Chapter 413: Innocent Elen
The battles on each platform continued without obstruction, with every participant fighting desperately for a ticket to the second stage of selection. Only those who could endure until the fifth stage would earn the right to advance to the final round.
In the direct duel arenas for tiers 1 to 3, the first selection was nearly complete. From thousands of fierce battles, only 15,000 participants would be left to proceed to the next stage. The subsequent selection rounds would continue to narrow their numbers until only the 300 best fighters remained worthy of entering the finals.
Meanwhile, the skill duels in blacksmithing and alchemy followed a similar selection process. More than 10,000 participants competed in these fields, with only 2,000 coming from the Divine Sky Realm, while the rest hailed from the Cui race and the Forest Elf race. Five selection stages would gradually filter them down to 300 of the finest craftsmen who would compete in the final round.
From the main tribune, Lein observed everything with sharp eyes. Cheers echoed from all directions, forming a sea of enthusiasm that did not wane even as the sun climbed higher into the sky. Floating camera orbs hovered in the air, broadcasting every crucial moment to every corner of the competition grounds and the spectator tribunes nestled in the Life Source Trees. Even those seated far from the main arena could clearly enjoy every scene.
As midday approached, food attendants emerged, moving through the tribunes with automated carts, assisted by service robots ensuring that everyone received their meals accordingly. The aroma of food filled the air, blending with the lingering excitement of the audience.
Lein shifted his gaze slightly as he noticed Nita standing up from her seat. With a light movement, the girl floated toward the tribune of the Cui race officials. Lein calmly followed her movements.
"Greetings, Lord Aleron. It is time for lunch, My Lord. Please," Nita said politely, her gesture subtle yet firm.
Aleron, the leader of the Cui race, stood with a small nod. Without many words, he gave a brief instruction to his guards before stepping forward to follow Nita.
Without hesitation, Nita then flew toward the Forest Elf tribune. Tauriel, the leader of their race, greeted her with a warm nod. No excessive words were exchanged—only an understanding conveyed through a simple glance. They, too, prepared to head toward the special dining hall that had been arranged.
Lein remained seated, taking a moment to enjoy the bustling atmosphere around him. This tournament was not just a contest of battles and skills—it was a stage that would determine who was strong enough to move forward in this uncertain world. And he, as the supreme ruler of the Divine Sky Realm, would ensure that everything unfolded according to his will.
Even though at their level of strength, eating and drinking were not necessities, there was still a distinct pleasure in tasting food, engaging in conversation, and enjoying companionship.
After ensuring that the important guests had moved toward the dining hall, Nita returned to her seat in the tribune. With a relaxed yet authoritative voice that left no room for refusal, she addressed those around her.
"Everyone, let's fill our stomachs first… no exceptions."
She turned, preparing to leave, when a cheerful voice interrupted her steps. Experience new tales on My Virtual Library Empire
"Nita, let's go together!" Laras, Hana, and Elen approached with bright smiles.
A wide grin spread across Nita's face. "Let's go, Sisters!" she replied enthusiastically.
Without further delay, they descended from the platform, heading toward the dining hall hidden within the trunk of the Life Source Tree.
The colossal tree had a diameter of over 500 meters. Its interior had been transformed into a vast space, not only for dining but also for various other activities. In fact, an emergency medical area was ready for use should the need arise.
As the four girls walked side by side toward the dining hall, their long dresses swayed gently with each step. Their beauty and charisma caught the attention of those around them, causing some passersby to reflexively turn and stare longer than they should.
"Elen, you look stunning today." Nita glanced at Elen walking beside her.
Elen blushed, lowering her head slightly. The green lace dress she wore blended perfectly with her fair skin, giving her a soft and calming aura.
"Thank you, Sister… I went to Sister Laras' house this morning to get ready," Elen replied in a quiet but warm voice.
Nita raised an eyebrow. "What? Why didn't you invite me?"
Elen blinked as if recalling something, then chuckled softly. "Um… I did, but Sister Nita said you were busy."
Nita blinked. In an instant, she remembered Elen's message from that morning. At the time, she had been preoccupied with arranging the morning meals, so she had unintentionally turned down Elen's invitation.
"Nita, you've changed a little."
Hana's voice was light, but there was meaning behind her words.
Nita flinched slightly. "Eh? What do you mean, Sister?" she asked, her tone faltering as she felt her face growing warm.
Hana simply smiled knowingly, and at that moment, Laras, who was at the end of the line, lowered her head, seemingly trying to avoid their gazes. However, that only made Hana more intrigued.
"Ahem… Laras…" Hana cleared her throat lightly, her eyes filled with teasing intent.
A slow blush crept onto Laras' cheeks. Since returning from the Guandu Realm with Lein and Bagus, she had yet to share anything with her friends. Usually, they always exchanged stories, chatting about exciting things. But this time, Laras had chosen to keep that story to herself.
"What is it, Sister? What happened?" Elen asked in confusion, her gaze filled with curiosity. She was not very active in many things, which often left her out of the loop.
Hana stepped forward gracefully, her head held high, yet there was a mix of pride and sadness in her eyes. She had given her all, fulfilling every task given by Lein with complete dedication. Not once had she ever intended to neglect her duties.