The sprawling expanse of the Colosseum loomed over the four recruits as they were led into its grand hall, a place unlike anything Echo or Rook had ever seen. It was both ancient and futuristic, a blend of towering stone pillars and shimmering holographic displays. The air carried a faint hum of energy, as if the walls themselves were alive with untold power.
Sentinel and Gladiator stood at the forefront, their imposing figures framed by the soft glow of a massive central projection. Beside them stood two other mentors—the serene woman in her flowing green cloak and the grizzled warrior with his battle-worn demeanor.
“This,” Sentinel began, gesturing to the vast chamber, “is the Colosseum.”
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A Place of Legends and Mediocrity
As Sentinel spoke, the holographic projection flickered to life. It displayed the history of the Colosseum in vivid detail—scenes of warriors training, clashing in fierce battles, and standing victorious atop podiums adorned with glowing Veilmarks.
“The Colosseum,” she continued, “is a place of legacy, where the most talented individuals in the world have come to test their limits and prove their worth. For millennia, it has been a beacon for the best of the best, a proving ground for those destined to ascend beyond the ordinary.”
“But,” Gladiator interjected, his tone sharp, “for the past few thousand years, that legacy has tarnished. Only twelve individuals—your predecessors—have entered this hallowed place, and not one of them has lived up to the expectations of the Colosseum.”
The words hung heavy in the air, and Echo exchanged a glance with Rook.
“Wait,” Rook said, his brow furrowing, “so you’re saying... we’re part of this group of twelve?”
The grizzled mentor nodded. “You and the others standing here are among them. The Colosseum itself chooses its participants. It doesn’t care about bloodlines or power—it cares about potential. But that potential means nothing without dedication.”
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
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The Goal: Eight Competitors
The serene mentor in green spoke next, her voice soft yet commanding. “The Colosseum demands eight competitors. Once the remaining four are chosen and the roster is complete, the clock will begin ticking. You will have one month to prepare for the tournament.”
A tournament. The word sent a ripple of excitement through the group, though it was tempered by the gravity of the situation.
“The tournament is no ordinary competition,” Gladiator added. “It is designed to push you beyond your limits, to force you to use every ounce of your strength, wit, and skill. Only the top four will emerge victorious, and they will be granted prizes beyond imagination.”
Aris leaned forward, her sharp gaze narrowing. “What kind of prizes are we talking about?”
“Power,” Sentinel said simply. “Knowledge. Resources. The kind of tools that can change your destiny.”
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Echo and Rook Process the Truth
Echo felt a strange mix of excitement and unease. The Colosseum’s history was awe-inspiring, but the weight of expectation hung heavily over them.
“So,” Rook said, scratching the back of his head, “we’re supposed to become these legendary warriors or whatever, but... what happens if we fail?”
Sentinel’s gaze turned icy. “Failure in the Colosseum is not just defeat in battle. It’s a loss of purpose. The Colosseum will spit you out, unworthy and forgotten.”
“That’s if you’re lucky,” Gladiator added grimly. “For some, the challenges of the Colosseum leave marks that never fade—both on the body and the mind.”
Echo swallowed hard, his resolve hardening. “Then we don’t fail. Simple as that.”
Aris smirked, her arms crossed. “Big talk. Let’s see if you can back it up.”
Halric chuckled, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to Aris’s intensity. “It’s going to take more than just talk. We’re all in this together, for now. Let’s focus on what’s ahead.”
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The Plan Moving Forward
Sentinel stepped forward, her voice firm. “For now, your training will continue as planned. You will prepare your bodies, sharpen your minds, and strengthen your Veilmarks. When the Colosseum is full, and the eighth competitor stands among you, the true test will begin.”
“Until then,” Gladiator said, his tone more encouraging, “focus on becoming the best version of yourselves. This is your chance to rise above mediocrity and make history.”
As the mentors dismissed them, Echo and Rook lingered in the hall, their minds racing with possibilities.
“So, a tournament,” Rook said, his voice tinged with both excitement and anxiety. “Think we have a shot at top four?”
Echo smirked, a spark of determination in his eyes. “We didn’t come this far just to lose. We’ll make it, no matter what it takes.”