. Quickly, he pulled on his battle suit, the familiar weight of it grounding him for the day ahead.

Downstairs, the scent of freshly baked bread and roasted eggs welcomed him. Cynthia gestured toward the dining table, her movements graceful yet precise. Nolan nodded and took a seat, the wooden chair creaking slightly under him.

Moments later, Celia, Linda, and Lyra appeared, yawns stretching across their faces, hair mussed from sleep.

"Good morning, Master," Celia murmured, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

"Good morning," Linda and Lyra said in unison, their voices light and melodic.

Nolan returned their greeting with a smile. "Good morning."

The group settled into a comfortable rhythm, passing plates and savoring the warm, flavorful breakfast. Cynthia stood nearby, her sharp eyes observing their every bite, a quiet guardian ensuring everything went smoothly.

"Ah... this was really good," Nolan said, pushing back his empty plate. He rose and bowed slightly. "Thank you for the meal."

"You’re welcome," Cynthia replied, her lips curling into a faint smile.

Just then, she extended an envelope toward him. "Sir Nolan, this came for you."

Nolan’s fingers brushed against the thick paper as he took it. Breaking the seal, he scanned the contents. A grin slowly spread across his face. "It’s accepted... mine, Lyra’s, and Celia’s as well."

Celia’s eyes sparkled with excitement. "The guild master didn’t even let me apply—he applied for me!"

Nolan chuckled, shaking his head. "I can’t wait for tomorrow. The tournament starts soon... I wonder when our turn will come."

"Yeah," Lyra murmured, a hint of nervous anticipation in her voice.

Celia hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Master, can I join you to see the arena today?"

Nolan glanced at Cynthia. "Miss Cynthia, could you take us there? I’m not entirely sure where it is."

"It’s no problem," she replied smoothly. "I can show you from afar."

"Thank you! That would be a huge help," Nolan said, bowing slightly. Then he turned to Celia, nodding. "Yes, you can join me."

"The arena isn’t far," Cynthia added. "It belongs to the royal family—it’s enormous."

Nolan’s eyes widened. "Wow... I can’t wait to see it!"

"Shall we go now?" Cynthia asked.

"Yes! Let’s go!" Nolan jumped to his feet, excitement making his heart pound. Celia and Linda followed immediately.

As they stepped outside, the town’s morning bustle greeted them. Lyra stayed behind, waving them off. People on the road greeted Cynthia warmly.

"Ma’am, thank you for the other day! We really appreciate it!" several townsfolk called out.

Cynthia waved back, smiling. "You’re welcome."

Nolan looked around, amazed. "People really know you. You’re... famous here?"

Cynthia nodded. "I supply milk to the town for free. It’s nutritious and helps the children grow."

Nolan’s cheeks flushed, realization hitting him. "I drank milk from... you?"

The path widened as they approached the arena. Its massive walls towered above them, the grandeur almost overwhelming. Two knights stood at the entrance, their armor gleaming in the sunlight.

"Do you see it?" Cynthia asked.

"Yes... wow," Nolan breathed. "It’s huge."

Celia and Linda stared in awe, the scale of the structure dwarfing everything around it.

"I’ll leave you here," Cynthia said. "I’ve done my part." She turned and walked back, leaving them alone.

Nolan inhaled deeply. "I’m breathing in... and breathing out. Let’s go in."

They stepped through the grand entrance, the echo of their footsteps bouncing off stone walls. Every step made the arena feel larger, more imposing. The seats for spectators stretched endlessly above them, anticipation crackling in the air like static.

Four figures on the opposite side observed them quietly, while others scattered throughout the arena’s vastness turned curious gazes toward the newcomers.

Suddenly, a figure jumped down from the stands, landing lightly. Celia and Linda mirrored him, landing gracefully beside him.

"This is... where I’ll be fighting," Nolan murmured, awe in his voice.

From the crowd, someone ran toward them, a bright smile lighting up his face.

"Hey! Nice to meet you! Are you participating tomorrow?" the man called.

"Yes," Nolan replied, steadying his excitement. Celia added, "Same for me."

"I’m Tharion," the man said, extending his hand. "Are this your companions.

"Yes, they’re my companions," Nolan said calmly.

"Wow! Beautiful... they’re really beautiful," Tharion said, his eyes lingering on Linda and Celia.

Nolan said nothing, simply observing. You’re lucky, dude, he thought silently.

Tharion followed Nolan’s gaze. "Look at my companions over there," he said, pointing toward a pair of imposing figures. One was a massive, muscular man wearing a string of monk beads around his neck, his head bowed respectfully. Beside him stood another man, tall and lean, gripping a sword that gleamed in the sunlight.

"Wow... those are his companions," Tharion muttered under his breath. That muscular guy looks incredibly strong... I bet his strength is unmatched, Nolan thought, noting the sheer size and presence of the man.

"Sorry, I just wanted to say hi," Tharion added quickly. "It’s my first time coming to the Empire. I wanted to make new friends."

Nolan’s lips twitched. I don’t usually like people who make friends so easily... I’m the opposite. But... it would be nice to have a friend, he admitted to himself.

Tharion stretched out his hand. Nolan glanced at it, then hesitated briefly before shaking it. Their eyes met, and a small, genuine smile passed between them.

"Hey! Come over here! We’re not done checking everything yet!" a voice called. It was Zevric, one of Tharion’s companions, his tone sharp but energetic.

"Oh... looks like I have to go," Tharion said reluctantly, turning back.

Nolan nodded, watching him with a faint smile. Tharion waved at him before sprinting toward his friends.