The entire city buzzed with excitement.
News of the Loki Familia, Orario's strongest Familia, accepting a war game challenge from an unknown small Familia had caused a sensation. On the day of the highly anticipated war game, Orario was enveloped in an unusual atmosphere of fervent excitement.
Early that morning, all the taverns opened their doors; street vendors lined the streets. Walls near the streets were plastered with colorful parchments by mischievous Gods. The posters featured a jester representing the Loki Familia, and a snowflake representing the Hestia Familia (which lacked an official emblem).
For this day, almost all adventurers abandoned dungeon exploration to prepare for the spectacle. Workers and citizens who'd managed to get the day off also gathered in the streets or central plaza, eagerly awaiting the moment.
"Ahem… ahem… uh, good morning everyone! I'm Ibari Archer, from the Ganesha Familia, known for my rapid-fire commentary, also known as 'Fire Blast Flame Fire,' broadcasting this war game live! Enjoy the show!"
A makeshift stage was erected in front of the Guild headquarters. A brown-skinned young man introduced himself as the host. The area was packed.
"Commentary will be provided by our Goddess, Ganesha! Ganesha-sama, any words?"
"I am Ganesha!!"
"Thank you for that insightful comment, Ganesha-sama!"
Beside Ibari, Ganesha, wearing a large elephant mask, shouted; the audience cheered.
The war game, orchestrated through collaboration with merchants, had energized the entire city. Many spectators came from outside Orario. An entrance fee was naturally charged. The Guild also used it as a demonstration of Orario's strength to attract potential adventurers.
But most importantly, war games were unparalleled entertainment for the Gods.
On the thirtieth floor of Babel Tower. The Gods, more excited than anyone, gathered to watch the proxy war between Hestia and Loki.
Some Gods took different actions: mingling with adventurers in taverns, or staying at their bases, observing the situation.
"Ha, I knew you'd choose a battle royale. Consider it my mercy. In a siege, your Familia would only have one attacker and one defender."
Loki scoffed; Hestia remained silent.
"War game" was a general term; the specific format was decided by the Gods.
Usually, it was a large-scale siege; both Familias defended ancient cities in a multi-day battle involving hundreds or even thousands.
It was highly entertaining and dramatic.
A battle royale was less spectacular. Both Familias sent adventurers for one-on-one duels.
Loki had preferred a siege; even with Arthas's strength, he'd be helpless against thousands of adventurers. But someone had intervened, resulting in a battle royale.
Well, it doesn't matter. I'll still defeat you!
Freya, apart from the other Gods, stood by a window, watching the scene below, smiling faintly.
"Remember… you owe me a huge favor, Arthas."
Arthas, preparing for the war game, shivered. This war game… was a monkey show.
With Arthas's sigh, the host's voice boomed.
"The war game will be between the Hestia Familia and the Loki Familia, a battle royale!! Both sides are ready; we await the noon bell!"
Images of the arena were reflected in various round windows in taverns and streets. The city erupted; the host explained the war game.
"Everyone ready?! No more bets after this!"
In taverns, adventurers and merchants were gambling on the outcome. They bet on who would win. Those who'd bet heavily clutched their tickets, watching the 'mirror' showing the live broadcast.
"Attention! It's almost noon!"
The host's voice rose.
The noise swelled in front of the Guild headquarters.
Everyone—adventurers, tavern staff, Gods—focused on the 'mirror'.
Then,
"The war game—begins!"
The bell tolled, signaling the start of the battle.
The format was a battle royale; both Familias fought until only one remained. But the Hestia Familia only had two members; only Arthas could fight; it was Arthas vs. the entire Loki Familia.
If Arthas defeated the Loki Familia's four Level 6 adventurers, the rest would be easy.
"Go… go, Mr. Arthas!"
Lilly, acting as a cheerleader, was nervous; it was her first time seeing such a spectacle.
Arthas nodded, stepping onto the stage, surprised by his opponent.
"I'm facing you first."
Arthas shook his head, seeing Riveria.
"Ready? I won't hold back."
Riveria said gravely, unlike her usual self.
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