[ Alucard has already told Xenk that he doesn't have to give answers; that is simply the right he will take, he told himself, if the questions were too prodding. But the gambit he made pays off, and he knows now what sort of hate might have a home inside of Xenk's heart. He knows now what impression he gives and it aligns with how he wishes to be perceived, because Xenk doesn't lie. His broad shoulders relax a fraction and he leans back more comfortably in his seat. The heel of his boot even pushes so that the chair rocks back a bit. ]

The Essen Tasch Elemental Games is a friendly competition between three empires that involves representative magicians fighting one another. It's a grand spectacle that only happens every three years, so everyone who considers themselves to be anyone travels to the hosting country.

[ He shrugs, the gesture involving throwing his hands up a little in a sort of surrender. ]

Some people attend strictly for the parties that take place the nights before, during, and after the competition. They don't even make an appearance at the arena at all.