Chapter 18: Imperial Capital ~Martial Arts Tournament~ 29
The third match was Soushi’s match against Saumur-shi, the spear-wielding sub-leader of the Water Lily Lions.
She utilized the Thrust Extension Skill to extend the attack range of her spear, Turning to eliminate any gaps in her movements, and the Phantom Blade Skill to generate multiple blades at once, achieving ultra-high-speed consecutive thrusts, and finally unleashing them to secure victory. If they both kept winning, he would face her in the third round.
Also, in the fifth match, Young Momentarl, the son of Marquis Falcrum, appeared.
He employed an orthodox style with a one-handed sword and shield, effectively using solid Skills such as Blade Extension to extend his slashes, Flying Blades to send slashes flying, Dash for high-speed movement, and Turning to eliminate gaps in his movements by negating inertia, steadily cornering his opponents and achieving victory.
His flawless, orthodox fighting style was quite appealing to Soushi, but he felt like he might be hiding some secret techniques. Incidentally, his mother, Marquis Falcrum, must have been watching his fight from the VIP seats in another location.
In any case, Soushi was concerned that both of them seemed to be highly skilled in handling spears and swords. He suspected that they had received formal spear and sword training, in addition to the Skills they possessed.
After that, the matches continued to build excitement, and it became the last match of the day, the eighth match.
“Next is Karma. Well, she should be able to win the first round.”
Lani’s gaze was fixed on Karma, a tiger beastwoman carrying the Orichalcum greatsword, Beast King’s Great Fang, on her shoulder. As she stepped onto the octagonal stage, Karma glanced back at Soushi for a moment and grinned.
Karma’s opponent was a tall man who also wielded a greatsword. He looked slender, but it was clear even from a distance that the muscles beneath his armor were highly trained.
“The Martial Arts Tournament’s main event, first round, eighth match. In the direction of the Rainbow Dragon is Idera of the Black Wings! Three appearances in the main event, with her best record being the third round. In the direction of the Crimson Tiger is Karma of the Guidance of Sol. First appearance in the main event.”
Based on her achievements, her opponent seemed to be quite a formidable opponent.
Karma and her opponent, Idera, touched the tips of their greatswords in greeting. After that, they took their distance and assumed their stances, and then,
“Begin!”
At the sound of the voice, the battle between the two unexpectedly began with a series of hit-and-run attacks using Dash from mid-range. Their positions changed dynamically, and a tremendous metallic sound echoed each time they momentarily crossed paths.
Using Blade Extension and Flying Blades as well, they unfolded a battle with outstanding mobility across the entire stage, which was hard to believe for swordsmen.
“Hmm, as expected, the Adventurers who come to the Martial Arts Tournament are strong. Being able to fight Karma head-on is quite amazing.”
“The people on the other side might be thinking the same thing. By the way, does my General’s Command have any effect even in the Martial Arts Tournament?”
“I don’t think so. I think the condition is something like standing on the same battlefield as Soushi.”
“I see.”
Well, that would probably make it more rewarding for both Lani and Karma. If the increase rate of General’s Command was really 30%, they would feel frustrated even if they won using it.
Now, the battle had finally come to a standstill, with both sides exchanging blows. They might have become physically exhausted from overusing their Skills. Skills that are used actively, such as Shockwave, Flying Blades, and Dash, consume a lot of stamina when used frequently.
It was a pure exchange of swords, but because it was between greatswords, it had a terrifying intensity.
So far, the abilities of both sides seemed to be evenly matched. However, as they exchanged swords dozens of times, a difference gradually began to emerge.
“As expected, the difference in eyesight and reflexes is starting to show. Even from my perspective, Karma’s reaction speed is amazing.”
As Lani pointed out, Karma’s reactions had clearly surpassed Idera’s. Even when Idera unleashed her sword, Karma’s Beast King’s Great Fang would deflect it before it reached top speed. On the other hand, Idera was clearly being pushed back by Karma’s attacks, which quickly transitioned into counterattacks.
After dozens more exchanges, the difference became decisive—
The Beast King’s Great Fang knocked Idera’s sword away. Karma twisted her body and delivered a horizontal blow to Idera’s wide-open torso.
“I yield…!”
Idera’s flank, where she had been blown away, was deeply slashed. If she didn’t have a defensive Skill, her torso would have been severed.
“Match over! The winner is Karma of the Guidance of Sol!”
Karma raised the Beast King’s Great Fang and responded to the cheers.
On the other hand, staff members went to Idera and used a Potion to heal her. That series of movements was also quick, showing that they were used to handling it.
“To defeat Idera in her first appearance, another amazing one has appeared.”
“To win by fighting head-on and overpowering her with force, she’s the real deal. Is the Guidance of Sol full of monsters?”
“The rumors that they’re on par with the Water Lily Lions might be true.”
Such voices could be heard from the nearby spectator seats.
Lani twitched her ears and declared, “I’ll follow Soushi and Karma!” with enthusiasm.
Soushi would have a day off tomorrow. He had to make sure to watch Lani’s match, as well as Princess Maricier’s.
He was also very much looking forward to seeing what her fighting style was like.