As the murmur of confusion and disbelief spread, the judge turned back to King Hoom Doom. “The Dead Island City will be transferred to Kent as per the agreement. You are to sign the transfer documents immediately.”
King Hoom Doom’s shoulders slumped in defeat, but he nodded. He had no choice. With shaky hands, he motioned for his ministers to retrieve the necessary documents. The Doom family was now forced to part with not just their wealth but their land as well.
As the documents were signed by Kent and wealth was paid to Raganr, the Royal Judges added seal to agreement.
“Congratulations, City Lord, Kent.” Lily said in a teasing tone as she smiled excitedly.
All the spectators were watching this scene without leaving. Many of the Doom family’s supporters, who had come to watch them triumph, now whispered among themselves in disbelief.
“They’re losing everything…”
“What a disaster.”
“First, their wealth, now their land… and all because of their arrogance in challenging the Frost family.”
“The Doom family had brought this upon themselves.”
After settling everything, King Hoom Doom, with shoulders slumped in defeat, approached King Ragnar. Every eye in the arena fixed on the once-proud monarch of the Doom family, now broken and humbled.
With a deep breath, King Hoom Doom bowed his head low before King Ragnar, his voice loud but trembling as it echoed through the arena. “In the presence of all, I admit my folly and arrogance. I, Hoom Doom, apologize to you, King Ragnar, and to the people who have witnessed my defeat. I have paid the price for my hubris, and I beg forgiveness for the injustice happened.”
For a moment, there was only silence. Then, as if on cue, the crowd erupted into chants. “Frost family! Frost family!” they roared, their voices rising in unison. Banners of the Frost family fluttered proudly in the wind, a sea of blue and silver as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of triumph for King Ragnar, a moment of humiliation for Hoom Doom.
King Ragnar remained silent for a moment, allowing the weight of the situation to sink in for everyone watching. Then, he stepped forward, his gaze cold and sharp as it met Hoom Doom’s.
“Next time be careful what you play with. Because you can’t afford another fight.” King Ragnar uttered with a deep look.
Hoom Doom flinched at the words as though they were a physical slap across his face. Without another word, he straightened himself, his expression hardening into one of grim acceptance. He turned and strode away from the arena, followed closely by Princess Chuli and the remaining members of his family.
As the Doom family disappeared into the distance, the judges approached King Ragnar. “Congratulations, Your Majesty. The ruling has been executed with full fairness, and we are honored to have overseen this event.”
The Arena Master, an elderly man with a booming voice, added, “It was a spectacle to be remembered for ages, King Ragnar. You’ve not only won a victory but also cemented your family’s reputation.”
Ragnar gave a small nod. “I thank you all for your diligence. This matter is now settled.”
With that, the judges and the Arena Master took their leave, bowing respectfully before exiting the stage. Slowly, the spectators began to disperse, though the air was filled with the murmurs of the defeat.
Many had lost their wealth in the betting, hoping the Doom family would triumph. Now, they were left nursing their losses, muttering amongst themselves as they filed out of the arena.
As the arena emptied, King Ragnar turned to Lily, who had been standing proudly beside Kent. “Take Kent back to the palace. I’ll return tomorrow.”
Lily raised an eyebrow, curious about his sudden departure. “Father, where are you going?”
“I have some business to attend to,” Ragnar replied with a vague smile, but his eyes revealed a deeper intent. “I’ll explain later.”
Without further explanation, King Ragnar silently left the arena. He walked quickly, turning down several narrow streets before reaching a secluded part of the city. Once there, he pulled a dark cloak from his storage ring and draped it over his shoulders, masking his royal attire.
Under the cover of night, Ragnar made his way to an underground establishment known to only a few, the Illegal Betting Palace. Experience more content on empire
The palace was hidden beneath the city’s bustling markets, accessible only through a series of winding tunnels that led deep into the earth.
Ragnar entered the dimly lit space, where shady figures gathered around large tables. The air was thick with the scent of alcohol and the low hum of secretive conversations.
At the back of the room, sitting in a corner was Old Ma—the man Ragnar had come to see.
As Ragnar approached, Old Ma’s eyes twinkled knowingly. “Congratulations, My friend. You really did the impossible.”
Ragnar sat down across from him, not bothering with pleasantries. “Shut the formalities. My guy won. So, as agreed, tell me about the Trident summit.”
Old Ma stared at King Ragnar’s face for a long time before he leaned forward, his face turning serious. “The first phase of the Trident Summit will be held in the Abandoned War Ground of Gods. It’s been closed off for thousands of years, forbidden to all, but now it’s being unsealed for the summit.”
Ragnar’s brows furrowed. “The War Ground of Gods? That place is cursed. What is King Ryon planning?”
Old Ma’s lips twisted into a grim smile. “King Ryon is taking this year’s summit very seriously. He’s pulling out all the stops. The war ground will be unsealed for this event, and only those who are truly prepared will survive it.”
Ragnar nodded thoughtfully. “I see. This will be more dangerous than I expected.”
As Ragnar stood to leave, Old Ma stopped him, his eyes narrowing. “Tell me, Ragnar… this Kent you brought to the fight today. Who is he, really?”
Ragnar’s gaze darkened, his lips curling into a cold smile. “Knowing some things isn’t good for your health, Old Ma. I suggest you leave it alone.”
Old Ma chuckled, though there was a hint of unease in his voice. “Fair enough.”
Ragnar extended his hand, and Old Ma handed him a small storage ring. “Your winnings, King Ragnar. You made quite a fortune today.”
Ragnar took the ring and left without another word, his cloak billowing behind him as he disappeared into the shadows of the night.
–
Thank-You “@LotusLin” for Massage-Chair!