The Capital City was really big, housing nearly 100 million people.
And After the secret of secret land was leaked, even more people, either in groups or traveling solo, entered the city in droves. Knights and guards patrolled the streets, trying to maintain order, but with the increasing crowds, it seemed almost futile.
Various magical flying creatures roamed the skies, ridden by individuals in regal clothing, who landed gracefully and confidently on the ground.
The vendor streets bustled with life, teeming with activity.
Aengus and his party strolled through the stony asphalt streets, enjoying the afternoon. While some, like Sofia and Nate, remained cautious.
Aengus made small talk with others, trying to be friendly.
Alisha leaned in closer with a grin, "So, Zero, when are we having that duel?"
Aengus replied with a calm expression, "Anytime, Alisha. But don't cry when you lose."
"Come on, you seem like a battle maniac too, Zero," Nate, the blue-haired boy, sighed. "Do we really need to deal with two of you now?"
"Nah, I just like challenges. It's been a while since someone defeated me," Aengus said casually.
"Oh, that confident!" Nate exclaimed.
"Do you want to fight me too, Zero? I haven't used my dual swords in a long time," Lark grinned, gesturing to the blades strapped to his back.
"Brother Zero, why don't you show us your weapon?" Hank chimed in, his round figure jiggling with every step as he hefted his mace.
"Brother Zero must have a holy weapon at least," Hank added.
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"We all have holy weapons, Hank. You're the only one who doesn't, and you said Zero sold you one, so it's nothing special to get excited about," Mara remarked, rolling her eyes.
"Alright, guys, calm down a little," Sofia cut in, noticing the growing bickering.
"If you're so eager to fight, let's head to the Royal Colosseum. You can fight there and maybe we could gather the latest intel on the Secret Land there. We need to stay a step ahead."
"Who was the guy beside him?" Aengus asked, still curious.
Sofia's face grew solemn.
"That was one of the Dragon Princes of their kingdom. He's the best among the best, and his arrogance runs deep. We must be especially cautious around him."
Hank and others exchange glances.
"Man, Dragon Princes, Heroes, Demi-human Royalties, Phoenix Royalties... who knows what else we'll have to face these days," Nate sighed, clearly exasperated.
"Yeah, whatever," Sofia responded, rallying the group with determination. "But we can't give up."
Alisha grinned mischievously. "If you're scared, Ice-Cube, send them to me. I'll take care of them." She brandished her heavy greatsword with confidence.
"Oh, Don't cry when I do, Horny Succubus," Nate shot back, his icy demeanor cracking just a bit.
"Hey, you two, don't start again," Lark interjected with a sigh. "Let's continue where we were heading."
The group continued their way toward the Royal Colosseum, their steps steady on the rocky asphalt streets.
After just a quarter of an hour, they arrived at the grand, circular structure, gleaming under the sun's rays. Its imposing architecture filled them with awe. It was Royal Colosseum, where arranged duel happens and people come to watch fights in large numbers.
Once inside, they made their way to a nearby counter to register and buy passes.
"Hey, beautiful lady, give us seven passes, please," Hank said with a wide grin.
The lady behind the counter smiled warmly. "The show's free today, everyone. It's Princess Delilah's birthday. Go and enjoy yourselves."
"Princess Delilah's birthday?" Hank's eyes lit up with delight. "Do we get a chance to see her, by any chance?"
The woman scoffed, waving him off playfully. "You wish, fatso. Now shoo, shoo."
Sofia shot Hank a glare, her patience wearing thin. "Miss, please don't mind him. We'd like to arrange a few duels instead."
The lady's interest piqued. "Ah, duels! You should've said that earlier." Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she handed over several forms. "Fill these out, and I'll arrange your matches immediately."
Sofia passed the forms to the group one by one, but when it was Aengus' turn, he shook his head.