The challengers quickly and happily took to the animal battling tournament. They introduced themselves to the handlers and the animals, practicing amongst themselves as the excitement in the city grew. Some had had practice with similar events, others were new, but all were determined to win.
When the day of the tournament finally came, the whole city shut down to watch the match. Thousands of spectators cheered from the sidelines of the arena as the challengers battled each other fiercely. All played well, but it was still those with previous battle-experience that led the pack.
The final round ended up being between previous teammates Altaver and Cecil. The competition was fierce, and the battle rages late into the night, but in the end, it was Cecil who emerged victorious. The two shook hands and congratulated each other on a good game, then they walked to the side of the stadium, right on the center line, where Queen Athena's viewing pavilion was set up.
"You have done well, Cecil, Altaver," she greeted them, "and you have earned the advantage that will be given to you. I shall tell you about it now so that you may make your decisions and come to me on the morrow with your choice.
"The next challenge will be another game, though one more suited to thinking and indoor play, a game of words. For the sake of this game, we will temporarily form teams..." she smiled, "and you will be their heads. Each of you will be drafting from the other competitors which you would like to be on your team. As the 1st place winner, Cecil will have first pick of teammate, and then you will take turns until both teams are finalized. Once the teams have been decided, the game will begin. Have fun, and good luck choosing!
