Ragnar Bluefin's Arc

Chapter 1 of 1

Ragnar Bluefin gripped the reins of his practice chariot and circled the empty arena one more time. His scales caught the morning light as he pushed harder, leaning into each turn. The coastal arena stood quiet now, but he could already hear the roar of future crowds. He wanted his name painted on every banner, his victories sung in every tavern. One day, everyone would know him as the greatest chariot racer these waters had ever seen. He steered toward the practice grounds where wooden bleachers ringed a smaller circuit. Coral formations grew between the track supports, bright and wild. The Underwater Racing Pavilion gave him space to test his turns without anyone watching. He guided his chariot through the coral-lined curves, feeling each bump and shift. The wheels rattled over uneven ground. His arms burned from holding the reins tight. After six full laps, he slowed and spotted the stone arch near the water's edge. The Sunlit Stone Arch stood tall, its limestone pillars carved with patterns worn smooth by salt and time. Racers would launch from here on competition days, charging through the arch into the main arena. Ragnar pulled his chariot to a stop beneath it and looked up at the carvings. This would be his gateway to glory. Beyond the practice grounds, dark spires rose against the sky. The Gothic Cursed Library loomed over everything, its stone towers twisted and strange. That was where the real races happened. That was where champions were made. Ragnar turned his chariot back toward the practice circuit. He had work to do before he earned his place in those races, but he would get there. Every lap brought him closer.