The morning sun painted the sky in shades of gold as the bells echoed across Sorriso’s walls. The crowd gathered once again in the great plaza — the same place where Lukas and Akemi’s duel had shaken the city.

  From the top of the banner tower, the Herald of Sorriso appeared, his long cloak swaying in the wind. In his hands gleamed the ceremonial staff bearing the crest of the sun and the four seasons. The trumpet blast cut through the murmuring crowd.

  — People of Sorriso! — the Herald’s trained voice echoed clear and strong, reaching even the farthest alleys. — The Trials in honor of the Patriarch’s Children continue!

  The crowd fell silent, listening.

  — We have already celebrated the Cups, in honor of Luiz Fernandes! — cheers erupted from the stands of the Main House. — We have celebrated the Swords, in honor of Dariam Fernandes! — warriors raised their blades in salute. — And we have celebrated the Gold, in honor of Helena Fernandes! — the ladies of the court lifted their jewels, reflecting the morning sun.

  Then the Herald raised a hand, and silence descended like a veil.

  The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

  — Today, we begin the Trial of the Dawn, in honor of Alex Fernandes!

  The name thundered through the plaza. The crowd responded not with wild cheers, but with a solemn wave of respect — for Alex was remembered not for noise or vanity, but for the calm strength he carried wherever he went.

  — The Dawn will be fought in mixed pairs! — the Herald announced. — Man and woman, side by side — to prove not only strength, but unity.

  The people roared. Children clapped their hands, soldiers raised fists, merchants shouted the names of their favorite contenders.

  On the high platform, Kyros remained silent, his golden aura calm but his eyes sharp. Beside him stood the Patriarchs of the Seasons: ?? Kotan of Winter, stoic and unmoving; ?? Helena Summer, radiant like fire; ?? Aurelius Rowan, serene as falling leaves; and ?? Flora Anapelum, smiling like spring.

  The Herald continued:

  — The pairs are set.

  ? Lukas Fernandes and Amélia, daughter of the people and sister of Aníbal.

  ? Besouro Guaracy Fernandes and Aerya Summer, mage of the Summer.

  ? Akemi Fernandes Silva and Rael, young monk of the Black Sun.

  ? Leli Fernandes and her partner, chosen by lot from among the warriors of the plaza.

  ? Other pairs followed — sons of nobles, academy apprentices, and dreamers from the outskirts of Sorriso, all chasing their moment of glory.

  The Herald lifted his staff once more. His voice thundered:

  — May the Dawn shine upon all! May the name of Alex Fernandes be remembered in every strike, every fall, every victory!

  The square erupted in applause. The festival was alive again.

  Among the noise, Lukas took a deep breath. Beside him, Amélia adjusted her cloak — calm, confident — her eyes saying without words: Trust me. I trust you.

  César grumbled in his mind: — Another trial, boy. Let’s crush them.

  Morgana, with her teasing voice, purred: — Or maybe let yourself be crushed by a beautiful partner… wouldn’t be the first time, chocolatinho.

  Lukas exhaled slowly, clenching his fists. Not this time. I won’t be dragged. I’ll fight as someone carrying an entire city on his back.

  ?? End of Chapter 19