Chapter 18: Imperial Capital – Martial Arts Tournament – 28
“That shield is incredible. It didn’t budge at all even after taking a hit from Yozam’s axe.”
“I can’t believe anyone can even wield that shield. And to swing it with one hand? I can’t even imagine the strength required.”
“In the end, it all came down to a single strike. That mace is something else too. It looks like a giant is fighting.”
“Most likely, he held back after landing that final blow. Just how much of a skill gap is there? That Soushi is something else.”
“Hey, hey, stop calling him by his name. He’s a noble, you know.”
“Wha!? Is that so?”
“They say he defeated a dragon with his bare hands and was granted a title. I thought it was just a rumor, but seeing what he did today…”
As I made my way back to the waiting room, snippets of conversation from the audience reached my ears. Getting caught up in discussions about the matches is part of the fun of the tournament, I suppose. It’s a bit embarrassing to hear them talk about me, but I’ve grown somewhat accustomed to it.
Once in the waiting room, I stored my gear in the Item Box. My part in today’s events was over. Now, I could relax and watch the remaining matches. Karma would be competing in the eighth match.
As I headed toward the VIP section, I crossed paths with the young Momental. We exchanged nods, but there was no conversation.
Once again, I felt an odd sense of discomfort at his presence. Had he been affected by some kind of spell related to the Candlestick of the Netherworld?
During the incident with Mecalinan and the Arshuram Church, the Candlestick was aligned with those in power, aiding their ambitions. If that were the case, then it was likely that the Candlestick was masquerading as someone serving Marquis Fulcrum or the young Momental. However, no such individuals had been identified so far.
Regardless, if the young Momental was seeking to marry Princess Marishielle, he would likely approach the tournament with the intent to win. Thus, if he were to set something in motion, it would probably hinge on him losing a match. Of course, in that scenario, both the Imperial Family and the Adventurers’ Guild would be prepared for the possibility of Undead being summoned.
Upon arriving at the VIP section, all members of Soul’s Guidance, except for Karma, welcomed me.
“Your battle was truly remarkable, as you neither harmed yourself nor your opponent. It was a perfect display of Soushi-sama’s prowess.”
“Thank you. I could see Freinir’s figure clearly from the stage.”
I patted Freinir’s head as I took my seat.
“I never thought Soushi-dono would lose, but the way you concluded the match was quite entertaining. Your restraint was exquisite.”
“Indeed. You gauged your opponent’s strength perfectly, leaving yourself with ample energy while ensuring you didn’t inflict unnecessary harm to force them to concede. Such a victory is not something one can easily achieve. I must admit, I am more impressed by your mindset in seeking such a victory, Soushi-dono.”
Next, Shizuna and Sakurahime praised me with serious expressions, which felt a bit overwhelming. I raised my hands in a gesture of surrender.
“Hehe, it’s quite charming how you get embarrassed, Soushi-san.”
Sfenia still wore a dreamy expression, which might lead other spectators to misunderstand.
“The main tournament’s first round, match two, will now begin! From the direction of the Rainbow Dragon, we have ‘Thorn and Valkyrie’ Lien! This is their second appearance in the main tournament, with their best record being the first round.”
As I received more compliments from my companions, I silently expressed my gratitude for having them by my side when the announcement for the next match began.
On the octagonal stage below, a young man resembling a mage faced off against a tall woman wielding twin rapiers. So this is how it looks from the audience’s perspective.
“Begin!”
The match commenced.
The mage maintained his distance, unleashing a barrage of ice spear magic, Ice Javelin. He seemed to possess the First Strike skill, but instead of launching all his spells at once, he fired them one by one in rapid succession, which was intriguing.
“Is that how you can use magic? This is quite educational,” Sfenia remarked, her expression serious as she nodded repeatedly.
Meanwhile, the swordswoman skillfully dodged using Honshin and Swift Run, gradually closing the distance. Naturally, the mage utilized the circular stage to prevent her from getting too close. It was rare to see a mage with the Swift Run skill.
As the barrage of ice spears ceased, the swordswoman dashed forward in a straight line. She unleashed a series of Flying Blades to keep her opponent from executing his next move.
However, before she could close the distance sufficiently, the mage began his magical onslaught once more. Having approached too closely, the swordswoman was unable to evade, and she began to slice through the incoming ice spears with her rapiers. The sheer skill required to defend against such a rapid-fire barrage was astounding.
Then, the mage made a peculiar move. As he stepped forward, he reached into his cloak and drew out a whip. The whip’s tip ensnared the swordswoman’s leg, creating a momentary opening.
In that instant, a flurry of Ice Javelins surged forth. Thanks to her defensive skills, the swordswoman was not pierced, but she was struck by several spears, sending her flying and leaving her motionless.
“The match is decided! The victor is ‘Thorn and Valkyrie’ Lien!”
Now this is interesting. I’ve seen martial arts matches in my previous life, but the exchanges of techniques between A-Rank adventurers are on a whole different level of dynamism. It’s no wonder the audience is so enthralled.