A week had passed since the glorious capture of the Highbeasts atop Mount Lustfor.
Throughout the island kingdom of Ednia rumors, articles, and more echoes of that majestic conquest had spread like wildfire.
Though some skeptics still questioned the truth of the event, the most curious had received concrete proof: the royal family had exceptionally authorized a select group of journalists, representing the six main provinces of Ednia Island to visit Regalia Castle.
During their visit, several of those reporters fainted from sheer astonishment upon seeing the Highbeasts up close.
These imposing creatures, tamed by the kingdom's heroes, were so majestic that no words could truly do them justice.
Once they regained their composure, the journalists confirmed the facts in their columns.
Newspapers sold out like hotcakes in cities, villages, and even in the most remote corners of the island.
In a lively tavern in Velmira's central district, a merchant looked up from his newspaper and exclaimed:
"Well like usual! Our young monarch never ceases to amaze me."
The barmaid polishing a glass nearby, replied with a smile:
"With him, Ednia is in good hands."
Meanwhile, at Ednia Academy in Amiria
In a classroom where classes had yet to begin students chattered excitedly.
Did you knew?Apparently after the king's wedding, the palace will allow visits to Regalia Castle.
And that will be free for anyone age 15 to 27 years old!" announced Gaston confidently.
Thomas his classmate, widened his eyes:
"No way... seriously are you sure?"
Leanne nodded:
"Yes! I heard my aunt talking about it with a florist who works at the castle.
When I go, I hope to see Lady Raelia.
She's the pride of Ednia's knights. I aspire to be a woman like her."
Eva clasped her hands under her chin, sighing dreamily:
"Ahh… I so want to see the inside of that place after all, it's the heart of royalty, with its architecture,history and its grand coat of arms..."
Paul added excitedly:
"You're right. It's like a dream. I never thought in my life I will have a chance to step inside Regalia Castle.Maybe I'll even see the famous Highbeasts captured at Mount Lustfor!"
Their eyes sparkled with dreams.
But their fantasy was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of their teacher.
"Good morning everyone please stop chatting we are welcoming a guest."
Gaston whispered:
"Hmmp who is coming here to academy?"
Leanne hands clasped, was almost praying:
"Let hope that be Lady Raelia..."
But it was another man who stepped through the door. All the students stood up in unison when they recognized his face.
"The k-king…" whispered Eva.
"No way… What's he doing here?!" said Thomas, stunned.
The teacher was about to intervene:
"Thomas, show some respect!"
But Jonady raised his hand with a smile:
"It's fine. Their reaction is justified."
He walked to the center of the room while everyone sat back down.
Clearing his throat, he spoke calmly and serenely:
"Good morning, dear students of Ednia-Amiria Academy. It is my pleasure to see you all.
You may be wondering why your monarch is here.
Well, as your sovereign, I felt compelled to meet those who will be tomorrow's elite — those who will keep the wheels of our administration turning."
The students listened, hanging on his every word some instinctively took notes.
"Currently the academy Ednia-Amiria is known to have the highest educational level in the kingdom. But that reputation alone is no longer enough it's time to put that knowledge to the test."
He paused, sweeping the room with his gaze.
"From now on, each institute in the kingdom will present its best students these students will face trials where their knowledge will be applied. It's a challenge, yes and among the six provinces don't think you'll automatically be the favorites."
He smiled softly.
"It won't be a walk in the park. So, tell me: are you ready to take on this challenge? Are you ready to face other students who also deserve their place?"
In one voice, the students shouted:
"YES!"
Jonady nodded.
"Good. Then good luck."
As he was about to leave the room he stopped in the doorway and turned back with a wink.
"Oh, I almost forgo the top 15 students in this tournament will earn a unique privilege: training with the kingdom's elite and joining an expedition to Mount Lustfor... to try and tame a Highbeast of their own."
A stunned silence fell for a moment, then the room exploded with joy.
Never had a monarch inspired such motivation and excitement in a classroom.
The student their eyes starry, wanted to rise to the occasion to serve their nation and maybe just maybe become the next heroes of Ednia inspiring future generations in turn.