image [https://i.imgur.com/RBPcsVL.jpeg]

As the carriage rolled through the gates of Astaria, Eren couldn't help but marvel at the breathtaking beauty that unfolded before him. The capital city was a vision of ethereal splendor, its architecture a harmonious blend of sweeping arches, crystalline spires, and cascading fountains that seemed to defy gravity itself. Sunlight danced off iridescent buildings, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the pristine streets.

Eren's heart clenched with a reluctant admiration. As much as he wanted to deny it, Astaria's beauty surpassed even that of his beloved Valestrix. Yet, a nagging voice in his mind – one that sounded suspiciously like Azar's – reminded him that the prettiest faces often masked the darkest hearts.

Beside him sat Commander Thorne Shadowbane, the legendary leader of the Valestrian army and Azar's former mentor. The man's presence was as commanding as his name, his scarred face a testament to countless battles fought and won.

"Keep your wits about you, young prince," Thorne growled, his eyes scanning the crowd. "Beauty can be the deadliest weapon of all."

As they made their way through the winding streets, Eren observed the citizens of Astaria. Children pointed and whispered excitedly, their eyes wide with wonder at the procession of delegates from across the realms. Yet, among the adults, Eren could sense an undercurrent of tension. Some faces twisted with barely concealed hatred at the sight of the Valestrian crest, while others watched with calculated interest.

Eren kept his gaze forward, chin held high. He had been prepared for this – the mix of awe, fear, and resentment that the name Valestrix inspired across the realms.

Their destination loomed ahead: the Grand Nexus Arena. It was a colossal structure that seemed to pulse with magical energy, its walls shimmering with runes from a dozen different realms. Eren could feel the power emanating from within, a swirling vortex of potential that made his skin tingle.

As they approached the arena's entrance, Eren noticed a commotion. A group of young men, bearing the insignia of the Wudang Sect from Murim, were gathered around a solitary figure. Their target was a lean, dark-haired youth who stood with quiet dignity despite the taunts being hurled his way.

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"Look at the Seyoung dog," one of the Wudang disciples sneered. "Thinking he can stand among true cultivators."

The youth – Jin, Eren realized – simply smiled in response, which only served to further infuriate his tormentors. As one of them raised a fist, Eren moved without thinking. He stepped between Jin and the Wudang group, his hand casually brushing aside the would-be attacker's arm.

"Is this how the great Wudang Sect prepares for the ceremony?" Eren asked, his voice deceptively light. "By ganging up on a fellow competitor?"

The Wudang disciples bristled, but as they moved to confront Eren, their eyes fell on the Valestrix crest emblazoned on his back. Recognition dawned in their eyes, followed quickly by fear. Without another word, they melted back into the crowd.

Jin turned to Eren, his eyes appraising. "Thank you," he said simply. "Though I could have handled it."

Eren nodded, sensing a quiet strength in the other youth. "I'm sure you could have. I'm Eren."

"Jin of Seyoung," he replied with a slight bow. "It seems we'll be competing against each other soon."

Before Eren could respond, a horn sounded, signaling the start of the ceremony. As they filed into the arena with the other competitors, Eren's senses were overwhelmed. The stands were packed with spectators from across the realms – some human, others decidedly not. He could feel the weight of countless eyes upon him, assessing, judging.

In the center of the arena stood a dais, upon which sat the rulers and representatives of the major powers. Eren spotted his father, Dark Emperor Soren, his face impassive as he surveyed the gathering. Beside him sat Emperor Vaelon of Astaria, his golden armor gleaming in the sunlight.

As the last of the competitors took their places, a hush fell over the crowd. Emperor Vaelon rose, his voice magically amplified to reach every corner of the massive arena.

"Welcome, one and all, to the Inter-Realm Awakening Ceremony," he proclaimed. "May the best among you prove their worth and shape the future of our realms."

With a gesture from Vaelon, the ground beneath their feet began to shift and change. Eren tensed, ready for anything.

The first test had begun.