Chapter 18: Imperial Capital – Martial Arts Tournament – Part 29
The third match featured Lady Somyule, the spear-wielding sub-leader of the Water Lily Lion party.
Utilizing her skill, Extending Thrust, which increased her spear’s attack range, along with Honshin to eliminate any openings in her movements, and the Phantom Blade skill to generate multiple blades at once, she executed a rapid series of thrusts. In the end, she unleashed a final strike to secure her victory. If both of us continued to advance, I would face her in the third round.
The fifth match showcased the young noble, Momental, son of Marquis Falcrum.
He fought with a classic style, wielding a one-handed sword and shield. Employing solid skills like Blade Extension to extend his slashes, Flying Blade to launch attacks, Swift Run for rapid movement, and Honshin to negate inertia and eliminate openings, he steadily pressured his opponent and emerged victorious.
His orthodox fighting style, devoid of weaknesses, was quite appealing to me, but I sensed he might be hiding some secret technique. His mother, Marquis Falcrum, was likely watching his battle from a separate VIP section.
Regardless, I couldn’t help but notice that both of them seemed exceptionally skilled in handling their weapons. It was likely that they had undergone formal training in spear and sword techniques, in addition to their skills.
The tournament continued to build excitement, leading to the final match of the day, the eighth bout.
“Next up is Karma. Well, she should be able to win the first round,” Larni remarked.
In her line of sight stood Karma, the tiger beastkin, shouldering the Orichalcum greatsword, Beast King’s Fang. As she stepped onto the octagonal stage, Karma briefly glanced back at us and flashed a grin.
Karma’s opponent was a tall man wielding a greatsword as well. Though he appeared slender, it was evident from a distance that his physique was exceptionally well-trained beneath his armor.
“The main event of the martial arts tournament, first round, match eight! In the corner of the Rainbow Dragon, Idera of the Black Wing Group! Three-time main event participant, with a best record of reaching the third round. In the corner of the Dawn Tiger, Karma of Soul’s Guidance. Making her debut in the main event!”
Based on their records, it seemed her opponent was quite formidable.
Karma and Idera greeted each other by aligning the tips of their greatswords. After taking a distance, they both assumed their stances.
“Begin!”
The battle commenced surprisingly with a series of hit-and-run attacks using Swift Run from mid-range. Their positions shifted dynamically, and each time they crossed paths, a tremendous metallic clang echoed through the arena.
Utilizing Blade Extension and Flying Blade, the duel unfolded with an incredible display of mobility that one wouldn’t expect from two swordsmen.
“Hmm, as expected, adventurers participating in the martial arts tournament are strong. It’s quite impressive that Karma can hold her own against him,” Larni commented.
“The spectators on the other side might be thinking the same. By the way, does my Vessel of the Commander affect the tournament?” I asked.
“I don’t think so. It seems the condition is to stand on the same battlefield as you, Soushi,” she replied.
“I see.”
Well, that would certainly make it more rewarding for both Larni and Karma. If the increase from the Vessel of the Commander is truly thirty percent, winning with that would leave them feeling unsatisfied.
Now, the fight had reached a point where both combatants were exchanging blows while standing still. Perhaps they had exhausted their stamina from overusing their skills. Active skills like Shockwave, Flying Blade, and Swift Run consumed a significant amount of stamina when used frequently.
Though it was a pure sword duel, the sheer power of two greatswords clashing created an awe-inspiring spectacle.
For the time being, both fighters appeared evenly matched. However, as they exchanged dozens of blows, a gradual difference began to emerge.
“Indeed, the difference in eyesight and reflexes is becoming apparent. Even I can see that Karma’s reaction speed is incredible,” Larni pointed out.
As she noted, Karma’s reflexes were clearly surpassing Idera’s. Even when Idera launched an attack, Karma’s Beast King’s Fang would deflect it before the sword reached its top speed. Meanwhile, Karma swiftly transitioned into a counterattack, clearly pressuring Idera.
After several more exchanges, the gap became decisive—
Karma’s Beast King’s Fang struck upwards, knocking Idera’s sword aside. With his torso now wide open, Karma twisted her body and delivered a horizontal strike.
“I concede…!”
Idera was sent flying, his side deeply slashed. Without defensive skills, his torso would have been severed.
“The match is decided! The winner is Karma of Soul’s Guidance!”
Karma raised her Beast King’s Fang in triumph, responding to the cheers of the crowd.
Meanwhile, an attendant rushed to Idera, using a Potion to heal him. The entire sequence of movements was swift, indicating their familiarity with the procedure.
“To defeat Idera in her debut match is quite an impressive feat,” I remarked.
“Winning through a direct clash shows she’s the real deal. Is Soul’s Guidance filled with monsters?” Larni mused.
“The rumors about them being on par with the Water Lily Lion might hold some truth,” I replied.
I could hear voices from nearby spectators echoing similar sentiments.
Larni perked up her ears and exclaimed, “I’ll follow in the footsteps of Soushi and Karma!”
Tomorrow, I would have a day off. I needed to ensure I watched not only Larni’s match but also Princess Marishielle’s battle closely.
I was genuinely excited to see what her combat style would be like.