"In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.”

-Sun Tzu

Mengus was now in the heart of the realm. Around him were towering trees, their branches reaching clouds high in the sky. The air refreshing, with the earthy fragrance of moss and pine. As Mengus ventured further, the terrain transformed around him and beneath his horse's hooves. Rocky paths adorned the landscape, challenging his journey with their uneven surface. The rhythmic clatter of hooves against the rocky terrain echoed through the valleys, harmonizing with the gentle rustle of leaves overhead.

Mountains, with their majestic peaks crowned by blankets of snow, emerged on the horizon. They stood tall and proud, unreachable from the outside world. The sun, playing hide-and-seek behind white fluffy clouds, cast a shifting dance of shadows upon the rocky slopes and wooded valleys.

A gentle breeze carried the freshness of mountain air, and the sunlit sky stretched over like a vast canvas, painted in hues of blue and decorated with a some white clouds that seemed to drift lazily along the mountain peaks.

The town he was aiming for, Marunath, also known as the "Oclagian", was a city nowhere near a river. But the place was still loved, especially by the bards because of the legend. The hero Oclagian who defeated all seven sons of King Glenys in duels. The legend says that he slit his horse's throat and crossed over the stream of blood that gushed forth, defeating his last enemy and fulfiling the prophecy. The town has 4 bound villages, giving it potential to become one of Barrania's wealthiest towns.

But the road to Marunath was very dangerous for a lone traveler. The first thing Mengus did, when he saw one of the villages that were a part of Marunath, was going to recruit volunteers. He did not have unlimited gold, so he had to be very careful with spending.

The first thing he bought was grain for 10 gold, then a new rough bearskin, battered fur armour, rough tied braces, light saddle, reinforced oaken kite shield and quality broad tzikourion. In total 4798 gold.

"I have only 1000, would that be enough?"

He was kicked from the tavern in an instant.

Well, at least he didn't spend all his money, so with 400 gold he recruited 10 Barranian volunteers and in another tavern he bought some food for the road, which left him with 450 gold. Even in his past life he was bad with money, and now in this new life of his he seemed to be even worse.

With new companions by his side, Mengus traveled slower but much safer and calmer than before. As they approached the town, he could see the giant walls surrounding it in the horizon. The gates welcomed travelers and adventurers from all corners of the realm. The town known for their arena, everyone wants to become a champion at least once here, a perfect start of his journey for Mengus.

Upon reaching the city gates, Mengus paid the entry fee to enter the tournament. The bustling streets of Marunath greeted him with a cacophony of sounds—vendors haggling, the clinking of armor, and the distant cheers from the arena. The city, a melting pot of cultures and aspirations, seemed to pulse with life.

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Mengus felt a knot of nervousness in his stomach. The weight of the arena and the unknown challenges it held weighed heavily on him. As he approached the registration desk, the clerk looked up, Mengus didn't look nothing special to him. "Another kid trying to make it," he thought.

With a deep breath, Mengus paid the entry fee and officially entered the tournament.

The towering gates of Marunath's arena stood tall before Mengus. As he approached, the scent of anticipation hung thick in the air, the distant echoes of cheers and the rhythmic clash of weapons made him even more nervous. The stone walls in the arena were covered with faded banners bearing the insignia of past champions, they seemed to whisper tales of glory and valor.

Mengus passed through the arched entrance, and the world beyond unfolded like a vivid tapestry. The arena sprawled before him, a circular expanse surrounded by seating that ascended like steps to the heavens. Every seat was full, people all around him cheering for their favorite. The afternoon sun cast a warm glow upon the spectators, their eager faces watching down the central arena, where the heart of the spectacle awaited.

The sound of cheering and laughter, like a distant storm, grew louder with each step Mengus took. The tiers, filled with a diverse array of onlookers, created a mosaic of colors—rich fabrics, heraldic symbols, and the occasional glint of armor catching the sunlight. Noblewomen in flowing gowns brushed shoulders with commoners in weathered tunics, all united by the promise of entertainment and the thrill of combat.

The central battleground was filled with fresh sand, waiting for the clash of contenders. Sturdy barriers with banners displaying the heraldry of Marunath, encircled the arena floor. The central podium, a raised platform adorned with the colors of the city. looked like a throne of destiny. There, at the end of the day, a champion would be declared.

There were 4 groups of 4, fighting all at once. Mengus, in his shiny armor, stood at the forefront of his group, his eyes looking at the groups across the sandy battleground. The distant cheers of the crowd became even louder, soon the battle will begin. The main reward for the winner, Wedar Hotblood. A horse worthy of the champion.

The loud drums were the signal for the start of the battle. The clash erupted simultaneously in all four groups as they ran towards each other. Swords clanged against shields, the distinct thud of maces striking armor, and the swift whirl of blades sliced through the air. The combatants, each with their unique styles and strategies, engaged in a dance of strength, skill, and tactical prowess.

Mengus, relying on his training and his secret power "Stats", found the weakest group and with his group rushed them. His sword met the onslaught of opponents, his shield deflecting blows with precision. The arena was filled with chaos, a spectacle of flashing steel, swirling dust, and triumphant roar as a contender succeeded in knocking an opponent to the ground.

The cheers from the crowd intensified with every strike. In the midst of the chaos, Mengus found himself locked in a one-on-one duel. His opponent, level 17 warrior, skillfully parried his attacks. But he was not afraid even though his opponent was a much higher level, because in this world skill was the most important thing when it came to life and death. The dance of blades became more intricate, each combatant seeking an opening to land a decisive blow. With a swift maneuver, Mengus managed to knock his opponent to the ground, a triumph that wouldn't last long.

In the heat of the victory, Mengus failed to notice a threat looming behind him. A sudden impact against the back of his head sent shockwaves through his senses. The world spun, and the cheers of the crowd melded into a distant hum. As he fought to maintain consciousness, the harsh reality of the arena unfolded - the battle was not just about skills and strength but also about the unpredictable and treacherous nature of the combatants.

As Mengus staggered, his vision blurred, he felt the cold embrace of the sandy arena floor. His first try to become a champion, ended in a failure.