Divine Beast Ascension

Chapter 395: [Bonus chapter] Three Prefectures, or Six?

Everyone sat quietly. Their eyes were locked onto Slazza and Narja. Even their hearts seemed to slow down, as if offering utmost silence to the valued announcement.

“Should you permit three other prefectures to join the exhibition, the event shall be broken into two parts,” Slazza explained. “The first part would pit prefectures against each other, head to head. The winning three prefectures will participate in the bracket tournament immediately following the first part, alongside the quadrant’s candidate.

“In addition to the potential award and boons for outdoing the quadrant’s candidate, a new prize will be added. The top four mortal candidates, which may include the quadrant’s candidate, will receive gifts directly from the quadrant. And it will be something to help the young cultivators better prepare for the Mortal Championship.”

‘Agree to open the exhibition.’

Before the prefecture lords had time to process the additional reward, a voice echoed through Treeda’s mind.

Without flinching or hesitating, Treeda nodded and stated, “I agree to open the exhibition to three more prefectures.”

“... I second that decision.” Inka wasn’t sure why Treeda was so quick to reply, but Inka followed Treeda, as they had agreed.

.....

Narja smiled back at the women. “In that case, these adjustments shall be made. Lord Draco, though you’re unable to overturn the decision of the majority, what are your thoughts on opening the exhibition to others?”

Isaac took a moment longer to think. But firmly responded, “So long as only participating prefecture lords are allowed to spectate, then I agree.”

“Such an adjustment is possible. Consider it done. And, you are now fully informed on the rules of the exhibition,” Slazza replied. “In eleven days, six prefecture lords will gather in the colosseum to await God Toseko’s arrival. Then, we’ll begin the exhibition immediately. During those eleven days, do whatever you must to prepare and bring candidates to Iron Territory.”

“Sir Slazza, Lady Narja, which prefectures will be joining us?”

“Lord Treeda, I’m sorry but I can’t say for sure,” answered Narja. “We’ve yet to announce your decision, so we have no confirmations. It will be a first come first serve basis, where the first three of the invited prefecture lords to arrive before God Toseko will be included. At least... that’s how it should be.”

Slazza nodded, adding, “Following Narja’s line of thought, and speaking from our experiences, I’d expect Razor Prefecture to be among the three joining prefectures.”

“Ahm-”

A sharp groan escaped Brak’s lips. But none of the prefecture lords or visiting kings seemed surprised by Brak.

Immediately, Vloz, Bradok, and Ania understood the meaning of that statement. And none of them dared ask anything regarding the sudden pause in the discussion.

“Are there any more questions?”

“... What format will there be in the first part of the exhibition?” Treeda asked.

Slazza answered, “Each prefecture’s combatants will be given a random number, from one to five. Then, the dueling prefectures will send up the combatants in that randomized order. No one will know who their opponent is until the match has begun. And the first of the two prefectures to win three matches will move on to the second day.”

“So, it’s best three out of five, with no possibility to strategize?” Lord Draco sighed.

“That’s correct,” agreed Slazza. “Are there any more questions? ... No? Then, this meeting is adjourned and you’re all dismissed. We wish you the best of luck in your preparations for the exhibition.”

Narja and Slazza stood up with relieved grins. They shook everyone’s hands and took their leave. However, they left behind a massive construction crew of perennials and a few kings. The leader of the crew quickly took Bradok away as they had too many plans to discuss with nearly no time to enact them.

It took the others at least five minutes to calm their minds and stand up. Lord Draco got up first and glanced at Vloz. “For eleven days, Netra will be training with me and my team of instructors. You are still her master, but you’re temporarily relieved of that duty until the day of the exhibition. Am I clear?”

“Yes, Lord Draco. Thank you for offering my pupil your instructions and teachings,” Vloz replied, bowing.

Then, Lord Draco left, along with Rhyner.

“Huu... Razor’s coming?” Treeda sighed and shook her head. “This makes things interesting... Vloz. With the change of rules and you’re current availability, I wish to hire you as a private instructor.”

Vloz opened his mouth to reply, almost shaking his head. But Vloz abruptly changed his mind. “I... I’ll take the job. But I’ll need to be back home the day before the tournament.”

“Good. We leave for my clan now.” Getting up promptly but without worry, Treeda smiled and nodded to the other prefecture lord in the room. “Inka, if you wish to speak or meet with me, you’re welcome to visit my clan.”

“I will, after I get things settled for Tempest Prefecture.” Inka paused and turned toward Brak, who was still sitting cross-legged and in a state of half-shock. “Brak, do you know anything about Razor’s candidates?”

But Brak sorrowfully shook his head. “I don’t... I haven’t contacted my clan since the... wedding.”

“That’s too bad...” Clicking her tongue in dissatisfaction, Inka started walking out. “It’s time to leave. Good luck, Treeda.”

“Good luck, Inka.” Treeda waved as her friend left. “Zelsh, I would like you to stay in Iron Town and keep me informed of everything that happens. If you need, bring your wife or son so you’ll have a messenger available to make daily reports. Also, I’ll be taking Tilgron to Nightscape City until the exhibition.”

“Very well.” Zelsh nodded, getting up to his feet. “I’ll be back soon, Ania. Save me a spot at the dinner table.”

Ania nodded and followed them out, leaving the council building empty.

Each prefecture lord rushed back home and sent messengers in droves to gather the strongest candidates. They had to hurry. Preparing five representatives instead of four was both a blessing and a curse.

At the same time, another prefecture lord has already arrived in Virulent City.

“Yes, enter!”

The doors were opened and a man with golden hair, a golden beard, and a golden robe stepped into the throne room. “Kartzal, what’s the meaning of this exhibition? And why are we only invited to spectate, not participate?”

“Warak, calm down,” Toseko laughed, getting up and out of his throne. “There still might be a chance to participate if you can wait a little longer.”